Is Matcha Tea High in Caffeine? A Detailed Look

November 19, 2025 •

3 min read

While it originates from the same plant as other green teas, the special cultivation method of matcha leads to a significantly higher concentration of nutrients, including caffeine. This fact means that, yes, matcha tea is comparatively high in caffeine, but its effect on the body is notably different from that of coffee due to the presence of L-theanine.

Quick Summary

Matcha's caffeine content is higher than regular green tea and can be comparable to coffee, depending on preparation. The unique combination of caffeine and the amino acid L-theanine provides a calm, sustained energy boost without the jitters or crash associated with coffee.

Key Points

Caffeine Content Varies: The caffeine level in a cup of matcha can range widely depending on its grade and preparation, from 40 to 180 mg.
L-theanine is Key: The amino acid L-theanine in matcha provides a state of calm alertness by modulating caffeine absorption, preventing jitters and crashes.
Quality Influences Caffeine: Ceremonial-grade matcha, from younger leaves, generally contains more caffeine and L-theanine than culinary-grade.
Preparation Matters: You can control caffeine intake by adjusting the amount of matcha powder used and the water temperature.
Antioxidant Rich: Beyond caffeine, matcha provides a powerful dose of antioxidants, more so than regular green tea.
Sustained Energy: Unlike the quick boost and crash from coffee, matcha delivers a steady, long-lasting energy that can last for hours.

Is matcha tea high in caffeine?

Yes, matcha tea is considered high in caffeine, especially when compared to traditional steeped green tea. The precise amount, however, is not fixed and can vary widely based on several key factors. A standard serving of matcha, typically using 1-2 teaspoons (2-4 grams) of powder, can contain anywhere from 40 to 180 mg of caffeine. This makes its caffeine concentration comparable to or even higher than an average cup of brewed coffee, which generally contains 80-100 mg.

The role of L-theanine

The biggest distinction in the caffeine experience between matcha and coffee lies with L-theanine, an amino acid found in high concentrations in matcha due to the shading process used during cultivation. This L-theanine works synergistically with the caffeine, altering its absorption and mitigating the jittery side effects that coffee often produces. The result is a state of calm, focused alertness that can last for several hours, unlike the rapid spike and crash that many coffee drinkers experience. L-theanine promotes the production of alpha waves in the brain, which are associated with a relaxed yet attentive mental state.

Factors influencing matcha's caffeine levels

Not all matcha is created equal. The final caffeine content is influenced by a number of factors:

Matcha Grade: Ceremonial-grade matcha, made from younger tea leaves harvested during the first flush, typically contains more caffeine than culinary-grade matcha, which is made from more mature leaves.
Harvest Time: The youngest leaves harvested early in the season possess the highest caffeine levels. As the plant matures and new harvests are taken, the caffeine concentration in the leaves decreases.
Shading Process: The practice of shading the tea plants for weeks before harvest increases the plant's production of chlorophyll and amino acids, including L-theanine and caffeine. A longer shading period can lead to a higher caffeine content.
Preparation Method: The amount of matcha powder used is the most direct way to control the caffeine dose. A stronger cup, made with more powder, will have a higher caffeine level. The temperature of the water can also play a role, as hotter water extracts more caffeine.

Matcha vs. Coffee: A Caffeine Comparison

Understanding the differences between matcha and coffee is crucial for anyone considering a switch or simply curious about the effects of each.


Feature	Matcha	Coffee
Caffeine Content (per 8oz cup)	40–180 mg (variable)	80–200 mg (variable)
Energy Release	Slow, sustained release over 4–6 hours	Rapid spike and crash, lasts 1–3 hours
Effect on Nerves	Calm, focused alertness due to L-theanine	Can cause jitteriness, anxiety, and heart palpitations
Key Amino Acid	Contains L-theanine, which modulates caffeine's effects	Does not contain L-theanine
Antioxidants	Very high levels of antioxidants, particularly catechins	Contains antioxidants, but significantly less concentrated than matcha
Preparation	Entire powdered leaf is consumed, maximizing nutrient intake	Roasted beans are brewed and discarded

How to moderate your matcha consumption

For those sensitive to caffeine, enjoying the benefits of matcha without overdoing it is simple. The key is controlling the amount of powder you use. Start with a small serving, such as half a teaspoon (1 gram), which will yield a lower caffeine content. You can also opt for culinary-grade matcha, which typically has less caffeine than ceremonial grade. Remember to listen to your body and adjust your intake accordingly to avoid potential side effects like insomnia or restlessness.

Conclusion

While matcha tea can be high in caffeine, it's not a direct equivalent to coffee. The unique combination of caffeine and L-theanine in matcha provides a more balanced, sustained energy boost without the unpleasant jitters and crash that can accompany coffee consumption. The exact caffeine content depends on several factors, including the grade of the matcha and how it's prepared. By understanding these nuances, you can enjoy matcha as a healthy, energizing, and calming part of your routine.

Learn more about how matcha compares to coffee and other teas in this comprehensive guide from a trusted source on green tea production.

Frequently Asked Questions

Not necessarily. While a standard serving of matcha can contain a comparable amount of caffeine to an average cup of brewed coffee, coffee generally has a higher range of caffeine content. The key difference lies in the absorption rate, which is slower and more sustained in matcha due to L-theanine.

Matcha contains L-theanine, an amino acid that works in synergy with caffeine. While caffeine stimulates, L-theanine promotes relaxation and increases alpha brain waves, creating a state of calm focus that counters the jittery side effects commonly associated with a rapid caffeine intake.

Ceremonial-grade matcha, made from the youngest leaves of the first harvest, typically contains the highest concentration of caffeine and L-theanine.

Yes, you can opt for culinary-grade matcha, which is made from more mature leaves and naturally contains less caffeine. Using a smaller amount of powder per serving will also reduce the caffeine content.

To gauge your sensitivity, it is best to start with a small serving, such as half a teaspoon (1 gram) of matcha powder. You can gradually increase the amount if needed.

Matcha provides a sustained energy boost, and for those sensitive to caffeine, it might disrupt sleep if consumed late. It's generally recommended to stop your intake at least 6 hours before bedtime.

For a lower caffeine content, use a smaller amount of powder per serving. Brewing with cooler water, around 70°C, can also help extract less caffeine compared to hotter water.