When you think of an energy-boosting beverage you might automatically think of coffee. But tea is also a hot beverage that can be used to give you an energy boost.
Tea contains different compounds than coffee and these compounds can give you a boost in energy just like coffee does.
Coffee has a reputation for giving you a crash due to the amount of caffeine it contains.
With loose-leaf tea, you don’t get the same effect.
While some teas that wake you up contain caffeine, it is usually small amounts compared to coffee.
In this blog, we will look at the top selection of teas out there that have energy-boosting qualities.
7 of the Best Teas for Energy
Here are some teas that are often considered for their energising properties:
1. Green Tea
Green tea is often considered good for boosting energy.
It contains caffeine, which is a natural stimulant that can help improve alertness and focus.
The caffeine content in green tea is generally lower than that in coffee, providing a milder and more sustained energy boost without the jitteriness or crashes associated with some high-caffeine beverages.
Green tea contains L-theanine, an amino acid that has a calming effect.
The combination of caffeine and L-theanine is believed to contribute to a more balanced and focused form of energy.
L-theanine can help counteract the potential side effects of caffeine, such as increased heart rate or anxiety, by promoting a sense of relaxation.
2. Black Tea
Just like green tea, black tea also contains caffeine. That’s due to the fact it comes from the same Camellia sinensis plant.
The only difference is that it goes through a more extensive oxidation process which gives it a different flavour profile.
The caffeine content in black tea is generally lower than that of coffee but is still sufficient to produce a mild stimulating effect.
Black tea contains other compounds, such as theophylline and theobromine, which may contribute to its energising effects.
The impact of black tea on energy levels can vary from person to person, as individual sensitivity to caffeine differs.
Some people may experience a noticeable increase in energy and alertness after consuming black tea, while others may be less affected.
For more information on black tea then please read our blog which covers the benefits of black tea.
3. Yerba Mate
Yerba mate is known for its energising effects due to its caffeine content, along with other stimulant compounds.
Yerba mate is a traditional South American beverage made from the leaves of the Ilex paraguariensis plant.
The caffeine in yerba mate is accompanied by theobromine and theophylline, which are stimulants found in chocolate and tea.
The combination of these compounds in yerba mate can provide a smoother and more sustained energy boost compared to some other caffeinated beverages.
Many people who consume yerba mate report increased alertness, improved mood, and enhanced cognitive function.
Yerba mate contains less caffeine than coffee, but more than most teas.
4. Oolong Tea
The caffeine content in oolong tea is moderate, falling between that of green tea and black tea.
While oolong tea does have caffeine, it also contains other compounds, such as L-theanine, which may contribute to a more balanced and sustained energy effect.
L-theanine is an amino acid found in tea leaves, and it is known to have calming and relaxing properties.
When combined with caffeine, as is the case in oolong tea, it can mitigate the jittery or anxious feelings sometimes associated with caffeine consumption.
The combination of caffeine and L-theanine may enhance cognitive performance and alertness without the crashes that can be experienced with some other caffeinated drinks.
Please read our blogs on Oolong tea for more information:
5. Matcha
A type of powdered green tea, Matcha contains more caffeine than traditional green tea. It also provides a unique combination of amino acids, vitamins, and minerals.
Matcha goes through a unique cultivation process where it is ground up into a fine powder which means you end up ingesting the entire tea leaf.
Matcha provides nearly as much caffeine as a cup of coffee and similar to green tea, matcha contains a concentrated amount of many healthful and energising properties.
6. Peppermint Tea
Peppermint tea has been known to possibly reduce fatigue and improve energy levels.
Peppermint tea doesn’t contain caffeine but it has other natural compounds that may have positive effects when it comes to boosting energy.
In a particular study, 24 individuals who were in good health and young experienced reduced mental fatigue while undergoing a cognitive test when administered capsules containing peppermint oil.
7. Ginger Tea
Ginger tea is generally caffeine-free, so it doesn’t provide an energy boost in the same way as caffeinated beverages.
Ginger has other properties that may contribute to a sense of well-being and alertness.
While ginger tea may not directly provide an energy boost through caffeine, its unique flavour profile and potential health benefits make it a popular choice for those seeking a warming and revitalising beverage.
Energising Tea Options at Loose Leaf Tea
When it comes to the best morning tea for energy, there is a wide selection. Each option has its own unique blend of flavour and aroma.
We understand that people drink tea not just because of its energy-boosting qualities but also for its calming effects, health benefits and great taste.
At Leaf Tea Shop, we stock a wide variety of loose-leaf teas that range from Rooibos tea, Herbal tea, White tea and much more!
Visit our online store to buy high-quality loose-leaf tea online.