L -Theanine is a chemical compound which is present among tea leaves. It is an amino acid in nature and can be derived in the leaves of Camellia sinensis or tea plants. Among the various amino acids that can be found if teas, L – Theanine is the most abundant. Tea is a plant which is widely cultivated in eastern areas of Asia. Nowadays, tea is the second commonly consumed beverage in the world. The relaxing effect of teas can be attributed to its L – Theanine content. This compound is thought to relieve stress and provide relaxation without a drowsiness effect.

L – Theanine is a psychoactive chemical which is helpful in improving brain activity. Studies show that this chemical has the capacity to cross the blood – brain barrier. It can produce a relaxing effect therefore reducing mental, as well as physical, stress. It is also found to be helpful in improving memory and mood. Structurally, L – Theanine is closely linked to Glutamate, an excitatory brain chemical. Therefore, it also possesses affinity with glutamate receptor sites on the post – synaptic cells. However, scientists discovered that the major effect of L – Theanine in the brain is that it increases the level of another inhibitory neurotransmitter known as Gamma Amino Butyric Acid or GABA. This neurochemical is responsible in the regulation of neuronal excitation in the brain and nerves. GABA also has a significant role in regulating muscle tone. L – Theanine also improves the level of dopamine in the body. Dopamine is also a major neurotransmitter which is mainly acts on the sympathetic nervous system. It is the chemical responsible for maintaining normal heart rate and blood pressure. A clinical study on L – Theanine showed profound relaxation effects after about 40 to 60 minutes after L – Theanine administration. It also showed to have a positive effect on an individual’s learning ability by improving one’s focus and concentration.

Aside from its benefits with the nervous system, L – Theanine can also improve the immune system. Recent studies show that L -Theanine can improve T – cell functioning. T – Cells are the type of white blood cells that is responsible in helping the body resist microbial infections by determining the antigens on the bacteria, viruses, parasites and fungi as foreign. T – Cells also have a significant role in defending the body from tumor cells.

Generally, L – Theanine is markedly safe. Though there are some side effects which include headache, dizziness and gastric upset, but these are not life – threatening. In fact, L – Theanine is widely available in the market as a dietary supplement which is approved by the Food and Drug Administration. L – Theanine is also granted as “Generally Recognized as Safe” by FDA. However, since studies on use with pregnant women are insufficient, it is best that pregnant and breastfeeding mothers must avoid supplementation. It is also best to seek medical advice first before trying L – Theanine supplements. It is important to tell your doctor any medication you are currently taking to prevent any drug to drug interactions.

You can find theanine at your local or internet vitamin store. Always choose name brands like Solaray or Source Naturals to ensure quality and purity of the product you buy for better health.

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Category: Wellness, Fitness and Diet
Keywords: Theaning, Mental Relax, Brain Boost, Calm The Brain