The oolong tea caffeine content depends largely on the type of tea that you’re brewing, but it is different than coffee and traditional black tea.
How Much Caffeine is in Oolong Tea?
When it comes to the caffeine content of oolong tea, there is a rather broad range in terms of content.
- It ranges between 16 mg to 55 mg in an 8-ounce cup of tea.
- The weakest type of oolong tea, Tea Ren, contains roughly 16 mg of caffeine per serving [1]
- The strongest variety can have upwards of 55-60 mg per cup
Other varieties are in the 30-40 mg of caffeine range. Generally speaking, oolong tea falls in the middle of teas when it comes to caffeine. This variety of tea typically has less caffeine than a cup of black tea, but more caffeine than is found in green tea.
Oolong tea and tea leaves Photo Credit: Shutterstock
Oolong Tea Caffeine vs Coffee
When comparing coffee and oolong tea caffeine contents, coffee is a clear winner.
- Coffee contains an average of 95 milligrams in an 8-ounce cup
- Whereas oolong tea (on average), contains half as much caffeine. This makes oolong tea popular with those who are sensitive to the effects of caffeine. [2]
- Oolong tea is also preferred to coffee by some because of the antioxidants contained in this type of tea, as well as every other variety of Camellia sinensis.
Regardless of the source of caffeine, drinking an excessive amount of tea or coffee can result in negative side effects that include: [3]
- Nervous disorders
- Sleeplessness
- Mood swings
- Irritability
- Gastrointestinal problems
Drink oolong tea responsibly, particularly if you’re pregnant or have a sensitive stomach. You can consume 2-3 cups of oolong tea per day, but beyond that, it is best to speak with your doctor.
