L-Theanine
L-theanine is an amino acid found primarily in green, black, and white teas from Camellia sinensis contributing to about 1% of its dry wet. It provides unique brothy, savoury (umami) flavours to the green tea infusions.
Its said to help ease anxiety, stress, reduce insomnia, schizophrenia, or schizoaffective disorder, ADHD, etc.
Studies suggest that consuming around 200 – 250mg of L-Theanine on a regular basis, results in increased serotonin, dopamine, and glycine levels in various areas of the brain, as well as BDNF and NGF levels in certain brain areas.
It improves the function of the body’s immune system and helps decrease upper respiratory tract infections. Pairing green tea catechins, antioxidants, and theanine has been effective at preventing the flu. It has also been associated with amplifying the anti-tumour effects of certain chemotherapy drugs.
Some benefits of L-Theanine:
- Helps to ease stress and anxiety.
- Better immunity
- Tumour and cancer treatment
- Promotes relaxation by increasing the activity in the alpha frequency band.
- “Generally Regarded As Safe” (GRAS) by FDA.
- Increase sleep quality by reducing insomnia without inducing drowsiness.
- Increased focus and attention.
- Blood pressure management.