A perfect blend of L-theanine and caffeine for focus and mental wellbeing.
We’ve all heard it before: “Have a cup of tea and you’ll feel better.” Turns out, that age-old comfort isn’t just sentimental – it’s backed by science.
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Tea, whether green, black, or oolong, contains two natural compounds; L-theanine and caffeine – and when they come together, they create a kind of mental harmony that coffee simply can’t match. Think of it as energy with grace: alert yet grounded.
L-theanine, an amino acid found almost exclusively in tea leaves, promotes a state of relaxed alertness by increasing alpha brain waves – the ones linked to calm focus and creativity. Meanwhile, caffeine gives that familiar boost in concentration and wakefulness. But here’s the magic: L-theanine balances caffeine’s intensity, smoothing out the spikes and keeping you sharp without the jitters or crash.
According to research, this duo can enhance attention, reaction time, and working memory, while also reducing anxiety. It’s like pressing refresh on your brain – steady energy, clear thoughts, and calm confidence.
And there’s more. Regular tea drinkers might actually be doing their brains a long-term favour. Studies suggest that both L-theanine and caffeine have neuroprotective properties, which could help slow age-related cognitive decline and reduce the risk of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s. A 2011 study even linked L-theanine to reduced oxidative stress and inflammation – two key players in memory loss and fatigue.
So, the next time you cradle that steaming cup between your hands, remember – you’re not just soothing your senses. You’re boosting focus, lifting your mood, and nurturing your brain with every sip.
Brewing the perfect cup
For tea that tastes as good as it makes you feel, follow these simple tips from Dilmah Tea:
- Tea-to-water ratio: Use 2.5 g of tea per 220 ml of water.
- Pre-warm: Rinse your teapot and cup with hot water before brewing.
- Stir: Gently stir after pouring to ensure even flavour extraction.
Steep times:
- Black tea: 90–95 °C for 3–5 minutes
- Green tea or Oolong: 75–85 °C for around 2 minutes
- Herbal infusions: Boiling water for about 4 minutes
- Don’t squeeze the teabag – this can release unwanted bitterness.
- Serve at 65 °C and decant any leftovers to prevent over-steeping.
From boosting brainpower to bringing you back to the present moment, tea is more than just a beverage – it’s a ritual of warmth, calm, and clarity. A reminder that sometimes, the smartest thing you can do is slow down and sip mindfully.
ALSO SEE: 8 AMAZING TEAS THAT ARE GREAT FOR YOUR HEALTH
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