From focus to longevity: The brain-boosting powers of tea
A slow-living guide to warmth, calm, and comfort, one intentional moment at a time, Image: Supplied Discover the calming and cognitive benefits of tea: A perfect blend of L-theanine and caffeine for focus and mental wellbeing.
Image: File picture
We’ve all heard the advice: "have a cup of tea and you’ll feel better".
Now this is no longer just a cosy cliché - it’s science. Tea contains two natural compounds, L-theanine and caffeine, and when they work together, magic happens. Not the jittery, heart-racing “I’ve had too much coffee” kind of magic, but a calmer, more focused sort of brilliance.
L-theanine, mostly found in green and black tea, promotes relaxation by boosting alpha brain waves - the ones linked to a clear yet calm mental state.
Caffeine, of course, gives you that quick spark of alertness. The beauty is in the balance: L-theanine smooths out caffeine’s rough edges, meaning you get the focus without the fidgets.
Studies show that this combination can sharpen attention, speed up reaction times, and improve working memory, all while reducing anxiety. It’s like upgrading your brain’s software without the pesky side effects of a caffeine crash.
And tea’s benefits don’t stop at helping you power through your to-do list. Research suggests that regular tea drinking might actually slow age-related cognitive decline.
Both L-theanine and caffeine have neuroprotective properties that could help defend the brain against neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s.
A 2011 study even found that L-theanine may reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the brain - two major culprits in memory loss.
So next time someone offers you a cup of tea, remember: you’re not just saying yes to comfort - you’re saying yes to focus, mood-boosting benefits, and possibly a younger brain. It’s one of the simplest, tastiest ways to look after your mental wellbeing.
Brewing tips for tea
When it comes to tea-to-water ratio and brewing method, Dilmah Tea suggests using 2.5 g of tea per 220 ml of water, and warming the teapot and cup with hot water before.
Stir immediately after pouring to ensure even extraction, then adhere to these recommended steeping times and temperatures:
- Black tea: 90–95 °C for three to five minutes
- Green tea and Oolong: 75–85 °C for about two minutes
- Infusions: Boiling temperature for around four minutes
Do not squeeze the teabag before removing it, to avoid inadvertently adding extra bitterness. Once brewed, serve at around 65 °C and decant any leftover tea to prevent bitterness.
IOL Lifestyle