Does Matcha Have Caffeine? The Truth About Matcha & Daily Energy

Does Matcha Have Caffeine? Can You Drink It Daily?

If you love starting your day with a creamy matcha latte or a refreshing iced matcha, you might have wondered: does matcha actually have caffeine? And if it does, is it okay to drink it every day?

Many people turn to matcha powder because they want to cut down on coffee or find a healthier, more balanced source of energy. While both drinks contain caffeine, the way your body responds to them is completely different.

The key difference lies in one of matcha’s most important natural compounds, L-theanine.

What Is L-Theanine?

L-theanine is an amino acid found almost exclusively in tea leaves, and high quality matcha has some of the highest levels of it due to its shade-grown cultivation process. The difference between a good matcha is the amount of time that the leaves are under the shade, which should be at least 3 weeks. When tea plants are shaded before harvest, they produce more chlorophyll and amino acids, including L-theanine, giving matcha its rich umami flavor and vibrant green color.

But beyond flavor, L-theanine has a powerful effect on your mind and body. It works by stimulating alpha brain waves, which promote relaxation and mental clarity. When combined with caffeine, it helps create what many describe as calm focus. You feel alert and energized, but without the anxiety, jitters, or crash that often come with coffee. That is why zen monks have been drinking matcha for mental focus for over 1000 years, and why samurai warriors consumed matcha to get energy. 

This unique combination of caffeine + L-theanine gives matcha drinkers a steady, sustained form of energy that lasts for hours. Instead of a sharp caffeine spike, you’ll notice smoother concentration and a calm, centered mood, throughout your day. See it as a slow caffeine release which happens due to the L-theanine. Now, students in Japan drink matcha before a test, to gain sharp focus, so we know that matcha is perfect for studying, working, or staying mindful throughout the day.

So, does matcha have caffeine? And, can you drink matcha daily? The short answer is yes, matcha contains caffeine, but the way your body responds to it is quite unique. Unlike coffee, matcha green tea gives you a calm, steady energy instead of the sudden rush and crash.

The Truth About Matcha’s Caffeine Content

A serving of matcha (about one teaspoon or two grams of matcha powder) contains roughly 60 to 70 milligrams of caffeine, which is around two-thirds the amount in a typical cup of coffee.

But matcha’s caffeine behaves differently in your body. Because you’re consuming the whole tea leaf (not just steeping it like regular green tea), you get a slower, more balanced release of energy. No spikes, no jitters, just steady focus that lasts for hours.

Caffeine and L-Theanine: The Perfect Balance

What makes matcha unique is its natural amino acid called L-theanine, which works hand-in-hand with caffeine to create what many call calm focus. That is why many people call it the green elixir. 

L-theanine promotes relaxation and reduces stress, while caffeine enhances alertness and concentration. Together, they provide a sense of clear, focused energy, awake, but never anxious.

This is why matcha is a favorite among people who want mental clarity, steady productivity, and a calm state of mind throughout the day.

Can You Drink Matcha Every Day?

Yes, you can absolutely drink matcha every day. In fact, adding matcha to your daily routine can support your overall well-being. Matcha is loaded with antioxidants, amino acids, vitamins and minerals, which promote amazing benefits for your health and mental well being. The health benefits of matcha range from fat burning, to immune system support and even anti-aging properties. 

Matcha is rich in antioxidants, especially EGCG (epigallocatechin gallate), which helps fight oxidative stress and supports metabolism. It’s also known to promote mental clarity and balanced energy. In fact, matcha is the superfood which has the highest number of antioxidants in the world, more than berries, dark chocolate and nuts. That is why matcha is so great for the skin and the immune system, to name some of the health benefits of matcha.

For most people, one to two cups a day is ideal. If you’re sensitive to caffeine, you can start with a smaller serving and see how your body feels. The gentle energy boost from matcha is perfect for mornings, work sessions, or even a mid-afternoon pick-me-up.

Matcha vs. Coffee: What’s the Difference?

While coffee delivers an instant jolt of energy, matcha provides a smoother and more sustainable boost. You stay alert and focused, without the caffeine crash or anxious buzz. The difference is in how the L-theanine helps the caffeine release slowly in your body, allowing for the energy to be sporadical and slow, without any jitters. 

The Bottom Line

So, does matcha have caffeine? Yes, but it’s not the same experience as coffee. Thanks to L-theanine, matcha gives you a calm, focused energy that helps you stay productive and present.

And can you drink matcha every day? Definitely. Whether it’s a warm morning latte or an iced afternoon refresher, matcha is a mindful, delicious way to stay energized and balanced.

If you’re ready to feel the difference, explore our organic premium matcha selection and make it part of your daily ritual, for calm focus, steady energy, and total well-being.