It's wordy, but it works. As the founder of the Program in Integrative Medicine at the University of Arizona, Weil is America's best-known advocate for weaving together traditional medicine and alternative remedies. A few years ago, Time magazine said he was among the 25 most influential people in America. All the attention helps Weil spread the word, but it can be overwhelming. After all the books he has written, all the articles, all the lectures, all the television appearances, it is difficult for him to go anywhere where he is not known.
Japan is one of the places that qualifies.
Weil was there late last year on a fact-finding mission. He was researching matcha, a powdered green tea that is a regular part of his morning regime. Weil wants to set up a company to import matcha into the United States because of its healthful properties. His goal, he says, is to make the consumption of matcha as widespread as coffee. Eventually, I'd like to see matcha bars.