GREEN TEA

Camellia sinensis

Theanine is an amino acid that was discovered as a constituent of green tea (Camellia sinensis) in 1949. Shading tea plants from direct sunlight, as is done for matcha green tea, increases L-theanine content. Theanine is absorbed in the small intestine after oral ingestion and can also pass across the blood-brain barrier intact, enabling it to provide powerful brain support. Theanine supports serotonin, dopamine, gamma aminobutyric acid (GABA) and glycine levels in various areas of the brain, as well as BDNF and NGF levels (proteins responsible for development of new neurons) in certain brain areas. Theanine has been studied for its potential ability to support mental and physical stress, improve cognition, and boost mood and cognitive performance in a synergistic manner with caffeine. L-theanine promotes a calming effect because it supports maintenance of healthy levels of the stress hormones cortisol and epinephrine. When taken before bedtime, L-theanine may even help you to stay asleep.