What is L-Theanine?
L-theanine is a calming amino-acid naturally found in green, white and black tea. It is also found in some mushrooms, but otherwise rare in nature. The ancient Japanese tradition of drinking green tea is associated with relaxation for good reason. Green tea typically has a higher L-theanine content compared to other teas (black tea has the lowest).
Benefits of L-Theanine
Boosts levels of GABA and dopamine . L-theanine is able to cross the blood-brain barrier, increasing the production of both GABA ( our primary inhibitory neurotransmitter that promotes relaxation and reduces stress) and dopamine .
Increases alpha brain waves. Research has shown that within 40 minutes of intake (50-200mg), L-theanine induced alpha brain waves in human volunteers without creating drowsiness. Alpha brain waves signify a state of relaxation. However we will not have these effects from a few cups of tea as higher doses are required to attain the therapeutic effect.
Improves our attention, concentration and learning ability. Despite its relaxation effect, L-theanine improves mental alertness due to the alpha brain waves which also play an important role in attention.
Improves sleep quality. L-theanine is a natural, safe, sleep aid. It does not have a sedative effect, rather it promotes good sleep quality by anxiolysis (because it induces alpha brain waves).
Helps maintain healthy weight. There is increasing evidence that dopamine plays a role in weight management – increasing levels of dopamine (via l-theanine) can reduce weight gain. Eating and dopaminergic signaling are closely related – the food reward stimuli elevates dopamine levels in the brain. Effectively, you are less likely to overeat if you are not depleted in dopamine.
L-Theanine interactions
L-theanine may interfere with the effectiveness of certain medications or supplements. When used with medications for high blood pressure or supplements that have a blood pressure lowering effect (such as fish oils and l-arginine) , it may amplify the reduction in blood pressure.