L-Theanine is a popular natural supplement used for holistic health and wellness and is often recommended for benefits like immune support and stress reduction. In this guide, we’ll be going in-depth into the uses of L-Theanine, how you can incorporate it into your wellness routine, and what the best ways to take L-Theanine are.
What Is L-Theanine Used For?
L-Theanine is an amino acid typically found in tea. It is known to reduce stress and assist focus, as well as providing an immune system boost. It’s often used as a natural solution to anxiety or insomnia, and aside from tea, can be purchased in the form of L-Theanine gummies or supplemental pills.
In addition, it can be used in tandem with GABA, also sold as a natural sleep supplement. Studies have shown that GABA L-Theanine is far more effective than just one or the other, increasing both the time and quality of sleep.
How To Take L-Theanine
As with many natural medicines, the method you use to take L-Theanine is completely up to you.
Drink Green Tea
In addition to L-Theanine, tea provides caffeine, so if you’re looking for a quick boost to your focus, this method is an excellent choice. If you already drink tea regularly, there’s not even a change in routine involved. Whenever you feel the need, just brew up a cup of tea and enjoy.
Supplement Tablets
Supplements are generally a more concentrated dose, around 50-200 milligrams per tablet, so if you’re looking for a quick way to get all the L-Theanine you need, this is the method for you. Just choose a time of day to take the supplement, and stick to it; your body will thank you!
Gummies
Much like tablets, gummies provide a quick and concentrated dose, but at the same time, have a great taste, perfect for a short moment of relaxation. They can be purchased over the counter, but you may prefer to make your own. Buying premade gummies can get expensive, and the manufacturer may use artificial preservatives to extend their shelf life, giving them a chemical taste.
Making your own, on the other hand, is a surprisingly simple process with incredible results. Not only is doing so cheaper and preservative-free, but you can tailor the flavor to your liking as well! The process isn’t much different from making regular gelatin, for that matter.
All you need is gelatin powder, your favorite fruit juice, L-Theanine in the form of a tincture or powder, and a bit of honey, prepared according to the instructions on the gelatin box. Pour the cooked gelatin into the mold of your choice, chill, and enjoy!
How Much L-Theanine is in Green Tea?
For those who would rather get their dose of L-Theanine without gummies and supplements, it’s important to know just how much you’re getting. Because it’s completely natural, the specific amount can vary from plant to plant. However, a 2016 study determined that on average, there are 6.56 milligrams of L-Theanine per gram of green tea leaves.
As such, the amount of L-Theanine you’ll get from a cup of tea largely depends on how strong your brew is. Though it’s unlikely that you’ll have to worry about the amount you’re ingesting, the recommended dosage is usually between 100-200 milligrams per day, especially for long term use.
Is L-Theanine Safe?
Though it never hurts to be cautious with new medicines or supplements, there’s no need to worry in this case. There hasn’t been any evidence to indicate harmful side effects of L-Theanine. Of course, taking an excessive number of supplements still isn’t a good idea, but there’s not much risk in experimenting with your dosage.
However, if you’re getting your L-Theanine by drinking tea, you should be aware of your caffeine intake, as excessive amounts of caffeine can cause irritability, headaches, and nausea in some cases.
Conclusion
To put it simply, L-Theanine is an excellent addition to anyone’s health routine, allowing for focus and relaxation alike. With scientifically backed benefits and versatility to boot, there’s a way to use it for just about everyone. And unlike many harsher synthesized medications, there are little to no side effects, so it’s even mild enough for children. Whether you’ve been feeling sluggish and unfocused or anxious and on edge, L-Theanine is a simple, effective, and all-natural solution.
Learn more about healthy supplements and holistic wellness on the Vitaldiol Blog, and be sure to check out our range of CBD products while you’re at it.