How does green tea help reduce stress?

Researchers say an active ingredient in green tea may diminish stress

Stress is felt more extensively in women with pre-menstrual syndrome (PMS). More than 70 percent of American women of child bearing age cope with symptoms typically associated with PMS during at least some portion of their lifetime.

Green tea is known to have calming benefits and there is mounting scientific evidence that one of its most important active ingredients -- (the unique amino acid L-theanine) -- is responsible for this calming effect.

Suntheanine (a purified form of L-theanine from Japan) reduces feelings of anxiety and promotes the production of alpha brain waves, a state often achieved by meditation where one is deeply relaxed and mentally alert. Its effects are generally felt within 30 minutes and have been shown to last up to 8-12 hours. "Because of its mood-stabilizing effects, it would make sense that Suntheanine would be beneficial to women who experience symptoms of PMS," says Michael R. Lyon, M.D., the Medical Research Director at the Canadian Center for Functional Medicine and an expert on Suntheanine.

He adds that Suntheanine's ability to reduce stress without reducing alertness may be the ideal solution for these women.

Suntheanine also improves quality of sleep, without the risk of addiction or morning grogginess, another benefit for those who report symptoms of sleepiness and fatigue. Suntheanine amino acid can now be found in chewable tablets, capsules, beverages and other foods. One serving is equivalent to approximately 20 cups of green tea.