Is strong tea simply tea that has been brewed for longer?

    Many people think that ‘strong tea’ simply means tea that has been brewed for a long time. But is this really the case?

    What happens during brewing?

    As soon as boiling water is poured over the leaves, caffeine (known as theine in tea) is released into the brew. This is responsible for the stimulating effect of the drink. However, after 3-5 minutes, polyphenols, commonly known as tannins, also begin to be released. These compounds bind to the caffeine, gradually weakening its effect.

    The result? After about 7 minutes of brewing, a cup of tea may be almost devoid of its stimulating properties. Instead, the tea becomes more tart and bitter – this is the effect of the tannins.

    Shorter means ‘stronger’

    If we want a stimulating effect, the best brewing time is 2-3 minutes. Brewing for longer does not enhance the effect; quite the contrary, it alters the character of the tea, making it heavier and more astringent.

    Strength is not just about time

    The intensity of the brew is also influenced by the amount of dried leaves used. The optimum ratio is generally considered to be 1 teaspoon of leaves per 200 ml of water. When brewing in a teapot, it is worth adding an extra teaspoon ‘for the pot’ for a fuller flavour.

    How much tea to drink per day?

    There is no single, rigid limit, but 5-6 cups per day is usually considered a reasonable amount. Research into the effects of tea on the body is ongoing, so treat this as a guideline.

    For comparison:

–  a cup of black tea (approx. 180 ml) contains an average of 40-60 mg of caffeine,

–  the same portion of coffee contains up to 120 mg caffeine.

    Experts estimate that the safe daily caffeine intake for adults is approx. 400-600 mg. However, bear in mind that the caffeine in tea is milder and has a longer-lasting effect because it is accompanied by polyphenols, which modulate its effect on the body.

    Remember, if you want a ‘strong’ tea in terms of stimulation, brew it briefly and use a little more leaves. If, on the other hand, you are looking for tea that is ‘strong’ in flavour, extend the brewing time. However, be aware that you will get tartness and bitterness instead of energy.