Theanine and its effects

The substance theanine is not known to many. This substance is consumed daily by most people because it is found in the leaves of green and black tea. The amazing thing about this substance is that it is able to unfold its effect directly in the brain.

What is the effect of theanine?

But what is the effect of this substance? To answer this question, I would like to look at a study in detail.

Since athletes in particular have discovered this supplement for themselves, some interesting facts about theanine can be found on the corresponding pages for supplements and dietary supplements. As described here in the blog, theanine increases concentration by directly affecting the central nervous system. The study also found that norepinephrine and prolactin levels are reduced. Both substances are hormones and have a direct influence on adrenaline levels as well as the growth of the mammary gland in women during pregnancy. The amount of theanine is highest in young plants but decreases over time. This is due to withering of the leaves. In addition, the content of theanine varies with the brewing time for the tea. In terms of taste, theanine gives the drink a rather sweet touch, whereas caffeine makes coffee appear rather bitter.

Animal studies

In the following I would like to briefly summarize the results of the animal studies mentioned on the Peak Blog already mentioned. Rats were diagnosed with low blood pressure after direct injection of theanine. Also the motor activity increased by caffeine could be effectively reduced by the administration of theanine, but this required an increased dose. In addition, the results of the studies indicated that theanine competes with other body amino acids at the blood-brain barrier. Of course, the question remains to what extent these results can be applied to the corresponding effect in humans. According to the blog article these can be transferred however exactly to humans.

effect on humans

Theanine is classified as nootropic. This means that it is said to have a positive effect on the central nervous system. Nootropics are often used in the treatment of dementia patients, as the effects mentioned give hope for an improvement of the symptoms. Overall, however, the study results are still contradictory, so there is still sufficient reason for further investigations. A whole branch of research is now investigating the effects of theanine. A very interesting article on the subject of theanine was published in the pharmaceutical newspaper, which also gives an insight into the typical ingredients of a cup of tea. However, the conclusion of the report gives reason to assume that the calming effect of tea is not only due to a single ingredient.

Treatment of children with theanine

In curative education, the current approach is to put children in stress states into a quieter state by the targeted administration of L-theanine. This stimulates the brain to produce alpha waves that indicate a state of relaxation. Since theanine per se does not cause fatigue, it can also be taken during the day. Here, however, as already mentioned, further investigations and studies are necessary. One thing is for sure: Taking a natural substance like theanine is certainly more compatible for the body and has fewer side effects than a chemical sedative.

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