Sorry, coffee lovers, but tea keeps the crown as the second most loved drink in the world, just after water. Traditionally, the tea comes into two primary forms – black (fermented leaves) and green (unrelated leaves). While the benefits of green tea have been known for decades, what if we told you that your morning tea or coffee is a drink?

Enter the matka

Matka, which literally means ‘powder tea’, is a vibrant green powder made of ground-up, young, shaded green tea leaves, usually from the second or third crop. These leaves were carefully boiled, dried, sorted, destroyed, and finely mixed in magnificent green powder known as Matka.

Once for Japanese homes exclusive and then elite Western health devils (read: Kourtney Kardashian), Matka now appears that it is not only in the western markets of the mainstream but also in India’s prosperous wellness scene.

In fact, Matka recently made her debut on the shark tank India courtesy the brand Glow Glosari. Although the company could not secure money from sharks, they acknowledged the growing demand for Matka in India. This growing demand is evident from the entry of many famous tea brands in the Matka market with new people. Today, you can find matka in Indian cafes and homes.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=feezd8Aefza

The data also shows the same. The Matka Tea Market in India is experiencing a significant increase, an estimated rate of 8.6 per cent from 2024 to 2030 with estimates, which has probably reached US $ 167 million by the end of the decade.

Demand has increased so much that Japan exports about half of its produce to the world. According to Japan’s Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, Japan has seen an 185 percent increase in matka production in the last decade.

However, since the matka can only be cut in spring, it has caused a decrease and despite the increase in production, the organic matka has greatly affected the market.

According to a holistic dietist and intestinal health expert, Vrati Srivastava, “Matka is essentially a concentrated form of green tea, known for its strong and different taste. It is more for a developed taste, so not everyone enjoys it. While it gains popularity, it still consumes a niche audience regularly.”

Despite its top appeal, Matka’s popularity is increasing, its reported health benefits and capacity as coffee/tea option.

What do experts suggest about the benefits of Matka

Experts agree that the nutrition profile of the matka is impressive, proud of antioxidants, fiber, vitamins and minerals.

Senior dietist Dr. of Livasa Hospital, Khanna. Navjot Kaur says, “Unlike regular green tea, where the leaves are submerged and rejected, the matka involves consuming the entire leaves in the form of powder, which greatly increases its nutrition profile.”

According to him, matka is rich in essential vitamins and minerals such as vitamins A, C, E, K, potassium, calcium and iron. Its antioxidant content, especially especially epigalocatechin gallets (EGCG), is notable for promoting heart health, promoting metabolism and supporting mental clarity.

She says, “the unique combination of caffeine and L-ichinine matka provides a smooth, long-lasting energy release, focus and mental clarity,” she says.

Certified nutrition coaches and overall wellness expert Payal Rangar agree. She says, “Matka antioxidants, especially rich in catachin, help protect against free radicals. It also provides fiber, vitamins such as A and C, and minerals such as potassium.”

Komal Malik, Head Dietician at Asian Hospital, Faridabad, states that Matka is a powerful superfood that has potential benefits from cognitive support to weight management.

“Because the whole tea leaf is swallowed instead of ground ground, matka has more caffeine and antioxidants than green tea. It can support cognitive function, can prevent some diseases such as cancer, and promote weight loss,” she says.

Some studies also suggest that it can help with certain types of cancer, but more studies are required to prove it.

What is inside a cup?

AT Jain, Dietician, Dr. Morepene, a brand of health products says that even a small amount of matka (spoon) is full of goodness. It has:

Natural caffeine – Provides energy without coffee shocks

amino acids – Help with focus and relaxation

Antioxidant – Protect the body from damage

Chlorophyll – Supports detox and digestion

Essential minerals – Potassium, calcium, magnesium and small amounts of iron

Do Indians really need matka?

While the health benefits of Matka are notable, the question is – Do Indians really need a matka when the local option is present? We asked experts.

Srivastava emphasizes that matka is not necessary for good health, especially when there are easily accessible options. “In India, people are used for herbal options such as Ashwagandha, Hibiscus Tea, or Cinnamon, Turmeric, Black Pepper, Lemon and Honey.

Malik agrees. “There is a rich tradition of herbal tea in India. Masala tea, basil tea, ginger tea, all promote immunity, supporting digestion and reducing inflammation provide health benefits. These tea is widely consumed and provides antioxidants, vitamins and minerals,” she says.

Now, even though experts suggest that options for matka are available, some experts say that there are unique benefits of matka unlike other beverages available.

Matka vs. Tea and Coffee: Which is better?

If you are wondering if you want to change your tea or coffee with matka, then there is a quick comparison according to Jain:

Side effects

Despite its various benefits, experts take precautions against excessive consumption of Matka.

Srivastava explains, “Its caffeine content is not very much appropriate, and excessive consumption can cause digestive discomfort. It is rare, however, most people consume matka in tea, lattes or various preparations,” Srivastava says.

She also mentions that Matka can potentially reduce blood pressure, which can already be problematic to individuals suffering from low blood pressure.

Malik says that Matka may cause an allergic reaction to some individuals, including symptoms, including urticaria, itching, and inflammation. “Matka tea can also interact with some drugs, such as blood thin and blood pressure drugs,” she warns.

In addition, Dr. Kaur advised to take precautions while doing Matka Source.

She says, “Low quality matka can contain heavy metals like lead, as tea plants absorb them from soil. It is advisable to choose a high quality, organic matka from iconic sources,” she says.

Last sip

Matka is undoubtedly a nutrient -rich superfood with various health benefits, which ranges from promoting metabolism to increasing mental clarity and heart health. However, like any health trend, it should be consumed in moderation.

While Matka offers an exciting option for coffee and traditional tea, experts agree that it is not necessary for good health. They also suggest that India’s herbal infusions and rich heritage of local tea can provide similar benefits without a heavy price associated with imported matka (prices rise to Rs 2,000-3,000 for 50 grams).

For those who enjoy their unique taste and health properties, Matka can be a great extra for their diet. But for others, traditional Indian options provide equally powerful health benefits.