Skip to content 
Caffeine in tea is a fascinating topic that draws interest from tea lovers and health-conscious consumers alike. While many people associate caffeine primarily with coffee, tea also contains varying levels of this natural stimulant. The caffeine in tea is influenced by multiple factors, including the tea type, processing methods, and brewing techniques. Whether you seek a gentle lift or a more robust energy boost, understanding the caffeine levels in different types of tea can help you make informed choices. In this guide, we explore the 6 types of Chinese tea, their caffeine content, and the factors that influence caffeine extraction.
Does Tea Contain Caffeine?
Yes, caffeine in tea is naturally present because all true teas come from the Camellia sinensis plant, which inherently contains caffeine. However, the amount of caffeine in tea varies significantly based on factors such as the age of the leaves, processing techniques, and brewing methods. Unlike coffee, which provides a quick caffeine spike, tea contains L-theanine, an amino acid that promotes relaxation and helps balance the stimulating effects of caffeine. This unique combination makes caffeine in tea a preferred choice for those who want a steadier, more sustained energy boost without the jitters often associated with coffee. Additionally, the presence of polyphenols in tea can slow the absorption of caffeine, leading to a prolonged and gentler effect compared to coffee.
Caffeine content varies across different tea types. If you’re unfamiliar with the 6 major categories of Chinese tea, explore our guide: ‘The 6 Types of Chinese Tea: A Complete Guide’.
How Much Caffeine Is in Green Tea?
Green tea is widely consumed for its refreshing taste and numerous health benefits. The caffeine content in green tea ranges from 10–30 mg/g (in dry leaves) or 8–25 mg/100mL (in brewed tea), depending on the specific variety and how it is brewed.
Chinese green teas like Longjing (Dragon Well) and Biluochun tend to have moderate caffeine levels, while certain shaded teas, such as Gyokuro from Japan, can have higher caffeine content due to increased chlorophyll production. Chinese raw Pu-erh tea typically contains 10–20 mg/g (in dry leaves) or 8–15 mg per 100 mL (in brewed tea). After prolonged aging (e.g., 5+ years), the caffeine content in raw Pu-erh may decrease by approximately 5–10% due to slow oxidative degradation.
Green tea is highly effective for boosting energy and enhancing focus. Its clean, vibrant flavor delivers a refreshing experience that revitalizes both mind and body.
Try out Purcraftea Raw Puerh Green Tea at Pa Aileng Ancient Arbor Raw Puerh Tea.
How Much Caffeine Is in White Tea?
White tea is often perceived as having the lowest caffeine content, the range is 5–15 mg/g (in dry leaves)or 6–18 mg/100mL (in brewed tea). But this is not always the case. The caffeine content in white tea varies significantly depending on the type and processing method.
On the other hand, aged white tea undergoes slow oxidation over time, which may slightly reduce its caffeine content.
White tea is an excellent choice for those sensitive to caffeine, offering a naturally gentle experience. Its mellow sweetness and layered aftertaste make it particularly welcoming for new tea drinkers. Enjoy it any time of day or season.
To explore more about white tea: Chinese White Tea: Why Yunnan Ancient White Tea Matters
Try out Purcraftea white Tea Dragon Ball at Mist Maiden Ancient Arbor White Tea Dragon Ball
How Much Caffeine Is in Yellow Tea?
Yellow tea is a rare category that undergoes a unique ‘sealing yellow’ process, which gives it a smooth and mellow flavor. The caffeine content in yellow tea is a little bit less than green tea, ranging from 10–25 mg/g (in dry leaves) or 8–20 mg/100mL (in brewed tea). The processing method helps reduce bitterness while maintaining a moderate level of caffeine in tea.
Since yellow tea is not as widely available as other teas, it remains a lesser-known but excellent choice for those looking for a balanced tea with moderate caffeine content.
How Much Caffeine Is in Oolong Tea?
Oolong tea is a semi-oxidized tea that offers a wide range of flavors and caffeine levels. The caffeine in tea(oolong) varies significantly based on oxidation levels. The caffeine content in oolong tea is 12–30 mg/g (in dry leaves) or 10–25 mg/100mL (in brewed tea). The degree of oxidation and rolling techniques used during processing can influence caffeine retention.
Those looking for a tea with moderate caffeine but rich complexity often find oolong to be a satisfying choice.
How Much Caffeine Is in Black Tea?
Black tea is fully oxidized, giving it a rich, robust flavor and higher caffeine levels compared to less oxidized teas. Chinese black teas, such as Keemun (Qimen) and Dianhong, can contain 20–40 mg/g (in dry leaves) or 10–35 mg/100mL (in brewed tea).
Yunnan Large-Leaf Sun-Dried Black Tea
Thanks to its unique solar-drying process, this tea contains significantly less caffeine (10–20 mg/g in dry leaves or 8–15 mg per 100 mL in brewed tea) compared to conventional black teas. It develops a pronounced natural sweetness and bright aromatic profile featuring floral and fruity notes – making it perfect for daily enjoyment.
Try out Purcraftea sun-dried black tea at Tea Song Ancient Arbor Black Tea.
How Much Caffeine Is in Dark Tea?
Dark tea, including ripe Puerh and Liubao Tea, undergoes post-fermentation, which affects its caffeine levels. The caffeine in tea (Dark tea) averages 5–15 mg/g(in dry leaves) or 5–12 mg/100mL (in brewed tea).
The fermentation process allows for the gradual breakdown of caffeine, making ripe Puerh a gentler option for those sensitive to caffeine. Drinking ripe Puerh tea, especially aged varieties, is often associated with digestive benefits, making it a popular post-meal tea choice.
Try out Purcraftea Ripe Puerh tea at Pricess Qi Ancient Arbor Ripe Puerh Tea. Try Liubao Dark Tea at Yao Dragon Dog Ancient Arbor Liubao Tea.
Caffeine in Tea vs. Coffee
Many people compare caffeine in tea to coffee to determine which beverage best suits their lifestyle. On average:
The caffeine content in coffee is 41mg per 100ml brewed coffee, which is higher than most teas.
Green and dark teas provide a moderate caffeine boost, making them a good choice for morning consumption.
Dark tea and white teas offer a milder caffeine effect, suitable for afternoon or evening drinking.
Unlike coffee, tea contains L-theanine, which helps promote focus and relaxation while counteracting the jittery effects of caffeine.
Factors Affecting Caffeine in Tea
The caffeine in tea is not only determined by the type of tea but also by how it is brewed. Key factors influencing caffeine extraction include:
Tea Amount: More tea leaves result in a higher caffeine concentration.
Water Temperature: Hotter water (90-100°C) extracts more caffeine in tea, while cooler water (60-70°C) leads to a milder brew.
Steeping Time: Longer steeping times (3-5 minutes) extract more caffeine in tea, while shorter steeping times (3-5 seconds) reduce caffeine levels.
Tea Leaf Type: Tea buds contain more caffeine than mature leaves, making teas with a higher bud content naturally more caffeinated.
Conclusion
The caffeine content in tea varies significantly across different types, ranging from the mild effects of white and dark teas to the stronger stimulation found in green and black teas(not including sun-dried black tea). Caffeine in tea offers a balanced alternative to coffee, providing a steady energy release without the harsh crash. By understanding the factors that influence caffeine in tea, including tea type, processing, and brewing techniques, tea drinkers can customize their experience to match their desired energy levels.
Whether you prefer a strong morning green tea or a delicate white tea in the evening, tea provides a diverse and adaptable caffeine experience suitable for all lifestyles.
Find out the more about the health benefits of tea at : 7 Health Benefits of Drinking Pu Erh Tea.
