Research studies are quite clear on the facts that people who produce more alpha brain waves

also experience less anxiety as well as increased creativity when faced with problem solving. For example, elite athletes tend to produce a burst of alpha waves on the left side of their brain during their best performances. In addition to being considered a "relaxing" substance, theanine has also been shown to improve learning performance in mice, as well as concentration in human subjects. One of the most unique aspects of theanine activity is its ability to increase the brain's output of alpha waves. Alpha waves are one the four basic brain brain-wave patterns (delta, theta, alpha, and beta) that can be monitored using an electroencephalogram (EEG). Each wave pattern is associated with a particular oscillating electrical voltage in the brain, and the different brain brain-wave patterns are associated with different mental states and states of consciousness (Theta = Drowsiness; Alpha = Relaxed/Alertness; Beta = Stress/Anxiety). A handful of studies (in rats) have shown theanine to be an effective anti-hypertension agent. In these studies, it is interesting to note that theanine was able to bring elevated blood pressure back toward normal levels, but it had no effect in reducing normal blood pressure levels. There are also more than a dozen reports in the scientific literature which show a clear benefit of theanine in fighting various forms of experimental cancer. Theanine has been shown to enhance the anti-tumor activity of some cancer drugs such as pirarubicin, doxorubicin and adriamycin. It appears that theanine slows the ability of the tumor cells to eject the cancer drugs - so combination therapy with the chemotherapy agent plus theanine seems to maintain high levels of the drug in the tumor cells and both slow their growth and accelerate their death. L-theanine has been shown to enhance the anticancer activity of doxorubicin and idarubicin in in vitro and animal studies. In an in vitro study, L-theanine increased doxorubicin's inhibition of Ehrlich ascites carcinoma more than two-fold and increased nearly three-fold the concentration of doxorubicin in the tumor compared with treatment with doxorubicin alone. Subsequently, L-theanine, in combination with doxorubicin, was shown to significantly reduce tumor weight (to 62% of the control level) in M5076 ovarian sarcoma-bearing mice. The doxorubicin dose used in this combination was ineffective by itself in inhibiting tumor growth. L-theanine was reported to increase

doxorubicin concentration in the tumor by two- to seven-fold while simultaneously decreasing doxorubicin concentrations in normal tissues. A combination of L-theanine and doxorubicin significantly inhibited both primary ovarian sarcoma and hepatic metastasis of the tumor. L-theanine was credited in this study with enhancing the activity of doxorubicin. In another study, L-theanine was used in conjunction with idarubicin, a recently synthesized anthracyline derivative being used clinically in some parts of the world to treat acute myelocytic leukemia. The use of idarubicin had been limited due to the frequency with which it produces severe leukopenia. Combined with idarubicin in the treatment of P388 leukemia-bearing mice, L-theanine significantly inhibited suppression of bone marrow cells and leukopenia, while simultaneously enhancing the antitumor activity of idarubicin. Very recently, L-theanine, in combination with doxorubicin, was further shown to have the ability to significantly inhibit even doxorubicin-resistant leukemia in mice. In an in vitro test, L-theanine showed some ability to inhibit LDL peroxidation. The polyphenol component of a green-tea extract was more potent in this regard than the L-theanine component. The caffeine component, on the other hand, was less effective than L-theanine. L-theanine has also exhibited hypotensive effects in spontaneously hypertensive rats but not in Wistar kyoto rats. Recently, L-theanine, at certain doses, was shown to inhibit caffeine stimulation, measured by electroencephalography in rats. Recently, L-theanine, previously shown to penetrate the blood-brain barrier through the leucine-preferring transport system, has been demonstrated to produce significant increases in serotonin and/or dopamine concentrations in the brain, principally in the striatum, hypothalamus and hippocampus. These findings led to recent studies investigating the possibility that L-theanine might enhance learning ability, induce relaxation and relieve emotional stress. Memory and learning ability were said to be improved in young male Wistar rats given 180 mg of L-theanine daily for four months. Performance was assessed using a test for learning ability and passive and active avoidance tests for memory. The mental effects of L-theanine were tested in a small group of volunteers divided into two groups defined as "high-anxiety" and "low-anxiety" groups. The volunteers were females aged 18 to 22. Their level of anxiety was assessed by a manifest anxiety scale. Subjects received water, 50 mg of L-theanine or 200 mg of L-theanine solution once a week. Brain waves were measured 60 minutes after administration. The 200 mg dose (dissolved in 100 ml of water) resulted in significantly greater production of

alpha waves than was observed in subjects receiving water. Greatest production was consistently seen about 40 minutes after L-theanine intake. The effect was dosedependent. The researchers regarded the significantly increased production of alphabrain wave activity as an index of increased relaxation. More rigorous followup is needed. Japan is credited with most of the clinical studies and information L-theanine. There are no dietary limits on L-theanine intake by the Japan Food Additive Association. In 1964, the Japanese Ministry of Health and Welfare approved L-theanine for unlimited use in all foods, with the exception of infant foods. The intended use of Ltheanine is that of a mental and physical relaxant that does not induce drowsiness. Although there is no set schedule for taking L-theanine, it may generally be taken at the first signs of stress. Based on the results of the clinical studies, L-theanine is most effective in the range of 50-200 mg, with the effect being felt within 30 minutes and lasting for 8-10 hours. Individuals with high stress levels may increase their dosage of L-theanine to at least 100 mg, with no more than 600 mg being taken in a six hour period. FDA recommends a maximum dose of 1200 mg daily, although the reason for this limit is not clear, due to its demonstrated safety. There are no known adverse reactions to L-theanine and no drug interactions have been reported. L-theanine is not affected by food and may be taken anytime, as needed. Absorbed from the small intestine via a sodium-coupled active transport process, L-theanine crosses the blood-brain barrier. L-theanine competes for absorption in the intestinal tract and the brain with the amino acids found in the methionine group (leucine, isoleucine, and valine), however the concentrations of amino acids are unchanged by simultaneous ingestion of L-theanine. L-theanine is extremely safe. Although it is probably safe for pregnant women and nursing mothers, we discourage its use by them pending conclusive research. Conclusion Research into L-theanine derived from the contradictory observation that green tea, with its high caffeine content, produces a very calming effect. The seemingly multi-dimensional reasons for this relaxation effect will continue to be studied. Current areas of ongoing research include using L-theanine as an alternative to Ritalin in children and adults, as a treatment for PMS, in controlling certain conditions of high blood pressure, in sharpening mental acuity and concentration, and as an anti-cancer agent alone and in synergy with other cancer-fighting agents.

L-theanine may find another area of application for its use as a supplement in reducing the negative side effects of caffeine brought on by the over-consumption of coffee, soft drinks, or other caffeine-containing substances. 7.) References 1. Kakuda T, Nozawa A, Unno T, et al. Inhibiting effects of theanine on caffeine stimulation evaluated by EEG in the rat. Biosci Biotechno Biochem 2000; 64:287-293. 2. Mason R. 200 mg of Zen; L-theanine boosts alpha waves, promotes alert relaxation. Alternative & Complementary Therapies 2001,April; 7:91-95 3. Juneja LR, Chu D-C, Okubo T, et al. L-theanine a unique amino acid of green tea and its relaxation effect in humans. Trends Food Sci Tech 1999; 10:199-204. 4. Yokozawa T, Dong E. Influence of green tea and its three major components upon low-density lipoprotein oxidation. Exp Toxicol Pathol 1997; 49(5):329-335. After more than 15 years research, we can supply 100% natural Green Tea L-Theanine std. 10%, 20%, 50%, 80%, 90%, 98%, 99% (Tested by HPLC method) now! Refrences: 1. Kakuda T, Nozawa A, Unno T, Okamura N, Okai O. Inhibiting effects of theanine on caffeine stimulation evaluated by EEG in the rat. Biosci Biotechnol Biochem. 2000 Feb;64(2):287-93. 2. Kakuda T, Yanase H, Utsunomiya K, Nozawa A, Unno T, Kataoka K. Protective effect of gamma-glutamylethylamide (theanine) on ischemic delayed neuronal death in gerbils. Neurosci Lett. 2000 Aug 11;289(3):18992. 3. Sadzuka Y, Sugiyama T, Hirota S. Modulation of cancer chemotherapy by green tea. Clin Cancer Res. 1998 Jan;4(1):153-6. 4. Sadzuka Y, Sugiyama T, Miyagishima A, Nozawa Y, Hirota S. The effects of theanine, as a novel biochemical modulator, on the antitumor activity of adriamycin. Cancer Lett. 1996 Aug 2;105(2):203-9. 5. Sadzuka Y, Sugiyama T, Sonobe T. Efficacies of tea components on doxorubicin induced antitumor activity and reversal of multidrug resistance. Toxicol Lett. 2000 Apr 3;114(1-3):155-62. 6. Sadzuka Y, Sugiyama T, Sonobe T. Improvement of idarubicin induced antitumor activity and bone marrow suppression by theanine, a component of tea. Cancer Lett. 2000 Oct 1;158(2):119-24. 7. Sadzuka Y, Sugiyama T, Suzuki T, Sonobe T. Enhancement of the activity of doxorubicin by inhibition of glutamate transporter. Toxicol Lett. 2001 Sep 15;123(2-3):159-67. 8. Sadzuka Y, Yamashita Y, Sugiyama T, Sonobe T. Effect of dihydrokainate on the antitumor activity of doxorubicin. Cancer Lett. 2002 May 28;179(2):157-63. 9. Sugiyama T, Sadzuka Y, Tanaka K, Sonobe T. Inhibition of glutamate transporter by theanine enhances the therapeutic efficacy of doxorubicin. Toxicol Lett. 2001 Apr 30;121(2):89-96. 10. Sugiyama T, Sadzuka Y. Combination of theanine with doxorubicin inhibits hepatic metastasis of M5076 ovarian sarcoma. Clin Cancer Res.

1999 Feb;5(2):413-6. 11. Sugiyama T, Sadzuka Y. Enhancing effects of green tea components on the antitumor activity of adriamycin against M5076 ovarian sarcoma. Cancer Lett. 1998 Nov 13;133(1):19-26. 12. Yokogoshi H, Kato Y, Sagesaka YM, Takihara-Matsuura T, Kakuda T, Takeuchi N. Reduction effect of theanine on blood pressure and brain 5-hydroxyindoles in spontaneously hypertensive rats. Biosci Biotechnol Biochem. 1995 Apr;59(4):615-8. 13. Yokogoshi H, Kobayashi M. Hypotensive effect of gamma-glutamylmethylamide in spontaneously hypertensive rats. Life Sci. 1998;62(12):1065-8. 14. Yokogoshi H, Terashima T. Effect of theanine, rglutamylethylamide, on brain monoamines, striatal dopamine release and some kinds of behavior in rats. Nutrition. 2000 Sep;16(9):776-7. 15. Yokogoshi, H., Kato, Y., Sagesaka, Y. M., Takihara-Matsuura, T., Kakuda, T., Takeuchi, N. "Reduction Effect of Theanine on Blood Pressure and Brain 5-Hydroxyindoles in Spontaneously Hypertensive Rats." Biosciences, Biotechnology, and Biochemistry, April 1995, 59(4): 615-18. 16. Yokogoshi, H., Terashima, T. "Effect of Theanine, R-Glutamylethylamide, on Brain Monoamines, Striatal Dopamine Release and Some Kinds of Behavior in Rats." Nutrition, Sept. 2000, 16(9): 776-77. 17. Zhang G, Miura Y, Yagasaki K. Effects of dietary powdered green tea and theanine on tumor growth and endogenous hyperlipidemia in hepatoma-bearing rats. Biosci Biotechnol Biochem. 2002 Apr;66(4):711-6

L-Theanine
L-Theanine is an amino acid derivative commonly found in green tea.[1] It has psychoactive properties,[2] and is able to cross the blood-brain barrier.[3] Not only has L-Theanine been shown to reduce mental and physical stress,[4] it also improves cognition in a synergistic manner with caffeine.[5],[6] A study done at Japanese university found L-Theanine facilitates relaxation, and may aid learning performance, mental clarity, and concentration.[7] In a 2011 study of anxious students who received L-Theanine, they experienced a slowing of their heart rate, improved attention performance and better reaction times than those who received a placebo.[8] In one study, the alpha brain waves of 13 people were monitored with electroencephalography (EEG), showed L-Theanine enhanced the processes responsible for maintaining attention.[2] Another study examined the effects of as little as 50 milligrams of L-Theanine in healthy

people. While relaxing with their eyes closed those receive L-Theanine showed increased alpha brain wave activity, indicating "a relaxed but alert mental state" compared with participants who did not receive L-Theanine.[9] L-Theanines effect on sleep was demonstrated by giving a test group L-Theanine daily, then recording their sleep patterns. The study showed that while they did not sleep longer, the quality of sleep was more refreshing, and resulted in a better recovery of energy when they awoke. Those taking L-Theanine felt they slept longer than they actually did.[10] Research has demonstrated L-Theanine provides a sense of relaxation in approximately 30-40 minutes after ingestion[11] via at least two different mechanisms. First, it directly stimulates the production of alpha brain waves,[12],[13] resulting in a state of deep relaxation and mental alertness similar to what is achieved through meditation. Second, L-Theanine is involved in the formation of the inhibitory neurotransmitter, gamma amino butyric acid (GABA),[14] which influences the levels of two other neurotransmitters, dopamine and serotonin, producing the key relaxation effect.[15] Interestingly, L-Theanine may reduce the negative side effects of caffeine overconsumption.[16] Each serving of Elebra contains L-Theanine, and is manufactured in the USA at a cGMP facility that has an "A" rating (the highest possible) from the National Nutritional Foods Association. We stand behind our product and offer a 100% Money Back Guarantee. References 1. Juneja, LR; Chu, DC; Okubo, T; Nagato, Y; Yokogoshi, H. (1999). "L-Theanine - a unique amino acid of green tea and its relaxation effect in humans". Trends in Food Science & Technology 10 (2): 199204. 2. Gomez-Ramirez, M., Kelly, S.P., Montesi, J.L., and Foxe, J.J. The effects of L-theanine on alpha-band oscillatory brain activity during a visuo-spatial attention task. Brain Topography, 2009, 22: 44-51. 3. Yokogoshi H, Kobayashi M, Mochizuki M, Terashima T (1998). "Effect of theanine, rglutamylethylamide, on brain monoamines and striatal dopamine release in conscious rats". Neurochem Res 23 (5): 66773. 4. Kimura K, Ozeki M, Juneja L, Ohira H (2007). "L-Theanine reduces psychological and physiological stress responses". Biol Psychol 74 (1): 3945. 5. Haskell CF, Kennedy DO, Milne AL, Wesnes KA, Scholey AB (2008). "The effects of ltheanine, caffeine and their combination on cognition and mood". Biol Psychol 77(2): 11322. 6. http://www.sciencenews.org/view/generic/id/8965/title/Distracted%3F_Tea_might_help_your _focus" John J.

Foxe of the Nathan S. Kline Institute for Psychiatric Research in Orangeburg, N.Y., and his colleagues recruited 16 people for tests of attentiveness on four days. Before testing, each individual drank a glass of water. On 3 days, the drink was spiked with 100 milligrams of theanine, 60 mg of caffeine, or both. The theanine dose was equivalent to that in 4 to 5 cups of tea, and the caffeine translated to about 2.5 cups of tea. In the difficult tests, participants watched a computer screen and pressed a button when a designated shape appeared on the side of a busy visual field to which an arrow had previously pointed. Participants' accuracy differed little between days when they got water alone or with only one additive. Accuracy improved dramatically, however, on the day that they got the theanine-caffeine combination. The attention benefit lasted throughout the 3 hours of testing." 7. Terashima T. et al. Effect of Suntheanine Intake on Learning Ability. Fourth Shizuoka Forum on Health and Longevity. Nov 18, 1999 p.82-83. No abstract. 8. Higashiyama A, et al. Effects of L-theanine on attention and reaction time response. Journal of Functional Foods. Volume 3, Issue 3, July 2011, Pages 171-178. 9. Roan, Shari. L-Theanine Comes into Focus. Los Angeles Times 4 May 2010. http://articles.latimes.com/2009/may/04/health/he-theanine4. Retrieved 2011-10-05. 10. Green tea lulls brain into quality sleep. NutraIngredients.com. 17 March 2004. 11. Juneja LR, et al. L-theanine a unique amino acid of green tea and its relaxation effect in humans. Trends Food Sci Tech 1999; 10:199-204. 12. Ito K, et al. Effects of L-theanine on the release of alpha brain waves in human volunteers. Nippon Nogeikagaku Kaishi 1998;72:153-7. No abstract. 13. Gomez-Ramirez M; Higgins, BA; Rycroft, JA; Owen, GN; Mahoney, J; Shpaner, M; Foxe, JJ (2007). "The Deployment of Intersensory Selective Attention: A High-density Electrical Mapping Study of the Effects of Theanine". Clin Neuropharmacol 30 (1): 25-38. 14. Kakuda T, Nozawa A, Sugimoto A, Niino H. Inhibition by theanine of binding of [3H] AMPA, [3H] kainate, and [3H]MDL 105,519 to glutamate receptors. Biosci Biotechnol Biochem. 2002;66(12):26836. 15. Mason R. 200 mg of Zen; L-theanine boosts alpha waves, promotes alert relaxation. Alternative & Complementary Therapies 2001,April; 7:91-95 16. Kakuda T, Nozawa A, Unno T, et al. Inhibiting effects of theanine on caffeine stimulation evaluated by EEG in the rat. Biosci Biotechno Biochem 2000; 64:287-293.

- See more at: http://www.myelebra.com/L-Theanine.html#sthash.nkyFAP7a.dpuf

Daily stress and anxiety not only wreaks havoc with our sense of well-being, but also shortens our lives by contributing to heart disease, diabetes, and cognitive impairment.1-3 Drug companies offer medications to treat the symptoms of anxiety, but fears of addiction and side effects cause most health conscious people to avoid them.4,5 Fortunately, alternatives are available in the form of natural botanical extracts one of which was shown to be as effective as a leading prescription medication. Prescribed as a medicinal herb since ancient Greek times, lemon balm has long been known to relieve anxiety, promote sleep, and sooth agitation. Since this botanical extract cannot be patented, its beneficial effects have been completely ignored by pharmaceutical interests. Animal studies of lemon balm have produced impressive results with regard to stress reduction. In one study, researchers gave low doses of a lemon balm extract to mice. They observed a decrease in anxietyrelated behaviors when the animals were placed in an unfamiliar environment. 6 In the same study, higher doses of the lemon balm extract produced analgesic (pain-relieving) effects. Most dramatically, lemon balm extracts induced sleep in mice that had been given tiny (non-sleep-inducing) doses of traditional sedative medications. A very recent study of herbs used in traditional Lebanese medicine as sedatives demonstrated that lemon balm extracts had the ability to bind to receptors that trigger relaxation and reduce anxiety in the brain. 7

Human Studies Confirm Lemon Balms Benefits

A large amount of published data has emerged on the benefits of lemon balm for alleviating anxiety and mood disorders in humans. In the past five years alone, the powerful relaxing effects of lemon balm extracts have been documented by scientists around the world. These studies confirm what herbal practitioners have long knownthat lemon balm in combination with other herbal agents is effective in addressing conditions related to stress and anxiety.8,9

Lemon Balm (Melissa officinalis)

In 2004, a study documented the effectiveness of a lozenge containing lemon balm along with several other herbal preparations known to reduce anxiety. In a placebocontrolled, double-blind trial, 16 volunteers used the active lozenge or a placebo twice, two hours apart. Brain wave tracings were recorded both before and at various time intervals after the use of the lozenges. When the subjects used the active lozenges, they demonstrated marked increases in the alpha wave activities that are associated with relaxation. Interestingly, there were also increases in the brain wave activity associated with attention, suggesting that the combined herbal preparation helped subjects cope with psychological and emotional stresswithout loss of cognitive function.10

In another 2004 study, lemon balm was examined for its effect on laboratory-induced stress in humans.11 In this case, 18 healthy volunteers took a single dose of lemon balm extract (300 mg or 600 mg) or a placebo. Their mood was assessed before the dose and one hour after, via a standardized stress-simulation test. Subjects cognitive performance was also measured. The higher (600 mg) dose ameliorated the stress induced by the test, and produced significantly improved self-ratings of calmness and alertness. Even the lower (300 mg) dose produced a significant increase in the speed at which the subjects could do math problems, without any reduction in accuracy. NATURAL STRESS RELIEF: WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW In todays high-pressure environment, stress is ubiquitous. Poorly managed stress contributes not only to anxiety, but also to insomnia and impaired concentration. Many of the medicines that are commonly used to relieve stress and promote sleep can produce unwanted side effects, ranging from sedation to memory problems. Scientists have uncovered two natural remedies that safely relieve the effects of stress while promoting focused calm. Derived from green tea, theanine helps support a sense of relaxation, while maintaining the ability to think clearly. Studies show that lemon balm extract is effective in relieving anxiousness and insomnia. Further, lemon balm helps boost cognitive performance and the ability to learn and retain information. Theanine and lemon balm hold promise in helping preserve cognitive function with age, and perhaps even warding off Alzheimers disease. Together, theanine and lemon balm offer an antidote to the stresses of modern day life. By promoting focused calm, these two natural agents can help you stay relaxed yet razor-sharp, while ensuring a peaceful nights rest.

Clinical Study Shows Effects against Anxiety, Insomnia

A recent clinical trial highlighted the powerful stress-relieving benefits of lemon balm. In a double-blind, placebo-controlled trial, 20 volunteers suffering from anxiety and sleep disturbances received 300 mg of a specialized lemon balm extract twice daily (in the morning and evening). After 15 days of treatment, the participants who received lemon balm reported a 49% reduction in their state of anxiety, a 72% reduction in anxiety-associated symptoms, and a 39% decrease in insomnia. In contrast, individuals receiving placebo did not experience significant changes in anxiety or insomnia. These important findings show that lemon balm helps modulate the effects of stress on the body and mind to improve quality of life. Impressively, the benefits are clearly evident approximately two weeks after beginning treatment. While the individuals using lemon balm experienced less difficulty sleeping, it is important to note that the lemon balm extract did not produce unwanted daytime drowsiness. This suggests that lemon balm helped restore sleep by offsetting the effects of stress and anxiety. 12

Enhancing Attention and Cognition

An elegant and dramatic study published in 2002 demonstrated just how effective lemon balm can be in modulating both attention and cognitive performance. 13 Single doses of lemon balm extract at 300, 600, and 900 mg, or matching placebo, were given to 20 healthy volunteers at one-week intervals, and their

cognitive performance was assessed using standardized tests. The results were compellingthe subjects all showed sustained improvement in their accuracy of attention after the 600 mg dose, as well as reductions in memory problems. Subjects also rated their calmness as higher, even shortly after the lowest dose of lemon balm. The same researchers soon published another study demonstrating further benefits of lemon balm extracts.14 In this study, 20 healthy volunteers took single doses of lemon balm (600, 1000, and 1600 mg) or placebo at one-week intervals. Cognitive performance was measured before and at one, three, and six hours following the dose. Subjects experienced markedly improved memory and increased calmness at every time-interval following the highest dose; lower doses produced less dramatic improvements. Further, the scientists used a laboratory model to show that lemon balm binds with cholinergic receptors in human brain tissue of the occipital cortex. Since activity at these receptors is altered in age-related cognitive decline and Alzheimers disease, lemon balm extract could offer benefits for individuals experiencing memory loss related to these conditions. Theres now exciting data to support lemon balm as a cognition-enhancing agent in age-related cognitive decline.9,15,16Since people suffering from cognitive decline frequently have significant agitation, stress, and anxiety, these benefits may offer hope for those who suffer agitation and anxiety related to progressive dementia.

Recommended by European botanical scientists

Lemon balm has a long history of additional uses, which include alleviating conditions such as gas and bloating, vomiting, earache, headache, toothache, and sleeplessness. In fact, lemon balms unique properties have led to its being recommended by the European Scientific Cooperative on Phytotherapy for tension, restlessness, and irritability.16,17

The Calming and Neuroprotective Effects of Theanine

Another powerful stress reliever is green-tea-derived theanine. When swallowed, theanine is readily absorbed and easily crosses the blood-brain barrier, allowing it to quickly reach brain cells.18-20 Like some other components of tea, theanine has tremendous potential as a cellular protectant. 21 Studies in animals and humans demonstrate theanines ability to he lp promote relaxation, boost cognitive function, and support brain health.21,22 Numerous studies in animals have shown the diverse and beneficial effects that theanine produces in the nervous system. In one study where rats were supplemented with theanine, the animals experienced increased levels of the neurotransmitter serotonin.20 Boosting serotonin is the mechanism by which many of the leading antidepressant pharmaceuticals work on the brain. Thus, theanine worked in a similar fashion as an antidepressant medication. Other research has highlighted further calming properties of theanine. In another study, theanine decreased the release of excitatory (stimulating) neurotransmitters, while increasing the release of inhibitory (calming) neurotransmitters.19 The result was a more relaxed state of being.

Even more promising, theanines effects go beyond promoting relaxation to protecting the delicate nervous system against numerous potential dangers. When researchers injected mice with theanine three hours after a surgically-induced stroke, the size of the damaged area of brain was significantly decreased, as compared with untreated animals. Furthermore, vital brain functions such as blood flow were preserved in the theanine-treated animals.22 This led the scientists to propose that theanine may be useful in stroke prevention. In another study, theanine helped reduce brain cell death due to stroke in gerbils.23 In findings with special relevance for Alzheimers disease, scientists found that theanine helped protect brain cells against toxicity caused by glutamate, an excitatory neurotransmitter.24,25 Glutamate toxicity has been linked with the nervous system damage that occurs in Alzheimers disease, suggesting that theanine could help protect against this devastating neurological disease.26

Human Studies Confirm Theanines Efficacy

Building on these exciting animal studies, scientists have conducted a number of well-executed and scientifically sound human trials of theanine. These studies have focused chiefly on theanines effects on stress, anxiety, and cognitive function.

Quick Relief from Anxiety and Stress Without Tranquilizer Drugs

By Tiesha D. Johnson, RN, BSN

Theanine vs. Xanax: Comparison of Effects

One of the most compelling studies on theanine was published in 2004. In a double-blind, head-to-head comparison study, investigators compared theanine with alprazolam (Xanax), a commonly prescribed anxiolytic (anti-anxiety) drug.27 Each of 16 healthy human volunteers took either 1 mg alprazolam, 200 mg theanine, or a placebo on separate occasions; thus, all participants were tested with all three treatments. Following each dose, the researchers obtained behavioral measures of anxiety in all participants, both before and after an experimentally-created state of anxiety. The results were nothing short of remarkable. Theanine, but not alprazolam or the placebo, induced relaxing effects that were evident at the initial measurement of whether a person felt tranquil versus troubled. This study is even more impressive when the dose of alprazolam is taken into consideration. One milligram is a substantial dose of this medication generally, most people use just 0.25 to 0.5 mg of alprazolam as a bedtime sleep aid. Theanines superior performance to a potentially habit-forming medication is truly stunning good news.27

THE TROUBLE WITH BENZODIAZEPINES The most widely used class of anxiety-relieving drugs is the benzodiazepines. This class of drugs includes diazepam (Valium) and alprazolam (Xanax). While these drugs are highly effective in calming anxiety, they may also be habit-forminga factor that dramatically limits their usefulness and possibly their longterm safety.28,29Many of the benzodiazepines also cause significant memory impairment, a highly undesirable effect.4,5

The dramatic effects of theanine have been further explored in several studies published just this year. A group of Japanese researchers studied the effects of theanine on psychological and physiological stress responses in humans.3 The researchers assigned a mental arithmetic task to each of 12 participants on four separate occasions, inducing so-called math anxiety. On one occasion, the subjects took theanine at the beginning of the test, on another they took the supplement halfway through, on a third they took a placebo that was identical to the supplement, and on a fourth they took nothing at all.

Astonishingly, even this extremely short-term use of theanine had remarkable effects on manifestations of anxiety. Subjects using theanine experienced a reduction in heart rate in response to the math testing, compared with those receiving placebo. Analysis of heart-rate variability suggested that theanine modulated activation of the sympathetic nervous system, the part of the nervous system that produces the fight-or-flight response. Because the sympathetic nervous system stimulates the release of adrenalin and triggers the first steps in the stress response that eventually leads to elevated stress hormone levels, keeping this system in check may help avert the deleterious long-term health consequences of stress.3

Theanine Supports Cognitive Function

A growing body of research suggests that theanine may be a powerful tool in boosting cognitive function. Theanine may work via several mechanisms of action to help keep the mind sharp. 30

A 2007 report on theanine provides a detailed look at exactly how theanine works to improve cognition. New York-based researchers affiliated with the US Air Force were interested in mapping exactly where theanine produces effects in the brain.31 Previously, scientists have noted that when a person concentrates attention on a task, an electroencephalogram (EEG) study will show increased brain waves in the alpha region of the EEG spectrum.32,33 The Air Force investigators sought to determine whether theanine might cause changes in the important alpha region of the EEG during tasks that involve selective focus, indicating enhanced ability to perform attention-requiring tasks.31 While study subjects performed a standard task requiring focused attention, the researchers gathered data from EEG electrodes. As expected, the subjects showed significant increases in their alpha brain wave activity while concentrating on the tasks. When the subjects took theanine prior to the task, they showed a surprising decrease in alpha wave background activity, but a prominent increase in the important alpha activity related to the attention-requiring tasks.31 This critical result suggests that theanine has important and specific effects on the brain circuits involved in focusing attention on critical tasks. An innovative Japanese study corroborates theanines ability to support essential brain function. Study participants who chewed gum containing 200 mg of theanine displayed significant increases in brain wave activity associated with focus and attention, as compared with individuals who chewed gum that did not contain theanine.34 This study suggests that theanine has the ability to promote attention to vital tasks, while minimizing interference from distracting outside stimuli a finding that may have a wealth of important applications. These potential applications of theanine include enhancing concentration and performance in stressful situations, and potentially helping manage conditions such as attention-deficit disorder. Growing evidence suggests a potential role for theanine in averting the most dreaded cause of memory lossAlzheimers disease. Recent data have shown that theaninealong with other phytochemicals derived from green teapromotes the activity of an enzyme that breaks down the harmful beta-amyloid protein, which is commonly found in the brains of Alzheimers patients. 35 This promising preliminary study suggests that theanine could offer crucial protection against the brain changes that precede Alzheimers disease.

Other Benefits of Theanine

While theanine has received the most attention for its anxiety- and stress-relieving effects, this versatile natural agent is also attracting attention for its many other potential benefits. Theanine may offer important support for healthy blood pressure levels. When scientists administered theanine to laboratory rats prone to high blood pressure, the animals displayed a significant drop in blood pressure. Notably, theanine did not cause any changes in rats with normal blood pressure. These findings suggest that theanine may benefit those with elevated blood pressure, while maintaining blood pressure levels that are already within a healthy range.36 Theanine may have further applications in promoting healthy weight management. When researchers studied body weight changes in laboratory mice in response to supplementation with the green tea constituents catechins, theanine, and caffeine, they found remarkable effects. 37 The green tea-derived

supplements notably modulated the tendency to gain weight and abdominal fat. In addition, the theanine-containing supplements reduced serum fatty acids. The researchers concluded that caffeine and theanine together were responsible for the suppressive effect of green tea powder on body weight gain and fat accumulation. Theanine may find important use as an adjuvant cancer therapy. Scientists now know that theanine enhances the activity of certain chemotherapy drugs, while minimizing their destructive effects on healthy tissues. Theanine can increase the concentration of the drug doxorubicin (Adriamycin) in tumors by suppressing a transport system that tumor cells normally use to rid themselves of the drug. Theanine also reduces tumor cell content of antioxidants that could reduce the drugs destructive action on the cancer cells.38,39 While highly promising, further investigation is needed to fully evaluate the interaction between theanine and various cancer therapies. Together, these findings suggest a host of new areas for exploration of theanines life -enhancing properties.

Safety and Dosage

Theanine is used in daily dosages ranging from 100-400 mg. There are no known adverse reactions associated with theanine. Pregnant women and nursing mothers should avoid theanine supplements until more is know about its effects. Theanine may enhance the anti-tumor effects of doxorubicin and idarubicin. The use of theanine supplements with cancer chemotherapeutic agents should only be conducted under medical supervision.18 The suggested dose of lemon balm is 300 mg, once or twice daily. Lemon balm may be used in the morning to address daytime anxiety, or may be used in the evening to support relaxation and sleep. There are no known contraindications to using lemon balm.16

Complementary Benefits of Theanine and Lemon Balm

Both green tea and lemon balm have centuries-old reputations as beneficial therapies for anxiety, stress, and impaired cognition. Together, these soothing natural agents hold promise in restoring the relaxed focus and mental clarity that are so easily eroded by the stressors of modern life. Further, these plant-derived remedies may even help stave off the cognitive decline associated with aging.

References 1. Sridhar GR. Psychiatric co-morbidity & diabetes. Indian J Med Res. 2007 Mar;125(3):311-20. 2. Csaba BM. Anxiety as an independent cardiovascular risk. Neuropsychopharmacol Hung. 2006 Mar;8(1):5-11. 3. Kimura K, Ozeki M, Juneja LR, Ohira H. L-Theanine reduces psychological and physiological stress responses. Biol Psychol. 2007 Jan;74(1):39-45. 4. Beracochea D. Anterograde and retrograde effects of benzodiazepines on memory.

ScientificWorldJournal. 2006;6:1460-5. 5. Savic MM, Obradovic DI, Ugresic ND, Bokonjic DR. Memory effects of benzodiazepines: memory stages and types versus binding-site subtypes. Neural Plast. 2005;12(4):289-98. 6. Soulimani R, Fleurentin J, Mortier F, et al. Neurotropic action of the hydroalcoholic extract of Melissa officinalis in the mouse. Planta Med. 1991 Apr;57(2):105-9. 7. Salah SM, Jager AK. Screening of traditionally used Lebanese herbs for neurological activities. J Ethnopharmacol. 2005 Feb 10;97(1):145-9. 8. Gyllenhaal C, Merritt SL, Peterson SD, Block KI, Gochenour T. Efficacy and safety of herbal stimulants and sedatives in sleep disorders. Sleep Med Rev. 2000 Jun;4(3):229-51. 9. Kennedy DO, Little W, Haskell CF, Scholey AB. Anxiolytic effects of a combination of Melissa officinalis and Valeriana officinalis during laboratory induced stress. Phytother Res. 2006 Feb;20(2):96-102. 10. Dimpfel W, Pischel I, Lehnfeld R. Effects of lozenge containing lavender oil, extracts from hops, lemon balm and oat on electrical brain activity of volunteers. Eur J Med Res. 2004 Sep 29;9(9):423-31. 11. Kennedy DO, Little W, Scholey AB. Attenuation of laboratory-induced stress in humans after acute administration of Melissa officinalis (Lemon Balm). Psychosom Med. 2004 Jul;66(4):607-13. 12. Available at: http://www.nutraingredients.com/news/ng.asp?id=75166-berkem-lemon-balm-extractstress-anxiety. Accessed May 22, 2007. 13. Kennedy DO, Scholey AB, Tildesley NT, Perry EK, Wesnes KA. Modulation of mood and cognitive performance following acute administration of Melissa officinalis (lemon balm). Pharmacol Biochem Behav. 2002 Jul;72(4):953-64. 14. Kennedy DO, Wake G, Savelev S, et al. Modulation of mood and cognitive performance following acute administration of single doses of Melissa officinalis (Lemon balm) with human CNS nicotinic and muscarinic receptor-binding properties. Neuropsychopharmacology. 2003 Oct;28(10):1871-81. 15. de Sousa AC, Alviano DS, Blank AF, et al. Melissa officinalis L. essential oil: antitumoral and antioxidant activities. J Pharm Pharmacol. 2004 May;56(5):677-81. 16. Available at: http://www.pdrhealth.com/drug_info/nmdrugprofiles/herbaldrugs/101690.shtml. Accessed May 22, 2007. 17. Ulbricht C, Brendler T, Gruenwald J, et al. Lemon balm (Melissa officinalis L.): an evidence-based systematic review by the Natural Standard Research Collaboration. J Herb Pharmacother. 2005;5(4):71114. 18. Available at: http://www.pdrhealth.com/drug_info/nmdrugprofiles/nutsupdrugs/lth_0296.shtml. Accessed May 22, 2007. 19. Yamada T, Terashima T, Okubo T, Juneja LR, Yokogoshi H. Effects of theanine, rglutamylethylamide, on neurotransmitter release and its relationship with glutamic acid

neurotransmission. Nutr Neurosci. 2005 Aug;8(4):219-26. 20. Yokogoshi H, Kobayashi M, Mochizuki M, Terashima T. Effect of theanine, r-glutamylethylamide, on brain monoamines and striatal dopamine release in conscious rats. Neurochem Res. 1998 May;23(5):667-73. 21. Cooper R, Morre DJ, Morre DM. Medicinal benefits of green tea: Part I. Review of noncancer health benefits. J Altern Complement Med. 2005 Jun;11(3):521-8. 22. Egashira N, Hayakawa K, Mishima K, et al. Neuroprotective effect of gamma-glutamylethylamide (theanine) on cerebral infarction in mice. Neurosci Lett. 2004 Jun 3;363(1):58-61. 23. Kakuda T, Yanase H, Utsunomiya K, et al. Protective effect of gamma-glutamylethylamide (theanine) on ischemic delayed neuronal death in gerbils. Neurosci Lett. 2000 Aug 11;289(3):189-92. 24. Nagasawa K, Aoki H, Yasuda E, et al. Possible involvement of group I mGluRs in neuroprotective effect of theanine. Biochem Biophys Res Commun. 2004 Jul 16;320(1):116-22. 25. Kakuda T, Nozawa A, Sugimoto A, Niino H. Inhibition by theanine of binding of [3H]AMPA, [3H]kainate, and [3H]MDL 105,519 to glutamate receptors. Biosci Biotechnol Biochem. 2002 Dec;66(12):2683-6. 26. Chohan MO, Iqbal K. From tau to toxicity: emerging roles of NMDA receptor in Alzheimers disease. J Alzheimers Dis. 2006 Sep;10(1):81-7. 27. Lu K, Gray MA, Oliver C, et al. The acute effects of L-theanine in comparison with alprazolam on anticipatory anxiety in humans. Hum Psychopharmacol. 2004 Oct;19(7):457-65. 28. Available at: http://www.pdrhealth.com/drug_info/rxdrugprofiles/drugs/val1473.shtml. Accessed May 30, 2007. 29. Available at: http://www.pdrhealth.com/drug_info/rxdrugprofiles/drugs/xan1491.shtml. Accessed May 30, 2007. 30. Nathan PJ, Lu K, Gray M, Oliver C. The neuropharmacology of L-theanine(N-ethyl-L-glutamine): a possible neuroprotective and cognitive enhancing agent. J Herb Pharmacother. 2006;6(2):21-30. 31. Gomez-Ramirez M, Higgins BA, Rycroft JA, et al. The deployment of intersensory selective attention: a high-density electrical mapping study of the effects of theanine. Clin Neuropharmacol. 2007 Jan;30(1):25-38. 32. Jokisch D, Jensen O. Modulation of gamma and alpha activity during a working memory task engaging the dorsal or ventral stream. J Neurosci. 2007 Mar 21;27(12):3244-51. 33. Dockree PM, Kelly SP, Foxe JJ, Reilly RB, Robertson IH. Optimal sustained attention is linked to the spectral content of background EEG activity: greater ongoing tonic alpha (approximately 10 Hz) power supports successful phasic goal activation. Eur J Neurosci. 2007 Feb;25(3):900-7. 34. Yagyu T, Wackermann J, Kinoshita T, et al. Chewing-gum flavor affects measures of global

complexity of multichannel EEG. Neuropsychobiology. 1997;35(1):46-50. 35. Ayoub S, Melzig MF. Induction of neutral endopeptidase (NEP) activity of SK-N-SH cells by natural compounds from green tea. J Pharm Pharmacol. 2006 Apr;58(4):495-501. 36. Yokogoshi H, Kato Y, Sagesaka YM, et al. Reduction effect of theanine on blood pressure and brain 5-hydroxyindoles in spontaneously hypertensive rats. Biosci Biotechnol Biochem. 1995 Apr;59(4):615-8. 37. Zheng G, Sayama K, Okubo T, Juneja LR, Oguni I. Anti-obesity effects of three major components of green tea, catechins, caffeine and theanine, in mice. In Vivo. 2004 Jan;18(1):55-62. 38. Sadzuka Y, Sugiyama T, Suzuki T, Sonobe T. Enhancement of the activity of doxorubicin by inhibition of glutamate transporter. Toxicol Lett. 2001 Sep 15;123(2-3):159-67. 39. Sugiyama T, Sadzuka Y. Theanine and glutamate transporter inhibitors enhance the antitumor efficacy of chemotherapeutic agents. Biochim Biophys Acta. 2003 Dec 5;1653(2):47-59.

European Journal of Clinical Nutrition 66, 1187-1192 (November 2012) | doi:10.1038/ejcn.2012.105

o o o o o o o o o o o

ARTICLE TOOLS
Send to a friend Export citation Rights and permissions Order commercial reprints

SEARCH PUBMED FOR

S Borgwardt F Hammann K Scheffler M Kreuter J Drewe C Beglinger more authors of this article

Neural effects of green tea extract on dorsolateral prefrontal cortex

S Borgwardt, F Hammann, K Scheffler, M Kreuter, J Drewe and C Beglinger

Abstract
Background/objectives: Green tea is being recognized as a beverage with potential benefits for human health and cognitive functions. In vivo studies provide preliminary evidence that green tea intake may have a positive role in improving effects on cognitive functions. We aimed to examine the neural effects of green tea extract on brain activation in humans.

Subjects/methods: Functional magnetic resonance imaging was recorded while 12 healthy volunteers performed a working memory task following administration of 250 or 500ml of a milk whey based green tea containing soft drink or milk whey based soft drink without green tea as control in a double-blind, controlled repeated measures within-subject design with counterbalanced order of substance administration. A whole-brain analysis with a clusterlevel threshold of P<0.001 (unadjusted) was followed by an a priori-defined region of interest (ROI) analysis of the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC) including a clusterlevel threshold of P<0.05 and family-wise error (FWE) adjustment for multiple comparisons. Results: Whole-brain analyses revealed no significant effects after correction for multiple comparisons (FWE P<0.05). Using a ROI approach, green tea extract increased activation in the DLPFC relative to a control condition (FWE P<0.001). This neural effect was related to green tea dosage. Green tea extract was not associated with any significant attenuation in regional activation relative to control condition. Conclusions: These data suggest that green tea extract may modulate brain activity in the DLPFC, a key area that mediates working memory processing in the human brain. Moreover, this is the first neuroimaging study implicating that functional neuroimaging methods provide a means of examining how green tea extract acts on the brain.

An explanation of Neurotransmitters
Medications for insomnia and hypersomnia usually act on neural systems and affect, in some manner, neurotransmitters. Sleep aids tend to work on the GABA receptors in the brain, or melatonin receptors. Stimulants usually work on dopamine or acetylcholine systems. This website covers all aspects of sleep; neurotransmitters are involved in sleep, waking, and the transitions between them. Brain chemistry is very complicated and scientists don't totally understand how all the pieces fit together. Here we give a short description of major neutrotransmitters. Neurons (commonly called nerves) are a specific type of cell found in the body and the brain that carries electrical information. Their job is to receive a signal from a cell, convert it to an electric signal called an action potential and transmit this electric signal to another cell that could also be another neuron. When they need to communicate to another cell or neuron, the first neuron sends a chemical called a neurotransmitter across the space between the two, over to the next cell. Once at

the second cell, the neurotransmitter binds to a receptor, telling the second cell what to do or telling another neuron if to send a signal and whether it should be a strong or a weak signal. Among other things, neurotransmitters are responsible for spinal reflexes and sleep regulation. There are currently conflicting classifications of which chemicals in the brain are considered to be neurotransmitters. Following are neurotransmitters of interest to sleep researchers and that scientists agree are actually neurotransmitters. GABA (gamma aminobuytric acid) is an amino acid derivative that acts as an inhibitory neurotransmitter, preventing or reducing certain nerve signals. It controls nervous signals in the retina and the central nervous system, so insufficient GABA usually causes anxiety and even epileptic seizures. Drugs can temporarily increase GABA levels and in turn reduce anxiety, and offer anti-convulsive effects. Some medicinal and recreational drugs reduce the natural level of GABA; these include alcohol, barbiturates and cannabinoids. The drugs that reduce GABA combined with serotonin depletion can cause depression which keeps addicts in the cycle of addiction. Patients with spastic cerebral palsy have damaged nerves in the central nervous system that cannot properly absorb GABA, affecting motor or muscular skills. GABA is not found in any significant amounts outside the brain. Indeed, GABA is pretty much unique to the central nervous system of mammals. Many sedatives and hypnotics are GABA agonists. Glutamic acid, also known as glutamate, is an amino acid and is the most common neurotransmitter in the body. 80% of the brain's neurons release glutamate. Glutamates most vital function as a neurotransmitter is in cognitive activities like memory and learning. Scientists have pointed the finger at glutamic acid as being involved in epileptic seizures, probably since glutamate can also be a precursor for the synthesis of GABA. Glutamate is involved arousal and anesthetic drugs seem to work at least partly by reducing neurotransmission normally regulated by glutamate. Lower-than-normal levels of oxygen in the blood - such as apnea causes - stimulates production of glutamate. Acetylcholine was the first neurotransmitter to be discovered by scientists and its major function is in the voluntary movement of muscles, although it also has many other functions. It is involved in the scheduling of REM sleep. The onset of Alzheimers disease happens when some regions of the brain have depleted acetylcholine. Neurons that interact with acetylcholine are found in plenty in the pons (above the medulla) and in the basal forebrain. The preoptic area and anterior hypothalamus (together sometimes called POAH) are important in both REM and in regulation of the body's temperature during sleep. It is also to make the causal direction go the other way - by manipulating the POAH it is possible to include insomnia or sleepiness, and if the POAH is artificially warmed, the brain is induced to go into deep sleep. The temperature of both the brain and the body fall during NREM sleep. The longer the NREMsleep episode, the more the temperature falls. By contrast, brain temperature increasesduring REM sleep. Norepinephrine is the neurotransmitter most involved in the fight or flight response and other stressful situations, since it increases heart rate and blood pressure. A catecholamine, It is

intertwined with arousal, wakefulness, attentiveness, sleep and it is also involved in the formation of memories. Studies have shown that elevated norepinephrine levels are implicated in symptoms in some mood disorders. Neurons in the locus coeruleus in the bottom of the brain stem respond to norepinephrine. When these neurons are stimulated, the cortical area of the brain becomes more active. Norepinephrine is therefore thought to be instrumental in causing people to wake up. Indeed, the level of this neurotransmitter in the brain seems to rise in response to new stimuli. The concept of "vigilance" is tied up with norepinephrine although scientists don't understand how. Now when a person is in REM sleep, the cortex is aroused, but the levels of norepinephrine do not rise, in contrast to what happens during waking. Actually, the levels are at their lowest during REM and drugs that mimick norepinephrine affect sleep architecture by shortening the REM sleep period. Norepinephrine antagonists make the period longer. Dopamine is another inhibitory neurotransmitter involved in voluntary movement and motivation. Sometimes called the "salience chemical" dopamine plays important roles in pleasure and subjective feelings of happiness. Alcohol, nicotine and some recreational drugs increase the level of dopamine. Schizophrenia is linked to elevated levels of dopamine in the frontal lobes of the brain. Conversely, low levels of dopamine in the motor areas of the brain are responsible for Parkinsons disease, causing muscle rigidity and uncontrollable muscle tremors. Animal models of Parkinson's disease and schizophrenia have found that dopamine plays an important role in regulating sleep. Serotonin is involved in several important body functions such as memory, emotions, moods, appetite and thermoregulation, so it comes as no surprise the neurotransmitter is important in regulating sleep-waking also.. It makes people feel contented and safe. Serotonin deficiencies have been linked to depression, anger, OCD, sleep disturbances, irritable bowel syndrome and many other emotional and physical disturbances. Does serotonin make one more sleepy or more awake? Seemingly both. But given we need to sleep sometimes and to be awake at times, maybe more serotonin is generally a good thing. Scientists have found that serotonin directly promotes wakefulness and also promotes the formation of sleep-promoting brain factors, perhaps as part of an evolutionary negative feedback look. Orexinergic wake-promoting neurons also stimulate serotoningic neurons. Experiments on animals that artificially increase levels of 5-Hydroxytryptophan (a biochemical precursor for both serotonin and melatonin) increase wakefulness immediately, followed by an increase in non-REM sleep. Serotonergic neurons inhibit sleep-promoting neurons and when serotonin levels increase, REM time decreases. Steroids also participate in sleep regulation. Cortisol increases propensity to REM sleep and estrogen supplements appear to help post-menopausal women sleep, although this may be due to an indirect mechanism. Growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH) and corticotropin-releasing hormone also play parts in sleep regulation. Orexin (Hypocretin) refers to several brain chemicals. They are excitatory neuropeptides that promote waking and suppress sleep. The perifornical hypothalamic area of the brain is rich in neurons that have orexin receptors. Animal tests involving orexin injections into the pontine reticular

formation produced an increase in wakefullness and an increase in GABA levels. Narcoleptics have fewer orexin neurons. More on orexins. Adenosine is produced during energy metabolism and plays a part in the sleep homeostatic process as it inhibits wake-promoting neurons. These neurons are in the basal forebrain, and damage or changes to these neurons seems to play a part in the development of Alzheimers Disease. Caffeine seems to work by affectinv adenosine. Melanin is a common pigment in the body (its what makes tanned skin darker, among other things). It is not the same as melatonin, although both are amino-acid derivatives, and melatonin was discovered by a dermatologist investigating skin pigmentation. Melanin-concentrating hormone is a cyclic neuropeptide that influences the distribution of melanin in the body. Like melatonin, melanin-concentrating hormone (MCH) is also produced by the pituitary and is part of the weight (and maybe sleep) homeostatic processes. Scientists have identified two receptors in the body that are activated by the hormone, and there has been interest in developing antagonists to treat obesity and mental health problems. (Too much MCH is correlated with obesity.) Detailed investigation has found MCH increases water intake and sugar intake Recent research has suggested MCH plays a part in the complex sleep regulation system.(http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3080035/) The receptor cells are spread throughout the central nervous system. More research is required to figure this all out, but given the close association between appetite and sleep regulation, it would not be surprising if MCH plays a part in sleep.

Further study of neurotransmitters and how they work will likely lead to treatments of nervous system disorders, depression and possibly even diseases like Alzheimers. Research on neurotransmitters is illuminating the causes of and possible treatments for chemical addictions. There are probably neurotransmitters involved in sleep that are yet undiscovered.

http://www.sleepdex.org/neuro.htm

rogress Since the 1996 National Sleep Disorders Research Plan

Progress Index:

The years since release of the original National Sleep Disorders Research Plan in 1996 have been remarkably eventful not only in terms of progress in the sleep sciences, but also in terms of lifestyle and activities of daily life that impact on sleep habits and behaviors. America is increasingly becoming a 24-hour per day society with everescalating expectations for around-the-clock services, information and entertainment. After the events of September 11th, 2001, we have also become a much more vigilant society. All of these lifestyle changes are directly impacting not only the number of hours Americans sleep each day but also when during the 24 hours that sleep occurs. We are now beginning to understand the impact of chronic sleep loss or sleeping at adverse circadian times on our ability to function optimally and on our physical and mental health. How sleep loss, sleep displacement (e.g., shift work, jet lag), and a wide range of sleep disorders affect one's ability to maintain health and healthy functioning in this 24/7 world, however, remains relatively poorly understood. Thus, despite the scientific progress made since 1996 in both clinical and basic science related to sleep and its disorders, there remains the challenge and the need to discover the functions of sleep, to understand and develop better treatments for the many disorders affecting sleep, and to explain the nature of human physiology during wakefulness and the individual stages of sleep. Without progress in these areas, countless millions will continue to suffer the consequences of dysfunction and abuse of this most basic regulatory process. Progress in every area cannot be included in this Executive Summary, but the most important gains in knowledge and understanding will be discussed to provide a context for the research recommendations that follow. The scientific areas most important in extending and translating the research gains made to date are summarized in the following paragraphs. The order in which they are listed does not reflect any prioritization; indeed, these individual recommendations are all important and of equivalent high priority.

Sleep Neurobiology Circadian Biology Sleep-Disordered Breathing (SDB) Pediatrics Insomnia Sleep Deprivation Sleep Education
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

Research Recommendations Research Training Conclusion Procedure

http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/prof/sleep/res_plan/executive/progress.html

Circadian Biology: A growing number of "clock genes" have been identified since 1996 that play a critical role in mammalian circadian timing. In addition, there is clear evidence that non- suprachiasmatic nucleus(SCN) tissues have clock genes and can demonstrate circadian rhythms. Thus, circadian modulation is now established to occur both centrally and peripherally, further emphasizing the importance of circadian chronobiology in the timing of sleep and waking as well as a wide variety of physiologic functions. Now these genetic studies are also being applied to humans, in particular patients with advanced sleep phase syndrome.

http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/prof/sleep/res_plan/executive/progressb.html Progress Since the 1996 National Sleep Disorders Research Plan

Sleep Neurobiology: The discovery in 1998-99 of hypocretin/orexin and its role in the development of narcolepsy in animal models and in humans revolutionized our understanding of this debilitating disorder and promises important advances in the diagnosis and therapy of human narcolepsy. Discovery of the neuromodulatory role of hypocretin/orexin also greatly improved our understanding of the basic neurobiologic processes that control sleep and wakefulness. Anatomic areas promoting sleep such as the ventrolateral preoptic(VLPO) area of the hypothalamus have also been characterized. New anatomical and physiological approaches have led to advances in our understanding of the location and interconnections between hypothalamic and brainstem circuits controlling REM, nonREM, and wake states. Factors regulating the activity of these sleep-controlling neurons have been identified. Circuitry and neurotransmitter mechanisms controlling muscle tone across the sleep cycle, of relevance to numerous sleep pathologies, have also been identified.

Progress Index: Circadian Biology Sleep-Disordered Breathing (SDB) Pediatrics Insomnia Sleep Deprivation Sleep Education
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

Progress since 1996 Procedure Research Recommendations Research Training

http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/prof/sleep/res_plan/executive/progressa.html

Chronotypes
In zoology the word chronotype refers to the time of the sleep and regular activities of an animal. Nocturnal animals are active at night, for instance. Humans are diurnal active in the day and at sleep at night. However, in sleep research and sleep science as applied to humans, chronotype refers to the peoples regular rising and bedtimes. Some people aremorning larks and rise early and are more active in the morning. Others are night owls and sleep late, being more active in the evenings and late nights. These are people at the poles; there are other variations such as people who rise early but do not become active until mid-morning, etc. Night owls also tend to sleep more on weekends, apparently having built up a sleep debt during the week more than larks do. When these tendencies are very strong and interfere with the persons daily life, the person can be said to have a circadian rhythm sleep disorder. Advanced sleep phase syndrome (ASPS) and delayed sleep phase syndrome (DSPS) are the most common types. Does it sound like a somewhat artificial line between a tendency (e.g. morning lark) and a disorder (ASPS)? It is. But lots of medicine is like this. Chronotype behavior isnt seen in just sleep times, but in level of activity and vigilance during waking periods, and even body temperature, serum cortisol levels, and blood pressure. The physiology of chronotypings isnt understood and it is surely very complicated and a results of many underlying factors and biochemistries. Chronotypes definitely have a genetic component. They run in families. A New Zealand study found they are "largely independent of ethnicity, gender, and socioeconomic position" based on a survey. In popular morality, there is the notion that eary birds are more moral than late risers. This prejudice appears to be slowly on the decline as we move further from an agricultural society. "To rise with the lark, and go to bed with the lamb." - Nicholas Breton Scientists attempt to more formally measure chronotypes with a Morning-Eveningness Scale. However, this classification has not yet found widespread use and has not produced much of use. An attempt to find a correlation between the onset of melatonin blood serum increases and the decline in slow-wave brain activity - and therefore a relationship between the circadian and homeostatic cycles - in morning people vs evening people, was unsuccessful. There are several Morningness-Eveningness Questionairres on-line. One is at http://www.cet-surveys.org/Dialogix/servlet/Dialogix?schedule=3&DIRECTIVE=START

CHANGING YOUR CHRONOTYPE

Can you change from a morning lark to a night owl or vice versa? No. You cant really change the underlying biological predilication to a chronotype. Over time your body may change. Lots of people find themselves turning into morning people as they age. But its not possible to make this happen. You can do things like use exposure to bright light to attempt to reset your circadian clock. And you can use a drug like melatonin or (perhaps in the future) one of the new drugs in the emerging field of

chronobiotics. But this probably isnt a good long term solution. Talk to a doctor. Most doctors will tell you to avoid staying on drugs for long periods unless necessary.
LIVING WITH YOUR CHRONOTYPE

If you lived on your own with no interactions with others, you wouldnt have problems with your chronotype. Tension comes in when you have to live and work with others. This is rarely a serious problem, though. You learn to live with family members who are different from you. You learn to get to work at the time your employer demands and when social activities with others are scheduled. The disconnect can be termed social jet lagbut unlike real jet lag, the social form is chronic. Scientific American had an article on the difference between how caffeine affects morning larks and night owls. The short answer: daytime caffeine disrupts night sleep more in morning people than in evening people. Scientsits have also determinedat least part of the genetic basis of larkiness. This is of little practica use, but it is further proof that the tendency is in-born, not a product of habit or morality.
THE EARLY BIRD GETS THE WORM?

Spanish: A quien madruga, Dios le ayuda - "God helps those who get up early." German: Morgenstund hat Gold im Mund Morning-hours have gold in the mouth." Italian: Chi dormi non piglia pesci He who sleeps doesn't catch any fish.

Neurotransmitter "Teamwork" and Sleep Disorders

Neurotransmitters Could Solve Serious Sleep Disorders
Posted by ThirdAge Staff on July 17, 2012 4:19 PM

Researchers have discovered that two neurotransmitters work together in the brain to block dangerous muscle movements during sleepand the finding could lead to improved treatment of serious conditions like REM sleep disorder.

Until now, experts in sleep disorders have believed that only one of those neurotransmitters, glycine, controlled the bodys muscle movements during rapid eye movement (REM) sleep. But the latest study, conducted at the University of Toronto with rats as subjects, found that another one, gammaaminobutyric acid (GABA), worked in tandem with glycine to paralyze muscles during REM sleep. Without such paralysis, patients suffering from some sleep disorders might, for example, walk without waking up. Dennis McGinty, Ph.D., a behavioral neuroscientist at the Universiy of California, Los Angeles, who isnt associated with the research, said in a statement: By identifying the neurotransmitters and receptors involved in sleep-related paralysis, this study points us to possible treatments for sleeprelated motor disorders, which can often be debilitating. Researcher John H. Peever, Ph.D., of the University of Toronto, said the discovery was especially important as an indicator of how to treat REM sleep disorder, in which a patient acts out his or her dream while its going on. Up to 80 percent of people with that illness go on to develop a degenerative disease like Parkinsons, and knowing how to effectively treat or reverse the earlier disorder might prevent the development of the more serious illness.
http://www.sleepdex.org/diagnosis.htm

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed?term=(((sleep[MJ]+OR+sleep+deprivation[MJ]+OR+(sleep[ti]+NO T+medline[sb]))+AND+(adult[ti]+OR+adults[ti])+AND+(attitude+to+health[MH]+OR+pilot+projects[MH]+ OR+program+evaluation[MH]+OR+health+education[MH]+OR+social+support[MH]+OR+%22public+heal th%22[tiab]+OR+public+health[mh]+OR+nhanes[tiab]+OR+brfss[tiab]+OR+%22sleep+heart+health+stud y%22[tiab]+OR+caregivers[MH]+OR+questionnaires[mh]+OR+napping[ti]+OR+community[tiab])+AND+e nglish[la]+AND+humans[MH]+AND+%22last%205%20years%22[dp]))+NOT+(infant[ti]+OR+child*[ti]+OR +ad[sh])

L-theanine (dalam teh hijau) dan adhd

http://www.web-us.com/l-theanine_anxiety_reducer.htm Cardiovascular diseases L-Theanine: How a Unique Anxiety Reducer and Mood Enhancer Increases Alpha Waves and Alertness as seen in Infinite Play the Movie by Carolyn Perrini, CLS, CNC

Hundreds of studies exist showing the many health benefits of green tea. But what makes it the most

consumed beverage in the world after water is its pleasant taste and relaxation effect. Both of these qualitiesand morecan be traced to a unique, neurologically-active amino acid in tea called L-theanine (gamma-ethylamino-L-glutamic acid).

L-theanine is a free (non-protein) amino acid found almost exclusively in tea plants (Camellia sp.), constituting between 1 and 2-percent of the dry weight of tea leaves. It is the predominant amino acid in green tea leaves, giving tea its characteristic umami or "5th taste" (besides the four traditional tastes: sweet, salty, acid, and bitter). Attempts to isolate the L-theanine, with its physical and neurological benefits, from the tea leaves were once difficult, expensive, and inefficient. Economically f

Physiological Effects The calming effect of green tea may seem contradictory to the stimulatory property of tea's caffeine content but it can be explained by the action of L-theanine. This amino acid actually acts antagonistically against the stimulatory effects of caffeine on the nervous system. (1) Research on human volunteers has demonstrated that L-theanine creates a sense of relaxation in approximately 30-40 minutes after ingestion via at least two different mechanisms. First, this amino acid directly stimulates the produc

Alpha Brain Activity The brain emits weak electrical impulses (brain waves) that can be measured on the surface of the head. The predominant frequency of electrical impulses correlates with different types of mental states and activities. Brain waves are classified into four categories (delta, theta, alpha, and beta)each with an associated mental state (Fig. 1). Delta is seen only in the deepest stages of sleep. Theta is seen in light sleep and drowsiness. Alpha is present in wakefulness where there is a relaxed and effortles

In one study of these mental responses to L-theanine, brain wave topography showed that alpha waves were observed from the back to the top of a person's head (occipital and parietal regions of the brain) within approximately 40 minutes after the subjects had taken either 50 or 200 mg of L-theanine. In a separate study, the intensity of alpha waves were determined to be dose dependent (with a 200 mg dose showing a significant increase over controls) and detectable after 30 minutes. (2,3)

Additional Benefits L-theanine has a significant effect on the release or reduction of neurotransmitters like dopamine and serotonin, resulting in improved memory and learning ability. L-theanine may also influence emotions

due to its effects on the increased release of dopamine. L-theanine reduces brain serotonin concentration by either curtailing serotonin synthesis or increasing degradation in the brain.

The regulation of blood pressure is partly dependent upon catecholaminergic and serotonergic neurons in both the brain and the peripheral nervous system. Studies on spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR) showed an impressive blood pressure lowering effect with L-theanine. The lowered blood pressure effect was dose-dependent with the highest test dose creating the most significant drop. L-glutamine was used as one of the controls. Although L-glutamine is similar in chemical structure to L-theanine, it did no

Preliminary studies report that L-theanine has been found to increase the anti-tumor activity of some chemotherapeutic agents (doxorubicin and idarubicin) and to ameliorate some of the side effects of these drugs. It appears to increase the inhibitory concentration of these drugs in the tumor cells, although the mechanism is not known. At the same time, L-theanine decreased oxidative stress caused by these agents on the normal cells, possibly due to its mild antioxidant activity. In this regard, L-theanine

Stress Relief Stress and anxiety are debilitating conditions that upset the balance of our hormones leading to a loss of our well-being, performance, and even lifespan. Stress impairs the immune system, leaving us vulnerable to opportunistic infections, and can cause depression. In 1998, pharmaceutical sales of anti-anxiety drugs totaled over 700 million dollars, while sales of antidepressants totaled close to 5 billion dollars! People under stress can mitigate many of the harmful effects of stress with L-theanine witho

Status and Usage L-theanine has just recently been introduced to the U.S. market. Japan is credited with most of the clinical studies and information we possess thus far on L-theanine but research is ongoing. We do know that it is absorbed from the small intestine via a sodium-coupled active transport process. It crosses the blood-brain barrier, as evidenced by the mental effects. L-theanine competes for absorption in the intestinal tract and the brain with the amino acids found in the methionine group (leucine, isoleucine

L-theanine is extremely safe. There are no dietary limits on L-theanine intake by the Japan Food Additive Association. In 1964, the Japanese Ministry of Health and Welfare approved L-theanine for unlimited use in all foods, with the exception of infant foods.

The intended use of L-theanine is that of a mental and physical relaxant that does not induce drowsiness. Although there is no set schedule for taking L-theanine, it may generally be taken at the first signs of stress. Based on the results of the clinical studies, L-theanine is most effective in the range of 50-200 mg, with the effect being felt within 30 minutes and lasting for 8-10 hours. Individuals with high stress levels may increase their dosage of L-theanine to at least 100 mg, with no more than 600

Highly recommended source for this nutrient and other supplements. vitamins antioxidants supplements

Conclusion Research into L-theanine derived from the contradictory observation that green tea, with its high caffeine content, produces a very calming effect. The seemingly multi-dimensional reasons for this relaxation effect will continue to be studied. Current areas of ongoing research include using L-theanine as an alternative to Ritalin in children and adults, as a treatment for PMS, in controlling certain conditions of high blood pressure, in sharpening mental acuity and concentration, and as an anti-cancer agen

References 1. Kakuda T, Nozawa A, Unno T, et al. Inhibiting effects of theanine on caffeine stimulation evaluated by EEG in the rat. Biosci Biotechno Biochem 2000; 64:287-293. 2. Mason R. 200 mg of Zen; L-theanine boosts alpha waves, promotes alert relaxation. Alternative & Complementary Therapies 2001,April; 7:91-95 3. Juneja LR, Chu D-C, Okubo T, et al. L-theanine a unique amino acid of green tea and its relaxation effect in humans. Trends Food Sci Tech 1999; 10:199-204. 4. Yokozawa T, Dong E. Influence of green tea and its three major components upon low-density lipoprotein oxidation. Exp Toxicol Pathol 1997; 49(5):329-335.

Efek Positif Teh Hijau Jepang

Catechin (Tannin) Catechin, juga disebut Tannin, merupakan bioflavonoid yang memiliki fungsi antiviral sekaligus antioksidan. Zat ini membantu pencegahan penyakit kanker, yaitu dengan menghambat perkembangan sel-sel kanker. Catechin juga memiliki efek positif terhadap penurunan tingkat kolesterol dalam tubuh. Zat ini membantu membersihkan sumbatan dalam pembuluh nadi dan arteri, sehingga menyebabkan peredaran darah menjadi lancar. Beberapa penelitian menunjukkan bahwa Catechin membantu dalam pencegahan stoke, serangan jantung, penyempitan pembuluh darah dan bahkan penyakit jantung. Hal yang mengagumkan bahwa Catechin juga menjaga seluruh tubuh dari kerusakan dari proses oksidasi, akibat radikal bebas dan racun lainnya yang berasal dari lingkungan.

Daun teh menghasilkan Catechin untuk melindunginya dari sinar ultraviolet. Walaupun seluruh teh jepang mengandung Catechin, namun pohon teh yang tumbuh dengan sinar matahari penuh seperti Sencha, memiliki kadar Catechin paling tinggi. Catechin paling baik diekstrak pada air bertemperatur antara 75 80 derajat Celsius. Daftar berikut merupakan efek menguntungkan dari Catechin: Membuang Radikal Bebas (activated oxygen) Radikal bebas (activated oxygen) merupakan zat yang memiliki kemampuan oksidasi tinggi di dalam tubuh yang diketahui sebagai penyebab berbagai penyakit, proses penuaan, serta kerutan pada kulit. Radikal bebas meningkat akibat terlalu banyak terpapar cahaya ultraviolet, proses penuaan, merokok, serta terlalu banyak konsumsi minuman beralkohol. Apabila anda ingin mengeluarkan radikal bebas yang ada dalam tubuh anda, maka semestinya anda mengkonsumsi asupan yang memiliki kandungan antioksidan yang tinggi. Catechin dan Vitamin C merupakan antioksidan yang telah dikenal luas. Teh hijau Jepang mengandung baik Catechin maupun Vitamin C. Dianjurkan untuk mengkonsumsi teh hijau jepang untuk membuang/menghilangkan radikal bebas yang berbahaya ini. Mengurangi Kadar Kolesterol Tingginya kadar kolesterol diketahui sebagai penyebab arteriosclerosis, myocardial infarction (serangan jantung), and cerebral infraction (stroke). Namun demikan, tidak seluruh kolesterol bersifat buruk dan mengganggu kesehatan. LDL merupakan kolesterol jahat dan HDL merupakan kolestrol baik. Terlalu banyak kandungan LDL dapat menyebabkan sel-sel dalam tubuh beroksidasi dan menyebabkan arteriosclerosis. Catechin, yang ditemukan pada teh hijau Jepang, mem-blok formasi kolesterol jahat LDL sehingga membantu pencegahan arteriosclerosis. Bukan hanya menghambat terbentuknya kolesterol jahat LDL, Catechin dalam teh hijau Jepang juga meningkatkan kolesterol baik HDL dalam tubuh. Mengurangi Lemak Banyak penelitian menunjukkan bahwa mengkonsumsi Catechin meningkatkan konsumsi energi sehat dalam tubuh manusia dan hewan sekaligus mengurangi lemak dalam tubuh dan sistem pencernaan. Dilaporkan pula bahwa Catechin yang terserap dalam aliran darah, mencapai sel-sel di dalam hati/liver dan bekerja meningkatkan metabolisme lemak. Sifat Antibakteri dan Bebas Kuman Catechin memiliki efek antibakteri serta bebas kuman terhadap kuman dan bakteri. Hal ini dibuktikan dengan penggunaannya sebagai alat sterilisasi kuman penyakit penyebab infeksi di rumah-rumah sakit (di Jepang) sehingga Catechin sangat penting untuk menghindari infeksi serta penyakit. Antiviral Penelitian menunjukkan bahwa Catechin dapat pula mencegah infeksi yang disebabkan oleh virus. Berkumur dengan teh hijau Jepang dapat menghambat influenza dan demam ringan, juga dapat membantu meringankan gejala influenza dan demam, antara lain tenggorokan perih, batuk, dan tersumbatnya pernapasan. Mencegah infeksi influenza Hiroshi Yamada, doctor of internal medicine pada Shizuoka General Hospital serta professor of medicine pada Shizuoka University, menerbitkan sebuah studi tentang keefektifan dari Catechin terhadap jenis influenza baru (2009, H1N1 type). Melalui eksperimen risetnya, ia membuktikan bahwa berkumur dengan teh hijau Jepang dapat mencegah infeksi influenza. Dikatakan bahwa efek positif dari Cetechin adalah sama antara jenis influenza baru (2009, H1N1 type) dengan influenza umum musiman. Sebagai tambahan, selain berkumur, dengan meminum teh hijau maka akan memberi efek yang lebih baik karena zat-zat dalam teh hijau Jepang, berupa Vitamin C dan kandungan lainnya bekerjasama dengan Catechin. Sehingga aktivitas berkumur serta meminum teh hijau Jepang sangat dianjurkan. Meringankan alergi Catechin memiliki efek meringankan alergi (termasuk alergi debu/alergi jamur dan penyakit kulit)

Diketahui pula bahwa Catechin meringankan gejala alergi termasuk gatal dan bersin. Kesehatan mulut Catechin merupakan deodoran yang efektif sekaligus zat bebas hama. Secangkir teh hijau Jepang sesudah makan dapat mencegah pertumbuhan kuman bakteri, yang menyebabkan penyakit gigi dan halitosis (bau mulut) Mencegah lubang gigi (cavities) Catechin efektif mencegah lubang gigi. Catechin mencegah lubang gigi yang ada menjadi semakin besar, dengan menyeimbangkan enzim yang ditemukan di area lubang. Dengan mengurangi zat asam yang berbahaya di dalam mulut yang dapat merusak email gigi, Catechin juga bekerja untuk melindungi email dan menjaga gigi sehat dan kuat. Theanine (Teanin) Teh merupakan tanaman yang menghasilkan aminono acid Theanine, juga dikenal sebagai Teanin atau L-Theanine. Theanine merangsang gelombang alpha pada otak, yang berhubungan dengan kondisi mental yang rileks namun terjaga. Zat ini membantu menenangkan pikiran, dan menyebabkan seseorang fokus pada tugas yang sedang dikerjakan. Catechin memiliki rasa pahit dan Theanine manis. Kedua elemen ini menciptakan keseimbangan rasa. Percobaan menunjukkan bahwa Theanine memiliki efek positif terhadap pikiran dan meningkatkan memori melalui peningkatan Dopamine. Eksperimen juga menunjukkan bahwa gelombang alpha pada otak meningkat 40 menit setelah mengkonsumsi Theanine. Manusia mendapatkan manfaat maksimal atas kemampuan mentalnya ketika ia sedang rileks. Jadi minumlah secangkir teh hijau 40 menit sebelum bekerja atau belajar! Anda mungkin juga heran, bagaimana secangkir teh hijau, yang mengandung banyak kafein, dapat membuat rileks. Jawabannya adalah Theanine. Theanine meringankan efek kafein, yang dapat menyebabkan rasa nervous atau terlalu bergairah (sebagaimana anda rasakan taerhadap kopi) serta bekerja menenangkan pikiran. Sehingga, walaupun terdapat kandungan kafein pada teh hijau, tidak menyebabkan rasa nervous atau terlalu bergairah karena adanya Theanine. Theanine dalam jumlah banyak ditemukan pada daun teh Ichibancha (petikan pertama musim) serta Karigane (dibuat dari teh ber-grade tinggi). Gyokuro dan Matcha memiliki kekhususan dalam kayanya kandungan Theanine, karena daun teh kedua jenis ini tumbuh di bawah pelindung dari sinar matahari, beberapa saat sebelum panen. Theanine dapat diekstrak baik pada temperatur rendah maupun tinggi. Vitamin C Vitamin C, Catechin, dan Vitamin E bekerjasama dalam meningkatkan fungsi kekebalan tubuh. Ketiga zat ini juga membantu keindahan kulit anda, yaitu dengan mengurangi problem kulit, kerutan, serta kerusakan akibat sinar matahari. Vitamin C yang terdapat dalam teh hijau bersifat water-soluble, dan panas yang digunakan untuk menyeduh teh tidak mengurangi kualitasnya. Kafein Kafein pada teh hijau terbukti meningkatkan kemampuan kognitif, kewaspadaan, dan energi. Zat ini juga menyebabkan penurunan berat badan melalui efek diuretik. Teh hijau dengan tingkat kafein paling tinggi adalah Matcha, Gyokuro dan Sencha. Houjicha (Bancha) dan Genmaicha memiliki kandungan kafein paing rendah. Bioflavonoids Bioflavonoids yang terdapat dalam teh hijau menjaga kesehatan gigi dan gusi anda. Anda dapat berkumur dengan teh hijau setelah menggosok gigi, untuk membunuh kuman dan mencegah bau mulut.

Mineral Teh kaya akan mineral, termasuk mangan, potasium dan kalsium, yang membantu membuat darah menjadi basa, membuat teratur detak jantung, serta membangun gigi dan tulang yang kuat.

Konsumsi bahan-bahan penting Dengan mengkonsumsi seluruh jenis teh jepang (Gyokuro, Sencha, Genmaicha, dan Houjicha) kecuali Matcha, anda mendapatkan sejumlah besar bahan penting dengan menyeduhnya tiga kali. Dikatakan bahwa 30% sampai 50% dari zat-zat tersebut diekstrak ke dalam air yaitu dengan menyeduh daun teh sebanyak tiga kali. Matcha dihaluskan menjadi bubuk dan seluruhnya larut dalam air ketika diseduh, sehingga anda memimum keseluruhan zat dalam daun teh dan mendapat keseluruhan zat gizi yang menyehatkan tanpa membuang daunnya sebagaimana yang dilakukan terhadap jenis teh lain: Gyokuro, Sencha, Genmaicha, dan Houjicha. Di samping itu, dengan meminum Matcha anda juga meminum juga zat-zat bersifat oil soluble (Vitamin A, Vitamin E, Beta-carotene, dll), yang tidak terekstrak ke dalam air pada saat penyeduhan. Untuk menyeduh secangkir teh (Gyokuro, Sencha, Genmaicha, dan Houjicha), digunakan sekitar 3 sampai 4g (0.11 to 0.14oz) daun teh. Untuk menyiapkan satu mangkuk (cangkir) Matcha, digunakan sekitar 2g (0.07oz) daun teh. Jadi jika anda ingin mengkonsumsi seluruh zat, maka anda akan mendapatkannya pada Matcha, lebih banyak daripada jenis teh lain.

Setelah Ngeteh: Tips untuk menggunakan daun teh bekas Bahkan setelah ngeteh, daun teh bekas dapat memberi manfaat kehidupan keseharian anda! Deodorizer Daun teh hijau memiliki efek penghilang bau yang memukau. Sebagai contoh, anda dapat membakar daun teh bekas yang telah dikeringkan sebagai pengharum (incense). Asapnya akan menghilangkan bau dan membuat ruangan anda berbau segar. Anda juga dapat meletakkan daun teh bekas yang kering di dalam sepatu untuk menghilangkan bau tak sedap. Bau pada peralatan masak seperti talenan dan panci dapat dihilangkan dengan mengelap peralatan itu dengan daun teh hijau yang telah terpakai. Anti karat Melap peralatan masak terbuat dari baja atau pisau dapat mencegahnya dari karat. Tannin, sebagai salah satu zat dalam teh hijau, membuat lapisan anti karat pada permulaan logam baja. Antiseptik Daun teh memiliki efek antiseptik dan melembabkan. Anda dapat berkumur dengan teh hijau untuk membunuh kuman penyakit atau menggunakannya sebagai antiseptik atau pelembab agar kulit anda tetap cantik dan sehat. Secara tradisional, orang Jepang menggunakan kain yang telah direndam dalam Houjicha untuk mengelap kulit bayi agar tetap bersih dan lembut.

http://umm.edu/health/medical/altmed/herb/green-tea

Everyday stress is a normal part of modern living. Job pressures, family responsibilities, financial pressures, traffic, and time management are just a few of the constant stressors most of us face on a daily basis. Sometimes the stress can be overwhelmingas a result nearly 20 percent of adults in the U.S. use a drug like Xanax, Valium, Restoril, Lunesta, or Ambien to help them calm down or sleep, All of these drugs are associated with significant risks, including the fact that they are highly addictive and are very poor candidates for long-term use. Up 35 percent in the last year, prescriptions for these types of drugs are at an all-time high.

A Gentle, Natural Alternative For Relaxation and Stress Reduction

L-theanine, a unique amino acid found almost exclusively in tea (Camellia sinensis), is emerging as the premier natural approach to relieve stress and anxiety. Comprising between 1 to 2 percent of the dry weight of tea leaves, Ltheanine has been available in the U.S. as a purified form known as Suntheanine for several years now. The effects of L-theanine are amazing. Clinical studies have demonstrated that L-theanine reduces stress, improves quality of sleep, diminishes symptoms of premenstrual syndrome, heightens mental acuity, and reduces negative side effects of caffeine. These clinical effects are directly related to L-theanines ability to stimulate the production of alpha brain waves (often achieved by meditation and characterized by relaxation with greater mental focus and mental alertness), as well as reduced beta waves (associated with nervousness, scattered thoughts, and hyperactivity). L-theanine has been approved for use in Japan to conquer stress and promote relaxation. It is a popular ingredient in functional foods and beverages, as well as dietary supplements designed to produce mental and physical relaxation without inducing drowsiness. L-theanine is fast acting. When taken on an empty stomach the effects are felt within the first 30 minutes and have been shown to last 8 to 12 hours. It has also been used with great effectiveness to relief premenstrual syndrome

Dosage
Clinical studies find L-theanine effective in the range of 50 to 200 mg. For higher stress levels, 100 to 200 mg one to three times daily is recommended. Although L-theanine is completely safe and without any known adverse drug interactions, as a general guideline, take no more than 600 mg within a sixhour period and no more than 1,200 mg within a 24-hour period. At typical dosages 100 to 200 mg, L-theanine does not act as a sedative but significantly improves sleep quality. It is also an excellent synergist to melatonin and 5-HTP (5~hydroxytryptophan) in promoting sleep. On its own, Ltheanine at a dosage of 200 mg was shown in a double-blind trial to produce statistically significant improvements in sleep efficiency.

The Next Supplement Superstar

There are several reasons why L-theanine is going to emerge as a major natural product. It fills a need as a safe alternative to prescription drugs that are highly addictive and have a long list of side effects. The scientific merit of the product has been sufficiently established. In addition, L-theanine is a product that is truly experientialwhen you use it, you can feel a difference. However, in the studies showing L-theanines ability to produce an increase in alpha waves, the relaxing effect was really only noticeable in people who were experiencing a bit of nervousness. People who were already feeling relaxed and alert did not experience any change with L-theanine. The people who really feel the full effects of L-theanine are only those that truly need it. Research has demonstrated that in addition to facilitating relaxation, Ltheanine may benefit learning performance, mental clarity, concentration, and immunity. And, unlike tranquilizing drugs, it doesnt interfere with the ability to think. Studies on rodents show just the opposite: theanine enhances the ability to learn and remember. By shutting down the worry mode, theanine increases concentration and focuses thought. Michael Lyon, MD, Director of the Canadian Center for Functional Medicine, in conjunction with the University of British Columbia, is conducting a doubleblind, placebo-controlled study in boys diagnosed with attention deficit disorder with hyperactivity. If the results of Dr. Lyons study are as impressive as case histories and preliminary studies, L-theanine should emerge as a safe, natural alternative to the drug Ritalin for children with ADHD.
Sleep is a complex, global and reversible behavioral state of all mammals, that is homeostatically regulated. Generally it is also defined as a rapidly reversible state of immobility and reduced sensory responsiveness. Still, there is no definition that has succeded in satisfying all aspects of sleep. The failure to define sleep as a single behavior lies in several facts: (1) sleep is not a homogenous state, but continuum of number of mixed states; (2) the control mechanisms of sleep are manifested at all levels of biological organization--from genes and intracellular mechanisms to the networks of neuronal populations within the central nervous system that control movement, arousal, autonomic functions, behavior and cognition; (3) the activity and interactions of these neurochemically greatly heterogenous neuronal populations are dependent of two biological rhythms--the circadian rhythm of wake/sleep and periodic cycles of NREM/REM sleep as two main sleep states. There are several levels of sleep control. The brain forebrain areas serve to control neuropsychology of dreaming; thalamo-cortical system controls NREM sleep rhythms, EEG activation and deactivation; hippocampo-cortical system controls memory consolidation; hypothalamic nuclei are the sources of circadian rhythm and sleep onset control; the control of periodic NREM/REM cycling is within the pons. The wake promoting neuronal populations are within the brainstem, midbrain, hypothalamus and basal forebrain. The main pontine wake-promoting centers are the noradrenergic neurons of locus coeruleus, the serotonergic neurons of dorsal raphe nucleus and the cholinerigic neurons of pedunculopontine tegmental nucleus and laterodorsal tegmental nucleus. The reciprocal connections and interactions of these neurons, and their opposite discharge pattern activity from wake to NREM and REM sleep have been the background of reciprocal interaction hypothesis of REM sleep generation. The wake-promoting neurons at the midbrain level are glutamatergic neurons of midbrain reticular formation, dopaminergic neurons of substantia nigra and ventral tegmental area. All pontine and midbrain wake-promoting cells project dorsally to activate thalamocortical system and ventrally to activate hypothalamo-cortical and basalo-cortical systems. There are also hypothalamic wake-promoting histaminegic neurons within the tuberomammilary nucleus of the

posterior hypothalamus, and the hypocretinergic neurons of lateral hypothalamus. Cholinergic neurons of the basal forebrain beside control of wakefulness are included in control of many wake-promoting behaviors such as attention, sensory procession and learning. Recent molecular studies suggest the nucleus suprachiasmaticus as a wake-promotin area of the brain. The most important endogenously accumulated metabolite during wakefulness that initiates sleep is adenosine. Beside adenosine, the sleep-initiating factors are also GABA, glycine, PGD2, and cytokines IL-1beta and TNF-alpha. Also, releasing hormone of growth hormone (GHRH) increases depth and duration of NREM sleep. On the bases of "flip-flop" hypothesis of REM sleep control two GABA neuronal populations within the pons-REM-off area (ventrolateral periaqueductal grey matter and lateral pontine tegmentum), and REM-on area (sublaterodorsal nucleus and precoeruleus) are reciprocally interconnected and inhibit each other. REM-off area is activated by orexinergic neurons of lateral hypothalamus, and inhibited by GABAergic and galanin neurons of hypothalamic ventrolateral preoptic nucleus. Monoaminergic neurons of dorsal raphe nucleus and locus coeruleus are excitatory, while cholinergic neurons of PPT/LDT are inhibitory modulators of REM-off area of "flip-flop" switch. Although a lot of knowledge and progress has been accumulated in sleep research, we still do not have a meaningful explanation for the actual function of sleep. Sleep deprivation for 2-3 weeks in rats is fatal. Many experimental evidence suggest a role of REM sleep in brain development and maturation, synaptic homeostasis, memory and learning, but sleep in not universal state with the same underlying vital function in all species. Even within the species that do meet the behavioral definitons of sleep behavior (about 50 of 60 000 vertebrates tested) still is questionable do they sleep for the same reason.