Evidence supporting the use of: Theanine
For the health condition: Worry

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3

L-theanine is an amino acid commonly found in green tea, and its use for supporting symptoms of worry—typically classified as anxiety or stress—has some scientific backing. Several randomized controlled trials and systematic reviews have investigated L-theanine's effects on stress and anxiety. Studies suggest that L-theanine supplementation (usually 200–400 mg per day) can promote relaxation without sedation, reduce subjective feelings of stress, and lower physiological markers of stress (such as heart rate and cortisol levels) in both healthy individuals and those experiencing mild anxiety.

The likely mechanism involves modulation of neurotransmitters such as GABA, serotonin, and dopamine, as well as effects on alpha brain wave activity, which is associated with a relaxed but alert mental state. While there is no evidence supporting its use for clinical anxiety disorders, its anxiolytic effects in the context of mild worry or everyday stress are moderately well-supported.

Notably, most studies are small and short-term, and some have methodological limitations. However, the overall trend of the evidence is positive, and L-theanine is generally considered safe when used appropriately. Therefore, its use for worry or mild anxiety is supported by a moderate level of scientific evidence, though it should not be considered a replacement for established treatments for anxiety disorders.

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