The 5 Best Teas for Boosting Brain Health, According to a Neuroscientist and an Herbalist

Both Dr. Jones and Dan say green tea is full of brain health-supporting benefits, which are backed up by a wealth of scientific studies. “Green tea contains powerful polyphenols and antioxidants that support cognitive function,” Dan says. Specifically, green tea contains catechins, which are a type of polyphenol and antioxidant connected to brain health.

Drinking green tea is also linked to improving mood. “Many scientific studies have found a connection between l-theanine [an amino acid found in green tea] and mood as well as with cognitive function,” registered dietitian Neva Cochran, RD, previously told Well+Good. Both green tea and matcha (a specific type of green tea) have these benefits, so drinking either one will benefit your brain.

Dr. Jones points out that the brain-boosting combination of caffeine and l-theanine aren’t just found in green tea—they’re in black tea as well. This is why she says she loves sipping it just as much as green tea. She adds that black tea is another rich source of antioxidants, which is one more reason why it is so good for the brain.

Lion’s mane is a type of adaptogenic mushroom that Dr. Jones says she likes to consume in tea form on a regular basis. “There is increasing research interest around the neurotherapeutic and protective properties of lion’s mane tea,” she says. “A recent animal study showed lion’s mane tea suppressed inflammation and toxicity in neurons in the main memory forming region of our brain. It appears to have the potential to enhance memory and improve brain function, so it is now of interest in the management and avoidance of dementia.” Lion’s mane has brain benefits in the short-term too, helping combat brain fog and increase concentration.

Rosemary, sage, and lemon balm tea is one of Dan’s absolute favorite teas for longevity because she says all three herbs have been linked to benefitting long-term brain health. “Studies show rosemary contains carnosic acid [a type of polyphenol] which supports brain function, especially long-term memory with promising effects against Alzheimer’s disease and Parkinson’s disease,” she says. “Sage is great for both cognitive and neurological functions and lemon balm has specifically been studied with Alzheimer patients for cognitive functioning.” Their flavors play well together too, making a savory tea with a hint of tartness from the lemon balm.

While it might be less known to some American consumers, Pu’er tea is a staple in China, its country of origin. “This fermented tea has neuroprotective properties that have been studied to show a great improvement in cognitive functioning and for regulating the central nervous system,” Dan says. Bonus: it’s also great for your gut since it’s fermented.