What is L-Theanine? Uses, Benefits, Side Effects, and More!

We have noticed over the years a gaining interest in L-Theanine.  With an array of supplemental product types out there, anyone who is, say for instance, into fitness or overall wellness, has noticed this key component.  However, you might still be wondering what exactly it is, how is it used, does it have any benefits, etc.?  Well, luckily for you, we’ll highlight all your questions here today.

What Exactly is L-Theanine?

L-Theanine is an amino acid that’s found in a variety of plant and mushroom species, but most commonly found in tea leaves, both green and black varieties, primarily in Camellia sinensis.  It was first discovered in the mid-20th Century, specifically in 1949 by Japanese scientists led by Dr. Keiji Suga.  He was the one who first identified and isolated L-Theanine from tea leaves.  They were conducting research on the chemical composition of tea and were particularly interested in the compounds responsible for its flavor and aroma.  The chemical structure of L-Theanine was determined, and it was found to be an amino acid with a unique structure.

While L-Theanine was identified and studied in a laboratory setting, it has a long history of traditional use in tea consumption.  People have been drinking tea for centuries, primarily in Asia, and have appreciated its calming and relaxing effects. L-Theanine is believed to contribute to these properties.  L-Theanine’s journey reflects the intersection of traditional knowledge and modern scientific inquiry.

Now, L-Theanine is recognized for its unique ability to promote relaxation without causing drowsiness, making it popular for managing stress and improving focus.  Unlike many other amino acids, L-Theanine is not used to build proteins.  Instead, it impacts levels of certain chemicals in the brain, including serotonin and dopamine, which influence mood, sleep, emotion, and cortisol, helping manage stress, more on those in a bit.

Additionally, L-Theanine is known for its synergistic relationship with caffeine.  When combined, these two can improve brain function and alertness more effectively than caffeine alone. This combination is a key reason why many people find the alertness from tea to be more balanced compared to coffee.  So, essentially, L-Theanine is often combined with caffeine in supplements for its synergistic effects on improving cognitive performance and focus, while mitigating some of the jittery side effects of caffeine.  Also, L-Theanine is available in different supplemental forms.

What are the Potential Benefits of L-Theanine?

While the benefits we are going to be covering here are supported by some studies, more research is needed to fully understand the effects of L-Theanine.

Potential Benefit #1: Relaxation and Stress Reduction

L-Theanine is known for its ability to promote relaxation without causing drowsiness. L-Theanine may help reduce the body’s stress responses.  You see, by modulating aspects of brain function, it can exert a calming effect, reducing the perception of stress and anxiety.

Not only that, but L-Theanine has even been found to increase the production of alpha brain waves, which’re associated with a state of “wakeful relaxation”.  This is the kind of relaxation you might experience when meditating, being creative, or just taking a leisurely walk.  Hence, why it’s often used to reduce stress and anxiety.

Potential Benefit #2: Improving Cognitive Function

There is evidence suggesting that L-Theanine can improve focus, concentration, and cognitive function, especially when combined with caffeine (as naturally occurs in tea).  For example, it may help individuals concentrate better on tasks and reduce distractions, which can, once again, lead to improved cognitive performance.  Some research even suggests that it can enhance memory retention and the ability to learn new information, making it potentially beneficial for cognitive function.

Potential Benefit #3: Boosted Immune System

There is also evidence that L-Theanine may support the immune system, helping to fend off illnesses.  To be more specific, some studies suggest that L-Theanine may contribute to immune system enhancement.  It appears to do so by supporting the body’s immune response to infections and possibly reducing the incidence of upper respiratory tract infections.  L-Theanine might also have a role in improving the function of gamma delta T cells, a type of immune cell important for rapid immune responses.

Keep in mind, the impact of L-Theanine on the immune system is still not fully understood, and it should not be relied upon as a primary method of boosting immune health.

Potential Benefit #4: Sleep Quality

Some studies suggest that L-Theanine can help improve the quality of sleep, not necessarily by acting as a sedative, but also by enhancing the quality of deep sleep.  It doesn’t typically induce drowsiness or lead to a groggy feeling the next day.  Overall, this can be beneficial for those who wish to improve their sleep quality without the heavy sedative effects of some sleep medications..

Potential Benefit #5: Effects on Neurotransmitters

L-Theanine can influence levels of certain neurotransmitters in the brain, like GABA, dopamine, and serotonin.  These changes can contribute to its relaxing and mood-enhancing effects.  L-Theanine has antioxidant properties, which means it may help protect brain cells from oxidative stress and damage.  This neuroprotective effect could contribute to long-term neuro health.

Potential Benefit #6: Heart Health Benefits

L-Theanine may have a positive effect on heart health (although it should not be seen as a primary treatment for heart conditions), such as helping to lower or regulate blood pressure.  This effect can be particularly beneficial for people who experience stress-induced increases in blood pressure.  Other data shows how L-Theanine could positively affect the lipid profile by reducing levels of bad cholesterol (LDL) and potentially increasing good cholesterol (HDL).  L-Theanine also has antioxidant effects, which can help in reducing oxidative stress and inflammation (chronic inflammation in particular), factors that are linked to heart disease.

Additionally, more research is needed to fully understand the extent of L-Theanine’s benefits for heart health.

Potential Benefit #7: Mental Health Benefits

Regular consumption of L-Theanine has been associated with reduced incidence of depression and improved mental health in some observational studies.

Potential Benefit #8: Synergy with Caffeine

When combined with caffeine, L-Theanine may help to improve focus and attention more effectively than caffeine alone.  Essentially, each compound enhances the positive effects of the other while reducing potential negative effects, resulting in a balanced and enhanced experience.

What are the Potential Side Effects of L-Theanine

It’s generally considered safe for most people, but like any compound, it can have side effects, particularly when taken in high doses:

1. Gastrointestinal Issues: Some people may experience stomach upset, nausea, or diarrhea.
2. Headaches and Dizziness: In rare cases, L-Theanine can cause headaches or dizziness.
3. Allergic Reactions: Though uncommon, some individuals may have allergic reactions to L-Theanine.
4. Interactions with Medications: L-Theanine may interact with certain medications, including blood pressure drugs, stimulants, and sedatives. It’s always important to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement, especially if you are on medications.
5. Impact on Blood Pressure: L-Theanine may lower blood pressure. This could be a concern for people with low blood pressure or those taking blood pressure medications.
6. Sleepiness: While L-Theanine is known to help with relaxation, in some cases, it might cause excessive sleepiness, especially when combined with other sedative substances.
7. Concentration Issues: In some people, especially if taken in high doses, L-Theanine might cause difficulty in concentration or brain fog.

Why Choose OhMy!Mints?

As you can see, L-Theanine has a lot to offer.  However, it’s important to note that individual responses to L-Theanine may vary, and its effects can be influenced by factors such as dosage, personal tolerance, and overall health.  OhMy!Mints, offers two types of mint supplements that use L-Theanine has one if its main ingredients:

• Calm – L-Theanine + GABA + Magnesium Glycinate for Calm Vibes: We created an everyday, anytime, mint to help with anxious situations. Our CALM mints are infused with L-Theanine, GABA, and Magnesium Glycinate to help with relaxation when stressful situations arise. Discreet and delicious, great for any anxious or uneasy situation you may face throughout the day.
• Energy Mints – Organic Caffeine for Energy + L-Theanine: We created our energy mints for the purpose of pushing past life’s everyday sluggish barriers. We infused our caffeine mints with organic caffeine made from fair trade green coffee beans and combined the energetic caffeinated effects with L-Theanine to help harness and focus that energetic presence for maximum effectiveness without the jitters or crash.