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The Independent
3 days ago
- Health
- The Independent
This matcha maker is our wellbeing editor's favourite accessory of 2025 – and it's less than £100
If I have just one claim I'm proud of, it's that I liked matcha before it was cool. The fresh emerald tea has been a favourite drink of mine long before it blew up on TikTok. However, it's always been pretty time-consuming to make. I love the fact that I can now find matcha on the high street and that all my favourite coffee shops serve it. However, sometimes, when I want a quality matcha latte with maximum health benefits – like an energy boost without the jitters that coffee can produce – he best way to get one is to make it at home. There are so many quality matcha brands now that I'm spoilt for choice. My favourites use ceremonial-grade matcha from the Uji region of Japan and have a perfectly balanced flavour. Sometimes I'll mix things up with a flavoured matcha or a blend with added collagen, but for the most part, I stick to the traditional pure green elixir. It usually takes a while to slowly whisk the bright green powder into a paste and then add the perfect amount of liquid for a frothy lump-free drink. I used to use a traditional straw hand whisk or an electric frother if in a hurry, until I discovered my favourite accessory of 2025: the matcha latte magic whisk (£99, This kitchen-top accessory has totally changed the game when it comes to whipping up a matcha. It makes lump-free lattes in seconds. How I tested I used the magic whisk for two months and made daily matcha lattes using a range of different high-quality matcha powders, including my favourites from Reformed, JP's Originals and Dirtea. Having been a matcha drinker for some time, I was able to compare the drinks the machine made to the ones I've handcrafted at home using a whisk and electric frother. I also assessed the machine using the following checklist: Consistency: I used a range of different matchas, and occasionally a healthy cacao powder, to test the consistency with added plant milks and water. Flavour: Gentle heating and whisking are crucial for a balanced flavour when it comes to making matcha, so I judged the magic whisk on its ability to deliver this while still saving time on hand whisking. Temperature: You don't want a scalding hot or a lukewarm matcha, so the heat is an important factor. I noted the final temperature when using different ingredients and adding milk or water at different points in the whisking process. Ease of use: I also judged the magic whisk on how easy it was to put together and use –I like a straightforward kitchen gadget. Cleaning: I also awarded points for how easy the machine was to disassemble and clean. Price: I compared the price of the whisk to similar machines like the Hotel Chocolat velvetiser and my electric frothers to assess value for money. Design: Finally, I reviewed the look and feel of the machine, the finish and how good it looked on the kitchen counter. Why you can trust IndyBest reviews Emilie Lavinia is The Independent' s fitness and wellbeing editor. She specialises in wellness products – from yoga mats to the best sleep aids. She has been reporting on wellbeing and reviewing wellness products for more than a decade and knows what it takes to identify a quality product. Along with a cohort of trusted experts, she recommends what's worth investing in and what's better off left on the shelf for IndyBest. Where matcha is concerned, she's also our resident matcha expert. She's been drinking it long before it became mainstream, and knows the importance of a good ceremonial-grade powder, and has consulted experts on its benefits.
Yahoo
7 days ago
- Health
- Yahoo
6 Best Teas for Brain Health, According to Dietitians
Key Takeaways Some teas have antioxidants, amino acids, and plant compounds that can support long-term cognitive health. Green tea is one of the most researched options, thanks to its L-theanine, catechins, and EGCG. Caffeine-free options can still boost focus and mental energy, making them valuable down that cup of coffee if you're after calm, sustained focus. Drinking tea can support your brain without the caffeine crash. Compounds like L‑theanine and polyphenols in green tea help smooth out energy spikes and protect neurons from oxidative stress. Herbal blends pull their weight, too, with research suggesting they can help with alertness and mental stamina. In other words, the right cup of tea can do more than warm your hands. We asked health experts to break down the best teas for brain health—both classic and herbal—that deliver measurable perks for your mood and memory. Related: 7 Foods to Help Keep Your Brain Healthy and Sharp, According to Nutrition Experts Green Tea The brain can be especially susceptible to oxidative stress, and the unique properties of green tea can help offset that. 'When most people think of teas to support brain health, green tea is usually what comes to mind due to its high potency of antioxidative properties,' says Chacha Miller, MS, RD, LDN, pediatric dietitian and founder of The Carda Mom. 'It's rich in catechins, which are a type of polyphenol that acts as a powerful antioxidant that helps protect cells from damage caused by oxidative stress and free radicals.' Green tea also contains L-theanine, an amino acid shown to reduce stress and improve focus. Research consistently backs the link between green tea and cognitive function: One double-blind study in Molecules found that adults who consumed decaffeinated green tea catechins daily for 12 weeks showed improvements in working memory and attention. Aim for about two to three cups a day (roughly 16–24 ounces) to match the L-theanine and polyphenol ranges used in cognition studies without overdoing the caffeine. Turmeric Tea 'Another favorite of mine for brain health is turmeric tea, also due to its high antioxidant content,' says Miller. 'It's rich in curcumin, which is known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects.' Turmeric tea has earned attention in Ayurvedic medicine for its brain-supportive properties. Emerging research suggests that curcumin may support positive mood, memory, and overall cognitive function, particularly in aging adults. 'I often suggest adding a small dash of black pepper to turmeric tea to help with the absorption of curcumin and get the most benefit,' Miller adds. Related: Sipping Golden Milk at Bedtime Is the Centuries-Old Way to Fall Asleep Fast—Here's How to Make It Chamomile Tea Chamomile is one of the most popular herbal teas, and its calming reputation is backed by science. "Chamomile tea can be a simple, natural way to support brain health, mostly by helping you sleep better and feel calmer,' says Raj Dasgupta, MD, FACP, FCCP, FAASM, board-certified physician and chief medical advisor for Sleepopolis. 'One of its main active compounds, apigenin, interacts with receptors in the brain that help you relax, which may explain why so many people find it easier to wind down after drinking it.' Dasgupta says chamomile also has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that may help protect the brain over time. 'While we still need more research on its direct effects on memory or cognition, what we do know is that reducing stress and sleeping well are two of the best things you can do for long-term brain health, and chamomile may gently support both,' he Chamomile tea is generally safe for most people, though Dasgupta suggests that anyone with ragweed allergies or those on certain medications should check with their doctor Mane Mushroom Tea Lion's Mane mushrooms are the focus of growing research suggesting they may support long-term brain function. 'Not a traditional tea, but this medicinal mushroom is gaining a lot of attention for cognitive health,' says Ehsan Ali, MD, an internal medicine physician and founder of Beverly Hills Concierge Doctor. 'Lion's Mane contains compounds called hericenones and erinacines, which have been shown to stimulate the growth of nerve growth factor (NGF), a protein that supports the growth and survival of neurons.' One study published in the International Journal of Molecular Sciences found that Lion's Mane may help protect against neurodegenerative diseases by promoting brain plasticity and regeneration. 'It's particularly useful for memory and focus over time, not just a short-term boost,' Ali adds. Many people brew it as a powdered tea or steep pre-packaged mushroom blends for a mellow, earthy sip. Peppermint Tea Turns out, peppermint tea isn't just for settling your stomach. 'Peppermint tea doesn't contain caffeine, but its menthol content can still offer a brain boost,' says Ali. 'Research suggests that peppermint aroma and ingestion may enhance memory, alertness, and cognitive performance.' One randomized trial in Human Psychopharmacology showed that drinking peppermint significantly improved cognitive performance and increased cerebral blood flow in healthy adults. 'It's a great option if you want a caffeine-free alternative that still helps with focus,' says Ali. Rosemary Tea If you're looking for a brain boost straight from the garden, rosemary tea might be worth steeping. 'A brew of rosemary tea is a great source of carnosic acid, which has neuroprotective effects that help improve memory and decrease mental fatigue,' says Jeremy Gurewitz, co-founder of Solace Health. A review in Molecules supports this link and identifies carnosic acid found in rosemary and sage as a neuroprotective compound with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. The study suggests it may help prevent neuron damage linked to neurodegenerative disorders. Brew rosemary fresh for five to seven minutes for best results. Related: 5 Anti-Inflammatory Drinks You'll Actually Look Forward to Sipping Read the original article on Real Simple
CBC
30-07-2025
- Lifestyle
- CBC
Kiwi ginger iced green tea: A bright, tangy beverage to stir up in batches this summer
Summer is the season for iced-tea, and this version is packed with fruit and comes together easily. Made with just a handful of ingredients — including green tea, ginger, kiwis and lime — it's bright, refreshing and perfect for making ahead of time for picnics and backyard hangs. You could add a splash of gin or enjoy it on its own. Ingredients 1 cup water 1 (1-inch) piece ginger, grated 5 green-tea bags 3 green or golden kiwis, peeled and chopped (or blended for a smoother texture) Juice of 1 lime ½ cup agave, or to taste 3 cups ice water, divided 2 cups ice To serve: Ice Cold sparkling water Mint sprigs 1 green or golden kiwi, peeled and sliced Preparation Bring 1 cup water to a simmer in a small saucepan. Add grated ginger and let it simmer for 2 minutes. Remove from heat, add green-tea bags and allow to steep for 5 minutes. Add 1 cup ice water (this prevents the tea from becoming too bitter), and continue to steep for another 10 minutes. Strain tea into a jar with a tight-fitting lid and refrigerate. In a large pitcher, combine kiwis, lime juice and agave, and use a muddler to mash the fruit until it is broken down. Add 2 cups ice and 2 cups ice water, then pour in the chilled tea. Stir to combine, then refrigerate for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, put a handful of ice in a glass, stir the tea concentrate to redistribute the fruit, then fill the glass about two-thirds of the way. Top with sparkling water and garnish with mint and kiwi slices.
The Sun
28-07-2025
- Lifestyle
- The Sun
Seven savvy ways to repair your damaged hair without splurging on expensive products
IF you have been soaking up the sun recently, your hair might need some TLC. UV rays, chlorine in swimming pools, sea salt from the beach and extra heat-styling on your locks for holiday nights out can all take their toll. 6 But you can revive tresses without expensive products using these top tricks . . . HEALING POWER: Pure Aloe Vera gel, £4.86, Holland & Barrett, doesn't just do wonders for sunburn — it is a miracle worker for dry scalps and split ends. Massage into roots to soothe irritation, or smooth through lengths to seal moisture. SWEET IDEA: Combine one tablespoon of sugar with two tablespoons of olive oil for an exfoliating scalp scrub that removes product build-up. Gently massage in before shampooing to boost circulation and banish flakes. VINEGAR CLARIFYING RINSE: Swimming in chlorine dulls hair, but an apple cider vinegar rinse (one part vinegar to three parts water) strips residue for really glossy hair. Pour on after shampooing, leave for two mins, then rinse. DIY MASK: Mix two tablespoons honey, one mashed banana, and one tablespoon coconut oil for a deep-conditioning mask. Apply to damp hair, leave for 30 mins, then rinse. The natural enzymes and oils tame frizz and can restore shine. GREEN TEA GLOSS: Brew two green tea bags in a mug and leave to cool for 30 minutes. Once it has lowered in temperature, use the tea as a final rinse to enhance shine and reduce brassiness. SLEEP SAVER: Swerve pricey silk bonnets and repurpose a satin dressing gown instead. Tie hair in a loose topknot and wrap with the fabric to prevent hair breakage while you sleep. DEEP TREAT: For extra repair, apply a pea-sized amount of pure glycerin, £6, Superdrug, to damp ends before bed. It's a humectant, which means it draws moisture into strands overnight, and one bottle will last for ages. All prices on page correct at time of going to press. Deals and offers subject to availability. My haircare routine transformed my brittle patchy hair – there's a cheaper alternative to my favourite product Deal of the day TREAT the family to a feast this week with this 40cm black trolley BBQ. Was £24, now £16 at Asda. Cheap treat STOCK up on Fruit Shoots at Tesco. A four pack – usually £2 – is now £1.50 when you scan your Tesco Clubcard. Top swap GET a golden glow when you use the famous Drunk Elephant B-Goldi Bright Drops, £35 from Space NK. Or try the MCoBeauty Super Glow Bronzing Drops, £10, and new to Superdrug. PLAY NOW TO WIN £200 6 JOIN thousands of readers taking part in The Sun Raffle. Every month we're giving away £100 to 250 lucky readers - whether you're saving up or just in need of some extra cash, The Sun could have you covered. Every Sun Savers code entered equals one Raffle ticket. The more codes you enter, the more tickets you'll earn and the more chance you will have of winning!
News24
28-07-2025
- Health
- News24
Matcha: The Japanese tea taking over the world
Matcha, the vibrant powdered green tea with deep cultural ties to Japanese tea ceremonies, has become a global sensation. It is heralded for its unique taste, health benefits, and photogenic appeal, rich antioxidant levels and calming properties which have captured the interest of wellness enthusiasts and social media influencers alike. However, as global demand soars beyond Japan's ability to keep pace, matcha remains synonymous with quality craftsmanship and Japanese tradition. Matcha is the new drink of choice at hip cafes worldwide, but Japanese producers are struggling to keep up with soaring demand for the powdered green tea. Here's what you need to know about the drink beloved of weekend treat-seekers and 'wellness' influencers: What is matcha? The word matcha means 'ground tea' in Japanese and comes in the form of a vivid green powder that is whisked with hot water and can be added to milk to make a matcha latte. Green tea was introduced to Japan from China in the early ninth century, and was first used for medicinal purposes. Matcha came much later, in 16th century Kyoto -- part of the tea ceremony tradition developed by tea master Sen no Rikyu. Today, there are different grades of matcha quality, from 'ceremonial' to 'culinary' types used in baking. How is it produced? Matcha is made from leaves called 'tencha', which are grown in the shade in the final weeks before their harvest to concentrate the flavour, colour and nutrients. This 'requires the construction of a complex structure with poles and a roof to filter the light', explained Masahiro Okutomi, a tea producer in Sayama, northwest of Tokyo. Tencha leaves, rich in chlorophyll and L-theanine, a compound known for its relaxing effects, are hand-picked and deveined, then steamed, dried and ground between two stone mills to produce an ultra-fine powder. AFP It can take up to an hour to produce just 40 grams (1.4 ounces) of matcha - making the powder on average twice as expensive to produce as standard green tea leaves. What are its benefits? Many drink matcha for its rich grass-like taste, but others are drawn to the drink's nutritional properties. It is rich in antioxidants, and can aid concentration because of its caffeine content: one cup contains on average 48 milligrams, slightly less than a drip coffee but nearly twice as much as a standardly brewed green tea. 'Matcha is often seen as being good for your health,' said Shigehito Nishikida, manager of Tokyo tea shop Jugetsudo. Why is it so popular? Japan produced 4 176 tonnes of matcha in 2023 - a huge increase from the 1 430 tonnes in 2012. More than half of the powder is exported, according to the agriculture ministry, mostly to the United States, Southeast Asia, Europe, Australia and the Middle East. Millions of videos on TikTok, Instagram and YouTube demonstrate how to make photogenic matcha drinks or choose a traditional 'chasen' bamboo whisk. READ | 'I feel like Gen Z really drove this enthusiasm for matcha, and they heavily relied on social media to do so,' Stevie Youssef, a 31-year-old marketing professional, told AFP at a matcha bar in Los Angeles. Matcha can also be used in cooking, extending its appeal to others aside from tea lovers. 'Some customers simply enjoy drinking it, others like preparing it themselves. And of course, many buy it as a gift - Japanese matcha is always appreciated,' said Jugetsudo's Nishikida.
