Nootropics can increase your brainpower. It sounds too good to be true right? Pills that can actually increase your cognitive function, memory recall, and enhance focus? Well, we’re here to tell you, that it’s not. Nootropics are one of the most clinically studied supplements, with an innumerable amount of research that proves, they can help increase your brain power, function, memory recall, and if taken prophylactically, can help against cognitive degeneration and the aging process. 

What Are Nootropics?

Unlocking Your Brain’s Potential

Nootropics, also called smart drugs or cognitive enhancers, are supplements or compounds that aim to improve mental performance. These substances have gained massive attention for their ability to enhance mental clarity, memory recall, creativity, retention, and motivation. In other words, they’re a powerful tool to help us optimize brain function and improve nearly every aspect of cognitive health.

Nootropics are used by everyone from students and busy professionals to athletes and high-performers looking for a cognitive edge. Whether you're trying to increase productivity, focus under pressure, or improve mental endurance, nootropics can be part of a science-backed strategy to support your brain’s peak performance.

How Do Nootropics Work?

The study of nootropics and their effects on cognitive function has expanded dramatically over the last decade. These compounds impact the brain through various pathways, including neurotransmitter modulation, cerebral blood flow enhancement, anti-inflammatory effects, and neuroprotection.

There are two primary types of nootropics:

• Synthetic nootropics – Lab-created compounds designed to target specific cognitive pathways (e.g., racetams, modafinil)

• Natural nootropics – Herbal or plant-derived compounds like Ginkgo Biloba, Bacopa Monnieri, and Vinpocetine, which have been used in traditional medicine systems for centuries

According to a comprehensive study in the Journal of Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine,

"Natural nootropics are proven in boosting brain function while at the same time making the brain healthier. Nootropics act as vasodilators in the small arteries and veins in the brain, increasing cerebral blood flow and delivering essential nutrients and oxygen." – Kenneth Blum et al., 2015

Despite weighing only about 3% of total body mass, the brain receives over 15% of the body’s blood and oxygen supply. It relies exclusively on glucose to produce energy—and that energy fuels everything from memory retention to neurotransmission. Because neurons cannot be replaced, protecting and fueling them with the right compounds is essential for long-term mental performance.

Nootropics also appear to support neuroplasticity, reduce inflammation, protect against toxins, and delay age-related cognitive decline. Some compounds even stimulate the growth of new neurons (neurogenesis), enhancing memory, learning, and brain adaptability.

What Are the Most Effective Nootropics?

With a growing number of nootropics available on the market, it can be difficult to identify which ingredients actually deliver measurable results. The most effective nootropics are those that are clinically researched, naturally derived, and capable of supporting various aspects of brain health, including memory, focus, mood, and mental clarity.

Below are three of the most powerful and widely studied natural nootropics to support cognitive function and optimize mental performance.

1. Bacopa Monnieri (Brahmi)

Definition: A creeping herb native to India, Bacopa Monnieri has been used in Ayurvedic medicine for centuries to support cognition, memory, and emotional balance.

Bacopa is considered one of the best natural nootropics due to its ability to support memory formation, reduce anxiety, and improve cognitive processing. Classified in Ayurveda as a medhya rasayana (a substance that enhances intellect and memory), Bacopa contains two primary bioactive compounds—bacoside A and bacoside B—which work together to facilitate learning and neuroprotection.

As noted in research by Stough et al., Psychopharmacology, Bacopa improves working memory and information processing in healthy adults over chronic supplementation periods.

Stough, C. et al. “Chronic effects of an extract of Bacopa monniera on cognitive function in healthy human subjects.” Psychopharmacology (2001)

Proven Benefits of Bacopa Monnieri:

• Reduces anxiety and depressive symptoms
  Bacopa may modulate serotonin and dopamine pathways, which are critical to mood regulation. Studies show significant reduction in anxiety symptoms in people taking Bacopa over 12-week periods.

  Calabrese, C. et al. “Effects of a standardized Bacopa monnieri extract on cognitive performance, anxiety, and depression in the elderly.” J Altern Complement Med (2008)

• Improves long-term and episodic memory
  Bacosides enhance synaptic communication and repair damaged neurons, promoting better memory consolidation and recall—especially with consistent use for 6–12 weeks.

• Enhances learning through neuroplasticity
  Bacopa stimulates protein kinase activity and dendritic proliferation in the hippocampus, which is vital for memory and learning processes.

  Russo, A. & Borrelli, F. “Bacopa monniera, a reputed nootropic plant: an overview.” Phytomedicine (2005)

• May help manage ADHD symptoms
  Studies in children with ADHD have shown improvements in restlessness, self-control, and cognitive function when supplemented with Bacopa.

  Dave, U.P. et al. “Efficacy of Bacopa monnieri in children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study.” J Pharmacol Pharmacother (2014)

• Supports brain aging and neuroprotection
  Bacosides reduce beta-amyloid accumulation and oxidative stress in the brain, both of which are implicated in neurodegenerative conditions.

• Reduces cortisol (stress hormone) levels
  As an adaptogen, Bacopa helps reduce systemic cortisol levels, improving resilience to stress and lowering the physiological impact of chronic stress exposure.

  Roodenrys, S. et al. “Chronic effects of Bacopa monnieri on memory in healthy human subjects.” Neuropsychopharmacology (2002)

• May improve symptoms of Alzheimer’s and dementia
  Preliminary animal and human studies suggest Bacopa may inhibit acetylcholinesterase and protect against cognitive decline, making it a potential therapeutic for age-related memory loss.

  Morgan, A. & Stevens, J. “Does Bacopa monnieri improve memory performance in older persons? Results of a randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind trial.” J Altern Complement Med (2010)

• Acts as an adaptogen, helping the body manage stress
  Bacopa helps regulate the HPA axis (hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal), leading to improved mood stability, focus, and overall stress tolerance.

2. Ginkgo Biloba

Definition: Derived from the leaves of the ancient maidenhair tree, Ginkgo Biloba is a herbal extract known for its powerful antioxidant and vasodilating effects on the brain.

One of the most popular nootropics globally, Ginkgo has been used for centuries in Traditional Chinese Medicine. Its high flavonoid and terpenoid content gives it strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity, protecting neurons from oxidative stress while improving cerebral blood flow.

A meta-analysis by Yang et al., Frontiers in Aging Neuroscience found that Ginkgo Biloba extract was associated with improved cognitive function in patients with dementia and mild cognitive impairment.

Yang, G. et al. “Efficacy and safety of Ginkgo biloba extract for the treatment of dementia: an overview of systematic reviews.” Frontiers in Aging Neuroscience (2016)

Proven Benefits of Ginkgo Biloba:

• Enhances focus and concentration
  Ginkgo improves cerebral perfusion—increasing oxygen and glucose delivery to the brain—which enhances executive function, sustained attention, and processing speed, particularly in older adults.

  Kennedy, D.O. et al. “Effects of Ginkgo biloba on mood and cognition in healthy volunteers.” Psychopharmacology (2000)

• Reduces anxiety and depressive symptoms
  Ginkgo may downregulate stress response pathways, improving resilience to emotional triggers and enhancing overall mood in individuals with generalized anxiety disorder.

  Woelk, H. et al. “Ginkgo biloba special extract EGb 761® in generalized anxiety disorder and adjustment disorder with anxious mood: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial.” Journal of Psychiatric Research (2007)

• Supports brain circulation and nutrient delivery
  Ginkgo enhances nitric oxide availability, improving vasodilation and endothelial function. This supports not only oxygen-rich blood flow to the brain but also delivery of essential micronutrients needed for neurotransmitter synthesis and cognitive performance.

• May help prevent or slow Alzheimer’s and dementia
  Ginkgo has demonstrated neuroprotective effects by reducing beta-amyloid toxicity, oxidative stress, and neuroinflammation—three key mechanisms implicated in Alzheimer’s pathology. Clinical trials show it may stabilize or slow cognitive decline in mild to moderate Alzheimer’s.

  Hashiguchi, M. et al. “Efficacy and safety of Ginkgo biloba extract for the treatment of dementia: an updated systematic review and meta-analysis.” Journal of Alzheimer's Disease (2015)

• Assists in PMS symptom relief and libido improvement
  Ginkgo may help alleviate mood swings, breast tenderness, and fatigue associated with premenstrual syndrome by modulating circulation and hormone sensitivity. Additionally, it has shown potential to increase libido and reduce sexual dysfunction, particularly in women on antidepressants.

  Santos, R.F. et al. “The effects of Ginkgo biloba on sexual dysfunction in women with antidepressant-induced sexual dysfunction.” Journal of Sex & Marital Therapy (2008)

• Used in ADHD and fibromyalgia support protocols
  Preliminary research indicates Ginkgo—when combined with other supportive herbs like Ginseng—may help improve attention span and reduce hyperactivity in children with ADHD. It may also reduce cognitive fog and pain perception in those with fibromyalgia.

  Salehi, B. et al. “The therapeutic potential of Ginkgo biloba L. in aging-related diseases.” Biomedicine & Pharmacotherapy (2019)

• May relieve tension headaches and migraines
  Ginkgo’s vasoregulatory properties, coupled with its ability to reduce platelet aggregation, may decrease the frequency and severity of migraines and tension-type headaches—especially those linked to poor circulation or oxidative stress.

3. Phosphatidylserine

Definition: A phospholipid and essential component of cell membranes, particularly abundant in the brain, where it supports cellular signaling and cognitive integrity.

Though lesser known by name, Phosphatidylserine (PS) is one of the most critical nootropics for long-term brain function. It supports neuron-to-neuron communication, helps maintain neurotransmitter balance, and protects brain cells from inflammation and oxidative stress. It is naturally present in foods like soy, fish, and organ meats—but supplementation is often needed for therapeutic levels.

According to Glade & Smith, Nutrition, PS supplementation has been shown to improve memory, attention, and mood, particularly in aging individuals.

Glade, M.J. & Smith, K. “Phosphatidylserine and the human brain.” Nutrition (2015)

Proven Benefits of Phosphatidylserine:

• Improves memory and mental processing
  PS helps maintain the fluidity of brain cell membranes and facilitates acetylcholine release, a neurotransmitter essential for memory encoding and recall. Supplementation has been shown to significantly improve verbal recall and working memory in elderly individuals with memory complaints.

  Crook, T.H. et al. “Effects of phosphatidylserine in age-associated memory impairment.” Neurology (1991)

• Supports adrenal function and stress resilience
  Phosphatidylserine blunts the release of cortisol, the body’s primary stress hormone, by modulating the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis. This is particularly helpful for those under chronic stress or experiencing “adrenal fatigue.”

  Monteleone, P. et al. “Blunting by chronic phosphatidylserine administration of the stress-induced activation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis in healthy men.” European Journal of Clinical Pharmacology (1992)

• Slows cognitive decline in older adults
  PS may slow age-related mental decline by preserving dopaminergic activity and enhancing glucose metabolism in the brain. Clinical trials in geriatric populations show improvement in memory, language skills, and concentration.

  Schreiber, S. et al. “An open-label study to evaluate the efficacy and safety of phosphatidylserine in improving cognitive impairment in the elderly.” Advances in Therapy (2000)

• May alleviate depression and improve mood
  PS can enhance dopamine receptor function and serotonin levels, both of which are closely tied to mood regulation. When paired with omega-3 fatty acids, it has been shown to significantly improve mood in elderly women with depression.

  Hirayama, S. et al. “The effect of phosphatidylserine administration on memory and symptoms of attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial.” Journal of Human Nutrition and Dietetics (2014)

• Helps manage symptoms of Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s
  PS is believed to preserve cholinergic neuron integrity and has been used in supportive therapy for neurodegenerative diseases. Though not a cure, it may reduce symptom severity and enhance cognitive performance when used adjunctively.

  Heiss, W.D. et al. “Activation PET supports a model of phosphatidylserine as a stimulant of synaptic function in Alzheimer's disease patients.” Dementia and Geriatric Cognitive Disorders (1994)

• Enhances exercise performance and recovery
  PS reduces exercise-induced cortisol release and muscle soreness while supporting post-exercise recovery. It has also been linked to improved time-to-exhaustion and reduced perception of fatigue in athletes.

  Kingsley, M. et al. “Effects of phosphatidylserine supplementation on exercise capacity during cycling in active males.” Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition (2006)

• Supports hormonal regulation and immune function
  PS contributes to cell membrane integrity in immune cells and hormone-producing glands, supporting balanced endocrine output and reducing inflammation. It has been shown to increase immune response in individuals under physical or emotional stress.

4. Rhodiola Rosea

Definition: A flowering adaptogenic herb native to the cold, mountainous regions of Europe and Asia, Rhodiola Rosea has been used in traditional medicine for centuries to enhance physical and mental resilience, especially under stress and fatigue.

Known as an adaptogen, Rhodiola helps the body resist physical, chemical, and environmental stress. Its most bioactive compounds—rosavin and salidroside—are responsible for its powerful mood-enhancing, fatigue-fighting, and cognitive-boosting effects. Rhodiola influences key brain pathways, including serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine, while also modulating the HPA axis.

In a clinical study by Darbinyan et al., Phytomedicine, Rhodiola was shown to significantly reduce mental fatigue and improve performance under stress in physicians working night shifts.

Darbinyan, V. et al. “Rhodiola rosea in stress induced fatigue—a double blind cross-over study of a standardized extract SHR-5 with a repeated low-dose regimen on the mental performance of healthy physicians during night duty.” Phytomedicine (2000)

Proven Benefits of Rhodiola Rosea:

• May assist with anxiety and PTSD
  Clinical evidence suggests Rhodiola may reduce symptoms of generalized anxiety and post-traumatic stress, particularly in combination with lifestyle or psychological therapies.

  Bystritsky, A. et al. “Pilot study of Rhodiola rosea for generalized anxiety disorder.” Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine (2008)

  
  

5. Lion’s Mane (Hericium erinaceus)

Definition: Lion’s Mane is a unique, shaggy-looking medicinal mushroom native to North America, Europe, and Asia. It has a long history of use in Traditional Chinese and Japanese medicine for enhancing cognitive function, nerve regeneration, and overall brain health.

What makes Lion’s Mane stand out as a nootropic is its ability to stimulate the production of nerve growth factor (NGF)—a protein essential for the growth, repair, and survival of neurons. Its two primary bioactive compounds, hericenones (found in the fruiting body) and erinacines (from the mycelium), cross the blood-brain barrier and support neuroplasticity, myelination, and cognitive function.

In a double-blind, placebo-controlled study by Mori et al., Phytotherapy Research, elderly individuals with mild cognitive impairment showed significantly improved cognitive scores after taking Lion’s Mane for 16 weeks.

Mori, K. et al. “Improving effects of the mushroom Yamabushitake (Hericium erinaceus) on mild cognitive impairment: a double-blind placebo-controlled clinical trial.” Phytotherapy Research (2009)

Proven Benefits of Lion’s Mane:

• Stimulates nerve growth factor (NGF) production
  NGF is critical for brain cell regeneration and synaptic plasticity. Lion’s Mane promotes NGF synthesis in the hippocampus, enhancing memory and learning capabilities.

  Wong, K.H. et al. “Hericium erinaceus (Yamabushitake): a white rot fungus with promising medicinal values.” Fungal Biology Reviews (2012)

• Enhances memory and cognitive performance
  Lion’s Mane improves recognition memory and spatial memory by increasing hippocampal neurogenesis. It has shown benefits in both aging individuals and healthy adults under cognitive load.

  Nagano, M. et al. “Reduction of depression and anxiety by 4 weeks Hericium erinaceus intake.” Biomedical Research (2010)

• Supports neuroprotection and brain longevity
  The mushroom’s antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects reduce neuronal damage caused by oxidative stress, aging, and neurodegenerative diseases. It may delay the onset or progression of dementia and Alzheimer’s.

  Zhang, Z. et al. “Erinacine A-enriched Hericium erinaceus mycelium delays progression of Alzheimer's disease in APP/PS1 transgenic mice.” Journal of Biomedical Science (2016)

• Reduces symptoms of anxiety and depression
  Lion’s Mane may improve mood by enhancing hippocampal function and supporting neurogenesis in brain areas involved in emotional regulation. In human trials, it has shown reductions in feelings of irritation and anxiety.

  Nagano, M. et al. “Reduction of depression and anxiety by 4 weeks Hericium erinaceus intake.” Biomedical Research (2010)

• May assist in recovery from nerve injury
  Animal studies show accelerated regeneration of peripheral nerves and improved functional recovery after injury, suggesting Lion’s Mane may be valuable in spinal cord and nerve damage therapies.

  Wong, K.H. et al. “Neuroregenerative potential of Lion’s Mane mushroom for nerve injury recovery.” International Journal of Medicinal Mushrooms (2012)

• Improves gut-brain axis health
  Lion’s Mane exhibits prebiotic effects, supporting gut microbiota that influence brain function via the vagus nerve and inflammatory signaling. This contributes to improved mental clarity and emotional balance.

• Potential support for Parkinson’s and MS
  Preliminary research indicates Lion’s Mane may reduce demyelination and inflammation in models of neurodegenerative diseases like Parkinson’s and Multiple Sclerosis, though more human trials are needed.

   

 Natural vs. Synthetic Nootropics: Benefits & Side Effects

Definition: Nootropics—also known as cognitive enhancers—are substances that improve brain function, particularly in areas like memory, focus, creativity, and mood. They fall into two broad categories: natural and synthetic (non-natural).

Natural Nootropics

What They Are:
Naturally derived compounds from plants, herbs, fungi, or foods that enhance brain performance with a generally favorable safety profile.

Examples:

• Bacopa Monnieri

• Lion’s Mane Mushroom

• Rhodiola Rosea

• Ginkgo Biloba

• Panax Ginseng

• L-Theanine (from green tea)

• Omega-3 fatty acids (DHA, EPA)

Mechanism:
Most natural nootropics work by supporting neuroplasticity, reducing oxidative stress, balancing neurotransmitters, and enhancing cerebral blood flow.

Pros:

• Generally safe for long-term use

• Widely available without prescription

• Multifaceted benefits (e.g., anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, adaptogenic)

• Often supported by traditional medicine systems (Ayurveda, TCM)

Cons / Potential Side Effects:

• Effects may take time (weeks to months) to become noticeable

• Potency can vary between extracts

• Some individuals may experience:

  • Digestive upset (e.g., with Bacopa or Ginseng)

  • Mild headache or fatigue (rare)

  • Herbal allergies or interactions with medications

Note: Always consult a healthcare provider before starting herbal supplements, especially if taking SSRIs, MAOIs, blood thinners, or sedatives.

Synthetic (Non-Natural) Nootropics

What They Are:
Lab-created compounds or pharmaceuticals developed specifically to enhance cognitive function or treat neurological conditions.

Examples:

• Modafinil (used for narcolepsy, off-label for focus)

• Adrafinil (precursor to Modafinil)

• Piracetam and other racetams (aniracetam, oxiracetam, phenylpiracetam)

• Noopept

• Amphetamines (e.g., Adderall—prescription only)

Mechanism:
Synthetic nootropics often work by modulating neurotransmitter systems (dopamine, norepinephrine, acetylcholine), or by increasing neuronal metabolism, synaptic plasticity, or wakefulness-promoting pathways.

Pros:

• Rapid onset and noticeable effects

• High potency for improving attention, alertness, and mental energy

• May be effective in treating clinical cognitive disorders (e.g., ADHD, dementia)

Cons / Potential Side Effects:

• Greater risk of dependency and tolerance (especially with stimulants)

• Can cause:

  • Insomnia

  • Irritability or anxiety

  • Increased blood pressure and heart rate

  • Headaches or brain fog with racetams (especially without choline support)

  • Mood swings or emotional blunting

• Some require prescriptions or are banned in athletic competition

Caution: Misuse of prescription nootropics can lead to legal, cognitive, or cardiovascular complications. Always use under medical supervision.

Summary Table: Natural vs. Synthetic Nootropics

 Best Time to Take Nootropics: Timing for Maximum Effectiveness

The effectiveness of nootropics isn’t just about what you take—but when you take it. Timing your supplements based on their mechanisms, desired effects, and daily rhythms can significantly enhance their benefits and minimize side effects.

Recommended Timing for Natural Nootropics

Recommended Timing for Synthetic Nootropics

 General Tips on Timing

• Stacking: Some nootropics work best in combination—e.g., L-Theanine + Caffeine in the morning, or Lion’s Mane + Alpha-GPC for focus and brain repair.

• Meal Timing: Fat-soluble compounds (like Bacopa, PS, Lion’s Mane) absorb best with dietary fats.

• Circadian Rhythm Support: Adaptogens and stimulants should align with peak cortisol hours (morning), while calming nootropics (like Phosphatidylserine or L-Theanine) may suit evening use.

Do Nootropics Really Work?

In conclusion, natural nootropic supplements truly can provide the extra mental boost many of us are looking for—especially during times when focus, motivation, and mental clarity are lacking. Whether you're feeling foggy, unproductive, or just not at your best, research-backed nootropics offer a compelling solution to optimize brain performance.

Scientific evidence supports that natural nootropics help enhance memory, increase concentration, reduce mental fatigue, and protect brain health long-term. Ingredients like Bacopa Monnieri, Ginkgo Biloba, and Phosphatidylserine have demonstrated significant results in improving cognitive function, supporting mood regulation, and slowing age-related mental decline

As noted in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, these compounds support brain resilience through antioxidant activity, improved blood flow, and neurogenesis.

At the end of the day, your brain is your most valuable asset—and taking preventive action to support and protect it is not just smart, it’s essential. Natural nootropics are a proactive and effective way to improve your mental edge and elevate your overall quality of life as you age.

If you’re ready to feel sharper, think faster, and improve your cognitive performance, it may be time to explore a natural nootropic supplement stack that aligns with your lifestyle.

Wondering How To Increase Your Brain Function So You Can Be More Productive?

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