Benefits
Calm without drowsiness
L-theanine promotes relaxation and eases stress while keeping the mind alert, a combination that makes it popular for daytime calm and focus.
Focus and attention
By increasing alpha brain-wave activity, L-theanine supports a settled, attentive state, and it pairs well with caffeine for smoother energy.
Sleep quality
Taken in the evening, L-theanine can help quiet a busy mind and support more restful sleep without the grogginess of sedatives.
Mechanism of action
Alpha brain-wave activity
L-theanine increases alpha waves associated with a relaxed yet alert mental state, the basis for its calm-focus reputation.
Neurotransmitter balance
It modulates GABA, serotonin, and dopamine and tempers excitatory glutamate signaling, supporting a calmer stress response.
Clinical trials
Randomized, placebo-controlled 28-day trial of AlphaWave L-theanine supplementation. (Moulin et al. 2024, Neurology and Therapy)
Healthy adults.
AlphaWave L-theanine was safe and supported measures related to stress and relaxation over 28 days versus placebo.