MOOD BOOSTING Mucuna Rose Matcha

Did you know that a key way to boost your immune system is through your MOOD? Scientific studies show that psychological well-being directly increase the body’s immune response. Downward moods can be hard to beat on your own, so we can call upon our plant allies to assist us in accessing joy states more often than not.

And although I am an avid coffee drinker, as I grew up near the coffee lands, although that's not quite an excuse, I don't think I'll ever stop intaking from the precious coffee plant. But here's the thing, excessive caffeine decreases stable moods and contributes to the lows and the peaks more often than not. So, just add in other elevating cozy drinks to your routine to keep vibing high without sacrificing too much on your end. 

THIS IS WHY I PARTICULARLY LOVE MATCHA 

MATCHA

(Camellia sinensis) contains the amino acid L-Theanine. L-Theanine promotes the production of alpha waves in the brain which in turn induce relaxation. (Like cacao!) Two powerhouses often associated with energy, when they actually can help us calm down and decompress the nervous system. A side effect of L-Theanine is the production of dopamine in the brain. Dopamine improves memory and increases concentration. Which is why I religiously love to add high quality Mucuna to my morning potion, to further enhance dopamine receptors (aka joy receptors). Another happy side effect of the amino acid L-Theanine is the production of serotonin in the brain. And, both Matcha + Mucuna can fortify the immune system.

And that's not all!

Matcha can detoxify the body. Matcha contains high levels of chlorophyll, which is capable of removing both heavy metals and chemical toxins from the body. Fun fact: chlorophyll is what gives matcha tea its vibrant green color!

Matcha increases metabolism. Drinking matcha tea in the morning is a great way to jumpstart your metabolism and kickstart a calorie burning party. Studies have shown that matcha tea can help your body burn fat at a rate of four times faster than average. Not that this is ultra important, but this basically says it helps rid your body of accumulated toxicity. 

Matcha can help promotes memory and concentration. A side effect of L-Theanine is the production of dopamine in the brain. Dopamine improves memory and increases concentration.

It increases energy. Like all green teas, matcha naturally contains caffeine. However, the unique combination of other nutrients and that magical amino acid L-Theanine (that we clearly can’t stop talking about) can increase energy and endurance for up to six hours.

It fortifies the immune system. Matcha contains a special antioxidant: catechins. Think of catechins as the superheroes of antioxidants – not only are they the most potent antioxidants, but they also have antibiotic properties that fortify your immune system and boost your overall health. Plus, matcha tea is rich in potassium and protein as well as vitamins A and C. (Again, like cacao!)

It contains cancer-fighting properties. While we’re talking about catechins…one specific catechin is called epigallocatechin gallate (EGCg), which is known for its cancer-fighting properties. Scientists have discovered that matcha contains at least 100 times more EGCg than any other tea.

It promotes anti-aging chmistry. Think of matcha tea as a magical elixir for your skin. Because it’s rich in antioxidants, it supports skin health by reducing inflammation and free radicals that accelerate aging.

FELLOW MOOD BOOSTERS THAT UPLIFT MATCHA'S ENERGY

ROSE

MUCUNA

Mucuna Pruriens is one of the only naturally occurring (and certainly most concentrated) sources of L-Dopa—as in dopamine. In fact, Mucuna is so rich in the dopamine precursor L-Dopa that it is used as an alternative treatment for Parkinson’s disease, which is believed to be caused (in part) by a lack of the essential neurotransmitter (dopamine). Mucuna Pruriens is a powerful natural source of dopamine, serotonin, and tryptamine… and just about every other mood-influencing neurochemical known. Mucuna is perhaps the closest thing that exists to a natural, safe non-addictive antidepressant or mood enhancer, like our fellow anti-depressives like we recently spoke about St Johns Wort and Rhodiola.