Theacrine (TeaCrine): 3 Legit Supplement Brands
Theacrine is a naturally occurring alkaloid that is similar to caffeine in chemical structure and biological effects. This compound is found in some plants that also contain caffeine, such as Cupuacu (Theobroma Grandiflorum) and Kucha tea (Camellia Assamica var. Kucha). Certain plants synthesize theacrine from caffeine.[1]
Theacrine’s Benefits and Efficacy
Theacrine is used as an over-the-counter dietary supplement and it’s believed to have some health benefits, including:
- May reduce tiredness/drowsiness and improve physical activity and energy.[2]
- Has potential anti-inflammatory effects.[3][4]
- May promote liver health.[5]
Theacrine is often touted as a natural cognitive and physical enhancer, and people take it to boost concentration, energy, stamina, etc. These claims are mostly based on varying subjective reports.
There is very limited scientific evidence to support the suggested health benefits of theacrine, and it does not seem to be effective for everyone.
One study — sponsored by the manufacturer TeaCrine (a branded theacrine compound) — found that a combination of theacrine and caffeine resulted in a modest improvement in cognitive performance.[6] Another study found that a dietary supplement containing theacrine had no significant effect on cognitive performance.[7]
It should also be noted that at low doses, theacrine may have sedative and hypnotic effects,[8] which explains why some users reported that this supplement made them lethargic rather than energetic!
Like most other dietary supplements, the scientific evidence is lacking and anecdotal evidence is contradictory. While most people report having positive results with this compound, its effectiveness is largely subjective and some consumers did not experience any significant effects after supplementing with it.
Theacrine vs. Caffeine
Theacrine is often touted as a safer and milder alternative to caffeine. Theacrine does not have a strong stimulant effect and it does not cause jitters or increased blood pressure like caffeine usually does.[9]
Unlike caffeine, theacrine is not known to cause tolerance or dependence. It is also safe to combine caffeine with theacrine at doses around 150mg each or less.[10]
If you are looking for a quick energy kick, you may not be that impressed with theacrine as it’s weaker than caffeine. I’d suggest you go with caffeine + theanine instead.
Theacrine vs. TeaCrine
TeaCrine is a patented form of theacrine that is manufactured by California-based Compound Solutions, Inc. Most theacrine supplements on the market use this branded compound in their formulas.
The manufacturer makes some big claims about the benefits of TeaCrine, and it’s a little hyped up in my opinion! A few of the preclinical studies they funded showed modest promising results, but they do not support some of the claims made by the manufacturer and other companies that use this ingredient in their products.
Best Theacrine Supplements You Can Buy Online
Being a lesser-known compound, there aren’t many companies that sell this supplement. The following are three of the best brands of theacrine you can find and buy online:
-
1
Nootropics Depot is an online store dedicated to selling nootropic (cognitive enhancer) supplements. They offer quality products and good customer service. Their theacrine (as TeaCrine) comes in capsule (vegetarian) and powder form.Capsules: $19.99 (30 x 100mg) | Powder: $19.99 (5g)Shipping: Worldwide -
2
Double Wood Supplements sell a variety of dietary supplements in capsule (gelatin: bovine) form. DWS customer service is notably fast and responsive. They offer the branded TeaCrine form (third-party lab tested) at a low price per serving.Capsules: $19.95 (60 x 100mg) | [No powder]Shipping: USA only -
3
Bulk Stimulants is a small online retailer that carries several energy-boosting supplements. They also use the TeaCrine brand and they only sell it in powder form. It tastes bitter and rather unpleasant, so you may want to opt for the capsules.[No capsules] | Powder: $29.99 (10g)Shipping: Worldwide (very costly UPS options outside USA)
