If you’re a tea lover or just starting to explore healthy drinks, you’ve probably come across these two names that are often confused: green tea and matcha. They may seem similar and even share the same origin, but there is a big difference between green tea and matcha that shapes the experience, flavor, and benefits they offer.
At Nawo Routines, wellbeing and mindfulness in every routine are at the center of everything we do, and matcha is an essential part of that. That’s why today we’re sharing everything you need to know about these two green beverages that are mentioned so often.
The Process Marks the Difference Between Green Tea and Matcha
The main difference between green tea and matcha begins with their cultivation and preparation. Both come from the same plant, Camellia sinensis, but the process each one follows makes them completely different.
Traditional green tea is made from leaves that are harvested, dried, and then steeped in hot water. In other words, when you drink green tea, you’re only consuming the extract from the leaves. Matcha, however, is produced much more carefully. Weeks before harvest, the plants are shaded from the sun, which increases their levels of chlorophyll and amino acids. Then, the leaves are dried, the veins and stems are removed, and finally they are stone-ground into that intense green powder we all recognize.
This is why, when you drink matcha, you’re consuming the whole tea leaf, not just its infusion. That is the key difference between green tea and matcha: with matcha, you make the most of all the plant’s nutrients, antioxidants, and vitamins.
Nutrients and Benefits: More Focus, More Energy
One of the reasons matcha has become so popular is its impressive nutritional profile. Compared to traditional green tea, matcha contains up to ten times more antioxidants.
This difference is once again due to the fact that you consume the entire powder. This means you get a higher concentration of catechins (especially EGCG), chlorophyll, vitamins A and C, and amino acids like L-theanine.
This combination not only boosts your immune system but also promotes a sense of calm and mental clarity. While green tea gives you a light dose of caffeine, matcha releases its energy gradually, without the spikes and crashes typical of coffee. If you’ve ever wondered which of the two can help you stay focused or improve your mood, the answer is clear: matcha. This is one of the most important differences between green tea and matcha when it comes to wellbeing.
Flavor and Texture: Two Very Different Experiences
Aside from their properties, flavor is another key aspect for understanding the difference between green tea and matcha.
Green tea has a milder, more herbal flavor, with slight bitter notes, ideal for those looking for a light and refreshing drink. Matcha, on the other hand, has a more intense and creamy profile, with a touch of umami that makes it truly special.
That velvety matcha texture makes it perfect for preparing lattes, smoothies, or even healthy desserts. It’s a versatile ingredient that easily fits into your daily routine without losing its essence.
If you enjoy the traditional taste of tea, green tea may be your best ally. But if you’re looking for a drink with more character and concentrated benefits, matcha will win you over.
Preparation: Ritual vs. Infusion
Another big difference between green tea and matcha is the way they are prepared. Green tea is simple: you just need to heat water (without fully boiling it), add the leaves, and let them steep for a few minutes. Then you strain it, and it’s ready to drink.
Matcha, however, has its own ritual. It’s prepared by whisking the powder with hot water (never boiling) until a light foam forms on the surface. This process, inherited from Japanese tea ceremonies, turns making matcha into an act of mindfulness.
At Nawo Routines, we believe that this connection between ritual and wellbeing is what makes matcha such a unique experience. It’s not just a drink—it’s a moment for yourself.
So, Which One Is Better?
The answer depends on you and what you’re looking for in your routine. If you prefer a smooth, easy-to-prepare drink with a refreshing touch, green tea is an excellent option. But if you want a source of sustained energy, mental clarity, and an antioxidant boost, matcha is your best choice.
In reality, it’s not about competition but about understanding the difference between green tea and matcha and how each one can contribute something unique to your wellbeing.
At Nawo Routines, matcha is more than a drink: it’s an invitation to connect with yourself, to create a moment of calm within the flow of everyday life.
Now that you know the difference between green tea and matcha, we invite you to discover why we chose matcha as our first star product. Visit our website and find the inspiration to transform your routine into a wellbeing ritual.
Because taking care of yourself has never been so green, so mindful, and so delicious.
