Imperial Gyokuro Ujicha

Description

Gyokuro is a UNIQUE Japanese green tea, widely recognized for its remarkable health benefits. The tea plants are shaded for about three weeks before harvest, reducing photosynthesis and enhancing the tea’s natural compounds. This shading process boosts key ingredients — catechins (especially EGCG), L-theanine, flavonoids, polysaccharides, fluoride, and vitamins B, C, and E — alongside a gentle caffeine content. Together, these compounds support relaxation, mental clarity, and cardiovascular health, primarily through their potent antioxidant properties.

The name “Gyokuro” translates to “jewel dew” or “jade dew,” a nod to the vivid green colour of the brewed tea. With its sweet, delicate flavor and soft texture, Gyokuro stands apart from all other green teas and uniquely – ITS ONLY TEA LEAVES CAN BE EATEN AFTER BREWING.

What is EGCG?

EGCG (Epigallocatechin gallate) is the most potent catechin found in green tea, extensively studied for its benefits to heart health, metabolism, and anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

Mental & Cognitive Benefits

• Stress & anxiety relief — Rich in L-theanine, an amino acid that promotes calmness and reduces stress
• Focus & concentration — L-theanine enhances cognitive function for sustained mental clarity
• “Alert calm” effect — L-theanine balances the tea’s caffeine, keeping you relaxed yet focused

Physical Health Benefits

• Cardiovascular support — Antioxidants help reduce the risk of heart disease and improve cholesterol
• Antioxidant powerhouse — Catechins combat free radicals and reduce the risk of chronic disease
• Oral health — Polyphenols and minerals help prevent cavities, bad breath, and gum disease
• Immune support — Antioxidants strengthen your body’s defences against infection
• Weight management — Boosts energy expenditure and promotes fat oxidation, with minimal calories
• Skin health — Vitamin C and antioxidants contribute to healthier, more youthful-looking skin

For best results, avoid boiling water and refrain from drinking Gyokuro on an empty stomach.

Brewing Guide

1. Add 1 teaspoon of tea leaves per cup to your teapot
2. Pour warm water at 60°C(60% boiling + 40% cold water) and steep for1 minute
3. Pour all the tea into your cup — leave none in the pot
4. Enjoy hot or chilled
5. Re-steep the same leaves 2–3 times, then eat the leaves with your favorite sauce

Storage

Keep Gyokuro tea leaves in an airtight container in a cool, dry, dark place for maximum freshness.

What is EGCG in Japanese Green Tea

You may have heard that Japanese green tea is good for you — but do you know why?

The secret lies in EGCG (Epigallocatechin Gallate) — a powerful antioxidant naturally found in Japanese green tea.

EGCG is the most abundant catechin in green tea, and it’s one of the reasons why drinking a daily cup of quality Japanese green tea is so beneficial for your health.

EGCG may help with:

• Fighting free radicals & reducing oxidative stress
• Reducing inflammation
• Supporting heart health
• Boosting metabolism & weight management
• Protecting brain health (Alzheimer’s & Parkinson’s)
• Supporting healthy skin

The good news, every cup of Japanese green tea you enjoy contains EGCG naturally — no supplements needed.

From our Gyokuro, Matcha, Sencha, Genmaicha to Houjicha — each tea offers its own unique way to enjoy the natural goodness of EGCG.

Research on EGCG is ongoing and results are very promising.

For more information please visit our How to Brew page.