Nootropic FAQ's
Nootropic also known as ‘cognitive enhancers’ are drugs that some people use in an attempt to improve memory, increase mental alertness and concentration as well as boost energy levels and wakefulness.
There are many different nootropics. Some are pharmaceutical drugs that are designed to treat conditions such as sleepiness or narcolepsy, and to improve attention and focus in people with attention disorders. However, some healthy people use these drugs in an attempt to improve their cognitive performance.
Claims that nootropics improve a healthy person’s cognitive processes and performance are weak whereas the side effects do pose health risks.
While nootropics may help mask fatigue, procrastination or boredom, they do not make people more intelligent and their effects only last as long as the drug remains in the body.
Here is a comprehensive list of all the possible questions about Nootropics. You’ll find maximum information about nootropics when you click through to the full list of questions related to nootropics.
Luckily, most people can use natural nootropic supplements safely. Many nootropics are absorbed in the intestines and are broken down before they can cross into the brain. These nootropics are generally considered safe because they are processed by the body rather than entering the brain directly.
However, not all nootropics are broken down before they are able to cross into the brain. Caffeine is a great example of this because it does affect cognition and can cause sleep disturbances in some people. (1) Some of the most common side effects are headaches, increased blood pressure, increased heart rate, anxiety, and insomnia, if you have a sensitivity to the ingredients in any dietary supplement, you should take care when consuming them.
There is a lot of conflicting information about whether nootropics are legal, which might make you apprehensive about buying these highly effective performance enhancers. Part of the confusion has been because there are so many productivity boosters classified as nootropics, including vitamins, herbal extracts, minerals, and even research compounds.
Finally, in the USA it is legal to purchase, own, and consume all of the popular nootropic supplements. The U.S. does not control nor schedule most nootropics. The public can also buy some synthetics under the "research compounds" classification. (2)
Nootropics are generally legal to purchase, own and consume in the United Kingdom.
Centrophenoxine is prescription-only in the UK. But Alpha GPC and CDP Choline (Citicoline) are available OTC. Herbal supplements, vitamins, amino acids, and antioxidants that have nootropic effects can be sold OTC in the UK. (3)
Since nootropics are a collection of substances with individual actions and risks, it is unreasonable to deem them all safe for a long term.
There is lots of research on the effects of individual nootropic supplements. The studies tend to be small and the ones that show the largest effects involve subjects who are impaired - by Alzheimer’s disease, for example.
There is a limited amount of research on the effects of individual supplements and combinations (including “stacks”) on healthy people. Most of these supplements are expensive and offer no conclusively demonstrated benefits over single ingredient traditional supplements such as caffeine, ginseng, sage, and rosemary. In fact, most nootropic supplements contain caffeine, and my guess is it's the main ingredient for most of them. (4)
Nootropics and smart drugs are natural or synthetic substances that can be taken to improve mental performance in healthy people. They have gained popularity in today's highly competitive society and are most often used to boost memory, focus, creativity, intelligence, and motivation. (5)
Nootropics are a wide range of natural or synthetic supplements or drugs, and other substances that are claimed to improve cognitive function or promote relaxation, particularly boosting mood, executive functions, attention, memory, creativity, or motivation, in healthy individuals. The most commonly used nootropic in the world is caffeine. (6)
Stimulant drugs are often used to treat ADHD, but they aren't right for everybody. Nootropics for ADHD represent a safe, natural, and stim-free alternative therapy that may help to improve attention and more.
The best cognitive enhancers for ADHD are as follows: (7)
Modafinil. Modafinil is a strong nootropic and wakefulness-promoting agent widely used to treat ADD and narcolepsy.
Piracetam. Piracetam is a derivative of the neurotransmitter GABA.
Noopept.
Ginkgo Biloba.
L-Tyrosine.
Ginseng.
Bacopa Monnieri
Modafinil is FDA-approved to treat narcolepsy, sleep apnea, and shift work disorder, but some studies suggest that it may help with learning and memory in healthy people. Modafinil appears to be safer than other types of stimulants, but more research is needed (8)
Any substance that may alter, improve, or augment cognitive performance, mainly through the stimulation or inhibition of certain neurotransmitters, may potentially be dangerous and deleterious to the human brain, and certain individuals with a history of mental or substance use disorders might be particularly vulnerable to their adverse effects and brain damage. (9)
While not all nootropics have been extensively studied, there are some nootropic side effects that people should be aware of. Prescription nootropics like Ritalin and Adderall can have some side effects like anxiety, depression, stomach pain, nausea, and sleep pain, but they also have the propensity for abuse. (13)
Headaches, dizziness, anxiety, insomnia, nervousness, nausea, diarrhea, agitation, dry mouth, and rapid heart rate are always possible side effects of taking nootropics, especially if they're taken incorrectly. (12)
Any substance that may alter, improve, or augment cognitive performance, mainly through the stimulation or inhibition of certain neurotransmitters, may potentially be dangerous and deleterious to the human brain, and certain individuals with a history of mental or substance use disorders might be particularly vulnerable to their adverse effects. (14)
Modafinil, sold under the name Provigil, is a stimulant that some have dubbed the "genius pill." Originally developed as a treatment for narcolepsy and other sleep disorders, physicians are now prescribing it “off-label” to cellists, judges, airline pilots, and scientists to enhance attention, memory, and learning. (15)
Nootropics can greatly increase one's daily energy levels without having negative effects on health. Stacking two or more nootropics is also popular, as some may yield a better overall experience. Also, stacking decreases the likelihood of developing tolerance. (16)
Nootropics or smart drugs are well-known compounds or supplements that enhance the cognitive performance. They work by increasing the mental function such as memory, creativity, motivation, and attention. (17)
From this variety, some take only a few minutes to kick in, while others need a few weeks of consistent intake to show any results. Fast-acting nootropics have the power to take your mood from zero to a hundred within a few minutes. However, these effects are meant to be short-lived and do not provide long-term benefits. It’s like an instant high.
On the other hand, long-term nootropics are the complete opposite. It will take a while before you notice any difference. They are meant to increase brain energy and improve your mental health gradually. This will take several weeks, if not months. However, in most cases, the results are worth the wait.
Not all brains are the same. Some take longer than others to feel the effects and respond to the introduced chemical reactions. (18)
Here are some nootropics that actually work:
Caffeine.
L-Theanine.
Creatine.
Bacopa Monnieri.
Rhodiola Rosea.
Panax Ginseng.
Ginkgo Biloba.
Nicotine. (19)
A combination of two or more nootropic substances is called a “stack." Combining several compounds into a stack can have synergistic effects, such as in the cases of the ingredients in green tea and coffee. The ease of use of a nootropic stack is perhaps the best reason to use it instead of single isolated substances. (20)
The nootropics with the most scientific evidence backing their efficacy and safety for happiness and mood are:
SAM-e.
N-Acetyl Cysteine.
Grape Seed Extract.
Pine Bark Extract.
Omega 3. (20)
Modafinil is a nootropic that interacts with Wellbutrin, so both of them should not be taken in combination. (21)
Nootropics Increase alertness and energy levels, as well as improve mood and reduce anxiety. So Nootropics should be taken in the morning. (22)
Nootropics can be a great addition to your pre-workout routine. They can help you to focus and stay motivated throughout your workout. The energy and concentration they provide can also help you to push through any fatigue you may be feeling. (23)
The nootropics for better sleep are as following:
Melatonin.
Phenibut.
Lemon Balm.
GABA.
Ashwagandha.
Turmeric.
Lion's Mane.
Tulsi. (24)
Depot is an established and trusted vendor of nootropic powders and capsules, natural plant extracts, and whole-fruiting body mushroom extracts.
Nootropics depot is located in:
Headquarters: 8205 S Priest Dr, Tempe, Arizona, 85284, United States (25)
Nootropics can either be synthetic which are produced in a laboratory like piracetam or can occur naturally as herbal plants like Ginkgo biloba and Panax quinquefolius (American Ginseng). Natural nootropics aid in promoting brain function with a simultaneous improvement in brain health. (26)
When a package is shipped via Asendia, it is sent from the Nootropics Depot warehouse located in Tempe, Arizona, USA to a California HUB for further processing. Upon arriving in California, packages will then be scanned as received. (27)
Best nootropics for anxiety are:
Gotu Kola.
Rhodiola Rosea.
Vitamins B6, B9, and B12.
GABA.
Valerian Root.
Kava Kava.
Ashwagandha. (28)
The nootropics with the most scientific evidence backing their efficacy and safety for short-term memory are:
Ginkgo Biloba.
Phosphatidylserine.
Omega-3.
Grape Seed Extract.
Rhodiola Rosea. (20)
The best nootropics for verbal fluency and speech are:
Vyvamind
Mind Lab Pro
NooCube
Armodafinil
L-theanine
Alpha-GPC
Phenylpiracetam
Pramiracetam
Modafinil
Bacopa Monnieri
Ritalin
Sulbutiamine
Aniracetam (29)
Prescription smart drugs, such as Adderall and Ritalin, have the strongest and most significant effects on memory and attention. Synthetic nootropic supplements like Noopept and piracetam are widely available, but research on their effectiveness in healthy adults is lacking. (30)
Cosmic Nootropic is a company headquartered in Moscow, Russia. They have an awesome assortment of nootropic products, many of which can't be found anywhere else.
Cosmic Nootropic is as trustworthy as any of the other places to buy nootropics online mentioned on this page. They've been around for years and have developed a reputation for being among the top online nootropic vendors. And they even have a warehouse in the U.S., which makes shipping much faster for certain orders. (31)
Daytime sleepiness can decrease one’s professional or academic performance. Also, it can make it difficult to go to sleep at night, thus leading to a vicious cycle. Nootropics can greatly increase one’s daily energy levels without having negative effects on health. Stacking two or more nootropics is also popular, as some may yield a better overall experience. Also, stacking decreases the likelihood of developing tolerance.
There are lots of choices that you can make with regard to cognitive enhancement and one nootropic or stack may benefit you more than others. Brain chemistry is unique for every person and expectations also vary greatly. Experimentation under the supervision of your physician will help you test what works best for you while also staying on the safe side. (32)
Unless you work for yourself, there is a chance you will be drug tested at any job. The same goes for professional or semi-pro athletes, Olympic competitors, job seekers, competitive gamers like chess players, and students.
People take drugs to boost mood, cope with stress, improve cognitive function, and enhance physical performance. Taking banned substances can have unwanted consequences if you have to take a drug test, but nootropics can boost performance without the risk. (33)
Nootropics can greatly increase one's daily energy levels without having negative effects on health. Stacking two or more nootropics is also popular, as some may yield a better overall experience. (34)
Ginkgo biloba is derived from dry leaves from the plant, creating a herbal supplement. It is one of the most popular natural nootropics on the market. Studies have shown that Ginkgo biloba has helped improve brain function and helps create a feeling of well-being. (35)
Nootropics for weight loss can improve focus, mood, energy, motivation, and more to help you succeed on your diet. Nootropic supplements boost cognitive output for maximum productivity in whatever task we choose to work on including the mentally demanding task of losing weight.
Weight loss isn't easy, but nootropic supplements and smart pills may be a genius move to make it easier. Ultimately, enhancing cognition with the right nootropics for weight loss may help us work out and diet more efficiently. (36)
Common side effects of using nootropics can include migraines, headaches, and skin rashes. In some cases, such as when too much of a nootropic is taken or different kinds of nootropics are mixed, the results can be life-threatening. (37)
Nootropics are known as cognition enhancers that improve mental function and can be used to treat a range of conditions including memory and concentration problems [12–14]. However, limited information regarding the contribution of anti-dementia and nootropic treatments on the mortality of patients with dementia. (38)
The best nootropics for focus are:
Caffeine.
L-Theanine.
Creatine.
Bacopa Monnieri.
Rhodiola Rosea.
Panax Ginseng.
Ginkgo Biloba.
Nicotine. (39)
Quitting smoking is so darn tough because cigarettes and other tobacco products are loaded with the highly addictive chemical nicotine. Within the first few seconds of inhalation, nicotine enters the bloodstream and starts affecting the entire body. Once hooked, the body begins adjusting its physiology to the effects of nicotine to the extent that they very nearly become essential for normal functioning.
Fortunately, nootropics have the potential to help the body recover from this reliance on nicotine, starting with the brain. There are at least 85 readily available nootropics that have proved capable of promoting brain health and mental performance. Several of these nootropics may help with quitting by substituting the bioactivity of nicotine, albeit with less potency, while others may help more indirectly by diminishing the aftereffects of smoking cessation. (40)
Most of the nootropics can be taken with food. For example, Piracetam should be administered orally and may be taken with or without food. The tablet(s) should be swallowed with liquid. It is recommended to take the daily dose in two to three sub-doses. (41)
You can also add nootropics as a powder to your cup of coffee. For example, caffeine and theanine can be taken in combination. The ratio of caffeine to theanine is generally 1:2 (100 mg of caffeine with 200 mg of theanine). However, if you're using l-Theanine to help you wind down at night, it's best to take the supplement between 30 minutes and an hour before your bedtime. (42)
The one neurotransmitter system that comes to mind to treat with extra caution when stacking nootropics is that of serotonin. Combining SSRIs and MAOIs such as Escitalopram and Rhodiola Rosea can go very wrong. In the worst-case scenario, you can end up with serotonin syndrome, a potentially deadly condition. (43)
Some nootropic compounds are able to elicit powerful antidepressant effects in a very acute situation and do not take weeks to take effect, like some pharmaceutical antidepressants. Furthermore, nootropics tend to lack the significant side effects that pharmaceutical antidepressants seem to possess. (44)
Nootropics can be taken in combination with Vyvanse. For example, No interactions were found between l-theanine and Vyvanse in a study (45)
The use of alcohol should be avoided while using the nootropics, as the nootropic effect can be increased or decreased by the use of alcohol while taking nootropics. For Example:
Piracetam with alcohol can increase intoxication. Avoid consuming alcohol while on treatment with this medicine. (46)
Ashwagandha may cause sedation. Avoid consuming alcohol while taking Ashwagandha as it may cause excessive sleepiness. (47)
Use caution if combining alcohol with any over-the-counter herbal or dietary supplement that causes drowsiness. Review the label on the bottle and speak with your pharmacist or doctor if you plan on mixing an herbal dietary supplement and alcohol. Do not drive until you are aware of the effects of the two agents. (48)
Nootropics are generally safe to take for a longer period of them as they have very few side effect such as:
Diarrhea.
Weight gain.
Drowsiness.
Insomnia.
Nervousness.
Depression.
Muscle spasm.
Hyperactivity. (49)
The best natural nootropics are as following:
Caffeine.
L-Theanine.
Creatine.
Bacopa Monnieri.
Rhodiola Rosea.
Panax Ginseng.
Ginkgo Biloba.
Nicotine. (50)
An adaptogen is a plant that helps your body adapt to stress. Adaptogens work to regulate the body’s cortisol levels, keeping stress and fatigue away. Adaptogens target the HPA axis and sympathoadrenal system (try saying that 3 times quickly) which your body uses to respond to stress. The idea is that these adaptogens build up your systems to provide better responses to stress in the future.
Some adaptogens you may have heard of: ashwagandha, shatavari, holy basil, and Rhodiola.
Nootropics, on the other hand, are botanicals that target your brain and cognitive function. Nootropics proponents report better creativity, memory, motivation, and other improved cognitive benefits! Nootropic supplements exist but it's important to distinguish natural nootropics from pharmaceutical nootropics. ADHD medication, for example, is a pharmaceutical nootropic and serves an entirely different purpose.
Some nootropics you may have heard of: L-theanine, caffeine and lion’s mane mushroom. (51)
Sertraline is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI). Although it is most commonly used to treat depression, it is also used to treat obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), panic disorder, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Zoloft is sometimes prescribed for social anxiety disorder and other phobias.1 Learn how it works, possible side effects, and precautions. (52) Nootropics and antidepressants should not be used in combination as they have severe interactions.
Ginkgo biloba, pine bark extract, and omega-3 fatty acids are all effective mood enhancers. By taking supplements containing these nootropics, you can ward against sadness and boost your drive and attention. By stimulating neurogenesis, nootropics help to avoid mental deterioration. (53)
Modafinil (Provigil) is a prescription nootropic. It's FDA-approved to treat narcolepsy, sleep apnea, and shift work disorder, but some studies suggest that it may help with learning and memory in healthy people. (54)
Phenibut (β-Phenyl-GABA, β-phenyl-γ-aminobutyric acid, Noofen, Citrocard) is an analogue of the inhibitory neurotransmitter GABA. The addition of a phenyl ring allows Phenibut to cross the blood-brain barrier (BBB). Neurohackers prefer Phenibut when the goal is to raise GABA levels in the brain because GABA as a supplement cannot cross the BBB. (55)
Alpha Brain is a formula that’s made to improve the alpha waves and neurotransmitters in the brain. This blend may be a great choice for people doing complex tasks and multitaskers. It boosts mental clarity and supports cognitive performance.
It is beneficial for long-term brain health. Alpha Brain is also ideal for people doing complex tasks and people who do multiple tasks at a time. The L-tyrosine in the Alpha Brain helps in holding the peak mental performance during stressful times. Apart from this, it also helps in burning more calories. Lastly, they also offer a 90-day money-back guarantee. (56)
Prescription nootropics are medications that have stimulant effects. They can counteract the symptoms of medical conditions such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), narcolepsy, or Alzheimer's disease.
Nootropics and smart drugs refer to natural, synthetic, and prescription substances that enhance mental function. Prescription smart drugs, such as Adderall and Ritalin, have the strongest and most significant effects on memory and attention.
Consumption of caffeinated beverages, particularly soft drinks and teas containing black tea, green tea, guarana, and mate, has risen. Other "natural" stimulant products, such as ginseng and ephedra, have also become more popular. (57)
Nootropics are reputed to have a positive effect on the way the brain and the mind operate by improving the function of the brain’s neurotransmitters, enzymes, and hormones. There are many different ingredients in nootropics many have been tested and many more are being developed each day. Energy drinks contain various components that work to make the consumer more alert and present in the activities at hand. Caffeine is the most common ingredient used for keeping the brain alert and awake. Many drinks also include taurine which enhances neurological function and the VIT B group which enhances other bodily functions.
Nootropics offer all the advantages of energy drinks without the life-threatening risks. While moderation is always the key to best practices, even consumed in excess, nootropics are mostly harmless and could only result in mild to moderate discomfort. But to drink too many energy drinks is to take your life into your hands. The dangers are nothing less than obesity and the possibility of heart attack, which are considerably more serious than the risks associated with nootropics. (58)
Nootropics also known as ‘cognitive enhancers’ are drugs that some people use in an attempt to improve memory, increase mental alertness and concentration as well as boost energy levels and wakefulness.(59) Cognitive enhancers (nootropics) are drugs to treat cognition deficits in patients suffering from Alzheimer's disease, schizophrenia, stroke, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, or aging. Cognition refers to a capacity for information processing, applying knowledge, and changing preferences. It involves memory, attention, executive functions, perception, language, and psychomotor functions. (60)
Nootropics are recommended in the morning or afternoon to boost cognitive performance throughout the day. However, if your cognitive demands are unique or more intense than usual, you can increase your nootropic intake by taking two doses: one in the morning and one in the evening. Our brains are generally more active during the day unless we're working the graveyard shift. If your unique cognitive demands are highest during the day, it's ideal to take nootropics in the morning or afternoon before your brain faces peak activity. In addition, taking nootropics during the day can help prevent brain fog throughout it. (61)
Nootropics, also known as brain supplements, offer a range of benefits to boost cognitive performance and dial-up brainpower. They can help you sustain focus, retain more information, and generally become more efficient in your work. But many questions exist around nootropics, their safety, and what they’re actually doing in your brain. (62) Nootropics, sometimes called “smart drugs” or “cognitive enhancers,” enhance cognition and memory and help facilitate learning, motivation, and creativity. From its Greek origins, the word nootropic translates into mind-bending. (63)
Nootropics vs. Coffee compares 2 popular cognitive enhancers for people looking to optimize cognition and alertness. Nootropic ingredients are brain supplements you can take regularly to boost mental abilities. On the other hand, coffee contains several bioactive compounds that are beneficial for cerebral blood flow, cognition, and psychomotor behavior. Both nootropics and coffee can enhance the different aspects of cognition. (64)
Vyvanse is a central nervous system stimulant. It affects chemicals in the brain and nerves that contribute to hyperactivity and impulse control. Vyvanse is FDA-approved to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in adults and in children who are at least 6 years old. Vyvanse is also used to treat moderate to severe binge eating disorders in adults. This medicine is not to be used for obesity or weight loss. (65) Prescription nootropics largely consist of stimulants such as those in some ADHD medications. Although this works well for many people with ADHD, they are not recommended for others who simply want to improve their focus and attention. (66)
Dietary supplements for brain health marketed as “natural” or “herbal” nootropics might include ingredients such as ashwagandha, Bacopa monnieri, Ginkgo biloba, ginseng, huperzine A, omega-3 fatty acids, rhodiola, and valerian. Even some vitamins and minerals are marketed as nootropics, such as the B-complex vitamins and magnesium. Although such ingredients seem to be safe when taken in low doses and for the short term, so far the evidence to show whether any non-drug substance can improve cognitive performance is insufficient. (67)
Alpha brain is formulated with natural ingredients to support cognitive function by promoting alpha wave and neurotransmitter production, therefore boosting cognitive performance. Unlike many nootropics on the market, it has scientific research supporting its effectiveness. Additionally, it has been endorsed by famous athletes and celebrities, including Joe Rogan. (68) Alpha Brain works to help users “get in the zone” by supporting the production of alpha brain waves and neurotransmitters. Our brain produces alpha waves when we’re in a relaxed or calm state. Many individuals experience these waves during stress-relieving activities like meditation. (69)
Nootropics are brain-boosters: Supplements that help to improve cognitive performance and brain wellness. Nootropics enhance memory, focus, attention, motivation, relaxation, mood, alertness, stress resistance, and more. The best nootropics are also good for the brain, helping to promote healthy brain function over time. (70)
Some of the nootropic brands are as follows:
Noocube: Best Nootropics Overall.
Mind Lab Pro - Best Brain Supplement for Memory and Focus.
Brain Pill: Best Brain Pills for Entrepreneurs
Performance Lab Mind: Cognitive Enhancer for improved Mental Wellness. (71)
A nootropic bar is a supplement that contains ingredients designed to improve cognitive function. These include vitamins like B6 and D3, minerals like magnesium, amino acids like L-theanine, and herbs like ginkgo biloba. Some bars contain only these ingredients, while others may combine multiple supplements together to create a synergistic effect. A nootropic bar is a great choice for people who want to boost their brain power without having to take a lot of pills or consume a ton of caffeine. Many people turn to nootropics to enhance focus, memory, creativity, motivation, and overall mental performance. However, these benefits aren’t limited to people who suffer from depression or anxiety. People who lead healthy lifestyles and exercise regularly can reap the same benefits from taking nootropics. (72)
Many nootropics improve memory or focus and attention, but creatine is one of the few that enhances reasoning as well. Memorizing information is useful, but reasoning logically through a difficult professional or educational problem is even more profound. (73)
There is scope for drinks brands from a range of categories to explore the functionality of nootropics to support consumers in a cognitively more demanding world. While food brands are also starting to use nootropics, drinks are the obvious conduit for these functional ingredients as they can be digested more quickly than food. The most popular nootropic substance used by drinks today is caffeine, which is proven to boost mental alertness. But there is a range of other nootropic ingredients such as ginseng or L-Theanine, which have the potential to enhance other important brain functions such as memory or creativity. (75)
The Big List of Nootropics: This is a comprehensive list of the most popular Nootropics in use today. Here you’ll learn what each nootropic is, what it does, and suggested dosages.
If you are new to the world of Nootropics, you may be wondering about the best way to use a particular compound. You’ll find that in this guide.
If you are an experienced Neuro hacker this is a great quick reference guide. (76)
Focus Factor Nootropic Gummies: Support your memory with Focus Factor Gummies. A brain supplement enhanced with a combination of vitamins, minerals, and neuro-nutrients. (77)
GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid) is an amino acid and neurotransmitter. GABA is your brain’s primary inhibitory neurotransmitter. Its role is to keep glutamate, the primary excitatory transmitter, from overwhelming you. Too much glutamate can cause a seizure, and too much GABA can put you in a coma. A healthy brain maintains a critical balance of GABA and glutamate.
GABA acts like a “brake” on neuron circuits during stress. Low GABA levels can result in anxiety, insomnia, poor mood, and restlessness. Clinical studies show that boosting GABA with a supplement relieves anxiety, and stress, and boosts the production of alpha brain waves. If GABA is optimized in your brain, you’ll feel focused, relaxed and stress-free. (78)
The high dosed nootropics: L-Tyrosine, Kanna, and Huperzine A top off the cognitive enhancing component of Gorilla Mind and contribute to a significant increase in energy, focus and overall mental sharpness.
Gorilla Mind Rush combines a blend of natural nootropics, or “smart drugs”, to promise natural energy without the crash, all-day focus, and more. It is marketed very similarly to that of pre-workout supplements. (79)
They are Aindri (Bacopa monniera), Jyothishmati (Celastrus panniculata), Kushmanda (Benincasa hispida), Vacha (Acorus calamus), and Jatamamsi (Nardostachys jatamamsi). Medhya Rasayana are used as a nootropic, either in polyherbal preparations or alone. (80)
Supplementing nootropics for hangovers may help reduce the negative side effects of drinking by: Increasing the body's antioxidant capacity against oxidative stress. Regulating the stress hormone pathway against excess cortisol stress. Improving natural energy production for better focus and processing. (81)
Ashwagandha contains chemicals that might help calm the brain, reduce swelling, lower blood pressure, and alter the immune system. Since ashwagandha is traditionally used as an adaptogen, it is used for many conditions related to stress. Adaptogens are believed to help the body resist physical and mental stress. (82)
Kava essentially acts as a central nervous system depressant as it impacts the receptors of the neurotransmitter gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) and stimulates dopamine in the brain. The calming and mood-boosting effects the substance induces can then cause some people to abuse kava in order to intensify these feelings. (83)
Research has found that lion's mane may protect against dementia, reduce mild symptoms of anxiety and depression, and help repair nerve damage. It also has strong anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and immune-boosting abilities and has been shown to lower the risk of heart disease, cancer, ulcers, and diabetes in animals.
Preclinical studies suggest that Lion's mane may reduce inflammation and biological markers of Alzheimer's (i.e., amyloid plaques), improve cognition, and increase the release of nerve growth factor, a protein that can increase the length of nerve cell processes. (84)
L-theanine is an amino acid commonly found in green tea (yes, matcha!), black tea, and some mushrooms. Also considered a nootropic, l-theanine is said to boost serotonin levels, which can help regulate our mood and boost overall feelings of well-being and joy.
L-theanine (γ-glutamylethylamide) has been shown to affect brain functions by relieving stress disorders, improving mood, and maintaining normal sleep. (85)
One of the most commonly studied benefits of Lion's Mane Mushroom is its function as a cognitive enhancer, aka a nootropic. An improvement in focus, mental clarity, memory & verbal fluency are often reported by users of Lion's Mane. (86)
Methylene blue administered post-training improves memory retention in avoidance and appetitive tasks and restores spatial memory impaired by an inhibitor of cytochrome oxidase. Methylene blue may improve memory retention by increasing brain oxygen utilization. (87)
Caffeine is the most widely consumed psychoactive substance in the world.
It's naturally found in coffee, cocoa, tea, kola nuts, and guarana and is added to many sodas, energy drinks and medications. Caffeine works by blocking adenosine receptors in your brain, making you feel less tired. (88)
Nicotine's cognitive effects have gained significant attention in recent decades, and some non-smokers have even started using nicotine gum or patches as a nootropic. Research has shown that nicotine can speed up reaction time, improve working memory, and enhance focus and attention. (89)
Noopept is a popular cognitive-enhancing supplement in the nootropic community. The proposed mechanism of action based on preclinical studies includes increasing acetylcholine signaling, increasing the expression of BDNF and NGF, protecting from glutamate toxicity, and increasing inhibitory neurotransmission in the brain. (90)
Doses as low as 3 g daily for 4 days and as high as a single 30-g dose have been implicated in phenibut nootropic intoxication. The most common symptom of phenibut intoxication is a stuporous or lethargic altered mental status, often accompanied by dystonia and hypothermia. (91)
Ingredients for Onnit Alpha Brain Wave Production and Cognitive Processing Speed
Vitamin B6 – 13 mg.
Oat (Straw) Extract, Phosphatidylserine, L-Tyrosine, L-Theanine- 655 mg.
Cat's Claw (tree bark) Extract – 355 mg.
Alpha GPC, Huperzia Serrata, Bacopa Monnieri- 245 mg.
Pterostilbene, L-Leucine- 65 mg. (92)
Hence omega-3 holds immense importance in the field of medicine and nutritional sciences. It has been featured as a nootropic because recent studies have concluded that omega-3 has tremendous benefits on cognitive functionality. (93)
Oxiracetam is a nootropic drug of the racetam family and a very mild stimulant. Several studies suggest that the substance is safe even when high doses are consumed for a long period of time. However, the mechanism of action of the racetam drug family is still a matter of research. Oxiracetam is not approved by Food and Drug Administration for any medical use in the United States. (94)
Yes, pre-workouts may have side effects. Some common side effects include increased heart rate, jitters, anxiety, and headaches. As you can see, there are a few things to consider before taking nootropic pre-workout supplements. (95)
Piracetam is a synthetic nootropic that may boost mental performance. Its positive effects on the brain seem more apparent in older adults, as well as people with mental impairment, dementia, or learning disorders, such as dyslexia. (96)
Choline is a nootropic that plays a role in your fetus's brain development. It may also help prevent some common birth defects. Experts recommend that pregnant women get 450 mg of choline each day. Choline can be found in chicken, beef, eggs, milk, soy products, and peanuts. (97)
Quaila mind (L-Dopa) is also used as a primary medication for Parkinson's disease (as Levodopa), so we know it works reliably to increase your overall dopamine levels. Having a higher amount of dopamine helps to stabilize your mood and increase your concentration, which is great for a nootropic. (98)
It protects neuronal cells from oxidative stress induced by various chemicals and prevents hippocampal apoptosis. Quercetin improves memory, learning, and cognitive functions, and all these effects have been shown to be associated with its antioxidant properties.
Quercetin can also exert antidepressant effects by inhibiting the hyperactivity of the HPA axis, which has been confirmed by multiple studies. (99)
Aniracetam primarily acts as both a stimulant and a mental enhancer. It's said to help make you more awake and alert. This is similar to caffeine. It may also help improve your memory and concentration. (100)
Turmeric (Curcuma longa) is one of the most studied herbs in Ayurvedic, Siddha, Unani and Chinese healing. Turmeric has remarkable nootropic properties. And stands far above many modern medicines used to treat neurodegenerative diseases like depression, Alzheimer’s and stroke.
Turmeric works on a molecular level to enhance neurogenesis. It boosts the neurotransmitters serotonin and dopamine. And is a powerful antioxidant helping to protect your brain from chronic, excess inflammation. (101)
Piracetam is considered safe with little risk of side effects. In long-term studies, doses of up to 24 grams daily have had no adverse effects. (102)
Ashwagandha is an adaptogenic herb that has been used for thousands of years to help both physical and mental health. Like phosphatidylserine, Ashwagandha modulates the activity of your HPA axis to control cortisol and stress hormone output.
This process helps control feelings of stress and anxiety.
As an adaptogen, it works according to your body's natural circadian rhythm to give you energy when you need it and calm you down later in the day. For people using yoga for a mix of rejuvenation and relaxation, an adaptogenic herb like Ashwagandha fits the bill. (103)
Zlem is a powerhouse formula containing more than 20 ingredients designed to help you fall asleep faster, sleep more soundly, and burn stored body fat during your nighttime renewal. (104)
The essential mineral zinc is a core part of a healthy diet. It is critical for the proper functioning of basic processes — such as protein and DNA synthesis, reproduction, and neural signaling, since it naturally facilitates hundreds of enzymes inside the body.
As is the case with other natural minerals, including magnesium and calcium, zinc has been shown to play a wide amount of roles in the well-being of the mind and body including:
Enhancing vision
Fortifying the immune system
Providing nutrients as a multivitamin, though deficiency is rare in the U.S.
Acting as a testosterone booster (105)
ZEN is a powerful nootropic blend designed to optimize your brain and body, with natural, evidence-based ingredients. Total ZEN’s nootropic blend can help by:
Improving your focus, attention and concentration.
Naturally, boosting your mental and physical energy levels.
Supporting cognitive function and overall brain health.
Promoting relaxation and a sense of wellbeing.
Supporting you during times of stress and anxiety. (106)
Nootropics not only boost cognition, but vision as well. Nootropics are much more than just boosting your mental health. It also takes your eyesight to the next level and beyond. Nootropics may help with various aspects of vision, making it an excellent choice for eye health. (107)