New research reviewed by the Tea Advisory Panel (TAP) reveals that 90% of 1,000 UK adults feel better after sitting down with tea, while 31% make a cuppa when feeling stressed or overwhelmed. The findings come as Self-Care Week (November 16 to 22) approaches.
What happens in the brain when we drink tea
Natural health chemist and tea researcher Dr Tim Bond, from TAP, said: "Drinking tea is well known to help you relax and feel calm. New real-world research reviewed by TAP involving 1,000 UK adults reveals that 90% feel better after sitting down with tea, while 31% make a cuppa when feeling stressed or overwhelmed."
Dr Bond explained that L-theanine, a compound naturally found in tea, may influence brain activity linked to relaxation and help reduce perceived stress without causing drowsiness. He cited a major review of 50 randomised clinical trials that found promising evidence that tea compounds, particularly L-theanine combined with caffeine as found in black tea, may support attention and mood.
"That combination is particularly interesting because it suggests a traditional cup of black tea, with or without milk, could help us feel relaxed while remaining mentally alert," Dr Bond said.
Calming effects and stress markers
According to Dr Bond, black tea's calming effects are linked to the partnership between L-theanine and caffeine. L-theanine helps increase calming neurotransmitters in the brain, such as GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid), serotonin and dopamine, while helping to regulate stress responses.
A review of clinical studies found that natural plant bioactive compounds in black tea can decrease markers of stress, such as salivary chromogranin-A, and ease feelings of anxiety and tension. L-theanine also smooths out the stimulant edges of caffeine, contributing to a state of calm alertness.
"L-theanine promotes alpha brain wave activity, which is associated with relaxation and reduces perceived stress and anxiety without making you feel tired while helping to improve your mental focus," Dr Bond said.
Could tea also help protect your brain?
Dr Bond added that tea is rich in polyphenols, particularly flavonoids such as catechins, which have antioxidant properties and reduce oxidative stress in the body. These compounds are being investigated for their potential role in supporting brain health and cognitive function, and protecting against processes linked to brain inflammation.
"While more research is needed, the findings add to growing scientific interest in the potential benefits of an everyday cup of tea," he said.
