How Much Caffeine Is in Tea?

Tea naturally contains caffeine, but the amount varies depending on the type of tea and how it is brewed. In general, tea contains much less caffeine than coffee, which is one reason it has been enjoyed for centuries as a gentler way to stay alert.

Understanding how much caffeine is in tea can help you choose the right tea for the time of day.

Most traditional teas contain caffeine because they come from the same plant, Camellia sinensis. This includes:

  • Black tea
  • Green tea
  • Oolong tea
  • White tea

Herbal infusions such as chamomile or peppermint are naturally caffeine-free because they are not made from the tea plant.

Caffeine in Green Tea

Green tea usually contains around 25–40 mg of caffeine per cup.

 

The exact amount depends on the tea variety and how long it is steeped. Lighter green teas often contain less caffeine than stronger black teas.

Green tea is therefore popular with people who want a gentle lift without the stronger stimulation of coffee.

Caffeine in Black Tea

Black tea generally contains around 40–70 mg of caffeine per cup.

This makes it stronger than most green teas but still significantly lower in caffeine than coffee, which often contains around 90–120 mg per cup

Does Loose Leaf Tea Have More Caffeine?

Loose leaf tea does not necessarily contain more caffeine than tea bags. The caffeine level mainly depends on

  • the type of tea
  • the amount used
  • the steeping time

Using more tea leaves or steeping for longer will usually extract more caffeine.

Does Decaffeinated Tea Contain Caffeine?

 

Decaffeinated teas still contain a very small amount of caffeine, but far less than regular tea.Decaffeinated green teas, such as decaf sencha, are a popular choice for people who enjoy the flavour of tea but prefer minimal caffeine.

Which Teas Have the Least Caffeine?

 

If you are looking for teas with lower caffeine levels, consider:

  • Green tea
  • White tea
  • Decaffeinated tea
  • Herbal infusions

These options provide a lighter alternative while still offering a satisfying cup.

Related Tea Guides

You may also find these guides helpful:

• How long should tea steep

• How to brew loose leaf tea

• How much tea per cup

• Types of tea