The Stress Hormone Cortisone Increases Synaptic a-Amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazolepropionic Acid (AMPA) Receptors via Serum-and Glutocorticoid-inducible Kinase (SGK) Regulation of the GDI-Rab4 Complex. L-theanine reduces psychological and physiological stress responses. Bioscience, Biotechnology, and Biochemistry, 1347-6847. Inhibition by Theanine of Binding of AMPA, Kainate, and MDL 105,519 to Glutamate Receptors. Effects of L-theanine on attention and reaction time response. Stress, hippocampal plasticity, and spatial learning. Assessing the effects of caffeine and theanine on the maintenance of vigilance during a sustained attention task. Umami: why the fifth taste is so important. Acute effects of tea constituents L-theanine, caffeine and epigallocatechin on cognitive function and mood: a systematic review and meta analysis. That can make L-theanine a good choice for people who are looking to enhance their “wakeful relaxation,” without worrying about becoming sleepy and fatigued during the day.Ĭamfield, DA et al. One of the appealing aspects of L-theanine is that it works to relax without sedating. L-theanine appears to trigger the release of alpha waves, which enhances relaxation, focus, and creativity. Alpha waves are also present during REM sleep. Alpha brain waves are associated with a state of “wakeful relaxation.” That’s the state of mind you experience when meditating, being creative, or letting your mind wander in daydreaming. This may also be a way that L-theanine can protect brain cells against stress and age-related damage. At the same time, it is increasing chemicals that promote feelings of calm, L-theanine also reduces levels of chemicals in the brain that are linked to stress and anxiety. Lowers levels of “excitatory” brain chemicals.Increasing levels of these calming brain chemicals promotes relaxation and can help with sleep. These chemicals are known as neurotransmitters, and they work in the brain to regulate emotions, mood, concentration, alertness, and sleep, as well as appetite, energy, and other cognitive skills. L-theanine elevates levels of GABA, as well as serotonin and dopamine. Boosts levels of GABA and other calming brain chemicals.L-theanine promotes relaxation and facilitates sleep by contributing to a number of changes in the brain:

Theine effects