Ethical Naturals launches MachaWave

Ethical Naturals, a trusted supplier of standardised botanical extracts and proprietary ingredients for over 20 years, has launched MachaWave™ – an innovative ingredient system combining high-grade organic matcha with clinically studied AlphaWave^® L-theanine.

Designed to meet growing demand for functional ingredients that support both energy and mental well-being, MachaWave™ offers formulators a versatile, science-backed solution for beverage, tea, and sports nutrition applications.

Functional energy and cognitive ingredients

As consumer interest in clean-label, multi-benefit supplements continues to rise, formulators are increasingly seeking alternatives to conventional caffeine systems. MachaWave addresses this need by pairing two complementary, evidence-supported ingredients – organic matcha and AlphaWave^® L-theanine – in a single, ready-to-use ingredient system that supports sustained energy, mental clarity, and relaxed focus without overstimulation.

The science behind matcha

Matcha’s history as a functional ingredient spans more than a millennium, used by Zen Buddhist monks and Samurai warriors alike for its ability to support simultaneous calmness and alertness. Unlike conventional green tea, matcha is shade-grown prior to harvest – a process that promotes the accumulation of amino acids such as L-theanine, while also producing its characteristic deep green colour and concentrated nutrient profile.

Published research suggests that matcha may support:

• Cognitive function, including memory and attention.^1-5
• Stress reduction and anxiety management.
• A state of calm focus through its naturally occurring caffeine and L-theanine synergy.

AlphaWave L-theanine for relaxation and cognition

MachaWave enhances matcha’s natural synergy with the addition of AlphaWave L-theanine – ENI’s branded, purified form of L-theanine produced through a proprietary fermentation and purification process. AlphaWave is supported by three clinical studies and has demonstrated significant benefits across key parameters:

• Increased frontal alpha brainwave activity and reduced salivary cortisol in acute stress conditions.²
• Improved sleep quality and reduced perceived stress over a 28-day period.³
• Enhanced cognitive attention in moderately stressed healthy adults.³
• Relaxation without drowsiness.^2-3

AlphaWave is GRAS affirmed for food and beverage use and is currently the only form of L-theanine approved by Australia’s Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) for manufacturing use in listed medicines – a distinction that underscores its quality and regulatory standing.

“MachaWave reflects growing consumer interest in products that deliver both cognitive support and balanced energy without overstimulation. The combination of organic matcha and clinically studied AlphaWave L-theanine provides formulators with a versatile ingredient system backed by both traditional use and modern clinical research,” says Cal Bewicke, CEO, Ethical Naturals.

Versatile in formulation development

MachaWave is suitable for a broad range of product formats and can be incorporated in hot and cold processes. Applications include:

• Functional beverages and ready-to-drink (RTD) formats.
• Specialty and functional teas.
• Sports nutrition and performance supplements.
• Nootropic and cognitive health formulations.

Structure/function claims supported by the ingredient combination include:

• Supports mental clarity and sustained attention.^2-4,6
• Promotes calm focus and reduced nervous tension.^2-3
• Supports balanced energy delivery without overstimulation.
• May help reduce stress and support relaxation.^2-3,5

References:

1. Sokary S, Al-Asmakh M, Zakaria Z, Bawadi H. The therapeutic potential of matcha tea: a critical review on human and animal studies. Curr Res Food Sci. 2022;6:100396.
2. Evans M, McDonald AC, Xiong L, Crowley DC, Guthrie N. A randomized, triple-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover study to investigate the efficacy of a single dose of AlphaWave® L-theanine on stress in a healthy adult population. Neurol Ther. 2021;10(2):1061–1078. https://doi.org/10.1007/s40120-021-00284-x
3. Moulin M, Crowley DC, Xiong L, Guthrie N, Lewis ED. Safety and efficacy of AlphaWave® L-theanine supplementation for 28 days in healthy adults with moderate stress: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. Neurol Ther. 2024;13:1135–1153. https://doi.org/10.1007/s40120-024-00624-7
4. Haskell CF, Kennedy DO, Milne AL, Wesnes KA, Scholey AB. The effects of L-theanine, caffeine and their combination on cognition and mood. Biol Psychol. 2008;77(2):113–122.
5. Williams JL, Everett JM, D’Cunha NM, et al. The effects of green tea amino acid L-theanine consumption on the ability to manage stress and anxiety levels: a systematic review. Plant Foods Hum Nutr. 2020;75:12–23.
6. Gomez-Ramirez M, Higgins BA, Rycroft JA, et al. The deployment of intersensory selective attention: a high-density electrical mapping study of the effects of theanine. Clin Neuropharmacol. 2007;30(1):25–38.