5 Energy-Boosting Teas Worth Trying Instead of Another Coffee

Coffee is not the only way to get through a long afternoon. Many teas contain caffeine too, usually less than a cup of coffee, and often alongside L-theanine, an amino acid found in tea leaves that many people find makes the lift feel smoother. Here are five teas worth adding to your rotation.

1. Matcha

Matcha is powdered green tea, so you drink the whole leaf rather than an infusion. That makes it one of the stronger teas in caffeine terms and gives it a rich, grassy, slightly sweet flavour.

How to brew: whisk about 1 teaspoon of matcha with a small amount of water just below boiling (around 75–80°C / 170–175°F) until frothy, then top up with water or milk.

2. Black tea

Assam, Ceylon and English Breakfast blends are bold and malty, and they are the classic morning alternative to coffee. They take milk well if you like a creamier cup.

How to brew: use freshly boiled water and steep for 3–5 minutes. Longer steeping makes it stronger but also more bitter.

3. Oolong

Oolong sits between green and black tea. Depending on how it is processed, it can be light and floral or toasty and deep. It is a good choice for an afternoon cup when you want something with more character than green tea.

How to brew: use water around 85–95°C (185–200°F). Good oolong can be re-steeped several times.

4. Green tea

Sencha, dragon well and other green teas have a lighter caffeine kick and a fresh, vegetal taste. They are ideal when you want to stay alert without feeling wired.

How to brew: keep the water cooler (70–80°C / 160–175°F) and steep for 1–3 minutes. Boiling water is the most common reason green tea tastes bitter.

5. Yerba mate

Technically not tea – it comes from a South American holly plant – yerba mate is famous for a strong, earthy flavour and a solid energy lift. It is popular with people who find coffee too harsh.

How to brew: use hot, not boiling, water (around 70–80°C) and steep for 3–5 minutes, or use a traditional gourd and bombilla.

Tips for a better tea habit

• Buy loose-leaf or quality bags from a specialist – freshness makes a big difference to flavour.
• Store tea in an airtight container away from light and strong smells.
• Keep caffeinated teas to the morning and early afternoon if you are sensitive to caffeine at night.

Stock up for less

Nio Teas offers a range of teas for different moods and times of day. Check the latest Nio Teas discount codes before you order.

Caffeine sensitivity varies. If you are pregnant, take medication or have a health condition, check with your doctor about caffeine intake.