A Randomized, Triple-Blind, Placebo-Controlled, Crossover Study to Investigate the Efficacy of a Single Dose of AlphaWave®l-Theanine on Stress in a Healthy Adult Population

Stress is a complex part of life that is essential for survival and achieving goals. Too much stress, however, can be damaging. There is a high prevalence of stress in North America, creating a demand for a safe and effective supplement to reduce it. This study investigated the effectiveness and safety of AlphaWave®l-Theanine on brainwaves and salivary cortisol in healthy, moderately stressed adults facing an acute stressor. This was a randomized, triple-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover study that consisted of two study periods with a 7-day washout. A single dose of 200 mg of AlphaWave®l-Theanine or placebo was administered before and after a mental arithmetic test to elicit acute stress. Electroencephalogram, salivary cortisol, blood pressure, heart rate, self-reported stress, and safety were assessed to evaluate efficacy and safety. This study was conducted during the coronavirus pandemic, which has had a rapid and significant effect on both physical and mental health around the world. A single dose of AlphaWave®l-Theanine had significant positive effects on brainwaves, salivary cortisol, and self-reported state anxiety compared to the placebo in response to an acute stress challenge. These changes are indicative of relaxation in the brain and suggest a calming response in a moderately stressed but otherwise healthy population. AlphaWave®l-Theanine was found to be safe and well tolerated by participants.