Is Tea Acidic or Alkaline?
Tea has been cherished globally for centuries for its flavor, health benefits, and calming effects.
But have you ever been curious about whether tea is classified as acidic or alkaline?
If you’ve been concerned about the pH levels of your favorite tea, you’re in the right place. In this article, we will explore the acidity of various types of tea and give you some tips on making your tea less acidic.
Before we start, is tea acidic? Yes, tea is typically acidic. However, the acidity levels can differ based on the specific tea variety.
What Exactly Is Acidity, and Why Is It Relevant?
Acidity refers to the level of hydrogen ions present in tea or any other drink or substance.
The acidity is measured on the pH scale, which ranges from 0 (highly acidic) to 14 (highly alkaline), with a pH of 7 being neutral. The pH level of a substance can alter its flavor, and for particular individuals, consuming highly acidic foods or beverages could contribute to discomfort or even worsen acid reflux.
As for tea, acidity can potentially impact the flavor and your body’s response to the beverage. For instance, some people may experience an upset stomach or heartburn after drinking highly acidic tea.
By learning the acidity of various teas, you can make informed decisions about which teas to enjoy based on your taste and health precautions.
What Is the PH Level of Tea?
The acidity levels of black, green, and herbal teas vary depending on processing and ingredients.
Black tea has an acidic pH of 4.9, making it less fitting for those sensitive to acidic drinks or experiencing acid reflux.
With a pH of 7.0, green tea is less acidic and relatively neutral. This makes it a better choice for those with acid sensitivities.
Herbal teas have different acidity levels, ranging from highly acidic to more neutral or mildly alkaline.
The following table lists various teas and their average pH levels, sorted from least acidic to most acidic:
| Type of Tea | Average pH level |
| Green tea | 7.0 |
| Fennel tea | 6.8 |
| Rooibos tea | 6.5 |
| Ginger tea | 6.5 |
| Chamomile tea | 6.0 |
| Peppermint tea | 6.0 |
| White tea | 5.2 |
| Oolong tea | 5.0 |
| Black tea | 4.9 |
| Red raspberry tea | 4.0 |
| Rosehip tea | 3.5 |
| Hibiscus tea | 3.4 |
| Lemon tea | 3.0 |
Remember that the pH levels in this table are approximate and may change depending on the tea blend and preparation method.
How to Make Tea Less Acidic
To make your tea less acidic, you can take a few straightforward steps:
- Choose a lower-acid tea: Choose teas with higher pH levels, like green, rooibos, or fennel.
- Brew your tea with cold water: Using cold water can assist in extracting fewer acidic compounds from the tea leaves, yielding a less acidic drink.
- Shorten the steeping time: Steeping your tea for a shorter period can reduce acidity. Experiment with steeping times to find the right balance between flavor and acidity.
- Add a pinch of baking soda: As an alkaline substance, baking soda can counteract some of the acidity in your tea. Add a pinch to your tea before steeping. Please note that using too much can alter the taste of your tea.
- Mix with milk or non-dairy milk: Adding milk or a non-dairy milk alternative to your tea can aid in lowering its acidity. This is particularly true for black tea, which is commonly served with milk in numerous cultures.
Final Thoughts
Tea is typically acidic, but the acidity levels can differ based on the type of tea.
If you’re sensitive to acidic foods and beverages or dealing with specific health problems, it’s essential to choose teas that have lower acidity levels. Green tea and certain herbal teas, like rooibos and fennel tea, often possess higher pH levels and are, therefore, less acidic.
Experimenting with brewing techniques and adding milk or baking soda can also help reduce your tea’s acidity, ensuring you can enjoy your favorite brew without discomfort.
FAQ
Is Tea More Acidic Than Coffee?
In general, coffee is more acidic than tea. The average pH level of coffee is around 4.85, while most teas have higher pH levels (higher means less acidic).
Does Tea Make Acid Reflux Worse?
For some people, drinking acidic tea can exacerbate acid reflux symptoms. If you have acid reflux, choosing teas with higher pH levels, like green tea or some herbal teas, is best.
Additionally, you can try the tips mentioned above to make your tea less acidic and more stomach-friendly.
Is Black Tea Acidic?
Yes, black tea is acidic. The average pH level of black tea is 4.9, making it less acidic than herbal teas like lemon or hibiscus. However, it’s more acidic than green or many herbal teas, such as chamomile or rooibos.
Is Green Tea Acidic?
Green tea is less acidic than black tea, with an average pH level of 7.0. This makes it a more neutral beverage and a better choice for those sensitive to acidic drinks.
Is Herbal Tea Acidic?
Depending on the ingredients used, herbal tea can have varying acidity levels, ranging from acidic to slightly alkaline or neutral. For example, lemon and hibiscus teas are more acidic, and chamomile, rooibos, and fennel tea are less acidic.
To choose a less acidic herbal tea, check the ingredients and opt for teas with higher pH levels.
Is Chamomile Tea Acidic Or Alkaline?
Chamomile tea, with a pH level of 6.0, is slightly acidic. This is because the pH scale ranges from 0 to 14, with 7 being neutral, values below 7 being acidic, and values above 7 being alkaline.
