A zap in the microwave could potentially increase the health benefits and caffeine kick of your green tea, according to a scientific study published in the Journal of Food Composition and Analysis back in 2012.

The study revealed that employing the "microwave-assisted extraction" (MAE) method for brewing green tea not only cut down brew time significantly but also enhanced the extraction of beneficial substances, such as catechins, caffeine, and theanine. The research team concluded these substances were more effectively extracted through this method than the traditional steeping process recommended by tea manufacturers.

After conducting an experiment with five tea brands under different conditions, including varied brew times, the researchers observed, "A household microwave oven could be employed to effectively extract the catechins, caffeine, and theanine from green tea in a time-efficient way."

According to the study's findings, the usage of the MAE method resulted in the improved extraction of catechins, caffeine, and theanine by 34%, 29%, and 14%, respectively. However, tea that was prepared using room-temperature water before microwaving failed to deliver efficient extraction. The best method suggested was brewing the tea for half a minute in freshly boiled water before microwaving for a minute.

The researchers state, “The optimal hot MAE conditions can be easily replicated at home to extract most of the beneficial components from green tea. Green tea drinkers consuming tea for the potential health benefits could utilize this method to get the most out of their brew.”

Concluding their study, the researchers added a potential downside: The robust concentration of the components, especially catechins, makes the tea taste stronger, which can be perceived as more astringent and bitter than the manufacturer-recommended brew. So, the tea might require flavor customizations, such as the addition of lemon, jasmine, pear, or apple, to appeal to the taste buds of most green tea drinkers.

So, for a more potent cup of green tea with enhanced health benefits, a minute in the microwave might be the way, just as long as you're prepared to adjust the flavor to suit your preference.