In recent years, matcha tea has become one of the most popular beverages among those looking for a healthy alternative to coffee. Its intense green color, unique flavor, and multiple benefits have turned it into a must-have in wellness routines. But one of the most common questions is: does matcha tea have caffeine? The answer is yes, although its effect on the body is very different from other stimulating drinks.
In this Nawo Routines article, we explain how much caffeine matcha really contains, how it works in your body, and why it can be a better option for maintaining stable energy throughout the day.
How Much Caffeine Does Matcha Tea Contain?
Although many people associate tea with low caffeine levels, matcha is an exception. Unlike other green teas, matcha is made from whole tea leaves that are finely ground, so when you drink it, you are ingesting the entire leaf. This means that matcha tea has a higher amount of caffeine than traditional green tea, although less than a cup of coffee.
On average, a 1-gram serving of matcha—equivalent to a small cup—contains between 60 and 70 mg of caffeine, while a cup of coffee can exceed 90 mg. However, the effect it produces in your body doesn’t feel the same. Thanks to the presence of L-theanine, a natural amino acid found exclusively in tea, the caffeine in matcha is released gradually, avoiding the energy spikes and sudden crashes often felt after drinking coffee.
Stable Energy and Mental Focus
One of the reasons so many people switch from coffee to matcha is because of the way its energy is experienced. Although matcha tea does contain caffeine, its combination with L-theanine creates a balanced effect: it keeps you alert and focused, but at the same time relaxed and without anxiety.
L-theanine stimulates the production of alpha waves in the brain, which are associated with a state of calm and mental clarity. This is why matcha is ideal for those who need to stay focused at work or during study sessions, but without the nervousness or jitteriness that coffee can cause. Additionally, the energy provided by matcha can last between 4 and 6 hours, compared to the 2 or 3 hours from coffee, making it a smoother and more sustainable option.
A Boost for Body and Mind
Beyond its caffeine content, matcha tea provides a large amount of antioxidants, especially catechins, which help fight oxidative stress and support cell regeneration. This means that, in addition to giving you energy, it also protects your body and contributes to overall wellbeing.
Another important aspect is that although matcha tea contains caffeine, it is absorbed more efficiently due to its combination with other natural compounds. It doesn’t cause glucose spikes or overstimulate the nervous system; instead, it acts in a more balanced way, making it suitable even for those who are usually sensitive to stimulants.
Drinking a cup of matcha before exercising, for example, can help increase physical endurance and improve performance without the jittery feeling. That’s why many people incorporate it into their morning routines or use it as a natural pre-workout drink.
Can Matcha Replace Coffee?
More and more people are choosing to reduce their coffee consumption and replace it with matcha, especially because of its longer-lasting and more stable effect. Although matcha tea does have caffeine, the way it acts on the body makes it an ideal alternative for those seeking energy without overstimulation.
If you’re trying to balance your energy levels or reduce anxiety, matcha can help you achieve that without sacrificing the boost you need to get through your day. Its versatility is also a big plus: you can enjoy it hot, iced, with plant-based milk, or even in smoothies and healthy desserts.
Incorporating matcha into your daily routine is a delicious way to take care of yourself, stay active, and enjoy all the benefits that this ancient beverage has to offer. So the next time you need an energy boost, choose a cup of matcha and let it accompany you with natural energy and balance.
