Skip to content
The popularity of seeking natural supplements to improve well-being and manage stress has reached greater heights in our age than ever before. From the vast array of options, L-Theanine and CBD are worth mentioning for their possible benefits. However, how do these compare and can they be used alongside each other?
This article considers the distinctive characteristics of L-Theanine as well as CBD, which are supported by research evidence to help you make a right decision for your own path to wellness. Should you use one or the other, or choose to combine them both? Let’s find out.
L-THEANINE VS CBD
L-Theanine is an amino acid that is predominantly present in leaves of green and black tea. It has gained recognition due to its ability to induce a state of relaxation without lethargy, and that is why it is very popular among people wanting to release the tension in their body and mind at night.
CBD (Cannabidiol) derived from the hemp is a popular substance due to its possible, unique health advantages. CBD oil has been reported to possess an extensive range of benefits, from minimizing anxiety and pain to enhancing quality sleep; it provides a comprehensive wellness approach to health using plants.
THE SCIENCE OF L-THEANINE & CBD
Studies on L-Theanine show that alpha brain waves can be enhanced to bring about a state of relaxed alertness. Research also shows that it could enhance sleep quality and cognitive intensity [1][2].
The growing body of research provides support for the potential benefits associated CBD. It interacts with the endocannabinoid system in the body affecting receptors that control mood, sleep cycles, pain sensation, and inflammatory response [3][4].
COMPARING SAFETY PROFILES
In general, L-Theanine and CBD are taken as dietary supplements without serious adverse side effects. L-Theanine has only a few side effects that are almost non-existent unless taken in significant amounts. In addition to that CBD is well-tolerated with possible side effects mentioned as fatigue and appetite /weight changes.
CAN L-THEANINE & CBD BE USED TOGETHER?
The mixture of L-Theanine and CBD might increase their beneficial effects for relieving stress and the creation of a relaxing environment. Although little research has been conducted on their combined effects, it is known that the compounds may act synergistically to influence overall well being.
CHOOSING QUALITY SUPPLEMENTS
Quality is very important when choosing L-Theanine or CBD supplements. Instead, go for products that have been tested by a third party to verify the purity and potency. As for CBD, you can try Dr. Hemp Me’s CBD Oil 10% that comes with lab verification to guarantee the required quality level.
THE IMPORTANCE OF RESEARCH
Proper research is essential before including L-Theanine or CBD to your treatment process. Search for reliable sources and research that demonstrate their effectiveness and safety. Determining the source and components that each supplement has may largely affect its effectiveness as well as your health.
THE COMPLEXITIES OF GETTING A GOOD NIGHT’S REST
Getting back into actual restorative sleep can be like doing a puzzle- many of them fit together, but it takes some work to find the ones that do. This is due to the fact that a good sleep depends on various internal and external factors which make such phenomenon rather complicated, unpredictable from person to person.
The sleep cycle is highly disrupted when internal factors like stress, anxiety, hormonal changes and physical health conditions are considered. Externally, factors such as noise pollution and artificial light particularly blue lights emitted by computers, tablets and smart phones serve vital functions curtailing or promoting our sleeping capacity. The feeding habits also play their part in this process.
Considering the critical role of sleep in overall health and well-being it is necessary to discover natural methods that can improve sleep quality. Luckily, there are some strategies and supplements that could enhance sleep quality aligning both internal and external spheres towards a more placid night.
NATURAL STRATEGIES & PRACTICES THAT PROMISE BETTER SLEEP
PRE-SLEEP RELAXATION ROUTINE
Developing a bedtime regimen aimed at promoting relaxation can greatly enhance sleep quality. This may involve things like reading a book, doing some meditation or deep breathing exercises and taking a warm bath. These activities act to send a signal that the body should begin to slow down and prepare for sleeping.
OPTIMIZING YOUR SLEEP ENVIRONMENT
The surroundings you sleep in can radically affect the quality of your rest. In this regard, ensure that your bedroom is cool, dark and not noisy. Think about the use of blackout curtains, white noise machines or even earplugs to suit your ideal sleeping environment. Furthermore, it is important to invest in a good mattress and pillows.
Late evening usage of screens (phones, tablets, computers) interferes with your circadian rhythm and inhibits melatonin production, making it difficult to fall asleep. Reduce screen time at least one hour before bedtime, or use blue light filters to reduce exposure.
REGULAR PHYSICAL ACTIVITY
Performing daily physical exercises help you fall asleep faster and sleep deeper. On the other hand, exercise should not be done just before sleep as it may have a different impact.
DIETARY CHOICES
Sleep is also influenced by what you eat and drink. Avoid large meals, caffeine and alcohol near bedtime because they disrupt. Instead, choose a lighter snack that contains sleep-enhancing ingredients like almonds, walnuts or a small cup of herbal tea such as chamomile.
NATURAL SUPPLEMENTS
The introduction of natural supplements like L-Theanine, CBD, or magnesium may also help achieve better sleep. While L-Theanine promotes relaxation without drowsiness, CBD reduces anxiety and improves sleep quality. Magnesium has a soothing effect on the body which helps in maintaining sleep cycles. It is always better to focus on high-quality supplements and consult a doctor before starting any new supplement therapy.
MEDITATION PRACTICES
Mindfulness activities such as yoga and meditation help reduce stress and anxiety levels, making it easy to fall asleep and stay asleep. Just a few minutes of these practices per day are likely to improve your sleep quality.
CONSULTING A HEALTH PROFESSIONAL
Even though they are natural and have good safety profiles, it is always advisable to seek advice from a health care provider before starting any new supplement in particular if you are currently on medication or managing any health conditions.
CONCLUSION
Both L- Theanine and CBD provide unique yet synergistic benefits for stress relief, enhanced cognition, and improved quality of life. Either used alone or in combination, these are potent tools of the natural wellness toolbox.
On the other hand, people can respond differently; what is effective for one person may not work for another, indicating personalization to supplement intake.
REFERENCES
- Akiko H., et al. (2011) “Effects of L-Theanine on Attention and Reaction Time Response,” Journal of Functional Foods.
- Kelly, Simon P et al. (2008) “L-Theanine and Caffeine in Combination Affect Human Cognition as Evidenced by Oscillatory alpha-Band Activity and Attention Task Performance,” Journal of Nutrition.
- Shannon, Scott et al. (2019) “Cannabidiol in Anxiety and Sleep: A Large Case Series,” The Permanente Journal.
- Blessing, Esther M et al. (2015) “Cannabidiol as a Potential Treatment for Anxiety Disorders,” Neurotherapeutics.
- National Sleep Foundation. (2023) “Sleep Hygiene.” Sleep Foundation, Sleep Foundation.
- Harvard Health Publishing. (2012) “Blue Light Has a Dark Side.” Harvard Medical School – Division of Sleep Medicine, Harvard Health Publishing.
