Theanine – The Ideal Relaxant?

Theanine is one of the ingredients in green tea. Not much is yet known about this rare amino acid. New research is showing that this compound can be very beneficial to our health, and that drinking green tea is one of the best ways to get theanine in to our systems. What is this chemical and how can it help us to ingest it on a regular basis?

It is an amino acid found almost exclusively in tea. Like many of the compounds found in tea, there are higher concentrations in green tea than in black, since green tea is not fermented. This particular amino acid can cross the blood/brain barrier, so it has an effect on brain chemistry. Although we do not yet fully understand all of the ways in which it works on the body, some studies have begun to unlock its secrets.

Stress Reduction

Several studies have been conducted to determine its effectiveness on stress reduction. There is mounting evidence that the amino acid produces a calming effect in two different ways. First, it induces what are called alpha brain waves. These are the calm peaceful electrical waves found in the brain during meditation or other restful states. They produce a sense of calm.

Secondly, theanine helps in the formation of several neurotransmitters, a type of brain chemical. Among these are serotonin, dopamine and gamma amino butyric acid (GABA). All of these are related to relaxation and a sense of well-being. In fact, it is production of these neurotransmitters that is the goal of the majority of pharmaceutical antidepressants. So you can see that this little amino acid can do the work of a lot of expensive medication.

Immunity Booster

There is evidence that it helps us by improving our natural ability to fight infection. A study at Brigham and Women’s hospital in Boston, Mass., showed that participants who drank green tea had a higher level of both T cells and anti-bacterial proteins than those who drank coffee. A follow-up study is being conducted right now to look further into how and why theanine helps boost the body’s immune system.

How Much?

Based on a study of alpha brain waves, researchers determined that between 50 and 200 mg. is likely to produce relaxation. The participants in the immune system study took 600 per day. There is no indication that you can get too much theanine.

Which tea contains the highest concentration of theanine?

What other health benefits does it boost?

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