Genmaicha – roasted brown rice green tea health benefits

Health | November 15, 2019 | C. Yu

5 Health Benefits of Genmaicha Brown Rice Green Tea

Genmaicha Brown Rice Green Tea,a popular Japanese green tea, presents numerous impressive health benefits. Typically, genmaicha consists of mixing roasted brown rice kernels and sencha green tea to create its distinctive flavor. The roasted rice kernels add a nutty and aromatic fragrance that complements the astringency of green tea, creating a soothing toasted rice aroma that promotes relaxation. Since genmaicha is low in caffeine, it is a perfect tea to drink throughout the day with numerous impressive health benefits in every cup.

The information presented in this article is in no way intended as medical advice or as a substitute for medical treatment. You should always consult with your physician or other health care professional before adopting any treatment for a health problem.

pouring brewed Genmaicha tea in white cups

1. Balances Blood Sugar

When we experience blood sugar spikes or crashes, we feel irritable and may have unhealthy food cravings or fatigue, sometimes referred to as ‘being hangry’. However, like hojicha, genmaicha works to balance blood sugar levels, making it a safe tea for diabetics. If you find yourself craving unhealthy foods or snacks, drink a cup of genmaicha to help control your cravings.

Teapot with Dried genmaicha leaves and Cherry wood tea scoop

2. Lowers Risk of Cancer and Heart Disease

EGCG (Epigallocatechin Gallate) exists as an antioxidant present in all green teas, including genmaicha. Studies show that this antioxidant supports cell damage prevention and multiple types of cancer including bladder, ovary, and pancreatic cancer. Furthermore, they show that EGCG suppresses cancer growing cells [1]. In addition to lowering cancer risks, genmaicha also decreases bad cholesterol (LDL, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol) and increases good cholesterol (HDL, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol) to lower the risk of heart disease. The selenium found in genmaicha stimulates blood flow which can help reduce blood clots. Especially since heart disease is a growing concern throughout the world, drinking a cup of genmaicha a day may help maintain your heart’s health.

Genmaicha green tea oral health benefits

3. Improves Dental Health

Similar to gyokuro shade-grown green tea, genmaicha is also known carry oral health benefits thanks to the polyphenols contained in its leaves. The antibacterial properties found in genmaicha kill bacteria that cause tooth decay, cavities, and bad breath. With this in mind, consider going for genmaicha brown rice green tea to improve your overall dental health rather than your usual coffee.

4. Regulates Thyroids and Removes Toxins

The thyroid is a gland that regulates the body’s metabolism and controls the production of important hormones. The presence of selenium in genmaicha contributes to regulating thyroid hormones. Selenium deficiency may cause your thyroid to secrete too many or too few hormones, which can lead to poor vision, fatigue, or sleeping problems. In fact, green tea naturally contains polyphenols that provide antioxidants to your liver while detoxifying your body. Since genmaicha is mixed with sencha, drinking genmaicha throughout the day will help boost your immune system while continuously cleansing your body of toxins.

Brewed organic Genmaicha brown rice green tea and tea tin

5. Helps with Relaxation and Concentration

Drinking brown rice green tea can help with sleep, relaxation, and focus. A cup of genmaicha contains GABA (Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid) and theanine which soothes your mind. GABA is a naturally occurring amino acid that works as a neurotransmitter in your brain. It is called an inhibitory neurotransmitter as it blocks or limits some brain signals, decreasing brain activity, which calms your mind and body. The only other naturally occurring foods containing GABA are fermented ones like kimchi, miso, and tempeh. Additionally, genmaicha can reduce stress if consumed at the start of the day or promote relaxation before you sleep.

Genmaicha is lighter and easier to drink than other green teas, and with its distinct flavor and delicious rice aroma, it will surely become one of your favorite teas. Many tea producers like to blend in matcha for a bolder taste, commonly known as Matcha Iri Genmaicha. Our Genmaicha Suzu from Kyoto includes matcha for an energizing and toasty brew: Next time you want to venture out and try a new tea, why not give genmaicha a try?