The amount of caffeine in a cup or pot of tea depends on the type of tea, the strength of the tea (i.e. the ratio of tea leaves to water and the length of time the leaves were steeped), and the size of the cup or pot. Here are approximate amounts of caffeine per 6 oz. cup.

*The caffeine content in oolongs varies widely based on the oxidation level of the tea leaves.

**Mate (yerba mate) is an herbal infusion, but it contains caffeine.

To compare, coffee has approximately 80 mg of caffeine per 6 oz. serving.  

Decaf vs. Caffeine-Free

The word 'tea' is generally used to refer to any infusion that is prepared by pouring hot water over leaves and/or other ingredients. All 'true' teas come from the Camellia sinensis plant and are generally categorized as black, oolong, green, and white. These teas all have caffeine. 'True' teas can be decaffeinated, but these decaf teas will still have some caffeine.

Herbal infusions, fruit blends, rooibos, honeybush, and mate are not 'true' teas, but are prepared in the same manner and have many of the same health benefits as tea. All of these infusions are naturally caffeine-free, except for mate.

The Decaffeination Process

All of the decaf teas in The Pleasures of Tea tea menu have been decaffeinated using the CO2 method. This method reduces the caffeine content, while retaining as much of the flavor qualities and health benefits of the tea as possible and leaves no residue.

Naturally Decaffeinating Tea

Making decaf tea at home is quick and easy and allows you to decaffeinate (up to 95%) any tea.

1. Prepare hot tea according to the instructions provided on your package, but only steep for 30 seconds
2. Dump this first infusion
3. Pour more hot water over the leaves and steep for the full recommended time
4. Enjoy!