L-theanine is an amino acid that promotes calmness and relaxation, found naturally in green tea, that has been shown to lower anxiety levels by stimulating calm brain waves and regulating neurotransmitters, in addition to helping lower blood pressure.
One study with 30 healthy adults demonstrated that four weeks of L-theanine administration reduced stress and anxiety symptoms while improving cognitive performance.
Theanine is an amino acid commonly found in tea leaves and some mushrooms, which is also available as a dietary supplement and can help ease anxiety and stress without leading to sleepiness.
L-theanine influences nerve impulses in the brain and increases levels of certain neurotransmitters, including Gamma Aminobutyric Acid (GABA). Studies have also demonstrated how L-theanine helps reduce cortisol levels - an adrenal hormone released during stressful or trauma-inducing situations - which has been shown to contribute to weight gain, high blood pressure, depression and anxiety.
L-theanine has been proven to increase alpha waves during a relaxed state and reduce Tourette syndrome tics by blocking glutamate receptors. A natural calming agent and source of antioxidants, it may help reduce Tourette syndrome symptoms when taken by mouth at doses up to 400 mg daily for four weeks - however it's wise to consult your healthcare provider prior to beginning any new supplements.
L-theanine has long been recognized as a natural way to promote relaxation and reduce anxiety without leading to sedation. It can be found naturally in tea, as well as taken as dietary supplement in liquid or pill form.
Studies show that it may help alleviate anxiety by increasing attention and working memory performance, improving mood and alleviating feelings of stress. Although considered safe for most users, some medications used for high blood pressure or cardiovascular conditions may interact with this treatment.
L-theanine may help regulate key neurotransmitters in the brain, including serotonin and dopamine, that play an essential role in mood and feeling of relaxation. Supplementation may help manage anxiety symptoms and lessen stress; additional approaches such as therapy should also be used in tandem. L-theanine can be found in foods like tea and mushrooms or as powdered supplements that can be mixed into beverages or smoothies for easy consumption.
L-theanine is a non-essential amino acid found naturally in tea leaves (especially green and black teas) as well as certain mushrooms, and available as a supplement in liquid, pill, or ointment form to promote relaxation and reduce anxiety.
Most people who take l-theanine report feeling calm within 30-40 minutes and its effect can last up to eight hours. It is advised that individuals consume 200-400 mg daily; alone or combined with caffeine for optimal cognitive performance.
L-theanine may produce its calming effects by increasing levels of chemicals that promote feelings of calm, while decreasing those which trigger anxiety and stress. Furthermore, studies have demonstrated its ability to decrease cortisol levels - the so-called stress hormone which has been shown to lead to negative side effects like increased blood pressure, weight gain and impaired sleep quality.
L-theanine can be consumed safely at recommended doses; however, research remains limited. Pregnant women and those taking medications that lower their blood pressure too quickly should avoid L-theanine to protect their health and avoid too drastic a reduction.
L-Theanine can be purchased as a supplement in tablet, capsule, or powder form. It can also be found in many tea products including green and black tea leaves as well as porcini mushrooms belonging to its family.
Theanine has been shown to increase brain chemicals associated with feelings of calm, thus decreasing stress, anxiety and depression. Furthermore, its use decreases levels of chemicals which stimulate the nervous system and increase levels of agitation.
Before using supplements that claim to have calming effects, it's wise to consult a mental health professional first. They can offer personalized advice tailored specifically to you based on your personal history and current conditions, helping to find remedies tailored specifically for you.
