What’s the Difference Between Black Tea and Herbal Tea?
If you’ve ever stood in front of a wall of tea packets wondering what the difference is between black tea and herbal tea, you’re not alone. At Kind Tea, we get this question all the time and it’s a good one.
Both black tea and herbal tea can be part of your daily ritual. But depending on what your body and brain need, they can offer very different benefits. Whether you're looking for a morning boost or a caffeine-free cuppa before bed, understanding the difference helps you choose the right blend for the moment.
Let’s break it down in the simplest way possible.
What is black tea?
Black tea comes from the Camellia sinensis plant, the same plant used to make green tea, oolong, and white tea. The difference comes down to how the leaves are processed. Black tea leaves are fully oxidised, which gives them their bold colour and stronger flavour.
Key benefits of black tea:
- Contains caffeine (about half as much as coffee)
- Can support focus and energy
- Naturally rich in antioxidants
- Great as a morning ritual or early afternoon pick-me-up
At Kind Tea, our English Breakfast, Earl Grey, and Masala Chai are all black tea blends. They’re warming, grounding, and perfect for when you need to feel alert but not jittery.
What is herbal tea?
Herbal tea (also called a tisane) is made by infusing herbs, flowers, spices, or fruit in hot water. Unlike black tea, it doesn’t come from the tea plant and usually contains no caffeine.
Popular herbal tea ingredients include:
- Chamomile – known for its calming effects
- Peppermint – soothing and refreshing
- Lavender – gentle and great before sleep
- Rooibos – earthy, caffeine-free, and antioxidant-rich
- Ginger and fennel – supportive of digestion and gut health
Because of its versatility and naturally calming qualities, herbal tea is ideal for winding down or sipping throughout the day when you want something warm without the buzz.
Our Relax Tea, Sleepy Tea, Belly Balance, and Rooibos blends are all herbal, caffeine-free, and packed with purpose.
Which one should you choose?
It depends on what you need and when.
- Need energy and clarity? Go for a black tea in the morning or early afternoon.
- Feeling overwhelmed or overstimulated? Herbal blends can be a helpful, calming option
- Want to avoid caffeine altogether? Stick with herbal, especially in the evening.
Many Kind Tea customers like to have both on hand, black tea for the start of the day, herbal tea for the end.
Final thoughts
Understanding the difference between black tea and herbal tea helps you choose more intentionally. You don’t have to be a tea expert, just a tea drinker who’s curious, conscious, and kind to themselves.
Wherever you’re at in your day, there’s a tea for that. And we’d love to help you find yours.
Browse our full range of Kind Tea blends here! From bold black brews to calming caffeine-free favourites.