Caffeine Levels in Teas

Mind is All

Have you determined you want to reduce your caffeine level? Maybe you want to switch from drinking coffee and soda to drinking tea, but are afraid the caffeine level won't be much different? This primer will help you distinguish caffeinated teas from teas that don't contain caffeine.

When comparing tea to coffee, keep in mind that the average eight-ounce cup of coffee usually contains 150-200 milligrams of caffeine. You can use this scale to compare teas, which is presented from highest level of caffeine to lowest.

If you're trying to avoid caffeine, take black tea off your list--it usually serves up 60-90 milligrams of caffeine per eight ounces. Black teas are the foundation of traditional iced teas as well as Earl Grey and both Irish and English breakfast teas. It is typically served either with lemon, or it is served with milk and honey.

Oolong tea, which is smooth and refreshing, delivers 50-75 milligrams of caffeine in each cup. You've probably drank this tea in an Asian restaurant. Drink it plain, without adding anything.

Green tea usually contains 35-70 milligrams of caffeine. You can find a variety of green teas, most of them combined with lemongrass, all of which are best served plain.

White teas usually deliver 3-55 milligrams per cup. White tea is similar in taste to green tea, although smoother.

Red rooibos tea is caffeine-free, as are herbal teas. Look for redbush tea (that is red rooibos), and drink it with honey and a touch of milk. As far as herbal teas, you can find a bunch that contain mint leaves, rosehibs, citrus zest, and spices.

One final caffeine-free tea that still contains a stimulant is yerba matte, best drank with milk and sweetener. It is served all over South America. Many people like yerba matte, saying the stimulant it contains is smoother and gentler than caffeine.