Free theanine (amino acid) dosage

L-theanine is a non-protein amino acid naturally present in green tea (Camellia sinensis). Highly valued for its relaxing effects without causing drowsiness, it is attracting increasing interest in the nutraceutical field. Its activity is linked to the modulation of neurotransmission, notably via GABA, dopamine, and serotonin. It is also known to promote concentration, reduce stress, and improve the quality of mental focus.

Measuring free theanine is essential for manufacturers who want to guarantee the quality, compliance, and efficacy of their green tea-based products or products containing functional ingredients. It also allows them to validate claims related to L-theanine concentration in formulations intended for mental well-being or cognitive nutrition.

Available analytical methods: HPLC or LC-MS

L-theanine analysis is generally performed by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) or liquid-phase mass spectrometry (LC-MS). In both cases, a derivatization step is often implemented to improve the detection and separation of this amino acid in complex matrices.

• HPLC-DAD : suitable for concentrated or purified plant extracts.
• LC-MS/MS : recommended for rich matrices (beverages, multi-active powders) or for low concentrations, with very good analytical specificity.

Commonly analyzed matrices

L-theanine dosage is applicable to several types of products:

• Standardized green tea extracts
• Fortified functional beverages
• Dietary supplements (capsules, tablets, soluble powders)
• Multi-ingredient formulations for neurocognitive purposes

Why analyze L-theanine?

• Quality control of raw materials or standardized extracts
• Standardization of formulations based on green tea or natural nootropics
• Regulatory validation in the case of claims regarding relaxing or cognitive effects
• Product development for formulas aimed at mental health, sleep, or concentration

Integration into nutraceutical projects

Increasingly incorporated into nutritional complexes designed to address stress, concentration, or mental recovery, L-theanine is also combined with other active ingredients such as caffeine, rhodiola, or magnesium. Its precise quantification allows for better formulation control, ensures consistency between batches, and substantiates the desired effects in technical and marketing documentation.

YesWeLab Analytical Services

At YesWeLab, we offer you cutting-edge technical expertise and a network of accredited partner laboratories (ISO 17025, COFRAC, etc.) for the analysis of L-theanine and other functional amino acids. Analytical methods are selected based on the complexity of your matrices, the objectives of your analysis (development, quality control, compliance), and your regulatory requirements.

Thanks to our digital platform, you can easily:

• Compare the available methods
• Order your analyses
• Track your samples
• Access your results securely

Our scientific team is ready to listen to you, adapt the methods to your specific constraints, and ensure a quick and reliable response.

Useful links to other related analytical services

• Glutamine dosage : another amino acid involved in cellular nutrition.
• Glycine dosage : for neuroprotective and relaxing formulations.
• Caffeine dosage : often combined with theanine in nootropic formulas.
• Flavonoid analysis : to characterize tea extracts rich in antioxidants.

Need personalized support?

Since 2020, dozens of nutraceutical companies have entrusted us with managing their analyses to guarantee the reliability of their products. Trust YesWeLab for standardization , compliance, and analytical innovation in your projects.

Contact our team to submit a specific need or to obtain a personalized quote as soon as possible.