How much caffeine does Navajo tea have?

December 22, 2025 •

4 min read

Fact: Navajo tea, an herbal drink cherished for generations by Indigenous communities, is naturally caffeine-free. For those wondering how much caffeine does Navajo tea have, the definitive answer is zero, making it an excellent choice for a calming, mild-flavored beverage anytime.

Quick Summary

Navajo tea, also known as cota or greenthread, is a naturally caffeine-free herbal infusion made from the Thelesperma plant, offering a mild, earthy flavor.

Key Points

Caffeine-Free: Navajo tea is an herbal tisane, not a true tea, and contains zero caffeine.
Origin: It is made from the greenthread plant (Thelesperma megapotamicum), native to the American Southwest.
Traditional Uses: Historically, it has been used by Indigenous peoples for relaxation, soothing digestion, and other traditional remedies.
Mild Flavor: The tea has a mild, earthy, and sometimes slightly sweet or bitter flavor profile, suitable for drinking hot or iced.
Brewing Method: Unlike traditional tea, many recommend simmering the greenthread herbs to achieve the full flavor.
No Jitters: Its lack of caffeine makes it an ideal relaxing beverage, especially for evening consumption.
Cultural Significance: The tea holds deep cultural importance for the Navajo and other Indigenous communities, representing a connection to the land.

A naturally caffeine-free herbal infusion

Unlike black, green, and oolong teas, which are derived from the Camellia sinensis plant and naturally contain caffeine, Navajo tea is not a true tea. It is an herbal tisane made from the greenthread plant, typically Thelesperma megapotamicum. Because it comes from a completely different botanical source, it does not contain any of the stimulating alkaloids found in traditional teas. This fundamental botanical difference is the reason behind its lack of caffeine, a fact that has made it a favorite relaxing beverage for centuries among the Navajo and other Indigenous peoples of the Southwest.

The origins of Navajo tea

Historically, Navajo tea has been consumed by Indigenous communities for generations, with traditions passed down through families. The plant, known as greenthread or cota, thrives in the arid climates of the American Southwest. It has been used not only for daily enjoyment but also valued for its traditional medicinal properties, including soothing upset stomachs and promoting healthy kidney function. The reverence for this plant and its role in daily life underscore its cultural significance beyond being just a simple beverage.

Brewing and enjoying your caffeine-free Navajo tea

Preparing a cup of Navajo tea is a straightforward process that brings out its earthy, mild, and sometimes slightly sweet or bitter flavor. Many traditional methods involve simmering the herbs rather than simply steeping them, which helps to extract the full flavor profile. This makes the brewing process a mindful, slow experience.

Step-by-step brewing guide

Measure: Use approximately 1 heaping teaspoon of dried cota or greenthread per 6-8 ounces of water.
Simmer: Add the herbs and water to a saucepan and bring it to a boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for about five minutes.
Strain: Use a strainer to separate the herbal material from the brewed tea and pour it into a cup.
Enjoy: Drink it plain or add a touch of honey or other sweetener to taste. It is delicious both hot and iced.

The benefits of a caffeine-free brew

Beyond the lack of a stimulant, choosing Navajo tea offers several benefits for those seeking a relaxing drink.

Gentle on the stomach: Traditionally used to calm upset stomachs, it can be a comforting drink after a meal.
Relaxing for the mind: The absence of caffeine means no jitters or crash, making it ideal for evening consumption to help unwind.
Hydrating: Like other herbal teas, it is a great way to increase your daily fluid intake without adding stimulants or sugar.
Versatile: Its mild flavor profile can be enjoyed on its own or enhanced with other herbs like cinnamon or spearmint.

Navajo Tea vs. Caffeinated Teas


Feature	Navajo Tea (Greenthread)	Black Tea	Green Tea
Caffeine Content	0 mg	40-70 mg per 8oz cup	20-45 mg per 8oz cup
Botanical Source	Thelesperma megapotamicum	Camellia sinensis	Camellia sinensis
Flavor Profile	Earthy, mild, floral, sometimes bitter	Strong, robust, sometimes malty	Grassy, vegetal, light
Brewing Method	Simmering recommended	Steeping in hot water	Steeping in hot water
Best for	Relaxation, evening drink, soothing digestion	Wake-up drink, energy boost	Antioxidant boost, gentle energy

Cultural connections and sustainability

Navajo tea is more than just a drink; it represents a deep connection to the land and tradition for many Indigenous communities. The gathering of the greenthread plant is often done sustainably and with great respect for the earth. When sourcing Navajo tea, it is important to purchase from ethical suppliers, especially those who work directly with Indigenous matriarchs and communities, to ensure sustainable harvesting and respect for cultural heritage. The act of drinking this tea becomes a way to honor and connect with a rich history. A great example of respecting this tradition and purchasing ethically is found on the ArtfulTea website.

Conclusion: The answer is definitive

In summary, for anyone asking how much caffeine does Navajo tea have, the unequivocal answer is none. As a naturally caffeine-free herbal tisane, this traditional beverage offers a mild, earthy flavor and a host of benefits that make it a perfect drink for any time of day, especially for those seeking to avoid stimulants. Its rich history and cultural significance add depth to its appeal, inviting drinkers to enjoy a moment of peace and connection with a time-honored tradition. By choosing this ancient brew, you are opting for a restorative experience without the jitters associated with caffeinated drinks.

Sources

ArtfulTea: Provides information on Cota Navajo Tea, confirming its caffeine-free nature and traditional uses.
Sakari Farms: Describes Navajo Tea as a caffeine-free herbal beverage with traditional medicinal uses.
NPR: Features an article on Navajo tea, highlighting its cultural significance as a traditional, caffeine-free drink.

Frequently Asked Questions

Navajo tea is made from the greenthread plant, typically Thelesperma megapotamicum, a wild herb native to the Southwestern United States.

Yes, greenthread tea is another common name for Navajo tea, also referred to as cota or Hopi tea in some regions.

Navajo tea has a mild, earthy, and sometimes floral flavor profile, which can also have a slight bitterness. It is often described as smooth and gentle.

Yes, because Navajo tea is naturally caffeine-free, it is an ideal beverage to enjoy in the evening without disrupting sleep.

For the best flavor, simmer the herbs and water together for about five minutes, rather than just steeping. This helps extract the full flavor of the greenthread plant.

The greenthread plant used for Navajo tea is wild-harvested, often by Indigenous communities, in the arid climates of the American Southwest, particularly New Mexico.

Traditionally, Navajo tea has been used to help with digestion, settle upset stomachs, and promote healthy kidney function. It is also known for its calming properties.