Tea Blog

Can you get “drunk” on tea? It may sound like a strange question, but some tea drinkers believe it’s possible—at least in a certain sense. Tea “drunkenness” isn’t the same as alcohol intoxication, but it can leave you feeling slightly altered or unusually relaxed.

The most literal way to get drunk from tea, of course, is to drink beverages that combine tea with alcohol. These include products such as tea-infused vodka, tea liqueurs, tea beers, and tea-based malt drinks. For more on this topic, see this overview of tea-infused alcoholic beverages and pairings.

However, if we stick to traditional tea, the answer is more nuanced. By definition, being “drunk” refers to a temporary state of impaired physical and mental function due to alcohol—something tea alone cannot produce.

That said, some tea enthusiasts report a mild, euphoric sensation after consuming large amounts of tea. While this feeling is not comparable to alcohol intoxication, it may cause lightheadedness, heightened alertness, or a relaxed, “floaty” state. As with anything, moderation is key—it’s still not advisable to “overdo it,” even with tea.

There is limited scientific evidence specifically addressing “tea drunkenness,” but the sensation is often attributed to the combined effects of caffeine and L-theanine. Caffeine can stimulate the mind, while L-theanine is known for promoting relaxation without drowsiness. Together, they may create a unique balance of alert calmness. For more on this interaction, see this explanation of L-theanine and its effects in tea.

For additional perspectives, you can explore this discussion of “tea drunk” sensations among tea drinkers and this blog post exploring personal experiences with tea-induced effects.

If you’re curious about the connection between tea and hangovers, you may also find this article on tea, hangovers, and caffeine effects of interest.

Don’t forget to visit William’s blog at Tea Guy Speaks for tea insights and commentary.