To sleep or not to sleep: a systematic review of the literature of pharmacological treatments of insomnia in children and adolescents with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder.
We examined the effectiveness of various sleep medications, including L-theanine, for children and adolescents with ADHD. Out of 337 articles, only five were relevant.
While L-theanine showed some improvement in sleep efficiency, it did not significantly reduce sleep latency or increase overall sleep time. Other medications like clonidine and melatonin showed more promising results, reducing insomnia more effectively.
Overall, the lack of robust evidence for L-theanine suggests that more research is needed to confirm these findings and guide treatment options.
Read More
4
L-theanine shows limited sleep benefits
L-theanine in the adjunctive treatment of generalized anxiety disorder: A double-blind, randomised, placebo-controlled trial.
In our 10-week study with 46 participants diagnosed with Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD), we aimed to see if L-theanine could enhance sleep and reduce anxiety when combined with standard antidepressants.
While L-theanine didn’t significantly lower anxiety or insomnia severity compared to a placebo, participants on L-theanine did report feeling more satisfied with their sleep quality. Particularly, those experiencing non-clinical insomnia symptoms noted better outcomes.
These findings suggest that while L-theanine may not be a strong treatment for anxiety, it could have potential for improving sleep satisfaction.
Read More
Most Useful Reviews
9.5
Great for insomnia relief
I started taking Theanine to help with my insomnia. Previously, I had difficulty finding an effective solution, and my doctor wasn't helpful. After starting Theanine, the nightly 3 AM awakenings ceased, and I no longer experience joint pain. I also noticed a reduction in my high blood pressure after taking it. After a week, my knees felt better than they have in a year, prompting me to increase my intake frequency.
Read More
9.5
Natural remedy
At 27, I encountered insomnia for the first time. After thorough research, I found that amino acids can safely restore sleep. I take L-theanine with GABA and L-tryptophan at 8 pm, allowing relaxation before bed and enhancing melatonin production. This regimen helps me sleep soundly before my busy days. I truly appreciate the convenience and effectiveness of these small, easy-to-swallow capsules.
Read More
9.5
Much calmer
I follow my doctor's directions for insomnia and take one capsule at lunchtime. The result has been noticeably calmer days.
In our 10-week study with 46 participants diagnosed with Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD), we aimed to see if L-theanine could enhance sleep and reduce anxiety when combined with standard antidepressants.
While L-theanine didn’t significantly lower anxiety or insomnia severity compared to a placebo, participants on L-theanine did report feeling more satisfied with their sleep quality. Particularly, those experiencing non-clinical insomnia symptoms noted better outcomes.
These findings suggest that while L-theanine may not be a strong treatment for anxiety, it could have potential for improving sleep satisfaction.
Read More
4
Insufficient evidence for L-theanine
To sleep or not to sleep: a systematic review of the literature of pharmacological treatments of insomnia in children and adolescents with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder.
We examined the effectiveness of various sleep medications, including L-theanine, for children and adolescents with ADHD. Out of 337 articles, only five were relevant.
While L-theanine showed some improvement in sleep efficiency, it did not significantly reduce sleep latency or increase overall sleep time. Other medications like clonidine and melatonin showed more promising results, reducing insomnia more effectively.
Overall, the lack of robust evidence for L-theanine suggests that more research is needed to confirm these findings and guide treatment options.
Read More
User Reviews
USERS' SCORE
Good
Based on 26 Reviews
8.3
All Reviews
Positive Reviews
Negative Reviews
9.5
Great for insomnia relief
I started taking Theanine to help with my insomnia. Previously, I had difficulty finding an effective solution, and my doctor wasn't helpful. After starting Theanine, the nightly 3 AM awakenings ceased, and I no longer experience joint pain. I also noticed a reduction in my high blood pressure after taking it. After a week, my knees felt better than they have in a year, prompting me to increase my intake frequency.
Read More
9.5
Natural remedy
At 27, I encountered insomnia for the first time. After thorough research, I found that amino acids can safely restore sleep. I take L-theanine with GABA and L-tryptophan at 8 pm, allowing relaxation before bed and enhancing melatonin production. This regimen helps me sleep soundly before my busy days. I truly appreciate the convenience and effectiveness of these small, easy-to-swallow capsules.
Read More
9.5
Much calmer
I follow my doctor's directions for insomnia and take one capsule at lunchtime. The result has been noticeably calmer days.
Read More
9.5
Drastic improvement
A recommendation from Huberman remarkably eased my chronic insomnia of over four years. After trying various theanine versions, I found Suntheanine to be superior. It has no taste, which is an advantage, and the sleep benefits are remarkable.
Read More
8.3
Non-drug sleeping aid
Effective for my parents' insomnia. If you struggle to sleep without medication, please try it. Within 1 to 2 weeks, it doesn't act like sleeping pills, but when you lie down, sleep will come. I've never slept without medication before... You say you're a repeat buyer.
Insomnia is a common sleep disorder characterized by the inability to fall asleep, stay asleep, or wake up too early and not be able to go back to sleep. Individuals experiencing insomnia may find that it affects their daytime functioning, leading to issues such as fatigue, mood disturbances, and difficulty concentrating. Insomnia can be classified into two main types: acute insomnia, which lasts for a short period often triggered by stress or life changes, and chronic insomnia, which occurs at least three times a week for three months or longer, and may require more in-depth evaluation and treatment.
Numerous factors can contribute to insomnia, including stress, anxiety, poor sleep habits, medical conditions, and the use of certain medications. Treatment for insomnia typically involves a combination of lifestyle changes, cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBT-I), and sometimes medication. Establishing a consistent sleep routine, creating a comfortable sleep environment, and practicing relaxation techniques can help improve sleep quality. If insomnia persists, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and customized treatment options.
L-theanine is a naturally occurring amino acid most commonly found in tea leaves, particularly green tea, and is known for its potential calming effects. While caffeine can lead to increased alertness and focus, L-theanine promotes relaxation without causing drowsiness, making it a popular supplement among those seeking to enhance their mental performance while also managing stress. It is believed to work by influencing the production of neurotransmitters, such as serotonin and dopamine, which can positively affect mood and cognitive function.
Many users report that L-theanine may enhance the benefits of caffeine, leading to improved focus and reduced feelings of jitteriness when consumed together. This unique combination is often sought after by students and professionals during periods of intense concentration or study. As a dietary supplement, L-theanine is available in various forms, including capsules, powders, and tea, allowing individuals to choose the method that best fits their lifestyle. Typically, dosages range from 100 to 400 mg per day, depending on the intended effects and individual tolerance.
While research regarding L-Theanine and its effects on insomnia is still evolving, this amino acid, found primarily in green tea, has garnered attention for its potential calming properties. Several studies suggest that L-Theanine may promote relaxation without drowsiness, aiding those who struggle with anxiety and stress, which are often contributing factors to insomnia. By increasing levels of calming neurotransmitters like GABA, serotonin, and dopamine, L-Theanine may help improve overall sleep quality, making it easier to fall and stay asleep.
However, it’s important to approach L-Theanine as part of a comprehensive sleep strategy. While it might be beneficial for some as a natural option to reduce stress and promote relaxation, individual responses can vary. Those dealing with chronic insomnia should consider consulting with a healthcare provider for tailored advice and treatment options. In conjunction with good sleep hygiene practices, such as maintaining a consistent sleep schedule and creating a comfortable sleep environment, L-Theanine could potentially play a supportive role in achieving a more restful night's sleep.
Based on user reviews, the timeline for experiencing results from this supplement for insomnia can vary significantly. Many users report noticing improvements within a week or two of consistent use. For instance, one user stated that after one to two weeks of use, they found it effective in promoting sleep without the use of traditional sleeping pills (Read Review). Another review highlighted a positive response after about a week of taking L-theanine, mentioning increased calmness and better control over anxiety (Read Review).
However, results can depend on individual factors, including the specific formulation of the supplement and personal physiology. Some users found the supplement somewhat ineffective when taken over a ten-day period, reporting little to no improvement (Read Review). Overall, while many report a beneficial response within a couple of weeks, it's important to remember that experiences can differ greatly, with some users not finding relief at all (Read Review).
L-theanine presents an interesting option for those exploring natural supplements for sleep problems, specifically related to anxiety. A study involving individuals diagnosed with Generalized Anxiety Disorder found that while L-theanine did not significantly lower anxiety or insomnia severity, participants who took it reported greater satisfaction with their sleep quality, particularly those experiencing non-clinical insomnia symptoms [1]. This suggests that for some, L-theanine may enhance perceived sleep quality rather than directly address insomnia severity.
However, the evidence regarding L-theanine’s effectiveness is not particularly strong. A review focusing on sleep medications for children and adolescents with ADHD noted that while L-theanine showed slight improvements in sleep efficiency, it did not significantly affect sleep latency or overall sleep time compared to other treatments [2]. Given this data, while L-theanine may offer a subjective improvement in sleep satisfaction for some individuals, it lacks robust evidence to position it as an effective treatment for insomnia, indicating a need for further research to substantiate its claims.
Based on user reviews, numerous individuals have reported significant improvements in their insomnia symptoms after incorporating L-theanine into their nightly routine. For example, one user found that by combining L-theanine with GABA and L-tryptophan before bed, they were able to sleep soundly, which contributed to their overall relaxation before busy days (Read Review). Another reviewer praised the efficacy of L-theanine in easing chronic insomnia, highlighting its superior performance compared to other versions they've tried (Read Review). Many users reported feeling calmer and more relaxed, with notable benefits for anxiety management alongside improvements in sleep quality after a consistent regimen (Read Review).
However, experiences can be highly individual; while some found L-theanine to be transformative for their sleep quality, others did not achieve the desired outcomes. For instance, a user mentioned feeling even more unsettled after ten days of use, indicating that the supplement may not work for everyone (Read Review). Overall, while many report positive changes, the effectiveness of L-theanine remains variable, with some users not experiencing relief from their insomnia at all (Read Review).
Based on user reviews, many individuals have reported positive experiences when combining L-theanine with other supplements to combat insomnia. For example, one user noted that taking L-theanine alongside GABA and L-tryptophan at night enhanced their relaxation and melatonin production, resulting in sound sleep before busy days (Read Review). Others have also highlighted the effectiveness of pairing L-theanine with magnesium, which helped improve sleep quality while reducing the side effects associated with conventional sleeping pills (Read Review). These combinations appear to not only bolster the calming effects of L-theanine but also contribute to an overall better experience of rest.
However, not all users had uniformly positive experiences. Some mentioned that while they paired L-theanine with other supplements, such as magnesium, it did not produce the desired effect for their insomnia, leading to unsettled nights (Read Review). This variability suggests that while many users find combinations effective, individual responses can differ significantly, warranting a cautious approach for those considering such combinations (Read Review). Overall, the anecdotal evidence from user reviews points toward potentially beneficial results when L-theanine is used in conjunction with other supportive supplements for managing insomnia.
Users have reported varying experiences with dosing L-Theanine for treating insomnia, with many finding success when taken before bed. A common practice noted among reviewers is combining L-Theanine with other supplements such as magnesium or GABA, which they believe amplifies its effectiveness. For instance, one user mentioned that taking L-theanine alongside magnesium helped significantly with their insomnia and was far superior to traditional sleeping pills, citing no side effects (Read Review). Others reported using roughly 150 mg before bed, stating that this dosage adequately helped them relax and improve sleep quality (Read Review).
However, not all experiences were positive, as some users indicated that they did not experience any benefits from L-Theanine, even after consistent use at various dosages (review id='973f04b4-4fa9-44d6-90ad-bf0596a854b6' and review id='7beef6f5-072e-44b2-9fc6-23009e4d0568'). Ultimately, while many users found L-Theanine effective in alleviating their insomnia when used correctly, there appears to be variability in individual responses, suggesting that personal experimentation with dosage and timing might be necessary to achieve optimal results.
8.3
Non-drug sleeping aid
Effective for my parents' insomnia. If you struggle to sleep without medication, please try it. Within 1 to 2 weeks, it doesn't act like sleeping pills, but when you lie down, sleep will come. I've never slept without medication before... You say you're a repeat buyer.
8.8
Anxiety controlled
I purchased this for my mother, who has battled insomnia and depression for years. After a week on L-theanine, she feels calmer, with anxiety under control. I also commend iHerb for their excellent service; delivery to Vietnam was just a week!
2.5
Worse morning feelings
I suffer from insomnia, so I took this before bed for about ten days. Regrettably, I couldn’t sleep well and felt more tired and unsettled in the morning. This theanine isn't beneficial for everyone.
2.3
Ineffective treatment
I bought it to tackle insomnia, but it didn't help at all.
9.5
Natural remedy
At 27, I encountered insomnia for the first time. After thorough research, I found that amino acids can safely restore sleep. I take L-theanine with GABA and L-tryptophan at 8 pm, allowing relaxation before bed and enhancing melatonin production. This regimen helps me sleep soundly before my busy days. I truly appreciate the convenience and effectiveness of these small, easy-to-swallow capsules.
9.5
Drastic improvement
A recommendation from Huberman remarkably eased my chronic insomnia of over four years. After trying various theanine versions, I found Suntheanine to be superior. It has no taste, which is an advantage, and the sleep benefits are remarkable.
8.3
Natural stress help
I used it to combat insomnia and stress. I took one at night with magnesium. It definitely has an effect. L-theanine is a natural emotional modulator, helping to reduce nervousness, relieve anxiety, and improve attention concentration. It's relaxing, not sedating, and enhances sleep quality when paired with magnesium.
8.3
Side-effect free
It helps with insomnia when taken before bed with magnesium and is much better than sleeping pills with no side effects.
8
Calm mind
I often take this with morning coffee to prevent jitters and enhance mental focus, yet occasionally use it before bed to alleviate anxiety and insomnia. At 150mg, it’s the perfect dosage for my needs.
4
L-theanine shows limited sleep benefits
L-theanine in the adjunctive treatment of generalized anxiety disorder: A double-blind, randomised, placebo-controlled trial.
In our 10-week study with 46 participants diagnosed with Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD), we aimed to see if L-theanine could enhance sleep and reduce anxiety when combined with standard antidepressants.
While L-theanine didn’t significantly lower anxiety or insomnia severity compared to a placebo, participants on L-theanine did report feeling more satisfied with their sleep quality. Particularly, those experiencing non-clinical insomnia symptoms noted better outcomes.
These findings suggest that while L-theanine may not be a strong treatment for anxiety, it could have potential for improving sleep satisfaction.
4
Insufficient evidence for L-theanine
To sleep or not to sleep: a systematic review of the literature of pharmacological treatments of insomnia in children and adolescents with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder.
We examined the effectiveness of various sleep medications, including L-theanine, for children and adolescents with ADHD. Out of 337 articles, only five were relevant.
While L-theanine showed some improvement in sleep efficiency, it did not significantly reduce sleep latency or increase overall sleep time. Other medications like clonidine and melatonin showed more promising results, reducing insomnia more effectively.
Overall, the lack of robust evidence for L-theanine suggests that more research is needed to confirm these findings and guide treatment options.
References
Sarris J, Byrne GJ, Cribb L, Oliver G, Murphy J, et al. L-theanine in the adjunctive treatment of generalized anxiety disorder: A double-blind, randomised, placebo-controlled trial. J Psychiatr Res. 2019;110:31. doi:10.1016/j.jpsychires.2018.12.014
Barrett JR, Tracy DK, Giaroli G. To sleep or not to sleep: a systematic review of the literature of pharmacological treatments of insomnia in children and adolescents with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder. J Child Adolesc Psychopharmacol. 2013;23:640. doi:10.1089/cap.2013.0059