Yes, the caffeine in Matcha is assimilated in a very different and much healthier way. The caffeine in Matcha binds to the larger catechin molecules, that also act as powerful antioxidants, and is released into the bloodstream slowly over time, as the catechins are broken down and assimilated. The results are "time-released" smaller dosages of caffeine that provide sustained energy for up to 6 to 8 hours. This mechanism also prevents the insulin and adrenalin spikes typical for coffee intake, so you never have to experience the "after-low" that follows when the blood sugar drops.
According to information from USDA research chemists, and a statement from the American Association of Cereal Chemists, gluten is found only in the seed kernel (endosperm) and not in the stem and grass leaves. If the grass is cut from a growing plant and does not include the seed kernel, it should be safe for persons with gluten intolerance to use.
The reason why there are no herbs, berries, or lecithin is because most green formulas that contain herbs are usually found to have very small dosages that have little effect on the body. Also the body can form a tolerance to the herbs after prolonged use, making it ineffective. Whole greens does not have berries or lecithin, mainly because we wanted to give the consumer a product with more green ingredients than our competitors. In most cases lecithin is used as a filler yielding the highest amount in most green formulas.
Our Whole Greens products contain Matcha Green Tea, which has 4mg of caffeine, per serving. This amount is minuscule compared to other products like coffee, tea, or energy drinks, which range from 100 - 300mg.