Are you looking for a delicious way to get your caffeine fix? Thai tea is an increasingly popular drink that has several unique flavors and health benefits. But if you’re someone who needs their daily grab of caffeine, does thai tea have caffeine? We’ll answer this question once and for all as we explore the various types of Thai tea drinks available, their caffeine content, and why some believe there are even more benefits beyond just coffee-free stimulation. So if you’re curious about whether or not the sweet -and sometimes spicy!- flavor of Thai iced teas can provide enough kick for your late afternoon energy levels, read on.
What Is Thai Tea?
Thai tea, also known as “cha-yen”, is a popular drink in Thailand that has become famous worldwide due to its unique taste and vibrant orange color. It’s made from a blend of black tea, sugar, and spices like star anise or tamarind. The mixture is then brewed and served over ice, making it a refreshing treat during hot days or as an accompaniment to spicy dishes. The traditional way to serve Thai tea is by topping it with a generous scoop of sweetened condensed milk, giving it an even richer and creamier flavor.
Thai Tea Nutrition
Now that we know what goes into a cup of Thai tea, let’s take a closer look at its nutritional value. A typical 8 oz serving of Thai tea contains around 45 calories, 1 gram of fat, and 8 grams of sugar. It also provides small amounts of important vitamins and minerals such as vitamin A, calcium, and iron. However, one noticeable downside to Thai tea is its high sugar content. If you’re watching your sugar intake, it’s best to limit your consumption of this drink or opt for a sugar-free version.
Does Thai Tea Have Caffeine?
“Does thai tea have caffeine?” Thai tea contains a moderate amount of caffeine. A standard serving of Thai tea made with black tea will have approximately 47 mg of caffeine (based on an 8 oz serving). It is worth noting that caffeine levels may vary depending on the type of tea used, including decaffeinated options. So, is this enough to give you the much-needed energy boost? The answer depends on your caffeine tolerance and how sensitive you are to its effects. For some, a cup of Thai tea can provide just the right amount of stimulation without causing jitters or affecting sleep. However, others may need a stronger caffeine kick from coffee or energy drinks.
How Much Caffeine Does Thai Tea Have?
Thai tea contains a moderate amount of caffeine. A standard serving of Thai tea made with black tea consists of around 47 mg of caffeine (in an 8oz serving). It is also possible to use decaf Thai tea or other tea types which will result in varying caffeine levels. This could be a great option for individuals who enjoy the taste of Thai tea but are sensitive to caffeine or looking to reduce their overall caffeine intake.
Black Tea
Black tea is the most common type of tea used in Thai tea recipes. It is made from fully oxidized leaves and has a robust flavor with higher amounts of caffeine compared to other types of teas. On average, a cup of black tea contains 47mg of caffeine, the same as an 8 oz serving of Thai tea.
Green Tea
Thai tea generally contains caffeine, but the exact amount can vary. However, on average, an 8-oz (230-ml) serving of Thai tea typically contains around 20-60 mg of caffeine. This is due to the fact that Thai tea can be made with a variety of teas, including green tea, which has lower caffeine content compared to black tea.
Oolong Tea
Oolong tea does contain caffeine, with a typical range of 50-75 mg per 8 oz. cup. It is semi-oxidized, making it a type of tea between green and black teas in terms of caffeine content. So, if oolong tea is used in a Thai tea recipe, the caffeine level may be slightly higher compared to using green tea.
Factors Influencing Caffeine Content In Thai Tea

Thai tea can contain varying levels of caffeine, depending on the type of tea used, brewing time, and additives. Compared to coffee, Thai tea has a different flavor and lower caffeine content, making it a more suitable option for those looking to limit their caffeine intake. Additionally, the presence of sugar or condensed milk in Thai tea can also affect how quickly caffeine is absorbed into the body. Consuming caffeine with sugar or fat can cause a slower release of caffeine into the bloodstream and produce a longer-lasting effect.
Why Is Thai Tea Caffeine Content So High?
Thai tea typically contains caffeine, as it is commonly made from a combination of black tea and various herbal teas. The proportion of black tea used in the blend can directly affect the overall caffeine content. On average, an 8 oz cup of black tea has around 45-50 mg of caffeine. So, if a recipe calls for more black tea, the caffeine content will naturally be higher. The added sugar and condensed milk can also contribute to the high calorie and caffeine levels in Thai tea compared to other teas like green or herbal blends.
Potential Health Benefits Of Thai Tea
Thai tea does contain caffeine, similar to other herbal teas renowned for their anti-inflammatory properties. However, it is important to note that Thai tea also boasts a significant amount of antioxidants beneficial for maintaining a healthy immune system, comparable to green tea and other herbal teas. Additionally, the spices used in Thai tea, such as star anise and tamarind, have been linked to potential health benefits like reducing inflammation and aiding digestion. Overall, while Thai tea may not be a caffeine-free alternative, it still offers various potential health benefits due to its unique blend of ingredients.
Potential Risks Of Drinking Thai Tea
While Thai tea can be a delicious treat, it is essential to note that excessive consumption may lead to potential health risks. The high sugar content in traditional Thai tea recipes could contribute to weight gain and increased risk of chronic conditions such as type 2 diabetes. Additionally, caffeine sensitivity or consuming too much caffeine can result in side effects like headaches, jitters, and difficulty sleeping. It is also worth noting that Thai tea contains food coloring, which has been linked to potential adverse effects on health. Therefore, moderation is key when it comes to enjoying Thai tea and its unique blend of flavors and spices.
How To Reduce Caffeine In Thai Tea?
Thai tea does contain caffeine, although the specific amount may vary depending on factors such as the brand and brewing method. If you are looking to reduce your caffeine intake, consider decaffeinated Thai tea or herbal tea alternatives. You can also try using less black tea in your recipe or opting for a sugar-free version to decrease the overall caffeine and calorie content. Furthermore, you can experiment with different herbal teas that have lower levels of caffeine, such as chamomile or peppermint, to create your own unique Thai tea blend. Ultimately, finding the right balance of ingredients and moderation is key to enjoying Thai tea as a delicious and potentially health-beneficial drink.
How To Make Thai Tea At Home?

Making Thai tea at home is a relatively simple process, and it allows you to control the ingredients and their quantities. To make Thai tea at home, you will need the following:
- 2 tablespoons of black tea (or any desired type of tea)
- 1 cup water
- 3 cups milk (can also use non-dairy options like almond or coconut)
- 4-6 tablespoons of sugar or sweetener (can adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
- Spices such as star anise, tamarind, and cardamom (optional)
Instructions:
- In a saucepan, bring the water to a boil.
- Add in the black tea and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes. If using other types of tea, adjust the brewing time accordingly.
- Once brewed, strain the tea into a pitcher or heat-resistant container.
- In the same saucepan, add in the milk and sugar (or sweetener) and heat until steaming but not boiling. Stir occasionally.
- If adding spices, you can add them to the milk mixture and let it simmer for a few minutes.
- Once ready, pour the milk mixture into the pitcher with the brewed tea. Mix well.
- Let cool or serve over ice, depending on your preference.
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FAQ: Caffeine In Thai Tea
Does Thai tea have a lot of caffeine?
Thai tea contains a moderate amount of caffeine. A standard serving of Thai tea made with black tea, using 8oz, contains approximately 47 mg of caffeine. It is worth noting that decaffeinated Thai tea and other tea variations can be substituted, resulting in varying levels of caffeine.
Does Thai tea have more caffeine than coffee?
Thai Iced Tea contains less caffeine compared to coffee. According to estimates, a cup of coffee typically contains 94.8 mg of caffeine, while Thai Milk Tea only contains approximately 47 mg.
Does the caffeine in Thai tea make you sleepless?
Thai tea contains caffeine, although the amount may vary depending on the brewing method. It’s important to note that caffeine has been shown to enhance performance but may also have side effects such as sleeplessness and anxiety (3, 4). Additionally, Thai tea is known to contain a significant amount of sugar.
Which Thai tea has the highest caffeine content?
Thai tea typically contains 47 mg of caffeine per serving when made with black tea (8oz). It is worth mentioning that caffeine levels may vary when using decaf Thai tea or other tea types.

Nia Grace is the owner and head chef of The Underground, a new quick-service restaurant in Memphis. After surveying the area’s dining landscape and speaking with local residents, she determined that there was a lack of restaurants offering international cuisine. Drawing on her own multicultural background (her parents are from Guyana and Jamaica), Nia has created a menu that features dishes from all over the world. Her goal is to provide Memphians with a variety of flavorful options that reflect the city’s diverse population.