What is the Origin of Theanine?

Its name is directly derived from its botanical source, Camellia sinensis, the tea plant, from which it was first chemically isolated and characterized by researchers.

What is the Mechanism of Theanine?

Theanine readily crosses the blood-brain barrier where it exerts its influence by modulating several key neurotransmitter systems. Specifically, it increases the concentration of inhibitory GABA and enhances the production of alpha brain waves, which are associated with a state of calm, focused awareness, thus buffering against acute stress responses.

Theanine

Meaning

Theanine, or L-theanine, is a non-proteinogenic amino acid found almost exclusively in tea plants, known for its distinct psychoactive properties that promote relaxation without sedation. It is frequently utilized as a supplement to modulate central nervous system activity. This compound does not function as a primary endocrine regulator.