WHAT IS L-THEANINE AND WHY ARE MATCHA LOVERS SO FOND OF IT?

You may never have heard of L-theanine, but chances are you’ve already been consuming it. First, the basics: L-theanine is an amino acid belonging to the same family as L-glutamine and L-glutamate. It is responsible for the ‘calm alertness’ we matcha drinkers know so well. It is found in many plant and fungal species and, while also available as a supplement, the most common source for us is the tea we drink.

Have you ever wondered why drinking tea has been a pastime passed down for millennia, across cultures and continents that had very little in common apart from consuming hot water with tea leaves? Could the effects of L-theanine have played a part in this? Let’s break down some of its benefits that may have contributed to tea drinking’s extraordinary cultural longevity:

1. Reduces Stress

As an anxiolytic, L-theanine promotes relaxation. Not only do you experience stress reduction through a heightened state of relaxation, but a study published in 2013 in the journal Pharmacology, Biochemistry and Behavior found that L-theanine significantly reduced stress markers during stressful situations compared to a placebo group. For those interested in the more technical aspects, L-theanine increases levels of neurotransmitters associated with mood regulation, such as gamma-aminobutyric acid, serotonin, and dopamine.

2. Boosts Cognitive Performance

By stimulating the production of alpha brain waves, L-theanine acts as a workout for your brain. It keeps you alert, improving focus and concentration, while also helping you remain calm through its stress-reducing effect. It can reduce the production of hormones that inhibit brain functions, such as corticosterone, which are produced in stressful situations. In short, L-theanine helps maintain an optimal mental state.

3. Long-lasting Energy

L-theanine has been found to have complementary effects with caffeine. It works by blunting the stimulating effects of caffeine but without completely blocking them. So, that rapid charge followed by the inevitable energy slump you experience with coffee… that doesn't happen with L-theanine-rich tea. Instead, you get a calming, long-lasting energy. Think of it as the perfect counterpoint that allows you to enjoy all the benefits of caffeine while avoiding its negative side effects.

4. Better Sleep

Wait, so it provides long-lasting energy AND better sleep? How is that possible? It's the calm alertness! That oxymoron matcha lovers worldwide rave about. L-theanine not only helps you relax and prepare for sleep, but studies have also shown it can improve its quality. A real win-win.

There you have it. Four great reasons why everyone should incorporate L-theanine into their daily diet. Have you had your tea today? Matcha has the highest levels of L-theanine, along with kabusecha, black tea, and gyokuro.