Caffeine Alternatives to Coffee That Actually Work

For many of us, coffee is a daily ritual. It’s how we start the day, how we power through the afternoon, and sometimes, how we socialise. But not everyone loves the side effects. The jitters. The afternoon crash. The stomach irritation. The way it sometimes spikes anxiety.

That’s why more people are looking for caffeine alternatives. Ones that still help with focus and energy, but without the harsh comedown. The good news? You don’t have to rely on plain herbal tea or sugary energy drinks. There’s a growing world of natural, functional drinks that offer clean energy and clarity.

Let’s take a closer look.

 

Why caffeine alternatives are gaining popularity

There’s been a quiet shift in how people approach energy and wellness. Coffee isn’t disappearing, but it’s no longer the default. More people are experimenting with drinks that give them a gentler, more sustainable boost. Here’s why.

• The rise of functional drinks. Drinks are no longer just about hydration. The functional beverage market is booming, with products that support energy, focus, gut health, mood, and more.
• Natural and plant-based living. Consumers are seeking out plant-based ingredients, cleaner labels, and less sugar. People want drinks that align with their lifestyle.
• Cutting back on overstimulation. Many are reducing their coffee intake due to anxiety, poor sleep, or gut sensitivity. They’re looking for energy that feels calm and focused.

The result? A new wave of energising drinks that use ingredients like yerba maté, adaptogens, matcha, and more.

 

Popular alternatives to coffee

Below are some of the best-known and most effective options. Each has its own flavour profile, benefits, and type of energy.

Yerba maté

• Origin: South America
• Energy type: Uplifting and smooth
• Taste: Earthy, grassy, slightly bitter

Yerba maté is made from the leaves of the Ilex paraguariensis plant. It contains natural caffeine, along with theobromine (found in cacao) and antioxidants. Many people find it gives them focused energy without the crash or anxiety.

Want to learn more? Read our full guide on the health benefits of yerba maté.

Matcha

• Origin: Japan
• Energy type: Calm alertness
• Taste: Grassy, slightly sweet, creamy if whisked

Matcha is powdered green tea. It contains caffeine plus L-theanine, an amino acid known for promoting relaxation. The result is steady focus and less jitteriness.

Healthline notes matcha may help with brain function, heart health, and even weight management.

Guayusa

• Origin: Ecuador and the Amazon
• Energy type: Clean and balanced
• Taste: Smooth and slightly sweet, with less bitterness than maté

Guayusa is another caffeinated leaf from the holly family. It has similar benefits to yerba maté but tends to be a bit milder in taste. It’s rich in antioxidants and offers a calm, sustained buzz.

Chicory root

• Origin: Europe and the Mediterranean
• Energy type: Caffeine-free, supportive for digestion
• Taste: Roasted, nutty, often compared to coffee

Chicory is often brewed like coffee but contains no caffeine. It’s a good option for people going fully caffeine-free. It’s also high in inulin, a type of prebiotic fibre that supports gut health.

Ginseng

• Origin: Korea, China, North America
• Energy type: Stimulating but gentle
• Taste: Bitter, earthy, sometimes sweet

Ginseng is known as a traditional tonic for fatigue. It’s not a direct caffeine replacement but may help with mental clarity, focus, and stamina. Often used in herbal blends or supplements.

Adaptogenic blends (ashwagandha, lion’s mane, etc.)

• Energy type: Supportive and balancing
• Taste: Depends on the blend, often herbal, earthy, or spicy

Adaptogens are herbs and mushrooms that help the body adapt to stress. Some, like rhodiola or cordyceps, are known for boosting stamina. Others, like ashwagandha, may help with anxiety. These are often found in powder blends or functional drinks.

 

Deep dive: Why yerba maté stands out

Yerba maté has been consumed for centuries in parts of South America. It’s more than just a drink. It’s a social ritual, often shared from a gourd in a circle of friends.

But it’s also gaining attention globally for its unique blend of benefits.

How it works

Yerba maté contains:

• Caffeine, for alertness and focus
• Theobromine, a gentler stimulant found in cacao
• Antioxidants, including polyphenols and saponins

This combination provides mental energy, mood support, and a sense of wakefulness that feels smoother than coffee.

Backed by research

Studies suggest yerba maté may:

• Improve focus and alertness
• Boost physical performance
• Support metabolism and thermogenesis
• Provide antioxidant protection

A 2014 review found that ingesting yerba maté increased fat oxidation and energy expenditure by about 24% during submaximal exercise without affecting performance.

Why it works for people cutting coffee

Yerba maté has caffeine, but it’s less intense. The presence of theobromine helps smooth out the energy curve. Many people say it gives them energy without the crash or spike in anxiety.

It’s also easy on the stomach for many, especially in non-acidic formats like cold brews or sparkling blends.

Modern maté: Perla as an example

Traditional maté is often brewed hot and sipped from a gourd. Perla reimagines this ritual for modern life.

It’s:

• Zero sugar
• Sparkling and refreshing
• Naturally caffeinated
• Made with native Australian botanicals like lemon myrtle and elderflower

For those exploring coffee alternatives, it offers an easy, ready-to-drink option that still feels energising and satisfying.

 

Choosing the right option for you

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Each person’s body and routine are different. Here are some tips.

Consider your lifestyle

• Do you need energy for workouts or mental focus?
• Are you cutting caffeine completely, or just reducing it?
• Do you prefer something to sip slowly or grab on the go?

Taste matters

• Earthy and bold? Try yerba maté or chicory.
• Smooth and green? Matcha or guayusa.
• Light and herbal? Adaptogenic blends.

Mix and match

Some people rotate between options:

• Matcha in the morning, maté in the afternoon.
• Coffee on busy days, adaptogens on rest days.
• A caffeine-free chicory latte before bed.

Transitioning off coffee?

• Start by replacing one cup a day with your chosen alternative.
• Pay attention to how your body reacts.
• Stay hydrated and get enough sleep, especially during the switch.

Final thoughts

You don’t have to sacrifice energy to move away from coffee. The world of functional, plant-based drinks is growing fast. Whether you’re reducing caffeine, avoiding crashes, or just want a fresh option, there’s something out there that fits.

Yerba maté is one of the most balanced and effective choices, and with drinks like Perla, it’s now easier than ever to enjoy. Tasty, natural, and good for your energy.

Curious to learn more? Check out our post on what to drink when you’re not drinking alcohol for other options that fit into a low-stim, low-sugar lifestyle.