Tea That Wakes You Up: Tea With Caffeine

Many people like to start a new day with a cup of coffee. Coffee is a good source of caffeine, which is a central nervous system and metabolic stimulant. But according to recent research, coffee is actually a very complex beverage with hundreds and hundreds of different compounds in it. Since coffee contains so many different compounds, drinking coffee can lead to very diverse health outcomes. And for pregnant women, there has been still quite a bit of controversy over whether high intake of coffee or caffeine may increase the risk of miscarriage. So here we will recommend a couple types of teas that can keep you awake for a long day of work, and are good for your wellbeing.

Recommended Caffeinated Teas

1. Tie Guan Yin (Iron Goddess)

• Caffeine Boost: Tie Guan Yin tea contains caffeine (theine) that excites the central nervous system, leading to increased wakefulness, reduced physical fatigue, and heightened alertness.

2. Green Tea

• Brain Functionality: Research suggests that green tea extract enhances effective connectivity in the brain, particularly in areas associated with working memory, problem-solving, and focus. It contains less caffeine than coffee and offers various health benefits, including potential cancer protection.
• Caution: Traditional Chinese medicine warns against excessive green tea consumption due to its potential cooling effects, which might induce sleepiness.

3. Jasmine Tea

• Energy Regulation: Jasmine tea is recommended to regulate energy, alleviate depression, and calm the spirit. It can be beneficial for those experiencing feelings of pins and needles or light-headedness after a nap.
• Brewing: Steep 2 tablespoons of jasmine tea in 80-degree Celsius water for 3 to 5 minutes. The tea can be infused multiple times while retaining its flavor.

4. Lemon Mint (Iced) Tea

• Refreshing Blend: A combination of mint, lemon slices, and honey provides a refreshing iced tea that can invigorate you in a busy office or combat post-lunch dizziness.
• Preparation: Steep mint in warm water for 1 hour, add lemon slices, honey, and serve over ice.

5. Huang Qi Tea

• Energy Boost: Huang Qi, a herb in traditional Chinese medicine, is known for its energy-boosting, blood-invigorating, and health-strengthening properties.
• Ingredients: Huang Qi (10-15 pieces), dried red dates (6), water (2-3 bowls).
• Preparation: Soak red dates and Huang Qi in water for 20-30 minutes, then cook in a pottery pot for 20 minutes.

Choosing the right tea depends on various factors such as the type of tea, the tea tree’s environment, picking season, and processing methods. For caffeine-sensitive individuals or certain health conditions, adjusting brewing practices, such as discarding the first brew, may be advisable. While teas offer a healthier alternative to coffee, moderation and consideration of individual health factors remain essential.