<b>BENEFITS:</b> <br> Grown in the shade, matcha tea retains a beautiful green color along with an incredible amount of nutrients, including antioxidants, fiber, amino acids, and chlorophyll. It is said that matcha can calm your mind, boost energy and metabolism, detoxify, and help prevent heart disease. Matcha gives you an energy boost and it lasts longer than after a coffee boost, because it contains L-Theanine amino acid. L-Theanine has a calming effect that relaxes the brain. Bottom line: it has all the right chemicals to send your body “feel good” signals. <br><br> <b>100% USDA Organic</b><br> Ceremonial grade: Is produced once a year using only the 1st harvest of spring green tea leaves. Ceremonial grade has a bright emerald green color, is an ultra fine powder and rich in flavor with no bitterness. Ceremonial grade matcha is best enjoyed as a traditional tea by simply whisking it with hot water.<br><br> <b>What's the difference between Culinary and Ceremonial grades?</b><br> Culinary grades are from later harvest tea leaves, have a bolder flavor meant for mixing into recipes as an ingredient, and are more affordable. Ceremonial grades are from first harvest leaves, have a smoother flavor suitable for traditional preparation as a tea (just mixed with hot water and whisked), and are more expensive.