Often times in my shop, people are searching for tea that is not caffeinated, and I get it- not everyone wants a strong caffeine kick from their tea. Some of our customers are looking for something lighter in the evening, something gentle on the stomach, or simply a tea they can enjoy throughout the day without overthinking it.
Of course we can help with this! That’s where low caffeine teas come in.
In this mini guide, we’ll walk through four popular options—Hojicha, Kukicha, Genmaicha, and herbal infusions—along with how to brew them properly and which teaware we recommend for the best experience.
Hojicha (Roasted Green Tea)
Hojicha is one of Japan’s most comforting teas. It is made by roasting green tea leaves over high heat, which gives it a warm, toasty aroma with notes of caramel, wood, and cocoa.
Because of the roasting process, Hojicha is naturally very low in caffeine.
Health & Benefits
- Naturally low caffeine
- Gentle on the stomach
- Often enjoyed in the evening
- Warm, calming aroma
Brewing Instructions
- Tea: 5g
- Water: 200–250ml
- Temperature: 90–95°C
- Steep time: 1.5–2 minutes
Hojicha is quite forgiving. You don’t need to be too precise.
Best Teaware
- Porcelain teapot (most neutral)
- Glass teapot (great for colour clarity)
- Everyday kyusu (if you want a traditional touch)
We usually recommend porcelain or glass here because Hojicha doesn’t need clay influence to shine.
Kukicha (Twig Tea)
Kukicha is often called “twig tea” because it’s made from the stems and stalks of the tea plant rather than the leaves. This gives it a light, slightly nutty flavour with a soft sweetness.
Health & Benefits
- Very low caffeine
- Light and refreshing
- Good for multiple infusions
- Easy on digestion
Brewing Instructions
- Tea: 5g
- Water: 80–85°C
- Steep time: 60–90 seconds
- Can be re-steeped 2–3 times
Kukicha is surprisingly elegant when brewed correctly.
Best Teaware
- Kyusu (excellent for control and quick pouring)
- Porcelain teapot
- Gaiwan (for tasting sessions)
A kyusu works particularly well because Kukicha releases flavour quickly.
Genmaicha (Green Tea with Roasted Rice)
Genmaicha is another one of Japan's everyday teas. It blends green tea with roasted brown rice, creating a warm, slightly nutty flavour that is very easy to enjoy. Some versions also include matcha, making it richer and greener.
Health & Benefits
- Lower caffeine than pure green tea
- Satisfying and grounding flavour
- Great everyday tea
- Often easier on the stomach than sencha
Brewing Instructions
- Tea: 5g
- Water: 80–90°C
- Steep time: 60–90 seconds
- 2–3 infusions possible
Avoid boiling water, as it can make the green tea component slightly bitter.
Best Teaware
- Kyusu (ideal for balance and pour speed)
- Porcelain teapot (neutral taste)
- Glass teapot (great for beginners)
We often recommend a kyusu here because it gives a clean, balanced cup without overpowering the roasted rice aroma.
Herbal Infusions (Naturally Caffeine-Free)
Herbal teas are not technically “tea” from the Camellia sinensis plant, but they are a wonderful caffeine-free alternative.
Common options include:
- Chamomile
- Peppermint
- Rooibos
- Lemon balm
- Hibiscus
Each has its own personality, from floral and calming to bright and refreshing.
Health & Benefits
- 100% caffeine-free
- Often used for relaxation
- Can support digestion or sleep (depending on herb)
- Wide variety of flavours
Brewing Instructions
- Tea: 2–3g (or 1 teabag equivalent)
- Water: 95–100°C
- Steep time: 5–8 minutes
Herbal infusions usually than green tea to fully release their flavour.
Best Teaware
- Glass teapot (best choice)
- Large porcelain mug or infuser
- Simple filter brewer
Glass works especially well because many herbal teas are visually beautiful when they steep.
Choosing the Right Tea for the Right Moment
We often associate a certain tea with a certain mood or condition that we want to get to. For example, if morning focus is needed, people will turn to Kukicha or Genmaicha. Hojicha and Kukicha are good for for some afternoon balance, and if you want to wind down In the evening, a hojicha or a simple herbal infusion would do the work. Even before bed, a chamomile or a rooibos can calm down the body so sleep is easiely achieved.
Final Thoughts
Low caffeine teas are not just alternatives—they can be a healthy part of the daily rhythm. One of the nicest things about tea is that it doesn’t have to be intense to be enjoyable.
Hojicha, Kukicha, Genmaicha, and herbal infusions all offer something different, but they share the same idea: tea should fit your lifestyle, not the other way around.
If you’re exploring lower caffeine options, start simple. Try one or two styles, experiment with brewing, and see which one naturally becomes part of your daily routine.
That’s usually how the best tea habits begin!
Until next time,
Nick from Teatopia