Green Tea | February 05, 2020 | C. Yu

Caffeine in Japanese Green Tea

Japanese green teas are popular for their rich flavors and aromatic brews, providing a unique experience in each cup. The caffeine content of each type of tea varies depending on how farmers process the tea leaves after harvesting. In comparison to other green teas, Japanese green teas often have higher caffeine content due to the gentle steaming process. However, the body metabolizes caffeine from green tea differently from caffeine in coffee, resulting in different benefits and effects.

While caffeine in coffee quickly provides a short jolt of energy, antioxidants in tea bind to caffeine slowing its absorption by the body. In return, you receive a steady and even supply of caffeine for a longer period of time. This allows the body and mind to enjoy long-lasting, health alertness without the jitteriness often experienced from coffee. There are also Japanese green teas and herbal teas known to have low or no caffeine.

Read below for our recommendations on the best tea for you, based on your personal caffeine needs and preferences.

Japanese green tea and herbal teas sencha genmaicha hojicha gyokuro sobacha kuromamecha in double walled glass teacups

High Caffeine Green Tea

For those who may need an early morning energy boost, both Gyokuro and Matcha green tea are the best options. Since both teas grown in the shade, they naturally contain higher caffeine content. For the best exprience, steep Gyokuro shade-grown green tea in tempered warm water, while whisk Matcha powdered green tea.

Due to its versatility and abundant health benefits, matcha green tea has become one of the most popular Japanese green teas available. Additionally, you can easily incorporate matcha green tea into mixed drinks such as matcha lattes, matcha cocktails, and matcha popsicles.

Thanks to this, matcha has become a daily staple in many morning routines, especially for those in need of a caffeine boost to start the day and who prefer a healthier alternative to coffee.

senbird-organic-japanese-matcha-green-tea-whisked-in-a-bowl-with-chashaku-and-chasen

Medium Caffeine Green Tea

Sencha green tea is a classic choice if you’re looking for a pick-me-up during the day or after a meal. It offers a moderate caffeine boost but much lower than caffeine from coffee or the shaded green tea options like Gyokuro and Matcha. Variations of Sencha include Fukamushicha, which refers to a deeply steamed green tea.

Generally, this process produces a non-astringent, full-bodied and vibrant brew since the tea leaves soften from the longer steaming. Regardless of which type you choose to drink, sencha green tea is an ideal option for a moderate caffeine boost.

Sencha-organic-Japanese-sencha-green-tea-on-a-tray

Low Caffeine Green Tea

If you prefer lower caffeine content in your tea, or you want to have a cup with your dinner or before bed, Hōjicha is a perfect choice. After the steaming process, producers roast Hojicha tea leaves, whereas they only steam other green teas.

The benefit of high temperature is that it burns away most of the caffeine within the green tea leaves. The toasty aroma and flavor are quite popular, especially with new tea drinkers. Hojicha has risen in popularity around the world due to this unique flavor profile.

senbird-organic-Hojicha-roasted-green-tea-in-teapot-and-cup-loose-leaf-tea

No Caffeine

For those who prefer to avoid caffeine altogether, there are also Japanese teas which are completely caffeine-free. Herbal teas are great for those sensitive to caffeine. Herbal teas are good to drink at any time of day.

Mugicha (Barley Tea), Sobacha (Buckwheat Tea), and Kuromamecha (Black Soybean Tea) are Japanese herbal teas that you can enjoy hot or cold—each offering its own set of unique health benefits and no caffeine content.

senbird-organic-kuromamecha round roasted black soybean tea purple brew

No matter your tastes or preferences, there is a Japanese tea that is suitable for any tea lover. Whether you prefer a long-lasting boost of caffeine to get you through a busy day, a low dose to go with your dinner or late-night activities, or no caffeine at all, Japanese tea offers a variety of options, ensuring you a satisfying and enjoyable brew in every cup.

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