Naturally Caffeinated: Tea vs. Coffee Caffeine Rankings

Are you unsure whether to drink tea or coffee for an energy boost? Which beverage actually has more caffeine? Both are popular beverages to kickstart our mornings. However, consuming an excessive amount of caffeine can lead to conditions known as tea or coffee intoxication, collectively referred to as caffeine intoxication.

So, if you want to drink tea or coffee for an energy boost without feeling intoxicated, keep reading! This article will help you understand the caffeine content in each type of drink to choose the most suitable beverage!

Caffeine Content Ranking in Tea and Coffee

Generally, coffee contains more caffeine than tea. Among various types of tea, fermented teas like oolong tea or black tea contain more caffeine than unprocessed teas like white tea or green tea.

Herbal Tea and South African Rooibos Tea

Herbal teas, which do not contain caffeine, are becoming popular choices for relaxation. Some notable options include South African Rooibos Tea, chamomile tea, rose tea, etc. Herbal teas are an excellent choice for those looking to uplift their spirits gently. However, if you want to stay awake, herbal tea may not be the ideal choice as they can make you feel more relaxed!

However, if you're still looking for herbal tea to help you stay alert while working, check out the following article: Sip Smart: Coffee-Free Drinks and Tips for All-Day Alertness.

Decaf Tea and Decaf Coffee

For those who want to enjoy the flavor of tea and coffee without experiencing sleep disturbances or caffeine intoxication, decaffeinated beverages are suitable. Decaf tea and coffee may contain between 5 and 10 mg of caffeine per cup, enough to sharpen your mind without causing discomfort.

White Tea

White tea contains caffeine ranging from 15 to 30 mg, with a refreshing and delicate taste. This is a unique option for those looking to add a little caffeine to their system. The color, taste, and aroma of white tea are gentle, creating a very enjoyable tea-drinking experience.

Green Tea

With caffeine content ranging from 15 to 30 mg, green tea not only helps you stay alert for work but also offers numerous health benefits. Green tea is rich in antioxidants and polyphenols, which improve brain function, support digestion, and boost the immune system. Additionally, the delicate flavor and natural green color of green tea make the drinking experience more enjoyable.

Oolong Tea

A cup of oolong tea contains between 30 and 45 mg of caffeine. Partially fermented, oolong tea has a rich and pleasant aroma of natural greenery. Since oolong tea has more caffeine than green tea, it also helps you stay more alert for a productive workday.

Milk Tea

Milk tea is often brewed with black tea and typically contains about 45 mg of caffeine. This is a favorite beverage among young people because it not only helps them stay awake but also has a rich, delicious, and easy-to-drink flavor. In addition to black tea, there are also milk tea varieties made with green tea or oolong tea. However, consuming a lot of milk tea not only makes it difficult to sleep but also provides a lot of energy. Therefore, be mindful when drinking milk tea!

Black Tea

Black tea contains more caffeine than other types of tea, with caffeine levels averaging 65 mg per 8 oz. Black tea is fully fermented. The tea has a dark reddish-brown color and a strong, robust tea flavor, leaving an impressive aftertaste. This is a tea that many young people prefer to drink alone. If you need to be alert to meet deadlines, black tea will definitely help.

Related Article: Are Hongcha and Black Tea Different or The Same?

Matcha Tea

Matcha, a famous type of tea originating from Japan, is made from finely ground green tea leaves and contains 60 to 80 mg of caffeine. Beverages made from matcha, such as matcha lattes, matcha frappes, etc., may contain less caffeine due to additional ingredients. Anyway, a cup of matcha drink will also help you stay awake to concentrate on your work better!

Yerba Mate Tea

Yerba mate tea, originating from South America, contains 70 to 86 mg of caffeine per serving. Yerba mate is very popular among native people, and then gradually becomes more popular when Europeans set foot. Interestingly, yerba mate is not real tea, nor does it have any relatives to coffee. This is another herb with a significant amount of caffeine, so it is often used as a drink to enhance alertness.

Coffee

And finally, we cannot overlook coffee, with caffeine levels ranging from 80 to 150 mg depending on the brewing method. Coffee is the number one choice for those who need a strong kick to start their day. Many people also love milk coffee because it is easier to drink and may contain less caffeine.

Caution When Drinking Tea or Coffee with High Caffeine Content

Although caffeine has many benefits, such as increasing alertness to focus better, using it excessively can cause side effects. The side effects of caffeine may include:

• Jitters, nervousness
• Anxiety
• Dizziness
• Insomnia
• Caffeine addiction

Related Article: Tips to quickly get away from coffee drunk

Conclusion

The article has outlined the caffeine content in various popular beverages and suggested suitable tea or coffee options. Additionally, consider your mood and needs. If you need immediate alertness, coffee will be a better choice, but if you're looking for a relaxing and gentle drink, choose tea with less caffeine. Meanwhile, herbal teas without caffeine will help you fall asleep thanks to their soothing properties, calming the mind.

Chus provides a variety of Vietnamese specialty coffees, teas and herbal infusions, so you can choose the right type to suit your taste and needs. Browse and add to cart now to enjoy or purchase as gifts!