Drinking tea helps boost alertness because tea leaves contain caffeine. The higher the caffeine concentration, the better the energizing effect, though it can also come with side effects like jitteriness and insomnia. Here is an introduction to which teas are the most effective for staying awake:
Black Tea, Green Tea, Oolong Tea: Which Tea Keeps You Most Alert?
Factors influencing caffeine concentration include tea plant varieties, growing temperatures, production methods, and brewing techniques. The key factors affecting the energizing power of tea include:
Tea Plant Variety: Generally, large-leaf tea varieties have a higher caffeine content. Taiwan’s large-leaf varieties include Taiwan Tea No. 18 and Assam, making them top choices for an energizing brew.
Growing Temperature: Research shows that higher temperatures during the growth period of tea leaves lead to increased caffeine concentration. Therefore, summer tea generally offers better alertness-boosting effects than spring, winter, or autumn teas.
Production Method: Roasting temperatures can alter caffeine, meaning roasted teas have lower caffeine content and aren’t ideal for staying awake. Common roasted teas in Taiwan include lowland Tieguanyin, Dongding Oolong, and heavily roasted Oolongs—none of which are ideal for a caffeine boost.
Brewing Method: The longer the steeping time and the hotter the water, the more caffeine is released. If you want to brew an energizing cup yourself, use boiling water at 100°C and steep it a little longer. Just keep in mind that over-steeping can easily make the tea bitter and unpalatable, so aiming for “just a bit longer” is recommended.
Which Tea is Most Energizing? Lightly fermented oolongs and green teas generally don’t match black tea for alertness. For an effective pick-me-up, look for summer-harvested Ruby Black Tea, Assam Black Tea, or lightly roasted Oriental Beauty. Just remember to use slightly hotter water and steep for a little longer for great results.