Caffeine or no caffeine: choosing a drink suited to each moment of the day

More essential than ever in a fast-paced world, the pursuit of well-being notably involves consuming healthy and natural drinks. But do you truly know which is the best option for every moment of the day?

The Betjeman & Barton team guides you through the subtleties of theine, which directly influences the choice between tea and herbal tea throughout the day, depending on your need for energy, sleep, or concentration.

Theine, caffeine: what you need to know

Despite their different names, theine and caffeine refer to one and the same molecule. The former is found in tea, while the latter is contained in coffee.

In tea, theine is associated with other natural substances such as tannins and L-theanine. Thanks to this combination, theine is absorbed more slowly by the body. As a result, tea provides a gentler and more sustained stimulation, without a sudden energy spike or nervousness.

Conversely, the caffeine present in coffee is very quickly assimilated by the body. It therefore provides an immediate boost, which is particularly useful for a quick wake-up or an instant need for an energy surge. This rapid action can, however, be offset by a sudden drop in alertness, felt as a "slump" by coffee drinkers.

Thus, people sensitive to caffeine generally tolerate tea better. While theine is present in all tea varieties, it is found in greater quantities in black tea and green tea.

However, herbal teas and rooibos are 100% theine-free drinks, as they are exclusively composed of plants and not tea leaves or "Camellia sinensis".

How to boost your energy in the morning?

In the morning, our body often needs a little boost to start the day well. A hot drink rich in theine is particularly ideal for effectively stimulating the body and mind.

In this context, black tea stands out as the preferred choice for those who enjoy an invigorating wake-up. Its stimulating effect is similar to that of coffee, without the abrupt energy peak of caffeine. Green tea also remains an excellent alternative for those who prefer a gentler start to their day or are looking for a source of vitamin C.

Here are our recommendations for the morning:

● “Daybreak” black tea is a full-bodied blend composed of Ceylan, Assam, and Darjeeling teas. It is gladly enjoyed with a cloud of milk, for a true English breakfast.

● “Gyokuro” green tea is described as the most precious and refined of Japanese teas. Connoisseurs particularly appreciate it in a small teapot, after only 1 minute of infusion.

How to maintain concentration in the afternoon?

After lunch, it's common to feel a slight dip in energy. Drinking a cup of tea can then help gently re-engage your focus, without impacting your nervousness.

To maintain optimal concentration until the end of the day, it is advisable, for example, to drink white tea or oolong tea, a semi-fermented beverage also known as "blue-green tea". On the one hand, white tea has a low theine content and is perfect for a gentle afternoon break. On the other hand, oolong tea boasts a moderate theine content, as well as a rich aromatic complexity that is both authentic and sensory.

Here are our recommendations for the afternoon:

● The "Pai Mu Tan Bio Supérieur" white tea from China is made from the buds and young shoots of Camellia sinensis. It releases natural cocoa aromas, for a hint of sweetness and comfort with every sip.

● "Formosa Grand Oolong" oolong tea is a 70% fermented beverage, whose subtle chestnut scent gives it all its singularity.

● The scented white tea "Les Invités" celebrates the beautiful harmony of jasmine, rose, and lychee.

● The scented oolong "Paris s'éveille" embodies a delicious moment of indulgence with notes of chocolate, caramel, and toffee.

How to relax in the evening?

Slowing down is essential after a fast-paced day. Theine-free drinks are ideal for preparing the body for rest before a good night's sleep.

Thus, herbal teas and rooibos are valuable allies in the evening. In addition to being naturally theine-free, certain plants like chamomile, verbena, and linden are recognized and recommended for their soothing properties on the body and mind.

Here are our recommendations for the evening:

● "Tisane Céleste" wonderfully blends lemongrass, chamomile, licorice, orange, and grapefruit. This delicate and soothing infusion is perfect in the evening, before falling into the arms of Morpheus.

● "Tisane du Berger" brilliantly combines old-fashioned flavors, between linden, verbena, mint, orange blossom, and lemongrass.

Focus on theine-free teas

There are now processes to remove the theine molecule from tea leaves without damaging them. This practice ensures that you can continue to enjoy the flavors and benefits of the drink without experiencing its stimulating effects later. Decaffeinated tea retains all the antioxidants naturally present in the plant, particularly polyphenols and flavonoids, and can be consumed throughout the day, as it no longer poses a risk of sleep disturbances. Betjeman & Barton offers two types:

• Decaffeinated Earl Grey black tea: an essential reference in the world of tea, enjoy this beautiful blend of bergamot and Ceylan black tea whenever you feel like it.
• Decaffeinated Ceylan black tea: this beautiful tannin-free black tea can be happily enjoyed from morning to night, without moderation.

How to remove theine from tea?

It is possible to "decaffeinate" your tea yourself at home, thanks to the double infusion technique, also known as "rinsing". This involves steeping the tea leaves in boiling water once, for 20 to 60 seconds depending on your sensitivity, then discarding the water before infusing these leaves again in new hot water, observing the normal duration this time.

This method allows 50 to 80% of the theine contained in the drink to be eliminated, as this molecule is released during the first moments of contact with hot water. Thus, even if it is not as effective as industrial processing, this technique offers the possibility of enjoying your favorite tea at any time of day, without the effects of theine.

Throughout the day, listen to your body's needs by choosing the right drink at the right time. Betjeman & Barton teas and infusions accompany you during your invigorating mornings and relaxing evenings, as part of a wellness ritual that meets all your expectations.