2 min read

If you're a tea lover, you might be wondering: Does green tea contain caffeine?
The short answer is yes—but there’s more to it than just that.

Green tea contains about 35–45 mg of caffeine per 8 oz cup, which is roughly one-third to one-fifth the amount found in a typical cup of coffee. While it’s not as strong as coffee, green tea is still an excellent natural source of caffeine—with added health benefits and far fewer jitters.

Let’s explore what caffeine is, how green tea compares to other caffeinated drinks, and why green tea might just be your new favorite pick-me-up.

Key Takeaways

•  Green tea does contain caffeine—about 35–45 mg per 8 oz cup
•  It has less caffeine than coffee but still provides a natural energy boost
•  The L-theanine + caffeine combo promotes calm focus without jitters
•  Green tea is packed with antioxidants and health benefits
•  It’s a great choice for those looking to reduce coffee or soda intake

What Is Caffeine and Where Does It Come From?

Caffeine is a natural alkaloid that stimulates the central nervous system. It helps fight fatigue, increase alertness, and improve both physical and mental performance.

Caffeine is found naturally in more than 50 types of plants, where it acts as a natural pesticide, protecting the plant from insects. The most popular caffeine-containing plants include:

• Tea leaves

• Coffee beans

• Cocoa beans

You can also find caffeine in chocolate, soft drinks like Coca-Cola and Pepsi, and most energy drinks.

How Much Caffeine Is in Green Tea Compared to Other Drinks?

Here’s how green tea stacks up against other popular beverages:

Sources:http://www.garfieldmedicalcenter.com/GMC-Blog/2016/October/Different-Types-of-Tea-and-Caffeine-Content.aspx

https://www.coca-colaproductfacts.com/en/products/coca-cola/original/12-oz/

Is Green Tea Caffeine Different from Coffee?

Yes—and the difference is important.

Although green tea has less caffeine than coffee, the way it affects your body is gentler. Coffee delivers a quick jolt that can lead to energy crashes and caffeine jitters, especially in high doses.

Green tea, on the other hand, contains L-theanine, an amino acid that works with caffeine to create a calm, focused state. This unique combo helps promote alert relaxation rather than overstimulation. That’s why many people turn to green tea when they want energy without the buzz.

Matcha (a concentrated powdered form of green tea) has more caffeine than regular green tea—but still less than a standard coffee.

Health Benefits of Green Tea

Green tea doesn’t just contain caffeine—it’s loaded with health-boosting properties:

• L-theanine: Helps calm the mind and reduce anxiety

• Antioxidants (like EGCG): Help reduce inflammation and fight cell damage

• Polyphenols: May lower cholesterol and support heart health

• Natural metabolism boosters: Assist with fat burning and weight management

Green tea also supports long-term energy without the peaks and crashes of coffee. It's a natural way to stay productive, focused, and healthy.

FAQ: Green Tea and Caffeine

Q: Can I drink green tea if I’m sensitive to caffeine?
A: Yes, many people who are caffeine-sensitive tolerate green tea well. Its lower caffeine content and calming L-theanine make it a gentler option.

Q: Does decaffeinated green tea still have benefits?
A: Absolutely. While it has little to no caffeine, decaf green tea still contains antioxidants and nutrients that support health.

Q: Is matcha better than green tea for energy?
A: Matcha provides more caffeine and antioxidants per cup, making it a stronger option if you want a bigger boost. Just be mindful of your sensitivity to caffeine.

Ready to sip on something energizing and soothing?
Try a cup of Humming Cup’s Organic Green Tea—made with premium loose-leaf tea, free from pesticides, and full of self-care goodness.