4 Health Benefits of Mugicha Barley Tea
Mugicha (麦茶) is a Japanese herbal tea made from roasted barley that is delicious both hot or cold. This non-caffeinated barley tea is a staple in many east Asian countries in particular, with tons of health benefits. On a hot summer day in Japan, it is typical to have iced barley tea, or Mugicha, with meals or as a quick refresher.
Below, we explore the history and health benefits of Mugicha barley tea.
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.
Brief History of Mugicha
The origin of Mugicha dates back to the Heian period (794-1185), where military commanders drank a mixture of “parched” (dry roasted) barley flour and sugar dissolved in hot water or alcohol. Barley tea became more popular to the common class throughout the late Edo period (1603-1868) to the Meiji era (1868-1912). As a result, Mugicha was frequently available in many cafes and homes. Finally, with the rise of refrigeration in the 1950s, Barley tea was established as a summer drink due to being harvested during the season. By 1965, Barley tea was officially named “Mugicha”.
Mugicha Barley Tea Health Benefits
Overall since Mugicha is caffeine-free, it is an excellent drink at any time of day for people of all ages. After all, Mugicha is a great summer drink because it has a cooling effect on your body while replenishing your body with nutrients. Additionally, the health benefits of Mugicha include:
- Good for digestion: Mugicha is known as a natural antacid that helps to ease painful heartburn. Additionally, barley grains consist of high levels of fiber that help with constipation and boost healthy bowel movements.
- Enhances the immune system: Mugicha contains vitamin C that helps protect the immune system from various diseases and infections.
- Prevents tooth decay: Mugicha has polyphenols and antioxidants that can prevent tooth decay. These powerful compounds even help in protecting teeth from plaque build-up.
- Weight loss: Mugicha, because of its health benefits, is an ideal replacement for drinks that contain a lot of sugar. As a result, drinking Mugicha may help you maintain weight with a healthy lifestyle.
How To Brew Mugicha (Using Our Mugicha Itsuki)
Cold Brew
- Pour one liter or one quart of cold water over a packet of Mugicha in a large pitcher or cold brew bottle.
- Let the packet steep for 2 hours in the fridge. *Steep up to 2 times
- Pour into your favorite cup and enjoy!
Hot Brew
- Pour one liter or one quart of 203°F (95°C) hot water over a packet of Mugicha in a heat-proof kettle.
- Let the packet steep for 3-5 minutes *Steep up to 2 times
- Keep or remove the teabag, depending on your preference.
- Pour into your favorite yunomi or teacup and enjoy!
🍵 Drinking our tea? Take a picture and tag us on Instagram at @senbirdtea or #senbirdtea. We’d love to see your moment with tea!
If you want to read more articles on health benefits, check them out here:
- The 4 Health Benefits of Drinking Tea
- 7 Healthy Caffeine-free Herbal Teas For Natural Detox
- 5 Health Benefits of Genmaicha Brown Rice Green Tea
- 8 Health Benefits of Hojicha Roasted Green Tea
- 4 Health Benefits of Sobacha Buckwheat Tea
- 6 Health Benefits of Gyokuro Green Tea
- 5 Health Benefits of Kuromamecha Black Soybean Tea
- Health Benefits of Sencha Japanese Green Tea
- 4 Health Benefits of Matcha Green Tea Powder
- 6 Best Teas for Sore Throat
Share your moment with us and stay connected on:
