L-Theanine - 60 V-Caps

THEANINE

Second only to water, tea is the most widely consumed beverage in the world... perhaps due to its Theanine content...

Theanine is an amino acid found in green, black and oolong teas (Camellia sinensis), as well as a specific type of mushroom called the Boletus badius. Theanine is able to cross the blood brain barrier, giving it a strong affinity for the brain and central nervous system. Among its psychoactive properties, theanine has been shown to reduce mental and physical stress, improve cognition and mood, as well as treat insomnia, specifically for those individuals who can initially fall asleep, but have trouble staying asleep throughout the night.

The medicinal properties of theanine come directly from its ability to increase the level of the brain neurotransmitters, GABA and dopamine. GABA and dopamine do not cross the blood brain barrier making supplementation with these substances useless in terms of effecting the nervous system. Supplementation using precursors to these substances is necessary. GABA, being an inhibitory transmitter balances or regulates neuronal excitability throughout the nervous system. Studies have shown that individuals with impaired or deficient dopamine have problems with mood, memory, attention, sleep, cognition and learning.

Theanine has also been shown to directly stimulate alpha waves, the brain wave emitted during awake and relaxed periods and used as an index of relaxation.

Theanine is also said to boost the immune system by giving extra support to T cells, white blood cells that play a significant role in cell mediated immunity. Unlike the caffeine high that many get from their morning cup of coffee, the caffeine in tea is counteracted with theanine, actually allowing for a calming effect. This amino acid works antagonistically against the stimulatory effects that caffeine has on the nervous system.

Theanine can be consumed via tea or as a powdered or encapsulated supplement. Many professional companies market the L-theanine or suntheanine versions of theanine, which are thought to be more pure and easily absorb-able forms. The typical recommended dosage is 200-250 mg/day, taken as needed throughout the day or 30 minutes before bed to help maintain sleep. L-Theanine can be found as part of a variety of formulas aimed at stress and anxiety reduction.

Theanine is generally considered a safe and non-toxic substance, although there has been no clear evidence of its safety during pregnancy and lacation. It is best to avoid this supplement during these states.