Green Tea : it's scientifically proven as relaxing

FYI

It contains l-theanine (it's virtually the only natural source of this aminoacid) which makes you more relaxed due to it's effect on GABA functionning (benzos act on these). In theory, it reduces the "wired", distressing feeling of caffeine which make you more alert but is less exhausting for the mind.

I don't like too talk about my "experience" with things that subtle, near placebo effect. But I did switch from shots of expresso to (lots of) green tea and I do feel relaxed AND alert.

L-theanine acts for 24hrs, you can get the recommended dosage from 4 cups of green tea (100mg of theanine + 120mg of caffeine) or just drink it like water as long as you don't exceed 400mg of caffeine (roughly 12 cups; equivalent to 4 coffees) a day.

I think it might be useful for people who like caffeine a lot but are aware of the annoying side-effects.

 

I'm reading this as I'm in the midst of writing a paper for school(well, taking a short break from writing it), under the influence of a wonderful cup of green tea. I agree with you! I'm relaxed, have a pretty clear mind, am not jittery at all, and if I didn't have any work to do tonight, I could fall asleep with no problems at all. Green tea is wonderful. It's so much better than gulping coffee before I do important stuff. Do you put anything in yours? I always drink mine plain, but I wonder if the effect would be any different with sugar/honey?

~Nova

 

i use artificial sweeteners, i don't like sugar rushes. if that's your thing you can. on an empty stomach it will lift your mood for 20-30mn then you will feel a bit down.
i like to put powdered milk in it, it is good carbs and the proteins might be useful in case you don't have enough in your diet (your brain will use it to make dopamine if you're under -positive or negative- stress). you won't "feel" it though.