Does Calendula Tea Have Caffeine? The Definitive Answer

November 5, 2025 •

3 min read

Made from the petals of the calendula officinalis flower, a plant with a long history in traditional medicine, calendula tea is a popular herbal infusion. A common question arises for those seeking to limit stimulants: does calendula tea have caffeine? The clear and simple answer is no; it is naturally caffeine-free.

Quick Summary

Calendula tea is naturally caffeine-free since it is made from the petals of the calendula flower and not the Camellia sinensis plant. It is a relaxing herbal infusion and an ideal alternative to caffeinated beverages for those who are sensitive to caffeine or looking for a soothing drink at night. Some tea blends may contain caffeine if mixed with traditional teas like green or black tea.

Key Points

Caffeine-Free: Pure calendula tea is an herbal infusion made from the flowers of the Calendula officinalis plant and contains no caffeine.
Not a True Tea: Unlike black or green tea, calendula is not derived from the Camellia sinensis plant, which is the source of all caffeinated teas.
Soothing Properties: Known for its potential anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, calendula tea is often consumed for its calming qualities and digestive support.
Precautions for Use: Individuals with allergies to ragweed or related plants should be cautious, and pregnant or breastfeeding women are advised to avoid it.
Consider Blends: While pure calendula is caffeine-free, always check the label of a blend, as it may be mixed with caffeinated tea leaves.

A Natural Herbal Infusion

Calendula, also known as pot marigold, is a flowering plant native to the Mediterranean region that is not the same species as the ornamental garden marigold. The tea is made exclusively from the dried petals of the Calendula officinalis plant and contains no caffeine. This means it can be enjoyed at any time of day or night without worrying about disrupted sleep patterns or the jittery effects often associated with caffeinated drinks. This makes calendula tea a relaxing and soothing option for those seeking a tranquil herbal brew.

Why Calendula is Caffeine-Free

True teas, such as black, green, oolong, and white, all come from the Camellia sinensis plant, which naturally contains caffeine. Herbal infusions, like calendula tea, are technically known as tisanes because they are not derived from this plant. Instead, they are crafted from various parts of other plants, including flowers, roots, and leaves. The absence of Camellia sinensis in pure calendula tea is the direct reason for its zero caffeine content.

Potential Benefits of a Caffeine-Free Brew

For those who are sensitive to caffeine, herbal teas like calendula offer a multitude of benefits without the negative side effects. Avoiding caffeine can lead to better sleep quality, reduced anxiety, and less reliance on stimulants for energy. Calendula itself is recognized for its soothing properties and has been used traditionally for various health-related purposes, such as supporting digestive health and promoting skin healing due to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant components.

Potential Drug Interactions and Precautions

While calendula tea is considered safe for most people, some precautions are necessary. Individuals with allergies to plants in the Asteraceae/Compositae family, which includes ragweed, daisies, and chrysanthemums, should be cautious as calendula could cause an allergic reaction. Additionally, calendula may cause sleepiness and interact with sedative medications, potentially increasing their effects. Pregnant and breastfeeding women are also advised to avoid calendula due to its potential to induce uterine contractions. Always consult a healthcare professional before adding new supplements or herbal teas to your routine, especially if you have pre-existing medical conditions or are taking other medications.

How to Prepare a Perfect Cup of Calendula Tea

Preparing calendula tea is a straightforward process that requires only dried calendula petals and hot water. To create a delicious and soothing brew, follow these simple steps:

Place 1 to 2 teaspoons of dried calendula petals in a tea infuser or directly into your mug.
Boil fresh, filtered water and let it cool slightly (around 95°C / 203°F) to avoid scorching the delicate petals.
Pour the hot water over the petals and let it steep for 5-10 minutes. The longer you steep, the more intense the flavor will be.
Strain the petals if needed and enjoy! You can add honey or lemon to taste.

Comparison of Calendula Tea with Popular Caffeinated and Herbal Options


Feature	Calendula Tea	Green Tea	Coffee	Chamomile Tea
Caffeine Content	0 mg	20-45 mg	95-200 mg	0 mg
Plant Source	Calendula officinalis	Camellia sinensis	Coffea plant beans	Matricaria recutita
Main Effect	Soothing, anti-inflammatory	Stimulating, antioxidant	Energizing, highly stimulating	Calming, relaxing
Best Time to Drink	Evening, or anytime	Morning, midday	Morning, afternoon	Evening, or anytime

Conclusion

Calendula tea is a naturally caffeine-free herbal infusion, making it an excellent choice for anyone who wants to enjoy a soothing, warm beverage without the stimulating effects of caffeine. Its distinctive mild, floral flavor and potential anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties have made it a popular wellness drink for centuries. Whether seeking a relaxing bedtime drink or simply looking to reduce caffeine intake, calendula offers a gentle and flavorful alternative. As with any herbal product, it is wise to be mindful of potential allergies, interactions with other medications, and specific contraindications, especially for those who are pregnant or breastfeeding.

This article answers the question, "Does calendula tea have caffeine?" and provides an overview of its properties and uses. For further reading, explore the detailed information available from reputable sources on herbal medicine and wellness.

(https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/calendula-tea)

Frequently Asked Questions

Calendula tea is generally considered safe for most adults. However, pregnant or breastfeeding women should avoid it due to a potential risk of uterine stimulation. Individuals with allergies to the Asteraceae family of plants, including daisies and ragweed, may also experience allergic reactions and should avoid it.

Yes, calendula tea is an excellent choice for a calming evening beverage. Its lack of caffeine ensures it will not interfere with your sleep cycle, making it a perfect relaxing drink before bed.

Calendula tea has a mild, slightly sweet, and floral flavor with subtle earthy undertones. Its delicate taste makes it pleasant on its own, and it can also be enhanced with honey or lemon.

While both are caffeine-free herbal teas known for their calming properties, they come from different plants and have distinct flavors. Chamomile is noted for its apple-like flavor, while calendula offers a mild, slightly floral taste. They also have different medicinal profiles.

Yes, calendula can be blended with other herbal teas to create new flavor combinations and effects. It can be mixed with other caffeine-free herbs like chamomile or mint. Be aware that blending it with black or green tea will add caffeine to the brew.

Yes, calendula has been traditionally used for its potential health benefits, which include providing antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It is believed to support digestive health and promote skin healing, though research is ongoing.

Calendula tea is widely available online and in health food stores. It is often sold as loose, dried petals or in tea bags. Reputable tea companies specializing in herbal infusions are the best places to look.