Is There Caffeine in Mulberry Tea? The Truth Revealed

January 11, 2026 •

3 min read

Mulberry tea, known in traditional Asian medicine as 'Sang Ye,' is a celebrated herbal remedy with a mild, earthy flavor. This delicious infusion, made from the leaves of the mulberry tree, is naturally caffeine-free, offering a perfect, gentle alternative to caffeinated beverages.

Quick Summary

Mulberry tea, an herbal infusion made from mulberry leaves, is naturally and completely caffeine-free, making it an excellent choice for those seeking to reduce their caffeine intake. Unlike true teas from the Camellia sinensis plant, this beverage can be enjoyed any time of day or night without affecting sleep patterns.

Key Points

Caffeine-Free: Mulberry tea is a naturally caffeine-free herbal infusion, making it ideal for evening consumption and for those sensitive to caffeine.
Blood Sugar Management: It contains 1-deoxynojirimycin (DNJ), which can help regulate post-meal blood sugar and insulin levels by slowing carbohydrate absorption.
Heart Health: Regular consumption may benefit heart health by helping to lower cholesterol and blood pressure.
Rich in Antioxidants: Packed with polyphenol antioxidants, mulberry tea helps combat oxidative stress and protects against cellular damage.
Promotes Sleep: Due to its calming properties and lack of caffeine, it can be a soothing drink to promote better sleep.
Digestive Aid: The fiber content can support healthy digestion and alleviate issues like constipation.
Calming Properties: It contains compounds like GABA which offer a relaxing and calming effect without sedation.

Understanding the Origins of Mulberry Tea

Mulberry tea is an herbal infusion, or tisane, derived from the leaves of the mulberry tree (Morus species), which is distinct from the Camellia sinensis plant used for black, green, and oolong teas. The lack of caffeine in mulberry tea is not a result of a decaffeination process but is simply because the mulberry leaf itself does not contain the stimulating compound. This natural absence of caffeine is a key reason for its growing popularity among those seeking a calming, health-conscious beverage.

The Science Behind a Caffeine-Free Brew

The stimulating effect of coffee and traditional teas is due to the presence of caffeine. In contrast, mulberry leaves are celebrated for their other valuable nutrients, such as GABA (gamma-amino-butyric acid), phytosterol, flavonoids, vitamins, and minerals, which offer wellness benefits without the jitters associated with caffeine. The gentle processing of mulberry leaves, which often involves steaming and drying, also ensures the preservation of these delicate compounds.

Benefits Beyond Being Caffeine-Free

Choosing mulberry tea offers more than just a break from caffeine. Its rich nutrient profile contributes to several potential health benefits, which have been explored in various studies.

Blood Sugar Regulation: Mulberry leaves contain a compound called 1-deoxynojirimycin (DNJ), which can block the absorption of carbohydrates in the gut. This can lead to a reduction in post-meal blood sugar and insulin spikes, a promising area for those managing type 2 diabetes.
Heart Health: Studies suggest that mulberry leaf extract may help lower cholesterol, reduce blood pressure, and decrease inflammation, all of which support heart health.
Digestive Support: The fiber content in mulberry tea can promote healthy digestion and help relieve constipation.
Antioxidant Properties: Loaded with powerful polyphenol antioxidants, mulberry tea helps protect the body against damage from free radicals, which are linked to various chronic diseases.
Immune Boosting: The flavonoids and tannins found in mulberry tea can stimulate the immune system and help fight off viruses and bacteria.
Improved Sleep: As a calming, caffeine-free beverage, mulberry tea can be an ideal part of an evening routine to promote a better night's sleep.

Comparison Table: Mulberry Tea vs. Caffeinated Teas


Feature	Mulberry Tea	Black Tea	Green Tea	Oolong Tea
Caffeine Content	0 mg (Naturally Caffeine-Free)	40-60 mg per 8oz cup (Typically Highest)	30-50 mg per 8oz cup	30-50 mg per 8oz cup
Origin	Leaves of the Mulberry (Morus) tree	Oxidized leaves of Camellia sinensis	Unoxidized leaves of Camellia sinensis	Partially oxidized leaves of Camellia sinensis
Taste Profile	Mild, earthy, subtly sweet	Strong, robust, bold	Grassy, vegetal, delicate	Floral, fruity, smooth
Best For	Evening, relaxing, anyone avoiding caffeine	Morning, energy boost	Health benefits, daily consumption	Afternoons, complex flavors
Active Compounds	DNJ, flavonoids, GABA	L-theanine, caffeine, catechins	L-theanine, caffeine, catechins	L-theanine, caffeine, catechins

How to Prepare Your Own Mulberry Tea

Preparing your own mulberry tea is a simple and rewarding process, whether you use fresh or dried leaves.

Gather Ingredients: You will need a teaspoon of dried mulberry leaves or a few fresh ones and about 200-250 ml of water per serving.
Boil Water: Bring fresh, filtered water to a boil.
Steep the Leaves: For best results, use water that has cooled slightly, to about 90-95°C. Pour the hot water over the mulberry leaves and allow them to steep for 5-10 minutes, depending on your preferred strength.
Strain and Serve: Strain the tea to remove the leaves. It can be enjoyed hot, or you can chill it for a refreshing iced beverage. For an elevated experience, some enjoy adding a touch of honey or lemon.

Conclusion: A Calming Choice for All

In summary, the answer to the question, "is there caffeine in mulberry tea?" is a definitive no. As a naturally caffeine-free herbal tea, it is a perfect choice for those seeking to avoid stimulants for health reasons, a better night's sleep, or simply personal preference. With its mild, earthy flavor and a wealth of potential health benefits, mulberry tea stands out as a calming and healthful alternative to traditional caffeinated beverages. Whether enjoyed hot or cold, this ancient remedy is a delightful addition to any wellness routine.

For more information on herbal tea benefits, check out the article on Mulberry leaves: Uses and benefits.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, mulberry tea is an excellent substitute for coffee, especially for those seeking to reduce or eliminate caffeine intake. It provides a warm, soothing beverage experience without the stimulating effects or potential jitters of coffee.

Yes, mulberry tea is ideal for drinking before bed. Since it is naturally caffeine-free and has calming properties, it can help promote relaxation and contribute to a better night's sleep.

Some studies have suggested a link between mulberry leaves and potential weight loss, possibly by promoting fat burning and reducing carbohydrate absorption. However, it should be combined with a healthy diet and regular exercise for best results.

While generally considered safe, excessive consumption of mulberry tea can sometimes cause mild gastrointestinal side effects such as nausea, dizziness, diarrhea, or bloating in some individuals. Individuals on diabetes medication should consult a doctor before use.

Mulberry tea has a mild, earthy, and subtly sweet flavor. Some people also note grassy or vanilla-like undertones, often comparing its delicate profile to a mild green tea.

There is insufficient research to confirm the safety of mulberry tea during pregnancy or breastfeeding. As a precaution, it is best for pregnant or nursing women to avoid this tea and consult their healthcare provider.

Mulberry tea is an herbal infusion from the mulberry tree and is completely caffeine-free. Green tea is a true tea from the Camellia sinensis plant, which contains caffeine. Mulberry tea is milder and sweeter, while green tea has a more distinct, grassy taste.