Pure saffron tea (just threads + hot water) is caffeine-free. If you brew it with green or black tea, it carries that base tea's caffeine. As an afternoon swap for coffee, the base-only version gives you warmth, aroma, and zero caffeine.
Caffeine math
- Pure saffron tea (threads + water): 0 mg caffeine.
- Saffron + green tea: ~20–45 mg caffeine per cup.
- Saffron + black tea: ~40–60 mg.
- 8 oz coffee: ~80–95 mg.
Editor's note
For the base-only version, steep whole threads in just-off-boil water for 10–15 minutes rather than pouring and drinking right away — real saffron releases its color and aroma gradually, and rushing it wastes most of what you paid for. A small pinch (4–6 threads) is plenty for a single cup; more doesn't make a better one, just a more bitter one.
When to drink saffron tea
Late afternoon, after dinner, on a cold evening. Build a small ritual around it — the pause matters as much as the cup.
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