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That Green Mochi isn't Matcha!? The Secret of "Yomogi"

Happy Hinamatsuri! (March 3rd)

Hello everyone, today is Hinamatsuri (Girls' Day). If you visited a supermarket or convenience store today, did you notice some dark green rice cakes called "Kusa-mochi"?

Most people assume the deep green color comes from Matcha (Green Tea), but it’s actually a wild herb called "Yomogi" (Japanese Mugwort).

The "Queen of Herbs" in East and West

Why do we eat this on March 3rd? In Japan, Yomogi is known as the "Queen of Herbs." Interestingly, this herb was also valued in ancient Greek medicine. It truly is a universal healing plant!

As an acupuncturist, I love how this plant reflects the Japanese character. We use it in two ways:

1. Inside: We eat it as mochi for nutrition. It is rich in Iron and Fiber, making it a perfect "Superfood" for women's health.

2. Outside: We dry it to make "Moxa" for moxibustion (Okyu) to warm the body.

A Taste of Spring

"But does it taste good?" you might ask. Kusa-mochi usually contains Anko (Sweet Red Bean Paste) inside. The mochi itself has a slightly bitter, herbal flavor, which perfectly balances the sweetness of the Anko. It is the "best match"!

It might taste unfamiliar compared to Matcha, but once you get used to the herbal aroma, it is delicious. Please give it a try and taste the tradition of Japanese Spring!