Got the Fear? Here's a Hangover Hack You Probably Haven't Tried Yet

Everyone I know seems to have their secret to getting over a hangover after an excessive night out; a big fry-up, a strong coffee, a 5km run (no thanks!). You might be intrigued to find out that an amino acid commonly found in the leaves of Camellia sinensis (green tea) could prove far more effective than any of these commonly touted home-remedies.

What is it?

This key ingredient is called L-Theanine: an amino acid commonly taken in the form of dietary supplements to accomplish everything from relieving anxiety, improving mood and focus, and even managing blood pressure.

How will it cure my hangover?

From a hangover recovery perspective, L-Theanine is uniquely valuable for a myriad of reasons, most crucially its relaxing effect and its antioxidant effect on liver cells.

What the science says:

• Glutamate is a stress chemical in the brain which causes panic and jitters. After alcohol consumption, levels of glutamate in the brain spike, giving you that morning-after anxiety feeling ("The Fear").  L-Theanine blocks this stress chemical which prevents these anxious feelings. (source) 
• By boosting the antioxidant capacity of liver cells, L-Theanine may help you to avoid liver damage. (source)

Where can I buy L-Theanine?

L-Theanine can be purchased in powder or pill form over-the-counter in many health food stores. 

If you'd like to take a more kitchen-sink approach to curing your hangover, our new supplement contains a high dose of L-Theanine alongside 10 other scientifically-proven ingredients to aid in the hangover recovery process.