theanine - anxiety and headache

I researched theanine. Many said it calmed anxiety but had a side effect of increased headache. My problems include anxiety and headache. I'd had a headache for 3 days when I tried theanine. To my shock, my headache went away for about 12 hours, but my anxiety increased. Has anybody else had this response to theanine? Does anyone have an explanation?

Hello and welcome!

I am guessing you took an L-Theanine supplement/capsule? Maybe the increased anxiety was coincidental...or perhaps you started off with a dose that was too strong, and a lower dose or tea may be a better choice to try first. L-theanine is derived from green tea, and therefore will have some naturally stimulating effects if you are especially sensitive to caffeine.

You might do better to try and manage your anxiety with self help coping skills. If you are not already practicing them daily, do check out our Resources at the top of the main forum page here for great material.

Wishing you the best....post with us anytime for support!

Scaredy Cat

Of course...keep us updated if you find posting here helpful. We will be here to listen, encourage and support you anytime!

Best wishes on finding your best management plan,

S.C.

Thanks for the suggestion; I've tried chamomile and I'm *extremely* allergic to it. Makes me cough incessantly. Have a good day!

Scaredy Cat said...
...others to cosider include...

Valerian root, Ashwagandha, fish oil, Gaba, Phenibut, Magnesium, B and D vitamins...

remember, natural does not always mean safe or appropriate for everyone, so always consult your doctor before starting any new treatment to avoid any interactions or personal complications to your health/regimen.

S.C.

Oh yeah, I've tried all that. I've had anxiety since 1984, and I went into a search mode, looking for anything "natural" that would help. I even did meditation tapes of all kinds. Every vitamin and herb known to man/woman. You name it, I tried it.

Finally, a doctor prescribed Xanax. It worked. I took the lowest possible dose - often taking 1/2 pill once a day and no more. Two years later I weaned myself from that and got by - mostly - with just meditation (no specific type - types always failed me - just what I made up using breath work).

Now I take a low dose citalopram, occasional lorazepam (usually 1/2 pill of the lowest dose) and I try to meditate daily. By try I mean it's not always easy, or possible, to get into the "alpha" state.

And I think that's the best I'm going to do.

I tried theanine because I was having trouble filling my prescription for lorazepam, and I thought I should have some kind of backup in case I can't get it done. Fortunately the prescription came through, and the problem was some kind of computer glitch at the pharmacy I use.

Thanks for all the suggestions.
I hope all of us find peace of mind.