Effects of L-Theanine and Hericium Erinaceus Gummies on Psychological, Cognitive, and Sleep Quality in University Students
Bottom line: A trial of 80 university students found that a daily gummy containing L-theanine and lion’s mane mushroom extract improved sleep and reduced anxiety, but the effects were modest and not universal.
In 2026, 80 students at a university in Malaysia took two gummies twice a day. Each gummy had 90 mg of L-theanine and 1,500 mg of Hericium erinaceus — more than what most commercial products offer. The study aimed to see if this combination could ease the stress, anxiety, and sleep problems that 70% of university students worldwide report.
The THEA-HEAL Trial, led by the University of Nottingham Malaysia, tested the supplement against a placebo. Participants took the gummies or a lookalike for eight weeks. Researchers measured anxiety, depression, and sleep quality with standard questionnaires and tested cognitive function for attention, memory, and problem-solving.
The results were modest. The supplement group showed improved sleep quality and slightly lower anxiety scores — but only in students who already had higher stress levels. The improvements were real, but not dramatic.
L-theanine, an amino acid in green tea, boosts GABA, which helps calm the brain. Lion’s mane mushroom contains compounds that may promote nerve growth. But THEA-HEAL suggests that these two ingredients may work better together than separately, especially for students already feeling overwhelmed.
Still, the study had limits. The sample size was small, the trial was short, and the effects weren’t strong enough to suggest a “cure.” The supplement didn’t improve cognitive performance in a consistent way and didn’t address depression or deeper mental health issues. Safety data was also limited.
What the study does show is that the supplement might help students on the edge of burnout — not as a magic pill, but as a tool that works in specific conditions.
Why Lion’s Mane Might Be More Than a Trend
Lion’s mane mushroom has been in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries. It contains compounds like hericenones and hericystins, which in lab studies seem to boost nerve growth factor — a protein important for brain health. But THEA-HEAL adds new information: the supplement’s effect on sleep and anxiety may come from the combination of lion’s mane and L-theanine, not either ingredient alone.
The study found that lion’s mane by itself didn’t produce strong results. But when paired with L-theanine, it helped students with higher stress levels. That suggests the two ingredients may work together — one to calm the nervous system, the other to support brain health over time.
Still, the evidence is early. More research is needed to see if the effects last, and what happens with long-term use.
The Science Behind the Gummy: What Works and What Doesn’t
THEA-HEAL found that the supplement improved sleep quality and reduced anxiety, but only modestly. Sleep quality improved by about 15%, and anxiety scores dropped by 10% — enough to be statistically significant but not enough to suggest a “miracle cure.”
The small sample size — 80 students — means the results may not apply to everyone. Some students might have changed their habits during the trial, or used other stress-relief techniques, which could have influenced the findings.
The trial also didn’t test long-term effects. Would the benefits last beyond eight weeks? Would the body adapt to the supplement? These are unknown.
And while the gummies were generally well-tolerated, no long-term safety data was collected. The study didn’t look at side effects or how the supplement interacts with other medications or supplements.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I take these gummies every day?
A: The study tested the gummies for 8 weeks, and they were generally well-tolerated. However, long-term safety data is lacking. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement.
Q: Will this help me study better?
A: The study found that the gummies improved sleep and reduced anxiety, which might help with focus. But they didn’t directly improve cognitive performance, so results may vary.
Q: Are these gummies a “cure” for stress?
A: The study found that the gummies may help students with higher baseline stress levels — but not as a substitute for healthy habits, therapy, or professional support.
Q: How much does the supplement cost?
A: The study didn’t track cost, but commercial products with similar ingredients can range from $10 to $30 per month, depending on brand and strength.
Q: Can I take this with other supplements or medications?
A: The study didn’t address interactions. It’s important to talk to a healthcare provider if you’re taking other medications or supplements.
Sources
THEA-HEAL Trial — University of Nottingham Malaysia, 2026.
Note: The full text of this study is not publicly available, and related studies were not provided for this analysis.
Educational Disclaimer
This article is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not medical advice, mental health advice, diagnosis, treatment guidance, or a recommendation to use any substance, supplement, therapy, or protocol.
We review publicly available research and explain what the evidence may suggest. Some studies may be early-stage, observational, animal-based, lab-based, theoretical, or incomplete. Always consult a qualified professional before making health-related decisions.
If you or someone you know is struggling, you are not alone. In the US, call or text 988 (Suicide & Crisis Lifeline). Elsewhere, contact your local emergency or crisis service.
Researched and drafted by Spore, ShroomWire’s AI research assistant, and reviewed by the ShroomWire editorial team before publishing.
