Antioxidants & Caffeine in Tea

Tea isn’t just a comforting ritual- it’s packed with powerful natural compounds that support mind and body. In this article, we explore how antioxidants and caffeine work in harmony across different types of tea- black, green, white, and oolong- to provide everything from cellular protection to calm, sustained energy. Plus, why fresh, loose leaf tea makes all the difference.

Antioxidants: Nature’s Defense Mechanism

All teas made from the tea plant (i.e. the Camellia sinensis) - so black, green, white, and oolongs - are naturally rich in antioxidants. These compounds help neutralise free radicals- unstable molecules that can damage cells and contribute to aging and disease. Each tea type has its own unique antioxidant profile, shaped by how the leaves are processed:

·        Catechins –these are a type of polyphenol (specifically a flavonoid) known for their antioxidant properties: they help fight free radicals, fight inflammation in the body, support heart health, and may aid in weight management and brain function.  Green tea is especially high in catechins, particularly the extra potent EGCG (Epigallocatechin Gallate) antioxidant, because it undergoes minimal oxidation.

·        Theaflavins & Thearubigins – these are unique to black tea because oxidation changes the chemical structure of the tea leaves, transforming catechins into these powerful new compounds. They also give black teas its dark colour, robust flavour and unique antioxidant profile. They support cholesterol regulation, cellular health, and may help reduce inflammation. While different from catechins, they still deliver significant health benefits.

In short, no matter which tea you prefer, you're getting a natural dose of plant-based antioxidants- each with their own strengths as long as it's fresh and ideally whole leaf.

Whole leaf tea is more beneficial because it’s less processed, richer in antioxidants, and brewed fresh- so you get more of the good stuff and none of the stale, over-processed dust found in typical tea bags.

Caffeine: A Gentle Lift

While both tea and coffee contain caffeine, the amount- and the way your body responds to it- is quite different.

A typical cup of coffee contains around 90 to 120mg of caffeine, making it a strong stimulant that kicks in quickly. This can be great for a sharp wake-up call, but for many people, it can also lead to headaches, jitters, and energy crashes.

Tea, on the other hand, offers a gentler, more sustained energy boost- thanks to the unique interplay between caffeine and L-theanine, an amino acid found only in tea. L-theanine helps slow the absorption of caffeine, promoting calm focus, steady alertness, and reduced crashes.

This is why many people describe the energy from tea as cleaner and more balanced than coffee, even when the caffeine content is similar.

Here's a general guide to caffeine levels per cup:

• Black tea: 40–70mg – a bold but smoother alternative to coffee
• Oolong tea: 30–50mg – balanced and mellow
• Green tea: 20–45mg – gentle and focused
• White tea: 15–30mg – subtle and calming
• Herbal teas: 0mg – naturally caffeine-free and soothing

In short, coffee gives you a fast jolt; tea gives you calm clarity- especially when it's fresh, loose leaf, and thoughtfully sourced, like ours at The Karma Tea Co.