Evidence supporting the use of: Theanine
For the health condition: Anxiety Disorders

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

L-theanine is an amino acid commonly found in tea leaves, particularly green tea. Its use for supporting anxiety disorders is primarily justified by emerging scientific evidence, rather than traditional medicinal practices or folklore. Several small-scale clinical trials and preclinical studies have explored the anxiolytic (anxiety-reducing) effects of L-theanine. The proposed mechanism involves modulation of neurotransmitters such as GABA, serotonin, and dopamine, as well as promoting alpha brain wave activity associated with relaxation without sedation.

A 2016 systematic review (PMC4772032) and other randomized controlled trials have found that L-theanine supplementation (typically in doses of 200–400 mg) may reduce subjective stress and anxiety in both healthy individuals and those with mild anxiety symptoms. However, the number of high-quality, large-scale studies specifically targeting anxiety disorders (such as generalized anxiety disorder or social anxiety disorder) is limited. Most available research focuses on acute stress or non-clinical populations.

Thus, while L-theanine shows some promise as a supportive intervention for anxiety—reflected in its increasing use in supplements and functional foods—the overall quality and quantity of scientific evidence is modest, and further research is needed to confirm efficacy for diagnosed anxiety disorders. It is not generally recognized as a primary or sole treatment for anxiety disorders by medical guidelines.

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Products containing Theanine

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