Can Jasmine Tea Make You Dizzy? Understanding the Cause

December 22, 2025 •

7 min read

While jasmine tea is a fragrant and popular beverage, an estimated 1 in 4 people are considered 'fast metabolizers' of caffeine, meaning they can consume a lot without side effects, but others are much more sensitive. For those with sensitivity, the caffeine in jasmine tea is the most common cause of dizziness, especially when consumed in large quantities.

Quick Summary

Jasmine tea can cause dizziness in some individuals due to its caffeine content, which varies depending on the base tea. Sensitivity to caffeine, consumption on an empty stomach, or overconsumption can all contribute to feelings of lightheadedness. It’s important to understand your personal tolerance and the tea's caffeine levels.

Key Points

Caffeine Sensitivity: Dizziness is a common side effect of caffeine, and some individuals are more sensitive to its effects than others.
Caffeine Overdose: Consuming excessive amounts of jasmine tea, especially varieties with a higher caffeine content, can lead to overstimulation and dizziness.
Empty Stomach: Drinking tea on an empty stomach can lead to a more rapid and intense effect of the caffeine and tannins, potentially causing lightheadedness.
Base Tea Type: The amount of caffeine in jasmine tea depends on its base tea (green, black, or white), with black tea having the highest potential for causing dizziness.
Tannins and Digestion: Tannins in tea can cause nausea and stomach irritation, which can sometimes be accompanied by feelings of dizziness.
Moderation is Key: Controlling your intake, brewing weaker tea, and eating beforehand are effective ways to prevent dizziness from jasmine tea.

Unpacking the Link Between Jasmine Tea and Dizziness

For many, a cup of jasmine tea is a calming ritual, but for a subset of individuals, it can lead to an uncomfortable feeling of dizziness. While this might seem counterintuitive for a beverage known for its soothing aroma, the reason lies in its caffeine content and individual sensitivity. Jasmine tea is not an herbal tea; it is typically a green, white, or black tea that has been scented with jasmine blossoms. Since green tea is the most common base, the caffeine from the Camellia sinensis plant is the primary culprit behind any potential dizziness.

The Role of Caffeine

The caffeine in tea is a natural stimulant that affects the central nervous system. When consumed, it can increase heart rate and blood flow, which in high doses can cause feelings of jitteriness, anxiety, and, yes, dizziness. The amount of caffeine can vary significantly depending on the type of base tea used:

Jasmine Green Tea: Generally contains less caffeine than black tea, but more than white tea. A typical 8 oz cup contains around 25mg of caffeine.
Jasmine Black Tea: Has a higher caffeine content, making it more likely to cause side effects in sensitive individuals.
Jasmine White Tea: Typically contains the lowest amount of caffeine among the Camellia sinensis base teas.

For most healthy adults, consuming up to 400 mg of caffeine per day is considered safe, but this tolerance is highly personal. A very sensitive person might experience dizziness with much smaller amounts.

Other Factors Contributing to Dizziness

Beyond just caffeine, other elements can influence how your body reacts to jasmine tea:

Tannins: Tea contains tannins, which are compounds that can bind with proteins and carbohydrates, potentially irritating the digestive system when consumed on an empty stomach. This can sometimes cause nausea, which can be accompanied by a feeling of lightheadedness. Eating a snack with your tea can often mitigate this effect.
Hydration: While tea is a liquid, it's not as hydrating as plain water, especially when consumed in excess. Dehydration can cause or worsen feelings of dizziness.
Preparation: A stronger brew, which is made by using more tea leaves or steeping for a longer time, will naturally have a higher concentration of caffeine and tannins, increasing the likelihood of adverse effects.

How to Prevent Dizziness from Jasmine Tea

If you love jasmine tea but find yourself getting dizzy, there are several strategies you can employ to enjoy it without the unpleasant side effects.

Monitor Your Intake: The simplest solution is to reduce the amount you drink. Pay attention to how many cups you consume and how your body reacts.
Brew More Weakly: Use less tea or shorten your steeping time to reduce the amount of caffeine and tannins released into your cup.
Eat Something: Never drink strong tea on an empty stomach. A light snack can help buffer your digestive system from the effects of the tannins.
Switch to a Lower-Caffeine Variety: If your current jasmine tea uses a black tea base, try a jasmine green tea or even a jasmine white tea to see if the reduced caffeine helps.
Consider Herbal Alternatives: For those who are extremely sensitive to caffeine, a truly herbal jasmine infusion, or a different herbal tea altogether, might be the best option. These are not made from the Camellia sinensis plant and are naturally caffeine-free.

Comparison Table: Types of Jasmine Tea and Their Dizziness Potential


Feature	Jasmine Green Tea	Jasmine Black Tea	Jasmine White Tea	Jasmine Herbal Infusion
Caffeine Level	Moderate (approx. 25mg per cup)	High	Low	Zero
Base Tea	Green Tea (Camellia sinensis)	Black Tea (Camellia sinensis)	White Tea (Camellia sinensis)	Various herbs/flowers
Dizziness Potential	Low to Moderate (depends on sensitivity)	Moderate to High	Low	None
Ideal For	Mild caffeine boost, daily enjoyment	Those with high caffeine tolerance	Very sensitive individuals	Anyone avoiding caffeine
Key Benefit	Balanced flavor, antioxidants	Robust flavor	Delicate flavor, high antioxidants	Soothing, caffeine-free

Conclusion: A Matter of Moderation and Awareness

In short, can jasmine tea make you dizzy? Yes, it can, primarily due to its caffeine content and individual sensitivity. Dizziness is not an inherent property of the jasmine flower itself but a potential side effect of the caffeine found in the tea leaves. For most people, moderate consumption should not cause any issues. However, if you are particularly sensitive to caffeine or are consuming large quantities, you may experience lightheadedness, nausea, or other related symptoms. By being mindful of the type of tea you are drinking, adjusting your serving size, and listening to your body's signals, you can continue to enjoy the pleasant and relaxing qualities of jasmine tea without the dizzying consequences.

For more detailed information on caffeine's effects on the body, refer to Healthline's comprehensive guide on the side effects of tea.

Symptoms to Watch For

Dizziness or lightheadedness after consumption.
Rapid or irregular heart rate due to caffeine stimulation.
Increased anxiety or jitteriness, especially for sensitive individuals.
Nausea or stomach discomfort, particularly when drinking on an empty stomach.
Trouble sleeping if consumed late in the day, leading to fatigue that can cause dizziness.

Taking Precautionary Steps

Start with a smaller serving to gauge your personal tolerance.
Pair your tea with a meal or snack to minimize digestive irritation.
Avoid over-steeping your tea to control caffeine levels.
Stay hydrated with water throughout the day to prevent dehydration.
Talk to a doctor if you have a history of heart problems or high anxiety before consuming caffeinated tea.

Recognizing and Addressing a Bad Reaction

Stop drinking immediately if you feel dizzy or unwell.
Drink water to help flush your system.
Eat something substantial to help absorb some of the tannins.
Rest and wait for the caffeine's effects to wear off.
Consult a healthcare professional if symptoms persist or are severe.

Choosing the Right Jasmine Tea

Check the base tea on the packaging (green, white, or black) to estimate caffeine level.
Opt for high-quality loose leaf tea over tea bags for better control over brewing.
Read reviews to see if others mention side effects or caffeine strength.
If caffeine is the problem, look for genuine jasmine herbal infusions (not just scented tea).
Experiment with different brands and varieties to find one that suits you best.

Why Some Feel Dizzy and Others Don't

Genetic Factors: Metabolism of caffeine can vary significantly due to genetic differences.
Body Weight and Size: Smaller individuals may be more sensitive to the same amount of caffeine.
Overall Health: Existing conditions like high blood pressure or anxiety can make one more susceptible to caffeine side effects.
Empty Stomach: Drinking on an empty stomach can lead to quicker absorption and a more potent effect.
Medication Interactions: Certain medications can interact with caffeine, increasing its effects.

Other Potential Side Effects

Anxiety and Restlessness: Common with high caffeine intake.
Digestive Issues: Nausea and heartburn can occur, especially on an empty stomach.
Sleep Disturbances: Caffeine can interfere with melatonin production and disrupt sleep cycles.
Reduced Iron Absorption: Tannins in tea can hinder iron absorption, a concern for those with deficiencies.
Headaches: Withdrawal from caffeine can cause headaches, but overconsumption can as well.

What to Do If You're Pregnant

Consult Your Doctor: It is crucial to discuss caffeine consumption with a healthcare provider during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
Monitor Caffeine Intake: Recommendations usually suggest limiting daily intake to under 200 mg.
Consider Decaffeinated Options: Many brands offer decaffeinated versions of popular teas.
Understand Herbal Teas: Not all herbal teas are safe during pregnancy, so always seek professional advice.
Pay Attention to Your Body: Any adverse symptoms warrant immediate attention and reduction of intake.

When to Seek Medical Advice

Persistent Dizziness: If dizziness continues despite reducing or stopping tea consumption.
Severe Symptoms: If symptoms like heart palpitations, severe anxiety, or vomiting occur.
Uncertainty: If you are unsure whether your symptoms are tea-related or stem from another underlying issue, a doctor's visit is recommended.

How to Make Jasmine Tea Safely

Use Quality Leaves: High-quality loose leaf tea can often produce a smoother, more predictable experience.
Control Steeping Time: Stick to the recommended steeping time, or even a little less, to manage caffeine release.
Use Proper Water Temperature: Boiling water can extract more caffeine and tannins quickly, so cooler temperatures (especially for green tea) can lead to a gentler brew.
Start Slow: If you are new to jasmine tea, begin with one small cup and see how you feel.

Final Thoughts on Safe Tea Enjoyment

Drinking jasmine tea can be a very pleasant and healthy habit. However, like any caffeinated beverage, it requires awareness of your personal body chemistry and moderation. By understanding the potential causes of dizziness and implementing simple strategies, you can prevent discomfort and fully enjoy the delicious, aromatic experience that jasmine tea has to offer.

Key takeaways

Caffeine is the main cause of dizziness from jasmine tea: Dizziness is a side effect of caffeine, which is present in the tea's base (usually green, white, or black tea).
Individual sensitivity plays a major role: People react differently to caffeine, and some individuals are much more sensitive, experiencing side effects like dizziness with smaller amounts.
Consumption on an empty stomach can increase risk: Drinking tea on an empty stomach can intensify the effects of both caffeine and tannins, which may lead to nausea and dizziness.
Excessive intake is a contributing factor: Drinking too much jasmine tea in a short period can lead to caffeine overdose, causing a range of symptoms including lightheadedness.
Adjusting your brewing method and consumption habits can prevent dizziness: Strategies like brewing weaker tea, eating a snack, and reducing intake can help mitigate the risk of feeling dizzy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Jasmine tea can make you dizzy because it contains caffeine, especially if it uses a green or black tea base. For individuals who are particularly sensitive to caffeine or if they drink a large amount, the stimulant can lead to feelings of lightheadedness.

There is no single amount that is too much for everyone, as individual tolerance varies greatly. However, excessive consumption, such as more than 4-5 cups per day for sensitive individuals, can increase the risk of side effects like dizziness.

Yes, drinking caffeinated tea, including jasmine tea, on an empty stomach can cause dizziness. The tannins in tea can irritate the digestive lining, and the caffeine is absorbed more quickly, which can lead to lightheadedness and nausea.

Jasmine tea made with a black tea base will contain significantly more caffeine than one with a green tea base. This makes jasmine black tea more likely to cause dizziness in sensitive individuals compared to jasmine green tea.

To reduce the chance of dizziness, try brewing your tea for a shorter time, use fewer tea leaves, and avoid drinking it on an empty stomach. You could also switch to a lower-caffeine base, such as jasmine white tea.

Yes, some products marketed as jasmine tea are actually herbal infusions made from dried jasmine blossoms or other caffeine-free ingredients. Always check the label to ensure it doesn't contain a Camellia sinensis base if you want a caffeine-free option.

If you continue to experience dizziness even after adjusting your tea consumption, it is best to consult a healthcare professional. The dizziness may be caused by an underlying medical condition or a high sensitivity to caffeine that requires complete avoidance.

Yes, steeping for a longer time releases more caffeine and tannins from the tea leaves, resulting in a more potent brew. To reduce caffeine, opt for a shorter steeping time.

It is unlikely that the aroma of jasmine flowers alone would cause dizziness, as it is a calming scent for most people. Dizziness is almost always related to the consumption of the caffeinated tea base.