According to some studies, L-theanine is an amino acid found in tea plants that is responsible for the unique flavor of green tea and said to promote relaxation and modify the stimulating effects of the caffeine present in green tea. According to some Japanese researchers, theanine is a caffeine antagonist, meaning that it offsets the "hyper" effect of caffeine (Kakuda et al. 2000). That is why many people will have a "soothing" cup of tea and not a soothing cup of coffee. Green tea contains more theanine than the other teas.
This is exactly the kind of calming effect that green tea has on me. Green tea causes me to relax and mellow out. The caffeine provides me a little energy and mental alertness, and yet the green tea is indeed soothing, promoting relaxation and mental clarity.
Of course, green tea is only one of a number of ways I like to relax and clear my mind during the day. I also regularly do breathing exercises and meditate as well as walk and ride my bike. Green tea is just one way to clam my nerves and reduce stress and anti-anxiety during the day.
High Quality Green Tea
Green Tea Health Benefits