Product Review

Thorne Research Theanine 200 mg, 90 Vegetarian Capsules L-theanine is a unique amino acid present almost exclusively in the tea plant (Camellia sinensis) and used safely in Japan for decades. L-theanine has demonstrated the potential to positively modify brain waves and key neurotransmitters involved in mood, focus, and memory. Consumption of L-theanine enhances brain alpha-wave activity, a sign of relaxation. The intensity of brain alpha-wave activity increases within 30-45 minutes of L-theanine supplementation, promoting relaxation, mental focus, and acuity. This effect is most pronounced in persons subjectively feeling the highest levels of distress. A small Japanese study of university students showed 200 mg oral L-theanine led to increased brain alpha-waves and a subjective sense of relaxation. Theanine administration caused a dose-dependent relaxed, yet alert, state of mind without sedation, beginning approximately 40 minutes after oral dosing. L-theanine can enhance the production of the neurotransmitters dopamine and serotonin and appears to play a role in the formation of GABA, a neurotransmitter that acts like a brake during times of runaway stress. Theanine helps establish balance in the neurotransmitter system, resulting in improvements in the mental/emotional and physical disturbances resulting from being overly stressed.