L-Theanine. Theanine is an amino acid found in tea. It is also found in some mushrooms. It is similar in structure to glutamic acid, another amino acid. Some people take theanine by mouth for anxiety and stress, depression, schizophrenia, for preventing Alzheimer’s disease, for treating attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and improving mental performance and attention. Theanine has a chemical structure very similar to glutamate, a naturally occurring amino acid in the body that helps transmit nerve impulses in the brain. L-theanine is what’s known as an anxiolytic—it works to reduce anxiety. Some anxiolytics, such as valerian and hops, have sedative effects. L-theanine, on the other hand, promotes relaxation and stress reduction without sedating. L-theanine can help foster a state of calm, attentive wakefulness. L-theanine has positive effects on both the mental and physical symptoms of stress, including lowering heart rate and blood pressure.

Caffeine Anhydrous. Caffeine anhydrous is made from the seeds and leaves of coffee plants. The word “anhydrous” means “without water.” After harvesting, caffeine is extracted from the plant matter and dehydrated. This produces a highly concentrated caffeine powder. When you ingest caffeine, it hitches a ride to your brain via your bloodstream. There, it mimics adenosine, a compound that’s present throughout your body. Adenosine works like a depressant, slowing you down and making you sleepy. Caffeine mimics adenosine so effectively that it’s able to take the place of adenosine in your brain and liven things up. It reduces fatigue and improves concentration. It improves athletic performance, particularly when engaging in endurance sports.