What type of tea typically has the highest caffeine content?

Black tea typically has the highest caffeine content among the types of tea mentioned. This is primarily due to the processing method it undergoes, which involves fully oxidizing the leaves, resulting in a richer flavor and higher caffeine concentration.

Caffeine levels in tea can vary significantly based on factors such as the specific variety of tea, the part of the plant used, and the brewing time. Black tea is generally brewed for longer durations and at higher temperatures than green or white tea, which can also contribute to its higher caffeine levels.

In contrast, white tea is the least processed and contains lower caffeine, while green tea, though it can have more caffeine than white tea, usually has less caffeine than black tea. Herbal teas are often made from various plants that do not belong to the Camellia sinensis species (the tea plant) and are usually naturally caffeine-free or very low in caffeine. Thus, when considering these factors, black tea consistently emerges as having the highest caffeine content among traditional teas.