The health benefits of green tea have been recognized for centuries by many cultures throughout the world. But did you know that green tea’s enjoyable taste and relaxing properties can be attributed to an amino acid called L-theanine?
L-theanine is a free (non-protein) amino acid found almost exclusively in tea plants that constitutes between 1 and 2 percent of the dry weight of tea leaves. L-theanine is believed to promote a sense of relaxation about 30-40 minutes after ingestion in two different ways. First, this amino acid may stimulate the production of alpha brain waves, supporting a state of relaxation and mental alertness. Second, L-theanine may be involved in the formation of the inhibitory neurotransmitter, gamma amino butyric acid (GABA). GABA influences the levels of two other neurotransmitters, dopamine and serotonin, promoting a feeling of overall relaxation.
There are many daily supplements available that include the amino acid L-theanine. Take the edge off mounting stress, and relax naturally with L-theanine!