Benefits of hōjicha
Beyond caffeine, the antioxidants such as polyphenols and melanoidins formed during roasting “help reduce oxidative stress and support cellular repair,” says Payal Kothari, gut health nutritionist, author of The Gut and founder of INUEN Nutrition School and GUTAVATAR. “It can also calm low-grade inflammation, often at the root of many gut and metabolic issues.”
Ishvani Patel, founder of ILEM Japan, echoes that sentiment. “I am not a coffee person and relied on hōjicha between classes to stay focused during my college years in Japan,” she says. Additionally, hōjicha is low in tannins, making it easier to digest. “This translates to less gut irritation, reduced acid reflux and better suitability after meals,” stresses Kothari. Patel considers it a great digestive tea. “It’s my go-to after a heavy meal for better digestion,” she says.
Matcha vs hōjicha
The two are often compared because they come from the same plant. And with matcha facing a global shortage, all eyes are on hōjicha. But they are far from similar. “Matcha is shade-grown, steamed, dried and stone-ground into a powder that is consumed whole,” says Jalan. “This results in high concentrations of caffeine and antioxidants. Matcha tends to promote alertness, metabolic stimulation and sustained energy.”
Hōjicha, by contrast, is green tea leaves and stems roasted at high temperatures. “It contains lower caffeine, fewer catechins and a warm, nutty flavour,” says Kothari. “It’s best for anxiety-prone individuals, gut sensitivity and hormonal balance.”
If matcha feels energising, hōjicha feels grounding. “Neither is inherently better; they simply serve different physiological and sensory purposes,” says Jalan.
Should you replace your 4pm coffee?
It’s easy to be swept away by yet another viral wellness trend that promises something tangible. “I have seen a growing curiosity in hōjicha,” says Patel. “Today, people are looking for alternatives to coffee and hōjicha surprises them with a flavour that feels familiar, yet new.”
But before you hit add to cart, consider what you’re actually seeking. Hōjicha can support different needs depending on when you consume it. “Have it after meals to support digestion, in the late afternoon for a mild lift or before bedtime as a calming ritual,” says Kothari.
For me, hōjicha helped ease my reliance on caffeine and luckily, my nervous system responded favourably to the shift.
