Many consider tea more than just a beverage; it is typically noted for its rejuvenating effects – a drink that revives, relaxes and refreshes all at the same time. Recently investigators have been exploring just how tea does this and its potential benefits on mental alertness and physical performance. Studies indicate that drinking a cup of black tea rapidly “revives” by improving mental alertness, and regular consumption of black tea throughout the day (1 cup every 2-3 hours) helps maintain a constant level of mental alertness as well as reduces feelings of fatigue. These effects of tea appear to be not solely due to the caffeine, but to other factors and compounds in tea as well (38).

Theanine

Tea comes from Camellia sinensis, the only plant that makes theanine. Unique to tea, theanine is a major amino acid in black, green, and oolong tea. Exciting recent research has shown that theanine may play an important role in the natural gentle stimulatory effects of drinking tea (39-45). Several studies have found that L-theanine, the predominate form of theanine found in tea, stimulates alpha-brainwaves which are associated with a relaxed but alert mental state of mind (39-43) Theanine appears to work quickly and seems to be most effective when someone is stressed and the mind is preoccupied by many thoughts. It seems to help relax the mind allowing one to focus on the task at hand. Because theanine helps the mind stop racing it also seems to help promote a more restful, sound sleep because sleep is also not interrupted by random thoughts (41, 45). The science of theanine is just developing and it is not known if the effect of theanine is cumulative, but it does appear that the rejuvenating effects of tea on mood, cognitive function and psychomotor performance, that cannot be solely explained by the caffeine in tea, may be in part be due to theanine.

*While tea is a naturally rich source of antioxidants, it is not a substitute for fruits or vegetables which provide a wide range of antioxidants and essential vitamins and minerals. Please consult your doctor regarding a diet/nutritional plan that is right for you.