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L Theanine

Product Name L Theanine
Other Name Gamma-ethylamino-L-glutamic acid
CAS Number 3081-61-6
Molecular Formula C7H14N2O3
Molecular Weight 174.20 g/mol
Applications Personal Care, Dietary Supplements, Functional Foods, Animal Nutrition, etc
Packages 25kg, 50kg, 100kg, etc./ drum

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What Is L Theanine?

L Theanine is a non-essential amino acid primarily found in Camellia sinensis (green tea) leaves, widely recognized for its ability to induce a calm-yet-alert mental state by modulating brainwave activity and neurotransmitter balance, making it a staple in nootropic, stress relief, and cognitive support formulations. Under CAS number 3081-61-6, it has the molecular formula C7H14N2O3 and a molecular weight of 174.20 g/mol, typically supplied as a white to off-white crystalline powder that dissolves well in water and is heat stable.

L Theanine enhances alpha wave production in the brain, promoting a relaxed state without sedation, and it supports increased levels of GABA, dopamine, and serotonin, helping to regulate mood, attention, and sleep quality. It is often paired with caffeine to enhance focus while reducing jitteriness, making it a key ingredient in clean-label productivity stacks and wellness beverages. While its natural source is tea, high-purity L-Theanine for supplementation is usually produced via enzymatic synthesis or fermentation for consistent quality and bioavailability.

Its multifunctional benefits also extend to cortisol reduction, improved sleep quality, and neuroprotection, particularly under chronic stress or cognitive fatigue. Given its rapid onset, favorable safety profile, and synergy with other adaptogens and nootropics, L-Theanine remains a high-demand ingredient for brands formulating cutting-edge supplements focused on mental clarity, mood regulation, and stress management.

Common Sources

L Theanine is a naturally occurring amino acid primarily found in tea leaves, especially green tea. It is synthesized in the leaves of the tea plant (Camellia sinensis) during growth through a specific enzymatic reaction involving glutamic acid and ethylamine. To meet increasing commercial demand, modern industrial production of L-theanine typically relies on microbial fermentation or enzymatic synthesis.

Microbial fermentation involves genetically engineered microorganisms—such as modified E. coli or yeast—to produce L theanine powder on a large scale. Enzymatic synthesis, on the other hand, uses purified enzymes to convert glutamic acid derivatives and ethylamine under controlled reaction conditions into L-theanine. These biotechnological processes enhance both the purity and yield of the final product while ensuring its molecular structure is identical to that of naturally occurring L-theanine.

Historically, L-theanine was first isolated from green tea by Japanese scientists in 1949. This discovery opened the door to extensive research into the functional compounds found in tea. Japan has long been a leader in L-theanine research and application, especially regarding its benefits for relaxation, stress reduction, and improved sleep quality. As research has progressed, L-theanine has become a popular ingredient in dietary supplements and functional beverages in Western countries, sparking global interest in its safety profile, mechanisms of action, and production methods.

Today, L theanine powder is widely used not only in the food industry but also in health supplements, beverages, and products aimed at emotional well-being and stress management.

NOTE: Nutri Avenue supplies premium nutraceutical ingredients to global supplement manufacturers and functional food brands. Our pharmaceutical-grade L-Theanine, a unique amino acid derived from green tea, is clinically proven to support relaxation without drowsiness while promoting cognitive focus and stress relief. Ideal for nootropic, sleep, and mood health formulations, we offer this sought-after compound in bulk quantities (25kg/50kg/100kg) with guaranteed purity and potency. Through rigorous quality control, competitive enterprise pricing, and reliable global distribution, Nutri Avenue empowers brands to develop science-backed wellness products – serving exclusively business clients in the health ingredients sector.

What Does L Theanine Do?

Through its unique amino acid structure, l theanine demonstrates sophisticated biochemical mechanisms. When entering biological systems, l-theanine components interact with various neurological pathways, particularly the non-proteinogenic amino acid structure similar to glutamate. L-theanine, found almost exclusively in tea leaves (Camellia sinensis), demonstrates a significant affinity for brain receptors and neurotransmitter systems, influencing mental state and promoting relaxation without sedation through multiple complementary neural pathways.

The neurological relaxation mechanisms of l theanine powder involve specific receptor interactions. Once absorbed and transported across the blood-brain barrier, l-theanine influences alpha-brain wave activity, creating a relaxed alertness similar to that achieved during meditation. This amino acid modulates key neurotransmitters, including GABA, dopamine, and serotonin, while potentially blocking glutamate excitotoxicity through interaction with glutamate receptors. This multi-target approach to neurotransmitter regulation comprehensively affects mental state, promoting calm focus without diminishing cognitive performance or causing drowsiness.

The molecular activities extend beyond direct neurotransmitter effects. L theanine powder demonstrates remarkable neuroprotective properties by reducing cortical neuron damage from excess glutamate, enhancing nitric oxide production, and potentially improving cerebral blood flow. The amino acid’s structure enables it to influence stress hormone production, particularly reducing cortisol levels during challenging situations. Furthermore, best l theanine powder components demonstrate significant effects on immune function, antioxidant activity, and cardiovascular regulation by both direct physiological interactions and indirect effects stemming from its stress-reducing properties on these interconnected body systems.

How to Make L Theanine Powder?

  1. Raw Material Selection: Production begins with carefully selected tea leaves (Camellia sinensis) with optimal L-theanine content or specific microorganisms for biosynthesis. Quality testing includes amino acid profile verification, species authentication, and contamination screening to ensure premium starting material enters the l theanine production process.
  2. Initial Extraction/Synthesis: For natural extraction, tea leaves undergo aqueous extraction to isolate water-soluble compounds, including L-theanine. Alternatively, through carefully controlled biotransformation processes, enzymatic or fermentation-based synthesis utilizes microorganisms to convert glutamine and ethylamine into l-theanine.
  3. Filtration and Clarification: The crude extract or fermentation broth undergoes multiple filtration stages to remove particulates and larger molecular weight compounds. Advanced clarification techniques, including ion exchange or membrane filtration begin to isolate l theanine powder from other amino acids and compounds in the complex mixture.
  4. Purification Process: The filtered solution undergoes sophisticated purification through chromatography, selective crystallization, or advanced separation methods. These approaches progressively isolate L-theanine from similar amino acids and other compounds that may co-extract or co-produce during synthesis.
  5. Crystallization and Refinement: The purified L-theanine undergoes controlled crystallization to form pure crystals with the proper structure. Parameters, including temperature, solvent systems, and crystallization time, are carefully maintained to ensure adequate crystal formation and maximal purity of l-theanine powder.
  6. Drying and Particle Engineering: The crystallized product undergoes gentle drying under controlled conditions to achieve optimal moisture content without degradation. Specialized milling or micronization creates the best L Theanine powder with a specific particle size distribution optimized for stability, flow properties, and dissolution characteristics.
  7. Analytical Verification: Comprehensive testing includes HPLC analysis for purity verification, spectroscopic methods for structural confirmation, and stereospecific analysis to ensure the correct L-isomer predominates. These analyses confirm the identity, purity (typically >98% for high-grade material), and absence of significant impurities.
  8. Quality Control and Packaging: Final quality assurance includes testing for residual solvents, heavy metals, microbial contaminants, and stability under various storage conditions. The finished product receives specialized packaging in moisture-proof containers to ensure stability during storage and transport.

Specification Sheet Reference

Property

Details

Type

Supplement Ingredient

Appearance

White to off-white powder

Purity

98%, etc.

CAS Number

3081-61-6

Molecular Formula

C7H14N2O3

Molecular Weight

174.2 g/mol

Solubility

Soluble in water

Test Methods

HPLC

Certifications

ISO available. Please contact sales team for details.

MOQs

25kg

Sample

Available (10-20g/bag)

OEM Service

Available

ODM Service

Available

Private Label

Available

Contract Manufacturing

Available

L-Theanine And Caffeine: The Perfect Combination Of Focus And Calm

These two ingredients are often used together because they have complementary effects, especially in improving attention, focus, and relaxation. Their combination is often used as a supplement to enhance cognition and mood regulation.

First, L-theanine promotes alpha-wave activity in the brain. These brain waves are associated with relaxation and wakefulness. It can help reduce anxiety and stress without causing drowsiness. In addition, although the ingredient itself is not a stimulant, it can improve focus, especially when combined with caffeine.

Caffeine (CAS number 58-08-2) is a stimulant of the central nervous system. It increases alertness, energy, and focus by blocking the effects of adenosine, a neurotransmitter that makes people feel tired. It also improves short-term memory and attention. However, it may sometimes be accompanied by anxiety, nervous hyperexcitation, or increased heart rate.

The combination of L-theanine and caffeine has been widely studied and has been shown to balance and alleviate some of the side effects of caffeine while enhancing cognitive function. Here are some of the main effects.

  1. Improves focus and alertness
  2. Reduces side effects of caffeine
  3. Enhances overall cognitive performance

GABA And L Theanine: The Ideal Combination Of Double Relaxation And Emotional Balance

Both are common ingredients used to help relax and reduce stress. They have similar neuromodulatory effects but work through slightly different mechanisms. Using them together can enhance the effects of relaxation on the brain, helping to improve mood and overall well-being.

Gamma-aminobutyric acid GABA (CAS no. 56-12-2) is an inhibitory neurotransmitter in the brain. It helps relieve anxiety, stress, and tension by reducing overactive neurons, resulting in a relaxing effect. It also plays an important role in regulating sleep. It can improve sleep quality by relaxing the nervous system and reducing insomnia and sleep disorders.

GABA and L-theanine can be used together to simultaneously promote deep relaxation through different mechanisms. GABA directly relaxes the nervous system, primarily through the action of inhibitory neurotransmitters. On the other hand, L-theanine promotes a gentle, relaxed, but alert state by promoting alpha waves.

This combination is particularly effective in relieving anxiety and reducing stress. The fast-acting nature of GABA can help relieve anxiety immediately, while L-theanine provides a lasting relaxation effect. While L-theanine itself does not induce drowsiness, it can work together with GABA to promote better sleep quality, especially when anxiety or stress are causing sleep problems.

Ashwagandha And L-Theanine: Perfect For Relaxation And Concentration

These two ingredients are often used to improve stress management, relaxation, and overall well-being. They each have unique mechanisms of action, and when used together, they may provide combined benefits. Here is a closer look at the two and their potential combined benefits:

Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera), also known as Indian ginseng or winter cherry, is a widely recognized adaptogen that helps the body cope with stress and reduces symptoms of anxiety and depression. Ashwagandha can improve sleep quality and help reduce insomnia. It also helps increase the body’s energy and endurance, improving overall strength and vitality. It is also believed to have some support for the immune system.

When used together, the two can provide a double relaxation effect. Ashwagandha mainly relieves overall stress and anxiety through adaptogenic mechanisms. On the other hand, L-theanine promotes relaxation by promoting alpha waves while maintaining alertness. L-theanine can improve focus, and the stress-fighting effects of Ashwagandha can help reduce the negative effects of stress on cognitive function. When used together, it may help improve focus while managing stress.

Both have a certain positive impact on sleep quality. Ashwagandha can help alleviate sleep problems caused by stress, while L-theanine promotes deep relaxation for better sleep.

The combination of Ashwagandha and L-theanine can support many aspects, including relaxation, stress reduction, improved sleep, and increased focus. Their complementary effects make this duo a powerful natural supplement to support overall physical and mental health.

L Theanine And ADHD: Potential Aids For Focus And Relaxation

L-theanine has been gaining traction in research on attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). While it is not a treatment for ADHD, there is some evidence that it may have some auxiliary effects in relieving ADHD symptoms.
  • Improves attention and concentration

L-theanine helps improve attention and concentration by promoting alpha-wave activity in the brain. This is especially important for those with ADHD, who often have difficulty in these areas. Its combination with caffeine has been found to significantly improve cognitive performance and attention. For people with ADHD, this combination may help improve concentration in the short term.

  • Reduces anxiety and stress

Theanine has a relaxing effect on the nervous system. This can help reduce anxiety and stress, which are common in people with ADHD. Reducing these symptoms can indirectly improve their concentration and learning efficiency.

  • Improves sleep quality

For people with ADHD, adequate and high-quality sleep is essential for daily functioning and emotional stability. By promoting better sleep, L-theanine may help improve symptoms of ADHD.

Overall, some preliminary studies suggest that L-theanine may have a positive effect on attention and behavior in people with ADHD. However, the size and methodology of these studies may not be mature enough and need further verification. Current clinical trials are still ongoing to determine its specific effects in the treatment of ADHD. Although preliminary results look promising, more research is needed to confirm its effectiveness and safety.

L-Theanine: Benefits, Side Effects, And More

For better sleep. Based on recent clinical studies, it improves sleep quality and quantity. In a study conducted in 2011, researchers found that persons suffering from General Anxiety Disorder (GAD) who take the compound have experienced an overall improvement in their sleeping patterns and a sense of satisfaction in their quantity of sleep. It is also found in another study that the compound can be beneficial in improving sleep among ADHD patients.

However, the mechanism of action of l-theanine powder is not similar to related products like Melatonin. While the latter is the overall sleep-wake pattern regulator of the body, theanine promotes overall relaxation through interaction with neurotransmitter actions.

For anxiety. Anxiety and its related symptoms are examples of excitatory responses of the human brain. According to the latest medical research, the inhibitory effect of theanine promotes relaxation and controls the development of anxiety symptoms. Another research also reveals that the compound helps reduce stress by soothing the wave pattern of the brain. Experts say that alpha waves in the brain help minimize the development of thoughts that induce stress. Thus, increasing alpha waves reduce anxiety and its debilitating effects.

For weight loss. Statements in customer reviews on the l theanine supplement also show that it may support weight loss efforts. Experts say that theanine in green tea produces a unique taste known as “umami flavor.” The said umami taste is beneficial in reducing appetite, thereby preventing hunger and promoting the metabolism of fats.

When using the supplement to support weight loss, it must be noted that the compound does not treat, cure or prevent the development of health conditions like hyperlipidemia and hypercholesterolemia.

For blood pressure. Hypertension can either be acute or chronic. The use of l-theanine powder, based on studies, is beneficial primarily in cases of an acute increase in blood pressure. For example, blood pressure generally increases during stressful situations as an excitatory response. An acute increase in blood pressure is among the symptom of stress, which may be lessened with the supplementation of theanine.

Side Effects: Is It safe?

Taken within the recommended dosage, no significant side effects are associated with L theanine supplement. However, some customer reports show that the compound may cause irritability and gastric discomfort.

It is important for patients taking medications, especially antihypertensive drugs, to consult their medical doctor before the supplement as it may interact with the action of some drugs. Also, persons diagnosed with certain health conditions are advised to consult their physicians, as the products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or stop the progression of illnesses.

The supplement must also be kept out of reach of children.

Is L-Theanine FDA Approval?

  • United States (FDA): Approved for use in dietary supplements and functional beverages.
  • European Union (EFSA): Permitted as a food supplement ingredient.
  • Canada (Health Canada): Allowed as a non-prescription natural health product.
  • Australia (TGA): Included in listed complementary medicines.

What is L-Theanine Used For?

  1. Mental Focus: Common in nootropic blends for promoting alert calmness.
  2. Stress Management: Popular in stress-relief and adaptogen formulations.
  3. Sleep Aid: Incorporated into sleep supplements to enhance relaxation before bedtime.

L Theanine Dosage Reference

When taken by adults, the safe dose for the compound usually ranges from 250 to 400 mg daily. This quantity is believed to help induce sleep.

For children, theanine is ideal for up to six weeks of short-term use. Oral supplements may be taken at 200 mg, two times daily, among children ages eight to twelve.

Since the products are not intended to prevent any disease but only to supplement the action of certain body chemicals, people suffering from certain illnesses should consult their physician before using the compound.

Also, the safe doses for the supplement and related products depend on the user’s age, weight, body build, and overall health.

How to Store L Theanine Powder?

To preserve potency, L theanine powder should be stored in airtight containers in a cool, dry, and dark environment away from moisture and direct sunlight. Vacuum sealing and nitrogen flushing further enhance shelf life.

L-Theanine VS Theobromine

L theanine represents an amino acid with primarily calming and focus-enhancing properties, while theobromine is a methylxanthine alkaloid with mild stimulant effects. This fundamental difference in chemical structure creates distinct properties and neurological impacts. L-theanine contains a unique non-proteinogenic amino acid structure (C7H14N2O3, molecular weight: 174.2 g/mol), appearing as a white crystalline powder found almost exclusively in tea leaves. This contrasts with theobromine’s methylxanthine structure (C7H8N4O2, molecular weight: 180.16 g/mol), also appearing as a white powder but found primarily in cacao beans, with chemical similarity to caffeine, though with milder effects.

The central nervous system effects reveal significant differences in mental and physical responses. L theanine powder demonstrates primarily calming and focus-enhancing properties by promoting alpha brain waves, GABA enhancement, and glutamate modulation, creating a state of relaxed alertness. Though milder than caffeine, theobromine acts as a stimulant through adenosine receptor antagonism and phosphodiesterase inhibition, creating mild stimulation and potential mood elevation. Research indicates that l-theanine powder often produces more pronounced effects on stress reduction and mental focus, while theobromine typically demonstrates stronger effects on energy, mood elevation, and physiological stimulation.

Cardiovascular effects show interesting variations between these compounds. Best l theanine powder supports healthy blood pressure and cardiovascular responses during stress, with a generally neutral or slightly positive impact on cardiovascular parameters. Theobromine demonstrates more pronounced cardiovascular activity, including vasodilation, mild diuretic effects, and potential blood pressure reduction through its methylxanthine actions. These cardiovascular differences significantly influence their applications, with theobromine sometimes utilized specifically for its blood vessel dilating properties, while L-theanine is rarely selected primarily for cardiovascular effects.

Duration and onset of action demonstrate practical differences in supplementation timing. L-theanine typically produces noticeable effects within 30-60 minutes, with effects lasting 4-6 hours, creating a smooth, sustained influence on mental state. Theobromine generally has a slower onset and longer duration than caffeine, with effects potentially lasting 7-10 hours due to its longer half-life. These timing differences influence their practical applications, with L-theanine often preferred for situational stress management or sleep preparation. At the same time, theobromine’s longer duration makes timing more critical to avoid sleep disruption.

Complementary applications demonstrate how these compounds are often used together rather than as alternatives. While each compound has distinct primary effects, l theanine powder is frequently paired with stimulants like caffeine or theobromine to balance their excitatory effects while preserving mental alertness. This synergistic relationship has led to the recognition that these compounds may offer optimal benefits when combined in appropriate ratios. L-theanine’s calming properties complement theobromine’s mild stimulation to create balanced cognitive and physical effects that neither compound provides alone.

PropertyL-TheanineTheobromine
CAS Number3081-61-683-67-0
Molecular FormulaC7H14N2O3C7H8N4O2
Molecular Weight174.20 g/mol180.17 g/mol
AppearanceWhite to off-white crystalline powderWhite crystalline powder
SolubilityWater-solubleSlightly soluble in water, soluble in alcohol
StabilityStable under standard storage conditionsStable under standard storage conditions
Primary FunctionRelaxation, stress reduction, cognitive enhancementMild stimulant, mood enhancement, vasodilation
Common UsesAnti-anxiety, focus-enhancing supplements, nootropicsPre-workout supplements, mood boosters, cardiovascular support
Mechanism of ActionIncreases alpha brain waves; modulates GABA, dopamine, and serotoninAdenosine receptor antagonist; mild CNS stimulation
BioavailabilityHigh oral bioavailabilityModerate; varies with formulation
Onset of ActionWithin 30–60 minutes after ingestionWithin 1–2 hours after ingestion
AdvantagesPromotes calm without drowsiness, synergistic with caffeineGentle stimulation without jitters, antioxidant effects
DisadvantagesEffects may be subtle for some individualsMay cause increased heart rate or insomnia in sensitive users
Other InformationNaturally found in green tea leavesNaturally found in cacao, tea, and kola nuts

Conclusion

L-Theanine has solidified its role as a standout nootropic and wellness ingredient due to its unique capacity to promote calm, focused alertness without sedation. Derived naturally from tea leaves or synthesized through advanced enzymatic and fermentation techniques, this amino acid influences neurotransmitter pathways, brainwave patterns, and stress hormones to create a balanced mental state ideal for cognitive performance, emotional regulation, and restful sleep. Its safety, rapid bioavailability, and synergistic compatibility with ingredients like caffeine and adaptogens make it a highly versatile option in formulations targeting stress resilience, mental clarity, and immune support.

Whether in bulk supplement production or functional food applications, L-theanine remains a scientifically validated and consumer-preferred ingredient with wide-ranging benefits across mental health, cardiovascular support, and immune modulation. Its integration into various product formats—capsules, powders, drinks—combined with regulatory approval in key global markets underscores its importance in the evolving supplement landscape. For formulators and health-conscious users alike, L-theanine offers a rare blend of efficacy, safety, and multifunctionality backed by tradition and modern clinical research.

Why Choose Nutri Avenue To Buy Best L Theanine Powder?

Nutri Avenue offers premium-quality l-theanine manufactured under stringent GMP and ISO-certified facilities to ensure purity, safety, and efficacy. As a top FDA-registered supplier of nutritional raw materials, Nutri Avenue provides flexible OEM/ODM options, extensive third-party testing, and consistent supply at wholesale pricing.

Our strategically located U.S. warehouses ensure rapid delivery for manufacturers and private labelers alike. Whether seeking customized l-theanine powder formulations or standardized bulk l-theanine inventory, Nutri Avenue delivers scalable solutions for speed and quality.

Nutri Avenue’s services support end-to-end manufacturing goals, from sourcing and testing to custom product development. Count on us to meet global compliance standards and help you stay ahead in the highly competitive nutraceutical market.

* All products from Nutri Avenue can provide ISO certificates.

FAQs

While many dietary supplements evaluated by the FDA contain only pure L-theanine, Advanced Technology has developed Suntheanine, a patented pure L-theanine.

Suntheanine is believed to be ten times more potent than pure L-theanine. It is also relatively expensive.

Another important difference between pure L-theanine and Suntheanine is that the former can be obtained from natural sources, such as green tea, L-theanine, and black tea. Suntheanine, on the other hand, can only be obtained from dietary supplements that contain the compound.

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