Last Updated on February 18, 2025 by Helena Akter
Confused about the difference between herbal tea and green tea? Well, you’re not alone. Many people often pick something they think that’s healthy. However, without knowing which one is right for you might not get the full benefits. Or worse, suffer side effects!
Herbal teas, made from plants like flowers, barks, roots, and herbs, are caffeine-free and offer a variety of flavors. Green tea, on the other hand, is made from Camellia sinensis leaves and contains some caffeine. Both types are rich in antioxidants, which are known to promote overall well-being.
Now, we’ll take a deep look into its history, production, health benefits, brewing methods, and more. By the end, you’ll be able to choose the best tea for your needs and preferences.
Key Takeaways
- Composition & Caffeine: Herbal teas are made from different parts of plants and are usually caffeine-free. On the other hand, green tea is made from Camellia sinensis leaves and contains moderate caffeine (around 30 to 50 mg per cup).
- Flavor & Tradition: Herbal teas offer diverse flavors—floral, spicy, or minty, traditionally used for medicinal purposes. Green tea, with its mild, grassy taste, holds cultural significance in Chinese and Japanese ceremonies.
- Health Benefits: Green tea is packed with EGCG, an antioxidant linked to preventing cancer and reducing stroke risk. Herbal teas, such as hibiscus and rooibos, contain various antioxidants that promote heart health and fight viruses.
- Brewing: Herbal teas are made by pouring boiling water over dried herbs. You can steep them for different lengths of time. Green tea, on the other hand, tastes best when brewed with hot, but not boiling, water.
What is Herbal Tea?
Herbal tea is a caffeine-free drink made from different plant parts, such as leaves, flowers, stems, bark, and roots. Unlike regular tea, which comes from Camellia sinensis, herbal teas offer a wide range of flavors and health benefits.
Each herbal tea has its own special plant compounds. These compounds give the tea its unique taste and aroma, and some even have antioxidant properties.
What is Green Tea?
Green tea is a type of tea made from the leaves of the Camellia sinensis plant. It’s the same plant used to make oolong and black tea. After picking the leaves, they’re quickly heated to stop them from oxidizing. It keeps its natural color and light, grassy flavor.
When brewed, green tea makes a clear, greenish-yellow liquid.
Green tea first came from China, but it’s now grown in many parts of Asia, like Japan, Korea, and Vietnam. Each place has its own special kind of green tea, with flavors that change based on where it’s grown and how it’s made.
What’s the Difference Between Herbal Tea and Green Tea? Comparison Table
Here’s a quick comparison to help you understand the key green tea and herbal tea difference at a glance —
| Attributes | Herbal Tea | Green Tea |
| Source | Made from plants, roots, flowers, and bark | Made from Camellia sinensis leaves |
| Caffeine Content | Naturally caffeine-free | Moderate caffeine (30-50 mg per cup) |
| Tradition | Ancient medicinal use | Traditional Chinese and Japanese ceremonies |
| Flavor Profile | Floral, spicy, sweet, or minty | Mild, grassy, with subtle umami |
| Brewing Method | Boiling water varies by plant | Hot (not boiling) water, adjust steeping |
| Antioxidants | Varied antioxidants (e.g., flavonoids) | High in EGCG, a potent antioxidant |
| Varieties | A broad range, from single herbs to blends | Varied types, from Sencha to Dragonwell |
| Nutritional Content | Rich in Manganese, Vitamin C, and other vitamins | High in Vitamin C, antioxidants (catechins) |
Herbal Tea and Green Tea Difference: In-Depth Analysis
While green tea and herbal tea are enjoyed worldwide, each has its own rich history, health benefits, and flavor profiles. So, let’s look deeply into what sets them apart, from their origins to their brewing methods and wellness advantages.
Origins
Green tea and herbal tea have distinct traditions that reflect their unique historical places and roles.
Herbal Tea
For thousands of years, people have used herbs to make tea. These plants, flowers, and roots have been part of many cultures. In fact, the Sumerians were among the first to use herbs for medicine and other purposes, long before drinking them as tea.
China and India were early adopters of herbal teas, using them in health, cooking, and cultural traditions.
Green Tea
Green tea has a long history in China. Well, people first used it for medicine. Later, during the Tang Dynasty, it became a popular drink that showed social status.
That said, a big change happened with Lu Yu’s “The Classic of Tea.” This book explained how to make tea and made green tea culture more important.
Variations
Now, let’s take a closer look at the variations of herbal and green teas.
Herbal Tea
Herbal teas come in many flavors. You can find simple teas like peppermint, raspberry, or chamomile, or more complex blends like lavender and ginger. Sometimes called herbal infusions or tisanes, these drinks offer natural flavors and can be calming or energizing.
Green Tea
Green tea comes in many types, each with its own unique flavor. For example, Sencha is smooth and vegetal, Genmaicha has a roasted nutty taste, and Matcha is bold and rich. Some green teas, like Gyokuro, are grown in the shade to give them a smooth flavor.
Others, like Longjing, offer a gentle sweetness with hints of chestnut.
Antioxidants
Both green and herbal teas are packed with antioxidants that contribute to overall health
Herbal Tea
Herbal teas are made from a mix of plants, flowers, and roots. These ingredients contain antioxidants, like polyphenols, that can help support your health in many ways. [1]
For example, studies have shown that parts of the hibiscus plant, like the calyx and leaves, have antioxidant and anti-cancer properties. [2] Similarly, research suggests that rooibos tea has antioxidant effects that are as strong as, or even stronger than, green tea. [3]
Green Tea
Green tea is packed with antioxidants called polyphenols, which are even more powerful than vitamin C. These polyphenols, especially catechins, give green tea its slightly bitter taste.
Among the 6 main catechins, EGCG (epigallocatechin gallate) is the most studied. Scientists say that the many health benefits of green tea are mostly due to the EGCG. [4]
Caffeine Content
Caffeine levels in tea vary widely depending on the type and preparation method.
Herbal Tea
Many herbal teas don’t have caffeine making them a good choice for people who want to avoid stimulants. But, some herbal drinks, like yerba mate, guayusa, and kola nuts, do have caffeine.
For example, yerba mate has about as much caffeine as coffee while guayusa tea has a moderate amount of caffeine per cup. You might want to check out our detailed explanation of the caffeine levels in herbal tea.
Green Tea
Green tea gives you a mild caffeine kick, usually around 30 to 50 milligrams per 8-ounce cup. [5] The amount of caffeine can change based on things like how old the leaves are, the type of tea, and how you brew it.
Young tea leaves and bagged tea often have more caffeine than older leaves or loose-leaf tea. That’s because the smaller tea particles in bags release more caffeine when steeped.
Flavor
There’s no end to the flavors of tea, from green tea’s earthy notes to herbal tea’s endless options.
Herbal Tea
Herbal teas come in many different flavors, from gentle jasmine to spicy ginger. Usually, the flavor depends on the plants, flowers, and herbs used. You can find all kinds of tastes: mint tea is cool and refreshing, while rooibos is naturally sweet.
Therefore, you can find tea for any mood, whether you want something calming or energizing.
Green Tea
Green tea offers a clean, grassy taste with a hint of earthiness. Sometimes, you might notice floral notes. Well, the exact flavor depends on the type of tea and how you brew it.
When brewed right, loose-leaf green tea is balanced and smooth, with a subtle sweetness and a touch of umami. And it should never be bitter!
Brewing Method
Brewing the perfect cup of tea isn’t always easy since different teas need different care. So, let’s explore how to brew delicious herbal and green teas.
Herbal Tea
To get the most flavor and health benefits from herbal tea, you need boiling water. Different herbs need different steeping times. Delicate herbs like peppermint steep quickly, while roots like ginger take longer.
For a quicker option, you can use herbal tea bags, though some depth of flavor might be sacrificed. Plus, you can improve the flavors and effects of herbal teas by adjusting steeping times.
Green Tea
Green tea tastes best when you brew with hot, not boiling, water. Plus, loose leaf tea lets you control how strong the flavor is by adjusting the steeping time. Meanwhile, you need to whisk matcha powder to create a smooth, foamy drink.
In addition, green tea bags are a quick way to brew tea. While they’re convenient, they might not taste as good as loose leaf tea or freshly whisked matcha.
Health Benefits
There are lots of health benefits to herbal tea and green tea, according to recent research.
Herbal Tea
Herbal teas can be good for your health. Recent studies funded by the USDA suggest that they may have medicinal benefits. [6] Plus, research from Tufts University shows that peppermint, in particular, is a strong antiviral, antioxidant, and anti-allergenic. [7]
Moreover, clinical trials suggest that hibiscus tea may help reduce systolic blood pressure. [7] Studies suggest Croton gratissimus herbal tea can lower blood sugar levels and improve the body’s response to insulin. [14]
Green Tea
Green tea is known to have health benefits. It can help reduce inflammation and fight cell damage. Some studies suggest green tea might lower the risk of certain cancers, like colon and breast cancer. [8]
Also, a recent study from 2023 found that drinking 2-4 cups of green tea daily could lower the risk of stroke by up to 24%. [9]
In addition, a recent study showed that drinking green tea regularly might help prevent osteoporosis. [10] Another study from Japan suggests that drinking at least 4 cups of green tea a day could reduce the risk of Type 2 diabetes by almost 40%. [11]
Side Effects
Herbal and green teas are often enjoyed for their natural qualities. However, drinking too much or having certain health conditions might lead to side effects.
Herbal Tea
Herbal teas, despite their natural image, can sometimes be harmful. Drinking large amounts of strong blends can lead to serious health problems, including liver and kidney damage, and even bone marrow toxicity. [12]
So, you should be extra careful, particularly if they have allergies, existing health conditions, or are taking other medications.
Green Tea
Drinking too much green tea can cause side effects like headaches and irregular heartbeat due to its caffeine content. In fact, high doses of green tea extract may harm the liver. [13]
If you’re breastfeeding, pregnant, or have specific health conditions, you must talk to a doctor before regularly drinking green tea.
Herbal Tea vs Green Tea: Which is Better?
Green tea is a good choice if you want a drink that gives you a bit of energy and is good for your health. It’s packed with antioxidants, especially EGCG, which can help protect your body’s cells.
If you’re trying to cut down on caffeine, green tea might not be the best choice. It still has a small amount of caffeine.
If you prefer drinks without caffeine but with specific benefits, herbal teas are a great choice. For instance, chamomile tea is known to relax the body and mind, while hibiscus tea may help reduce blood pressure.
However, we should remind you that, unlike coffee or tea, the benefits of herbal teas are tied to the specific herbs they contain.
Final Words
In short, the difference between herbal tea and green tea comes down to ingredients, caffeine, and benefits. Herbal teas, made from various plants, are naturally caffeine-free and offer a range of unique flavors.
Green tea, from Camellia sinensis leaves, has a mild caffeine boost and is rich in EGCG antioxidants, known for their health benefits. Whether you’re seeking relaxation or energy, understanding these differences will help you choose the right tea.
FAQs
Can I drink herbal tea and green tea together?
Yes, you can drink herbal tea and green tea together. The antioxidants in green tea and the soothing properties of chamomile may help strengthen your immune system and ease cold and flu symptoms. However, aim for balance and avoid excess caffeine by keeping it to a few cups daily.
Is it healthy to drink green tea every day?
Yes, drinking green tea daily is healthy. With 3 to 5 cups a day, you may lower your risk of various diseases. However, avoid going beyond 8 cups, as too much caffeine can lead to issues like insomnia, irritability, and dizziness.
Who should not drink green tea?
People with conditions like anemia, glaucoma, diabetes, or osteoporosis should check with their doctor before drinking green tea. Remember, high caffeine intake over time may lead to severe side effects.
Citation
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8308238/#:~:text=Herbal%20teas%20are%20well%2Dknown,not%20yet%20been%20fully%20identified.
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25945622
- https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0308814696003123
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7084675/
- https://www.fda.gov/consumers/consumer-updates/spilling-beans-how-much-caffeine-too-much
- http://www.usda.gov/wps/portal/usda/usdahome
- https://www.ars.usda.gov/main/site_main.htm?modecode=19-50-00-00
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7084675/
- https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0899900722003483?via%3Dihub
- https://journals.lww.com/md-journal/fulltext/2017/12080/association_between_tea_consumption_and.86.aspx
- https://drc.bmj.com/content/8/1/e001252
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9939026/#:~:text=Herbal%20preparations%20may%20cause%20severe,%2C%20and%20long%2Dlasting%20nephrotoxicity.
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK547925/
- https://tribuneonlineng.com/herbal-teas-to-promote-health-in-diabetes-experts/
