What is green tea made of?
First of all, green tea is made from tea plant leaves that have been dried after harvesting. But if we examine these leaves closely, we find that they contain polyphenols or catechins, particularly EGCGs (organic molecules widely present in plants), as well as vitamins, trace elements and minerals... And theine!
Green tea, particularly matcha, is appreciated for its unique flavours and multiple benefits for the body. Originating in China and Japan, this tea is packed with essential compounds such as polyphenols and caffeine (also called theine). Each infusion releases these active compounds, offering both a gentle and steady stimulating effect throughout the day.
What is theine, the molecule found in all green teas?
Present in green tea leaves, theine is released as soon as they are immersed in hot water. Theine is then considered the main active ingredient in tea. It is an alkaloid, an organic substance of plant origin. The particularity of alkaloids is that these molecules all contain at least one nitrogen atom in their composition. But why do we say that teas contain caffeine?
Unlike coffee, green tea is often preferred for regular consumption because it is less stimulating. However, for those looking for a caffeine-free drink, herbal teas are an excellent alternative.
Are theine and caffeine the same thing?
Although people once thought otherwise, theine and caffeine are the same molecule. The difference between the world’s two most widely consumed hot drinks lies in the fact that coffee contains it in greater quantities: three to four times more than a cup of tea. This is why coffee is considered an excitant, while tea is considered only a stimulant. Green tea is therefore not an excitant. The effects of tea are much more gradual and consistent over time, whereas coffee provides “boosts”. Differences in concentration can also be seen between the various types of tea: black tea is the richest in theine (notably because it releases it more quickly), followed by green tea and white tea, known as the “lightest”.
What is theine/caffeine used for?
In nature, in seeds, leaves and fruit, theine/caffeine has a defensive effect. It acts as a natural insecticide to fight predators. But in humans, theine (caffeine) acts as a stimulant, giving us energy.
What impact does this molecule have on health?
It is therefore beneficial from a health perspective! Gradually released into the body over six hours, theine (caffeine) may boost concentration and memory. Theine also has a diuretic effect: it enables the body to eliminate more water and salt than usual. Not bad, is it?
Is the stimulating effect of theine in green tea the same for everyone?
The stimulation felt, the absorption rate of theine/caffeine and tolerance will vary from person to person. While some seek the stimulating and energising effect of green tea because they consider it beneficial, others may instead wish to avoid it. This is the case for people sensitive to caffeine, who may fear having trouble falling asleep. Black tea is an excellent alternative for people looking for a drink halfway between green tea and coffee.
How do you decaffeinate green tea?
While you can of course choose other hot drinks without theine/caffeine, such as herbal teas or rooibos, you can also reduce the amount of theine in your cup of green tea or matcha tea. To do this, simply infuse the tea once for one minute, then discard this first water, which contains the most caffeine. Then keep the same tea (the same tea bag, the same tea infuser...) and infuse it again in fresh water. This second infusion will be much lower in theine while preserving the flavours of our favourite green tea.
Choose organic with Kusmi Tea organic green teas
To make the most of the benefits of green tea, Kusmi Tea recommends choosing organic. This label guarantees pesticide-free tea and numerous quality checks carried out during product development. Enjoy your cup with complete peace of mind!
Kusmi Tea offers you a range of organic green teas, guaranteeing a quality product, free from pesticides, for complete peace of mind. Enjoy the beneficial effects of green tea on concentration and health while savouring age-old traditions from China and Japan.
Green tea and black tea therefore contain caffeine/theine, but in smaller amounts than coffee. It plays an important role in the body and health by providing a dose of energy in our daily lives. Unlike coffee, which is considered a stimulant, tea is instead classified in the family of stimulants. Discover our range of organic Kusmi Tea green teas — you’ll love them!