What is L-Theanine and How Does It Interact with CBD?
Summarize
Many CBD products include L-theanine as an additional ingredient. Why? The short answer is that an interaction between them may deliver a synergistic effect that enhances relaxation and improves focus, among other benefits. Combining the cannabinoid CBD with the amino acid L-theanine, found in tea leaves and mushrooms, provides a more balanced and enhanced experience that supports overall well-being. More research is needed on the combination of L-theanine and CBD; however, studies to date have demonstrated many positive results.
TL;DR (Too Long; Didn’t Read):
L-theanine is a plant-based amino acid that has been found to promote relaxation and improve mood by modulating brain neurotransmitters.
CBD is another plant-based compound from industrial hemp that may also promote relaxation due to its interaction with the endocannabinoid system (ECS).
When CBD and L-theanine are taken together, they may produce synergistic effects.
Table of Contents
What is L-Theanine?
L-theanine is one form of a naturally occurring non-protein amino acid present in black and green teas and some mushrooms. It is also available in purified form as a supplement.
After consumption, L-theanine is rapidly absorbed in the small intestine, where it is broken down into the metabolites glutamic acid and ethylamine through a hydrolysis process in the intestine and liver. Some metabolites enter the circulatory system and can cross the blood-brain barrier. The unused metabolites are excreted from the body through urine. Since L-theanine can cross the blood-brain barrier, it can interact with glutamate receptors. This is why it is said to function similarly to glutamate.
The amino acid glutamate functions as a neurotransmitter in the brain. It plays a role in various human functions, including cognitive processing, memory, mood regulation, and muscle movement. Since L-theanine functions similarly to glutamate, researchers continue to investigate its effects on the brain. Early research also suggests that L-theanine interacts with the endocannabinoid system (CBD).
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L-theanine is nearly 100% bioavailable. It is not an essential amino acid needed for survival, but researchers believe L-theanine may offer many health benefits.
What are the Benefits of L-Theanine?
One of the main benefits of L-theanine is that it may prmote relaxation without sedative effects. Numerous studies have reported that these actions are due to L-theanine increasing alpha wave activity in the brain. Alpha waves are the brainwaves with a frequency of 8-12 Hz, produced when the brain is in a state of calm wakefulness and not focusing too hard on anything. These brain waves are associated with focus and mood.
The following are some additional benefits.
➥ L-theanine may promote relaxation by elevating the levels of serotonin, dopamine and GABA, a calming neurotransmitter. Increasing relaxation improves sleep quality.
➥ By inhibiting CB1 receptor activity and regulating the glutamine metabolism and immune function, L-theanine may increase the expression of protective factors.
➥ L-theanine is a neurologically active compound and is studied for its potential neuroprotection properties, potentially improving attention or focus, working memory and cognitive performance.
➥ Studies of people drinking more than 3 cups of black or green tea daily, each cup rich in L-theanine, had a lower health risks compared to people drinking less than one cup.
Do L-Theanine and CBD Work Together?
L-theanine has been shown to interact with CB1 cannabinoid receptors. It is believed to act as an inhibitor of CB1, suggesting that it may play a role in modulating glutamine metabolism and immune function by affecting the signaling pathways in the brain. One of the ways it affects brain signaling is by increasing alpha waves.
CBD is a negative allosteric modulator of the CB1 receptors in the ECS system, meaning it alters receptor signaling. L-theanine and CBD work together by complementing each other. Much more research is needed in this area, but L-theanine increases alpha brain waves to promote relaxed alertness, while CBD regulates mood and sleep through the ECS.
Taking L-theanine and CBD for calm and focus creates a synergistic effect as the compounds work together to amplify benefits.
How to Use Them Together: Forms, Timing, and Dosage Ranges
Can you take L-theanine with CBD? L-theanine and CBD can be taken together, but there is not enough clinical research to recommend a specific amount to take. Each person has unique needs, but the following guidelines may be helpful in addressing them.
- Start with low doses of CBD and L-theanine to assess the effects, gradually increasing the amounts until the desired effects are experienced.
- Follow the recommended dosage schedule on the product label when a beginner.
- A good beginning dose for CBD is 10-20 mg per day.
- A typical starting dose for L-theanine is 100-200 mg per day.
- Products with CBD and L-theanine include capsules, gummies and mints.
Another way to use them together is to purchase CBD oil and a L-theanine supplement separately. You can take an L-theanine dosage with CBD at the same time or take each product separately at different times.
Another option is to blend CBD oil with a cup of black or green tea. However, a typical cup of tea only has approximately 20-25 mg of L-theanine. A cup of matcha green tea may have up to 100 mg. Taking CBD and L-theanine together in a CBD product ensures you get a controlled dosage amount and experience the synergistic effect.
The best time to take CBD and L-theanine depends on individual needs. If you are taking the product to help with daytime tension or improve focus, then take it in the morning. If needing help transitioning from an active mind to a calm one to improve sleep, take the compounds in the evening.
FAQs
Is It Safe to Use L-theanine and CBD together?
Extensive research, conducted in accordance with OECD global standards, has demonstrated that L-theanine is safe, even at high doses. No adverse side effects have been reported. This offers a level of confidence if you are considering using these natural health supplements.
CBD is also considered safe. The often-mentioned Bergamaschi et al. study found that high doses of CBD up to 1500 mg per day, are well-tolerated. However, this was a clinical study, and people should take a much lower dosage.
As both L-theanine and CBD are considered safe, and there is no evidence that taking them together is unsafe, it is safe to use them together in reasonable doses. Millions of people are already taking CBD with L-theanine added, and most experience no side effects per customer reviews.
Is It Bad to Mix Caffeine and L-theanine?
It is not bad to mix caffeine and L-theanine. In fact, researchers found that combining L-theanine with caffeine, equivalent to drinking 1-2 cups of tea, reduced the adverse effects of caffeine and could improve cognitive performance and mood.
Also, when people drink black or green tea, they are mixing caffeine and L-theanine. There are approximately 50 mg of caffeine in a cup of black tea. Green tea can have 30-50 mg of caffeine.
When to Avoid Taking L-theanine?
You should not take L-theanine when:
- Pregnant or breastfeeding
- Have low blood pressure
- Taking medications that include drugs for managing blood pressure, antidepressants, , sedatives and stimulants
- Allergic to green tea
You should keep in mind that there is a minimal risk of experiencing L-theanine and CBD side effects, but the risk is not zero. Potential side effects include excessive drowsiness, headaches, nausea and digestive issues. Additionally, both compounds can interact with certain medications, so taking them together may increase the risk of interactions. It is crucial to consult with your doctor before taking L-theanine dosage with CBD.
Can I Take CBD, L-theanine and Magnesium?
Generally, it is safe to take CBD, L-theanine and magnesium together. Many CBD products combine the three compounds. The potential synergistic effects are enhanced, potentially increasing the benefits. For example, L-theanine promotes relaxation, and CBD and magnesium promote restful sleep or improved sleep quality.
There is still insufficient research to confirm the existence of well-known side effects of L-theanine. The Tolerable Upper Intake Level for magnesium is 350 mg in a single dose. A CBD product typically contains a significantly lower amount of magnesium.
Natural Compounds Bring Relief Safely
Consumers are experiencing growing awareness of the potentially harmful effects of medications and are looking for alternatives. CBD and L-theanine offer natural options to address issues like stress, mood, and sleep quality. L-theanine and CBD are a popular pairing available in different forms. One point to keep in mind is to always consult a doctor before taking any substance, including plant-based ones, to ensure they fit your lifestyle.
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