Caffeine is a compound from the methylxanthine group, naturally occurring in, among others, coffee, tea, guarana and cola seeds. The history of drinks containing caffeine is much older than the knowledge of its chemical structure. Different communities have independently developed customs related to the plants that provide it.
The same substance from different sources
Caffeine may be derived from coffee, tea, guarana or other material or added as an isolated compound. The name of the source does not change the fact that you must include the total quantity. The content in the infusion also depends on the preparation, and in the extract on the specification. Therefore, caffeine cannot be calculated from the weight of the plant alone. When making a comparison, it is useful to clearly state the amount of the substance per serving and take into account other products used that day.
Meaning and application
Nowadays, caffeine is also used as a separate raw material for recipes. The term "anhydrous" describes the chemical form, not a separate plant variety of caffeine. Its recognition is associated with its stimulating effect on the nervous system. When comparing products, the total amount of all ingredients is important: guarana and tea extract can also provide it. Natural origin does not mean lack of action, and the cup of the drink and the capsule do not have to contain a comparable amount of this substance.
In practice
The same molecule can come from different sources, so the term "natural" does not mean another, inactive type of caffeine. In a multi-ingredient preparation, the amount of all materials should be included, not just a separate additive called caffeine. Guarana, kola and tea may contribute it regardless of the presence of such an additive. The weight of the extract does not automatically provide the exact amount of the compound. Also, similar volumes of two drinks do not guarantee identical contents. When comparing a product, values relating to the same recommended serving are useful. Your own association with a cup of coffee does not replace the data and warnings on the label of a specific preparation.