Source Naturals Theanine Serine™: Calming Complex with GABA
Promote relaxing brain wave activity and ease everyday tension with a scientifically balanced amino acid and herbal formula.
Brand: Source NaturalsSKU: SN1775 (60 Tablets) | Also in SN1774 (30 Tabs) & SN1776 (120 Tabs)UPC: 021078017752Form: Vegetarian Tablets
Calm Mind, Relaxed Body: How Theanine Serine™ Works
Don't let occasional stress get you down. When everyday pressure piles up, your nervous system can become stuck in "high alert." This leads to racing thoughts, muscle tightness, and mental exhaustion. Theanine Serine™ by Source Naturals is a specialized calming complex designed to address both sides of the stress response: the mental noise in your brain and the physical tension held in your muscles.
Unlike ordinary sleep aids that simply knock you out, this formula provides a state often described as "calm alertness." It helps you hit the internal reset button without inducing heavy daytime drowsiness or mental fog when taken as directed.
✓ Supports Alpha Brain Waves
L-Theanine encourages smooth electrical brain activity known as alpha waves—the identical brain frequency recorded during meditation and creative focus.
✓ Dual Brain-Body Calming
GABA and taurine help quiet hyperactive nervous signals, while highly bioavailable magnesium chelate relieves physical tightness in clenched muscles.
✓ Traditional Herbal Soothing
Standardized valerian root extract delivers centuries of trusted botanical relief to help dissolve restlessness at the end of high-stress days.
The Science Behind the Ingredients
Every serving of Source Naturals Theanine Serine delivers clinical-grade nutrients paired for maximum biological synergy. Here is how each component works based on peer-reviewed research:
1. L-Theanine (200 mg) – The Calm-Focus Amino Acid
L-Theanine is a unique amino acid primarily found in green tea (Camellia sinensis). It readily crosses the blood-brain barrier to modulate excitatory neurotransmitters like glutamate. Human electroencephalogram (EEG) research demonstrates that a 200 mg dose of L-theanine stimulates alpha brain waves (8–12 Hz) within 30 to 60 minutes. This shift indicates relaxation without creating sedative drowsiness, keeping your mind alert yet peaceful.
Evidence: Nobre et al. (2008), Asia Pacific Journal of Clinical Nutrition (PMID: 18296328); Hidese et al. (2019), Nutrients (PMID: 31623400).
GABA is the chief inhibitory neurotransmitter in the central nervous system. Think of GABA as your brain's brake system: when stress causes neural circuits to fire too rapidly, GABA binds to specific neuronal receptors to slow that hyperactivity down. Clinical trials have found that supplemental GABA promotes relaxation, supports autonomic nervous system balance, and helps counteract the physiological wear-and-tear of mental fatigue.
Evidence: Abdou et al. (2006), BioFactors (PMID: 16971751); Yoto et al. (2012), Amino Acids (PMID: 22203366).
Magnesium is an essential mineral required for over 300 biochemical reactions, with a central role in modulating the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) stress axis. It acts as a natural gatekeeper for NMDA receptors, preventing nerve cells from becoming overwhelmed by calcium influx during times of anxiety. Source Naturals utilizes a chelated form of magnesium, meaning the mineral is bound to organic amino acids for superior intestinal absorption and digestive tolerance compared to harsh, poorly absorbed magnesium oxide.
4. Taurine (500 mg) – Cellular Stability and Neuroprotection
Taurine is a sulfur-containing amino acid concentrated in brain and heart tissue. Within the central nervous system, taurine activates extrasynaptic GABA-A receptors and regulates cellular electrolyte transport (particularly potassium and calcium). This mechanism stabilizes nerve cell membranes, shielding them from oxidative stress and excessive excitability caused by emotional pressure.
Evidence: Jia et al. (2008), The Journal of Neuroscience (PMID: 18171928); Ochoa-de la Paz et al. (2019), Expert Review of Neurotherapeutics (PMID: 30887856).
Valerian (Valeriana officinalis) root has been recognized since ancient Greece and Rome for its calming virtues. Modern pharmacological analyses indicate that valerenic acid and other active constituents in valerian extract inhibit the enzymatic breakdown of GABA in the brain. This preserves natural GABA availability, helping unwind tight shoulders and preparing your nervous system for restful evening hours.
Evidence: Bent et al. (2006), The American Journal of Medicine (PMID: 17145239); Shinjyo, Waddell, & Green (2020), Journal of Evidence-Based Integrative Medicine (PMC7585905).
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Supplement Facts
Serving Size: 2 Tablets
Servings Per Container: 30 (for 60-tablet bottle)
Ingredient
Amount Per Serving
% Daily Value
Magnesium (as magnesium chelate)
300 mg
70%
GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid)
500 mg
†
Taurine
500 mg
†
L-Theanine
200 mg
†
Valerian Root Extract
100 mg
†
† Daily Value (DV) not established.
Clean Formulation & Manufacturing Standards
Other Ingredients: Sorbitol, stearic acid, and modified cellulose gum.
✓ Suitable for vegetarians✓ No yeast, dairy, or egg✓ 100% Gluten-free✓ No soy or wheat✓ No sugar or salt✓ No artificial colors, flavors, or fragrances
How to Take Theanine Serine for Best Results
Suggested Daily Use
Take 2 tablets daily with 8 oz of water, or follow the specific recommendations of your healthcare provider.
Optimal Timing Options
For Daytime Stress Relief: Take 1 to 2 tablets during high-demand work hours when you need to stay composed, clear-headed, and focused under pressure.
For Evening Wind-Down: Take 2 tablets approximately 30 to 60 minutes before bedtime to release tight physical tension in your shoulders and calm busy thoughts.
Tablet Swallowing Tip
Because this comprehensive formula contains generous amounts of magnesium and amino acids, the tablets are substantial in size. If you have difficulty swallowing larger pills, use a standard pill splitter to cut the tablet in half, or take each tablet with a generous gulp of water or a smoothie.
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Crucial Safety Information & Contraindications
Your health and medical safety are our top priorities. Because Theanine Serine directly interacts with central nervous system pathways, please review these essential precautions before using:
Prescription Medication Interactions: If you are currently taking prescription antidepressants (including SSRIs, SNRIs, or MAOIs), sedatives, anti-anxiety medications, or supplements such as St. John's Wort, consult your prescribing physician before using this product.
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding: Do not use this product if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or nursing, as clinical safety data for these life stages are not established.
Driving & Machinery: While L-theanine promotes non-drowsy relaxation, the addition of valerian root and high-dose GABA may cause drowsiness in sensitive individuals. Excessive consumption may impair your ability to drive or operate heavy machinery.
Alcohol Warning: Do not combine Theanine Serine with alcoholic beverages. Alcohol amplifies GABAergic activity, which can result in exaggerated sedation and motor impairment.
Digestive Sensitivity: High amounts of supplemental magnesium can occasionally cause mild loose stools or stomach upset in individuals with sensitive digestive tracts. If this occurs, try starting with 1 tablet daily with a meal.
FDA Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Dietary supplements should never replace prescribed medical care.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Will Source Naturals Theanine Serine make me groggy the next morning?
No. Unlike pharmaceutical sleep medications or heavy synthetic sedatives, Theanine Serine works by supporting your body's natural inhibitory pathways (GABA and alpha brain waves). Most users wake up feeling clear, rested, and refreshed rather than experiencing a morning hangover or cognitive sluggishness.
What is the difference between standard Theanine Serine and Theanine Serine with Relora®?
Standard Theanine Serine (this product) relies on valerian root extract alongside GABA, magnesium chelate, taurine, and L-theanine for targeted neuromuscular tension release. The alternative Relora® formula substitutes valerian root with a patented botanical blend of Magnolia officinalis and Phellodendron amurense, which specifically targets cortisol balance and stress-induced emotional snacking.
How long does it take for Theanine Serine to work?
Most individuals begin to feel the calming benefits of L-theanine and GABA within 30 to 60 minutes after consumption. For sustained neurological resilience, daily consistent use helps maintain steady magnesium levels and optimal neurotransmitter equilibrium.
Can I take Theanine Serine during the daytime while working?
Yes, many people take 1 tablet during demanding workdays to ease performance tension and quiet racing thoughts without slowing down their mental reaction time. However, because this formula contains valerian root, first-time users should evaluate their personal sensitivity at home before driving or operating heavy equipment.
Why is magnesium chelate superior to other forms of magnesium?
Cheated magnesium is chemically bound to amino acids, allowing it to pass smoothly through the intestinal wall using protein absorption channels. Common cheap forms like magnesium oxide draw excess water into the bowels, which often triggers cramping and diarrhea while leaving very little magnesium available to support muscle and nerve relaxation.
Peer-Reviewed Scientific References
Nobre, A. C., Rao, A., & Owen, G. N. (2008). L-theanine, a natural constituent in tea, and its effect on mental state. Asia Pacific Journal of Clinical Nutrition, 17(S1), 167–168. PMID: 18296328.
Hidese, S., Ogawa, S., Ota, M., Ishida, I., Yasukawa, Z., Ozeki, M., & Kunugi, H. (2019). Effects of L-Theanine Administration on Stress-Related Symptoms and Cognitive Functions in Healthy Adults: A Randomized Controlled Trial. Nutrients, 11(10), 2362. PMID: 31623400.
Abdou, A. M., Higashiguchi, S., Horie, K., Kim, M., Hatta, H., & Yokogoshi, H. (2006). Relaxation and immunity enhancement effects of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) administration in humans. BioFactors, 26(3), 201–208. PMID: 16971751.
Boyle, N. B., Lawton, C., & Dye, L. (2017). The Effects of Magnesium Supplementation on Subjective Anxiety and Stress—A Systematic Review. Nutrients, 9(5), 429. PMID: 28445426.
Jia, F., Yue, M., Chandra, D., Keramidas, A., Goldstein, P. A., Homanics, G. E., & Harrison, N. L. (2008). Taurine is a potent activator of extrasynaptic GABA(A) receptors in the thalamus. The Journal of Neuroscience, 28(1), 106–115. PMID: 18171928.
Bent, S., Padula, A., Moore, D., Patterson, M., & Mehling, W. (2006). Valerian for sleep: a systematic review and meta-analysis. The American Journal of Medicine, 119(12), 1005–1012. PMID: 17145239.
