It is important to clarify that, both coffee and tea, have many more molecules than caffeine, and that they all interact with each other and compensate, attenuate or nuances their effects. The polyphenols present in large quantities in the tea slow down the rate of caffeine absorption, with which its effect is slower but more lasting in tea than in coffee. Perhaps what is difficult to understand, is that more than a century later confusion persists among most people.Ĭaffeine is an alkaloid that is found naturally in different foods such as coffee, tea, cocoa, guarana and yerba mate. In fact, caffeine was isolated in 1819, however, at that time it was thought that tea contained a similar but different substance: theine.īut later analyzes revealed that they were the same substance. The answer, in spite of the misinformation that exists, is clear: they are the same molecule. Discover what is true about it.Ī recurring question among tea consumers is whether the tea has caffeine and theine or whether both components caffeine and theine are the same or not. If you really are that sensitive to stimulants, try decaffeinated coffee or herbal infusions instead.In general when talking about theine and caffeine, it is thought that two different substances are being mentioned. The key is to find the right balance for you. For example, Robusta blends can contain more caffeine than Arabica and black tea contains more theine than green tea.

However, different people react to caffeine and theine in different manners resulting in varied results in individuals.īut just like people not all types of coffees and teas contain the same amount of stimulant. HEALTH PERKSĬaffeine (and theine) has been scientifically proven to help increase mental concentration, acumen and suppress the appetite. So it really depends if you’re looking for a quick fix or a slow burn. You ingest lesser theine in a cup of tea than caffeine in coffee and that releases much slower in the body giving a sense of relaxation while providing prolonged alertness. Theine in tea is a result of oxidised polyphenols which gives it a stimulant effect. Essentially this is your adult equivalent to a sugar rush and crash. SAME SAME BUT DIFFERENT?Ĭaffeine and theine are chemically identical, the only thing that sets them apart is the concentration.Ĭaffeine content in coffee can accelerate the heart and raise your blood pressure, the coffee high is subsequently followed by a low. Theine can last much longer in the system – about 6 to 8 hours, while caffeine gives a burst of energy for 2 to 3 hours. Simply put, coffee excites and tea stimulates. The short answer is “Yes, sort of.” We’ll break it down for you.

The perennial question “Is coffee stronger than tea?” is still being asked until today. Contrary to popular belief, tea does not contain caffeine but theine. It is common knowledge that caffeine is the component in coffee that gives you that afternoon perk-me-up to continue the day.

But what is it about coffee and tea that gives us that extra boost of energy?

We’ve heard a friend or two exclaim that a few times. “Oh I can’t drink coffee or tea after 3pm as that will keep me up all night!”

Theine effects