Nootropic: L-Theanine

Introduction

Green tea (and indirectly l-theanine) has been used a general health-tonic throughout Asia for untold centuries; renowned for its plethora of medicinal properties - green tea stands intransigently against big-pharma and this defiance and prolific superiority has been its sure route to wide-spread popularity and success.

Mechanism

Although green tea is rich in antioxidants and potentiators of glut4 activity (Glucose transporter type 4) this article will explore the unique amino acid l-theanine and its effects in-vivo. Theanine is glutamine and glutamate analog, and readily crosses the blood-brain barrier rendering it a psychoactive chemical. Able to decrease both physical and mental stress, theanine demonstrates an affinity for the brain inhibitory transmitter GABA. Its mechanisms of action do not stop there. Akin to the racetam family - theanine has also demonstrated moderate affinity with AMPA receptors and has been shown to increase the monoamine neurotransmitter dopamine. In clinical studies theanine has demonstrated efficacy in promoting alpha-wave brain patterns - associated with meditation, increased concentration and creativity. People debilitated with anxiety disorders take note: l-theanine has been clinically demonstrated to possess significant anxiolytic properties.

Uses

Anxiolytic mechanism may benefit those with anxiety disorders
Dopamine uprating may improve drive and focus
AMPA modulation could lead to aniracetam-type properties
Alpha wave propagation could improve focus and creativyt
Boosts the activity of gamma delta T cells hence increasing immuno-response.
Potent anti-psychotic for use in schizophrenia

Issues

The consumption of green tea in Asian countries may only lead to an average daily exposure of 20mg of l-theanine or less and thus long-term safety in humans has not been established. Rats fed high dose l-theanine for 13 weeks demonstrated no biological abnormalities perhaps indicating that l-theanine is a safe and well tolerated amino acid.

Dosage

As always precautionary allergy testing is recommended using a minute dose; one safety is established the current recommended dosage is between 50-200mg and electronic scales will be required to accurately ascertain this quantity. As always I recommend a full blood test and consultation with a health practitioner before beginning any nootropic regime.

Experiences

I received an order of l-theanine last week and after an allergy test dosed with 200mg. The effects were subtle but not psychosomatic. I experienced a feeling of mils tranquility and focusing of thought (in the morning) that is normally unobtainable until the later hours of the day; also presented a mild state of euphoria - I found myself more engaged in music and my thoughts turned toward literature and my work projects.