L-Theanine Supplements for Anxiousness

by Henry Emmons, MD

[adapted from The Chemistry of Calm]

You've read Part 1 of this series and the introductory article about balancing GABA and glutamate, right? If not, head to those posts first.

L-theanine Benefits*

L-theanine is an amino acid found in high concentrations in green tea. But you'd have to drink a whole lot of it to get a therapeutic dose of theanine. You can get more by taking a green tea extract, but you can also take a supplement containing l-theanine alone, or in combination with other calming agents.

One of the reasons I like l-theanine is because it works on so many neurotransmitters at once: it boosts GABA and dopamine while lowering norepinephrine.¹⁰ 

L-theanine and Anxiety*

Researchers have found that it changes brainwaves as measured on EEG, promoting the relaxed and alert state associated with alpha-brain waves.¹¹ That makes it unusual because it can sharpen mental focus and calm anxiety at the same time. 

L-theanine Dosage and Use*

L-theanine is one of my most common treatments for anxiousness and may help any of the three sub-types. It's usually taken in doses from 50-100 mg once or twice daily. In more severe cases, it may be taken 3 or 4 times per day. It is not habit forming like many anti-anxiety medications.

L-theanine Side Effects

Side effects are minimal, though some people report mild sedation (usually solved by taking at bedtime) or nausea (usually solved by taking with food). There are no known drug interactions, but folks should talk to their doctor before taking or adding to a medication. 

L-theanine Supplements at Fullscript, our partner store

^{Please note: The product links in this section go to our partner store, Fullscript (with an ongoing 10% discount for you + free shipping on orders over $50). You must have an account to view products and shop. Create your free account at: https://us.fullscript.com/welcome/nmh/signup. Learn more about Fullscript here.}

L-theanine

L-theanine is a naturally occurring, unique amino acid found in tea leaves. L-theanine has been shown to reduce stress and promote relaxation without causing drowsiness. It alleviates nervousness due to overwork and decreases irritability by contributing to a variety of changes in the brain. Human studies suggest it is also helpful in improving focus, attention and mental clarity while reducing the negative side effects of caffeine.*

NuAdapt

NuAdapt contains a nootropic and a blend of adaptogenic botanicals and nutrients specifically formulated to counteract the effects of daily stress, improve mental performance, and support healthy energy levels.*

L-theanine Supplements at Resilient Remedies 

^{The CBD links in this blog will take you to ResilientRemedies.com where you can learn more and purchase. Shipping is free at Resilient Remedies.}  

Calm CBD Gummies

Calm CBD Gummies is a broad-spectrum CBD, with the added benefit of L-theanine, creates the perfect blend to support a more normal stress response and greater relaxation without drowsiness.

*Note: Some of the supplements discussed in this series can cause side effects, but many people tolerate them much better than prescription medications. They are generally considered safe, however, they should not be started without your doctor’s knowledge and supervision. If you are taking medication already, be sure to talk with your doctor before adding any of these items. If you are considering going off medication, remember never to stop your medication suddenly—always consult with your doctor about how to safely taper off any psychiatric medication. These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.  

RELATED ARTICLE

Increase Dopamine

Dopamine can improve motivation, support the experience of pleasure, and enhance microcirculation in parts of the brain. Unless dopamine becomes really excessive, your anxiety may improve if you gently boost your dopamine levels. Read more.

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