The composition of green tea
L-theanine: a natural relaxant and stress reliever
Despite its high theine content, green tea does indeed have a calming effect. But why? You can mainly thank L-theanine, an amino acid found in green tea leaves. Theanine is well known for its effects on the brain:
- it is thought to reduce mental and physical stress
- it is thought to produce a relaxing effect
- Finally, L-theanine may help promote well-being by reducing the perception of stress and anxiety.
Green tea, thanks in particular to L-theanine, may therefore be beneficial in managing everyday worries.
The good news is that the relaxing effect produced by the L-theanine in green tea will not make you drowsy or put you to sleep. Indeed, L-theanine acts on the brain as a relaxant without being a sedative. Keep in mind that green tea contains theine (the same molecule as caffeine). L-theanine should not be confused with theine, either. These two substances complement each other far more than you might think.
Theine and caffeine: what is the difference?
We often tend to think (wrongly) that theine and caffeine have the exact same effect. While the molecule is identical, the effects of theine on our body are very different from those of caffeine.
While caffeine stimulates the body and mind, theine is far less “wild”:
- The amount of caffeine in a cup of tea differs from that in a cup of coffee. A cup of tea contains three to four times less caffeine. Green tea, in particular, is far less concentrated in caffeine than other teas… Black tea, for instance, is one of the richest in caffeine. The same goes for matcha, which is renowned for its high caffeine content.
- The way the body absorbs theine is different. In coffee, caffeine enters the bloodstream directly, producing a short-term stimulating effect—often described as a “jolt”. In tea, however, the theine binds with tannins, releasing gently into the body and delivering a more sustained energising effect. The effects are therefore smoother, and the energy boost lasts longer. Indeed, green tea is often said to be better than coffee for focus.
At Kusmi, we love unwinding and relaxing with a fine green tea: what could be more natural, after all?
Matcha green tea spotlight: does matcha relax you?
Although it belongs to the green tea family, matcha is far from being the ugly duckling of the clan when it comes to benefits. Is matcha tea more or less effective at reducing anxiety? Back to basics: what is matcha?
Originating in Japan, matcha is a unique, very fine powder made by grinding green tea leaves between two granite blocks, used for the famous Japanese tea ceremony.
The benefits of matcha tea are more or less the same as standard green tea: packed with antioxidants, vitamins (A, C, and E), trace minerals (zinc, copper, and iron), and amino acids. Note, however, that matcha is said to provide around ten times more antioxidants than a cup of regular green tea. It is also worth highlighting its high magnesium content, a mineral trace element recognised for its anti-stress properties. Finally, like all green teas, matcha contains theanine. Theanine is thought to help regulate mood and have a beneficial effect on memory, concentration, and depression. Great news for matcha mania!
A relaxing, theine-free alternative? Do herbal infusions have a soothing effect?
While the theanine found in green tea can help reduce your anxiety, do not underestimate the relaxing powers of 100% theine-free organic herbal teas either.
Count on plants to soothe you and keep anxiety at bay:
- Verbena is known for its calming properties and its potential efficacy for sleep disorders. Verbena may help combat stress. At Kusmi, you can find this soothing plant in our organic Be Cool herbal tea, ideal for sleeping, unwinding, and relaxing throughout the day.
- Chamomile, one of the most widely sold plants in the world, is also known for its calming virtues. You can experience the benefits of chamomile thanks to our organic herbal tea: Lovely Night.
- Lemon balm, which is lesser known, is featured in our Feel Zen organic herbal tea and may help combat nervous tension, stress, and burnout.
3 tips for reducing everyday anxiety
Take breaks. Whilst green tea is renowned for its relaxing properties, the tea break itself is also an excellent way to lower stress levels. Taking a break, stepping back, and focusing on the present moment is essential when experiencing anxiety.
Breathe and focus on your breathing. It is not for nothing that yoga is one of the best activities for health, helping you reconnect with your breath and ground yourself.
Exercise regularly. Physical activity allows some people to ease tension, clear their minds, and free themselves from anxiety.
Convinced? Discover our range of organic green teas Made in Normandy.