theanine
The Chinese and the Japanese both have contributions in the discovery of this amino acid derivative found in tea. While the Chinese have been drinking green tea for more than 2,000 years, it was the Japanese who discovered that theanine makes up about 50% of the free amino acids present in tea. It was only in 1950 that Japanese scientists separated theanine from gyokuro tea leaf which has the highest theanine content among all teas. Due to its small size, scientists found that it crosses into the brain easily resulting in many subtle benefits. It has been shown to reduce mental and physical stress, reduce anxiety and improve cognition and mood in a synergistic manner with caffeine.
As theanine is found in many supplements that are easily available, people are asking if it is safe. There appears to be several benefits of theanine. It is claimed to be beneficial for treating Alzheimer’s disease, anxiety and high blood pressure. How valid these claims are we don’t know because there is no scientific basis. Likewise, there are no reported side effects. Doctors however caution against taking these supplements under certain conditions such as kidney disease, liver disease, allergies and other serious or chronic health conditions.