[HEALTH] The rain outside your window. The soft clink of a ceramic cup. The earthy aroma. A grounding sip of something warm and soothing.
That’s what drinking kukicha feels like - calm in a restless world.
Kukicha, or twig tea, is a Japanese green tea composed primarily of stems and twigs of Camellia sinensis. Because the leaves are not used in kukicha, it contains very little caffeine, which means it can promote mental clarity without overstimulation.
This tea offers:
L-theanine: This amino acid, which is present in many green teas, has been linked to relaxed alertness, as well as improved focus, and stress reduction. Kukicha is especially high in L-theanine because the compound is produced in the roots making its way to the leaf last.
Polyphenols and catechins: Kukicha contains a number of these antioxidant compounds that can help your body deal with oxidative stress and inflammation.
Minerals: Kukicha is naturally high in minerals like calcium (some sources say it contains 13x more than cow's milk), iron, magnesium, and potassium, all of which can help soothe the nervous system and relax muscles.
Digestive Aid: In Japan, kukicha is regularly consumed after meals to aid digestion. Kukicha stimulates bile production and contains a compound known as ellagitannin, which is shown to promote the growth of beneficial gut bacteria.
A big part of kukicha’s ability to promote wellness may have to do with the simple act of preparing a cup and enjoying the warm, mildly earthy flavor. The soothing ritual can help the body and mind unwind from stress and shift into a place of calm.
