Caffeine is a naturally occurring substance that is found in the seeds, fruits and leaves of over 100 different species worldwide. The most commonly known sources of caffeine are coffee and cocoa beans, cola nuts and tea leaves. Caffeine is odorless and has a slightly bitter taste.

The amount of caffeine present in a cup of tea depends on the preparation method and the plant variety. There are many parameters that affect the caffeine content such as the amount of tea leaf, the size of the leaf, water temperature and steeping time (hotter water and longer steeping times will increase the level of caffeine that is released into your cup).

What is a safe intake of caffeine?
In moderation, caffeine can be a healthful benefit that increases the metabolism and stimulates brain function. A consensus of many research reports conclude that approximately 300 mg of caffeine per day is considered a moderate amount with no harmful effects in the vast majority of the adult population.

How can I decaffeinate my tea?
The process of decaffeinating loose–leaf tea can be done easily and will have only minimal effect on the flavor. Since caffeine is highly soluble in hot water, approximately 80% of the caffeine will be released in a brief 30-second infusion. The process is as follows:

Steep your tea in hot water for 30-seconds and then pour the liquid tea down the drain. Do not drink this first cup.

Then, add hot water (to the same tea leaves) and steep the tea in the manner you would normally use to steep this particular tea (water temp. and steeping time).

Since the majority of caffeine is released in the first steeping, all subsequent infusions will only contain minimal amounts of caffeine.