Many of us reach for coffee during the day when we need more energy or concentration.

However, there are several alternatives to coffee, including both caffeinated and caffeine-free options, that can offer variety and may also provide nutritional benefits.

10 alternatives to coffee

Different options can provide energy, hydration or simply a new daily ritual

Caffeine can increase alertness, energy levels and concentration.

However, consuming too much coffee may interfere with sleep and can cause symptoms such as anxiety, nervousness, digestive discomfort or headaches in people who are particularly sensitive to caffeine.

If you would like to reduce your coffee intake or simply try something different, here are 10 alternatives.

1. Chicory

A naturally caffeine-free roasted drink

Chicory is the root of the plant Cichorium intybus. It can be dried, roasted and ground to produce a hot beverage with a flavour that is often compared with coffee.

Unlike coffee, chicory contains no caffeine.

It also contains inulin, a soluble fibre associated with digestive and intestinal health, as well as antioxidant compounds.

People who are sensitive to plants in the ragweed family may also experience allergic reactions to chicory.

2. Matcha

A concentrated form of green tea

Matcha is a type of green tea in which the finely ground tea leaves are consumed directly.

It contains antioxidants as well as caffeine.

Matcha is also rich in L-theanine, an amino acid associated with relaxing effects, which may make its caffeine content feel different from that of coffee for some people.

To prepare it, sift one or two teaspoons of matcha powder into a cup, add hot water and whisk until the drink becomes smooth and slightly frothy.

3. Golden milk

A caffeine-free blend of milk and aromatic spices

Golden milk is a warm, caffeine-free drink typically prepared with ingredients such as:

• Ginger

• Cinnamon

• Turmeric

• Black pepper

• Cardamom

• Vanilla

• Honey

A simple version can be prepared by heating milk or a plant-based alternative with turmeric, cinnamon, ginger and a pinch of black pepper.

Honey can be added according to preference.

4. Lemon water

A simple caffeine-free way to stay hydrated

Lemon water is a calorie-free and caffeine-free alternative that can help support daily hydration.

Lemon also provides vitamin C, which contributes to normal immune function and collagen formation.

Maintaining adequate hydration may also be helpful when reducing caffeine intake, particularly if you experience headaches.

You can add ingredients such as:

• Mint

• Cucumber

• Watermelon

• Basil

5. Yerba mate

A naturally caffeinated herbal infusion

Yerba mate is a caffeinated herbal infusion containing antioxidants, minerals and vitamins.

Because it contains caffeine, it can support alertness and may therefore appeal to people looking for an alternative to coffee.

Some processing methods involving smoke can introduce polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons. Air-dried products may therefore be preferable.

Yerba mate can be prepared using loose leaves in an infuser or tea bags steeped in hot water for approximately three to five minutes.

6. Chai tea

Black tea combined with aromatic herbs and spices

Chai is generally made from black tea mixed with aromatic spices.

It usually contains less caffeine than coffee while still providing some stimulation.

Common ingredients include:

• Cardamom

• Cloves

• Black pepper

• Ginger

• Cinnamon

Some ready-made chai drinks contain considerable amounts of added sugar, so preparing it at home can make it easier to control sweetness.

7. Kombucha

A fermented tea-based drink

Kombucha is produced by fermenting sweetened tea with a culture of bacteria and yeast, commonly known as a SCOBY.

Fermentation produces compounds including organic acids and antioxidants.

Because kombucha is often made using black or green tea, it may still contain some caffeine.

Commercially prepared kombucha is widely available and may be more convenient than making it at home.

8. Rooibos tea

A naturally caffeine-free herbal tea

Rooibos, sometimes known as red tea, has a naturally mild, slightly sweet and fruity flavour.

Unlike coffee and many traditional teas, it is naturally caffeine-free.

Rooibos contains relatively low levels of tannins while providing other antioxidant compounds.

For preparation, steep loose rooibos or a tea bag in hot water for up to 10 minutes. Lemon or honey can be added if desired.

9. Mushroom coffee

Coffee or coffee-style drinks containing mushroom extracts

Mushroom coffee products usually contain extracts from varieties such as:

• Reishi

• Chaga

• Lion’s mane

• Cordyceps

• Turkey tail

Various health benefits have been proposed for these mushrooms, including effects on immune function and physical or mental performance.

However, the evidence supporting many of the specific claims made for mushroom coffee itself remains limited.

Preparation varies depending on the product and may simply involve mixing mushroom extract powder with hot water or adding it to coffee.

10. Hibiscus tea

A refreshing caffeine-free option rich in plant compounds

Hibiscus tea has a tart flavour and contains antioxidant compounds including anthocyanins.

Because it contains no caffeine, it can be consumed at different times of the day as an alternative to coffee.

It can be prepared by steeping dried hibiscus flowers in hot water for around five to 10 minutes and served hot or cold.

How can you reduce your coffee intake?

A gradual transition can make it easier to adjust

If coffee is an important part of your daily routine, reducing consumption gradually can make the transition easier.

People who consume caffeine regularly may experience temporary withdrawal symptoms when they reduce it, including headaches, tiredness or irritability.

You can gradually replace some coffees with caffeinated alternatives such as matcha or yerba mate, or choose caffeine-free drinks such as:

• Chicory

• Golden milk

• Lemon water

• Rooibos

• Hibiscus tea

The best option depends on whether you are looking for caffeine, hydration, flavour or simply a different daily ritual.

Sources

Scientific and medical references

1. Healthline. (2025). 9 Alternatives to Coffee (And Why You Should Try Them).
   https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/coffee-alternatives

2. Harvard Health Publishing. (2023). Energy-boosting coffee alternatives: What to know.
   https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/energy-boosting-coffee-alternatives-what-to-know-202302222893

3. Health. (2025). 14 Coffee Alternatives That Help You Stay Energized Without the Jitters.
   https://www.health.com/coffee-alternatives-11832648

4. Harvard Health Publishing. (2024). Mushroom coffee: Worth a taste?
   https://www.health.harvard.edu/diet-and-nutrition/mushroom-coffee-worth-a-taste

5. Medical News Today. (2023). Caffeine sensitivity: Dosage and treatment.
   https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/caffeine-sensitivity