L-Theanine for Relaxation and Stress Reduction

Safety and Efficacy

L-theanine should be held for 24 hours before surgery due to its potential to cause a dose-dependent decrease in blood pressure, as recommended by the Mayo Clinic Proceedings 1, 2
Individuals taking medications that affect blood pressure should consult with healthcare providers before use due to L-theanine's potential hypotensive effects, as noted by the Mayo Clinic Proceedings 2
Those with low blood pressure should monitor their response when beginning supplementation, according to the Mayo Clinic Proceedings 2
L-theanine does not cause dependence, tolerance, or cognitive impairment, unlike benzodiazepines and other conventional anxiolytics, as stated in the Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine 3

Unlike many herbal supplements that require holding for 2 weeks before surgery, L-theanine only needs to be discontinued 24 hours prior due to its rapid metabolism, as reported by the Mayo Clinic Proceedings 1, 2
L-theanine offers the convenience of a supplement form compared to other relaxation therapies, such as progressive muscle relaxation, as mentioned in Ca-A Cancer Journal for Clinicians 4, 5