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Theanine, an amino acid found in green tea, has a calming effect on the brain by inducing GABA production, making it useful for anxiety and stress management. It is available in capsule form and doses are recommended between 50 and 200 mg.
Theanine is an amino acid found in green tea. In recent years, this naturally occurring amino acid has been credited with a wide range of health benefits. Considered an antagonist to caffeine and other elements that can excite the brain and central nervous system, theanine is understood to have a calming effect that helps balance and focus the mind.
Often referred to as l-theanine, the substance has the ability to be absorbed into the bloodstream and seep into the brain. Once in the brain, theanine helps provide the drive for GABA production, inducing a sense of calm and well-being. This makes theanine very useful when there is anxiety and excess stress. By causing the brain to make more GABA, the excitatory action of neurotransmitters within the system is calmed down or turned off. GABA works as the balancing agent with neurons that invoke the brain’s fight-or-flight mechanism, helping to relax when there are too many “firing” of excitatory impulses.
Due to its relaxation properties, theanine has become a popular alternative treatment for anxiety and panic disorders in recent years. The idea is that because anxiety and prolonged stress tend to decrease GABA manufacturing in the brain, the natural check-and-balance system between glutamines and glutamates is undermined. Theanine prompts the brain to manufacture GABA and correct this imbalance. This action is different from most anti-anxiety drugs, which tend to work by prompting the brain to make more efficient use of whatever GABA is present without actually helping the brain make more.
Theanine is what gives green tea its calming effect and improves the mood of the individual. While green tea has a substantial amount of caffeine, the theanine content is usually enough to overcome the caffeine and also extend a calming effect. Many people who are stressed or have trouble relaxing after a hard day find that green tea makes a big difference in mood. In general, people find theanine helpful in promoting a sense of calm, but it does not dull the senses or make the mind unfocused. However, some people find that excessive amounts of theanine can cause lethargy or an inability to concentrate.
Among alternative health practitioners, theanine that is in powdered form and sold in capsules can be used to help with anxiety, panic disorders, cardiovascular problems, high blood pressure, and general stress management. Doses are generally recommended between 50 and 200 mg. Many professionals recommend starting with a smaller dose and refraining from operating heavy machinery or driving until the effect of the dose is apparent.
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