Matcha as a source of bioactive compounds - current evidence on biological properties and potential clinical relevance
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.12775/QS.2026.73.75323Keywords
matcha, Camellia sinensis, catechins, L-theanine, gut microbiota, metabolic health, cognitive function, psychological stress, periodontal healthAbstract
Background: Matcha is a powdered form of Camellia sinensis produced using shaded cultivation and consumed as whole powdered tea leaves, resulting in exposure to bioactive compounds including catechins, caffeine, L-theanine and chlorophylls.
Aim: To review current evidence on the chemical composition and potential health-promoting effects of matcha, emphasizing metabolic health, cognitive function, psychological stress, physical performance, gut microbiota and periodontal health, distinguishing human studies from experimental models.
Materials and methods: PubMed-indexed peer-reviewed studies, randomized controlled trials, experimental investigations, animal studies and reviews addressing matcha were analyzed. Twenty-seven sources were included.
Results: Matcha contains high amounts of epigallocatechin gallate, L-theanine, caffeine and chlorophylls, varying by processing. Preclinical studies indicate antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and metabolic effects, including modulation of lipid metabolism, gut microbiota and the gut-liver axis. Human studies suggest matcha may increase fat oxidation during walking, moderate resistance training fatigue, and maintain attention after stress. Cognitive findings are mixed, without clear long-term global improvements. Matcha shows antimicrobial activity against pathogens like Porphyromonas gingivalis, with preliminary periodontal benefits.
Conclusions: Matcha is a bioactive-rich dietary source with strong experimental activity. Clinical evidence for metabolic, cognitive and periodontal benefits remains limited by heterogeneous study designs. Further long-term trials are required.
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Copyright (c) 2026 Dominika Duczmal-Zowczak, Tomasz Zowczak, Jakub Tomasz Duczmal, Maciej Kalita, Natalia Krajewska
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