L-Theanine
L-Theanine is an amino acid found primarily in tea leaves that promotes relaxation without sedation. It enhances focus and attention while reducing anxiety and stress.
Key Benefits
Calm Alertness
Promotes relaxed focus without drowsiness or jitters.
Anxiety Reduction
Reduces anxiety and stress without causing sedation.
Caffeine Synergy
Smooths out caffeine's stimulating effects, reducing jitters.
Sleep Quality
May improve sleep quality when taken in the evening.
How It Works
L-theanine increases alpha brain waves associated with relaxed alertness, modulates GABA, dopamine, and serotonin neurotransmitters, and antagonizes caffeine's stimulating effects.
Scientific Research
L-theanine reduces psychological and physiological stress responses
Biological Psychology • 2007
L-theanine significantly reduced stress responses and promoted relaxation.
Read StudyThe combination of L-theanine and caffeine improves cognitive performance
Nutritional Neuroscience • 2008
L-theanine + caffeine improved attention and task switching more than caffeine alone.
Read StudyFrequently Asked Questions
Can I combine L-Theanine with caffeine?
Yes, this is one of the most researched and effective nootropic stacks. L-Theanine (100-200mg) with caffeine (100-200mg) provides alert focus without jitters or anxiety. The L-Theanine smooths out the caffeine experience. Aftershock V2 Premium includes this combination.
Does L-Theanine make you sleepy?
No. L-Theanine promotes calm alertness, not drowsiness. It increases alpha brain waves, associated with relaxed focus (similar to meditation). It reduces anxiety without sedation. Some people find it helpful for sleep at higher doses (400mg+) before bed, but at typical pre-workout doses it enhances focus.
How quickly does L-Theanine work?
L-Theanine crosses the blood-brain barrier within 30-45 minutes of ingestion. Alpha brain wave activity increases within this timeframe. When combined with caffeine (as in Aftershock), the calming effect begins as the caffeine kicks in, creating a smooth, focused energy experience.
Safety Information
Possible Side Effects
- Mild drowsiness (at high doses)
- Headache (rare)
Drug Interactions
- Blood pressure medications (may enhance effects)
Contraindications
- None well established
Dosage Information
Recommended Daily Dose
100-200mg per day
Range
50-400mg
Timing
Any time; often combined with caffeine (2:1 ratio theanine:caffeine)
Aftershock V2 contains 400mg per serving, paired with 160mg caffeine.
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