In recent times, there has been a significant surge in the popularity of brain supplements, commonly known as nootropics or “smart drugs.” This rise is particularly noticeable among university students using them to enhance cognitive functions during exam preparation, working professionals facing imminent deadlines, and older individuals concerned about potential age-related cognitive decline. These compounds, meticulously designed to unlock the innate potential of the human mind as cognitive enhancers, have captured the attention of those eager to optimize their cognitive abilities. This review provides a thorough understanding of natural nootropic supplements, exploring their potential benefits on cognitive health and associated risks. Let’s dive in.
What Are Natural Brain Nootropic Supplements?
Nootropics, often referred to as brain boosters, are substances used to potentially augment overall mental performance. They can be synthetic or natural and have the potential to positively affect brain health and cognitive abilities. The term “nootropic” was coined by Dr. Corneliu Giurgea in the 1970s. He defined nootropics as compounds that should possess certain characteristics, including heightening learning & memory, providing neuroprotective effects, and exhibiting minimal negative effects with low toxicity [1].
Natural or organic brain nootropic supplements refer to substances derived from natural sources known for enhancing cognitive function. These sought-after supplements are valued for their potential to improve various aspects of brain health and performance, including memory, focus, creativity, and overall cognitive abilities.
These compounds, found in plants, herbs, or naturally occurring substances, work through various mechanisms within the brain. They can influence neurotransmitter levels, support neural plasticity (the brain’s ability to reorganize and form new neural connections), enhance cerebral blood flow, and provide essential nutrients crucial for brain function. Some natural nootropics possess adaptogenic properties, helping the brain manage stress and improve resilience.
The appeal of natural nootropics lies in their perceived ability to optimize cognitive function without some of the potential risks associated with synthetic alternatives. Many individuals incorporate these supplements as part of a holistic approach to support their mental clarity and overall brain health.
The Different Types of Nootropics
Nootropics encompass a wide array of substances, available either through prescription or over-the-counter (OTC), and can be synthetic or natural. They are categorized into 3 primary types [2]:
- prescription nootropics: These are meds typically used for medical or mental health conditions like attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) or narcolepsy. Examples include Adderall (amphetamines), Axura (memantine), Provigil (modafinil) & Nuvigil (armodafinil), and Ritalin (methylphenidate);
- synthetic compounds: Artificially created in a lab, synthetic nootropics are formulated to potentially enhance cognitive functions, engineered with specific effects on brain function through chemical synthesis. Examples like racetams (phenylpiracetam, piracetam, and aniracetam) share a similar chemical structure. Available OTC, racetams are believed to modulate neurotransmitters like acetylcholine and glutamate;
- dietary supplements and other sources: Found in food and beverages, these natural nootropics are beneficial for addressing brain fog and promoting cognitive health. Examples include caffeine, ginkgo biloba, L-theanine, omega-3 fatty acids, Panax ginseng, and Rhodiola rosea. Not requiring a prescription, these substances are easily accessible for cognitive benefits.
Among the plethora of nootropics available, modafinil is often considered one of the most effective. Its reputation stems from its capability to enhance wakefulness and improve cognitive function without causing extreme side effects or addiction potential in comparison to other options. Besides, modafinil is very safe and well-tolerated for adults. Dubbed the “world’s first safe “smart drug,’” it’s commonly used by students studying for exams, professionals & business executives aiming for increased productivity, and older adults concerned about age-related cognitive decline. If you reside in the UK and need this nootropic, it’s best to rely on generic modafinil brands such as Modvigil, which is effective yet inexpensive. You can buy Modvigil online in the UK from a reliable vendor that sources it from its manufacturer. This product is the best alternative to natural brain supplements.
Are Natural Brain Nootropics Effective?
The impact of natural nootropics varies widely and depends on several factors such as individual differences, dosage, purity, and the specific form of the supplement. While some natural nootropics, including herbal supplements, amino acids, and fatty acids, have promising cognitive benefits in research, the overall evidence supporting their effectiveness remains inconclusive. More extensive and rigorous studies are necessary to firmly establish their universal effectiveness in enhancing cognitive abilities. Approach the effectiveness of natural brain boosters with caution and consult a physician before use.
The Best Nootropic Supplements to Boost Brain Power
The following are the best natural brain supplements that have gained attention for their potential cognitive benefits. Consulting a physician before integrating them into your regimen is advisable, particularly if you have pre-existing health conditions or take other meds that might cause interaction.
Creatine
A study in BMC Medicine revealed that taking 5 g of creatine daily for 6 weeks has a positive impact on cognitive performance, particularly short-term memory and reasoning tasks, as observed in 123 participants [3]. However, it did not show the same benefits in exploratory cognitive tasks. According to The Conversation, creatine supplementation significantly improves cognitive function and decision-making, particularly in vegetarians, and may reduce mental fatigue associated with task repetition [4].
Caffeine
Caffeine improves cognitive functions such as attention and long-term memory. A Johns Hopkins University study found that participants who took 200 mg caffeine tablets after studying a series of images demonstrated improved abilities to distinguish those same images from similar ones when tested the next day [5]. Regular coffee consumption has been associated with enhanced memory for passively learned information, likely due to heightened attention. The increased attentiveness results in better observation and encoding of passive information [6].
L-Theanine
L-theanine, known for its calming effects, offers diverse potential health advantages. Studies suggest its efficacy in various areas, including alleviating anxiety and stress, enhancing focus and attention when combined with caffeine, and promoting better sleep quality by inducing relaxation [7]. Moreover, L-theanine could boost memory and thinking skills, potentially helping healthy individuals maintain peak cognitive function [8].
Ginkgo Biloba
Ginkgo, known for its antioxidant content, is rich in flavonoids and terpenoids that combat free radicals, potentially averting tissue damage and aging. Its ability to increase blood flow may benefit heart and brain health. While it shows promise in reducing cognitive decline and symptoms in some dementia cases, research results are inconsistent. Limited studies imply it might enhance mental performance with benefits such as improved memory, focus, attention span, and alleviation of anxiety symptoms [9].
Rhodiola Rosea
Rhodiola, an adaptogen, reduces stress and symptoms of burnout among individuals experiencing chronic stress. Its adaptogenic nature aids in alleviating fatigue and potentially improving symptoms of depression. Similar to antidepressants, it can positively affect neurotransmitters that regulate mood and emotions. Studies suggest its ability to enhance brain function, specifically in learning and memory [10].
Panax Ginseng
Potentially beneficial for cognitive function, Panax ginseng taken orally could enhance thinking abilities, arithmetic skills, and reaction times among healthy individuals in their middle-aged years, though not notably effective for younger adults. When used individually, Panax ginseng doesn’t appear to significantly aid memory. However, when combined with ginkgo leaf extract, it seems to show memory improvement among healthy individuals aged between 38 and 66 [11].
Bacopa Monnieri
Research highlights Bacopa monnieri’s role in enhancing brain function, improving spatial learning, enhancing the speed of visual information processing, learning speed, memory retention, attention, and cognitive abilities. As an adaptogenic herb, it exhibits promise in reducing anxiety and stress by potentially elevating mood and reducing cortisol levels [12].
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Omega-3 fatty acids offer a multitude of potential benefits: they may aid in depression and anxiety, reduce ADHD symptoms in children, and assist in managing mental disorders. Adequate intake of omega-3s during pregnancy is linked to various advantages for a child, including crucial support for brain growth and development. Additionally, these supplements ameliorate symptoms in individuals diagnosed with schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. Furthermore, omega-3 fatty acids contribute to preventing age-related mental decline and possibly reducing the risk of Alzheimer’s disease [13].
Benefits of Brain Supplements for Cognitive Health
As discussed earlier, brain supplements enhance memory, learning, mental acuity, and focus, aiding in better information retention and sustained attention. Additionally, some supplements, like adaptogens, can help reduce stress and support mood regulation. Certain antioxidants found in supplements might protect brain cells, potentially reducing the risk of age-related cognitive decline. While these benefits show promise, individual responses may vary.
Risks of Natural Nootropics
While natural nootropics are praised for their cognitive benefits, it’s essential to weigh potential risks before incorporating them into your routine. Adverse reactions such as headaches, digestive discomfort, or allergic responses may occur, varying among individuals. Certain supplements can interact with medications, impairing their efficacy or causing unintended side effects.
Quality concerns, including variations in purity and standards among brands, pose potential health risks. Limited scientific evidence and insufficient long-term studies might obscure their safety profiles, making it challenging to ascertain long-term effects. Individual variability in responses due to age, health conditions, or other medications further complicates their usage. Moreover, less stringent regulation in the supplement industry could affect consistency and safety standards.
In Closing
In conclusion, natural brain supplements offer a rich array of compounds with the potential to enhance cognitive health. While some show promising results, it’s crucial to approach their usage with caution due to varying effects and individual responses. Notably, among various nootropics, modafinil, although not a natural supplement, is often considered a standout for its potential cognitive benefits. If you need this drug, always prioritize sourcing it from trusted and verified vendors to ensure product authenticity and safety.
References
- Corneliu E. Giurgea. Retrieved: December 13, 2023. Wikipedia.org.
- What Are Nootropics? By Kendra Cherry. Medically reviewed by Shaheen Lakhan. Retrieved: December 13, 2023. Verywellmind.com.
- The Effects of Creatine Supplementation on Cognitive Performance—a Randomised Controlled Study. By Julia Fabienne Sandkühler, Xenia Kersting, Annika Faust, et al. Published: November 15, 2023. Bmcmedicine.biomedcentral.com.
- Creatine Supplements: What the Research Says About How They Can Help You Get in Shape. Published: January 17, 2023. Theconversation.com.
- Caffeine Has Positive Effect on Memory. Retrieved: December 13, 2023. Hopkinsmedicine.org.
- Why Does Caffeine Alter Mood, Focus, & Cognition? By Aditya Shukla. Retrieved: December 13, 2023. Cognitiontoday.com.
- What You Should Know About L-Theanine. By Foram Mehta. Medically reviewed by Dominique Fontaine. Retrieved: December 13, 2023. Healthline.com.
- Theanine – Uses, Side Effects, and More. Retrieved: December 13, 2023. Webmd.com.
- 12 Benefits of Ginkgo Biloba (Plus Side Effects & Dosage). By Ansley Hill. Medically reviewed by Kerry Boyle. Retrieved: December 13, 2023. Healthline.com.
- 7 Science-Backed Health Benefits of Rhodiola Rosea. By Gavin Van De Walle and Karen Lamoreux. Medically reviewed by Jullian Kubala. Retrieved: December 13, 2023. Healthline.com.
- Panax Ginseng – Uses, Side Effects, and More. Retrieved: December 13, 2023. Webmd.com.
- 7 Emerging Benefits of Bacopa Monnieri (Brahmi). By Ryan Raman. Medically reviewed by Imashi Fernando. Retrieved: December 13, 2023. Healthline.com.
- 17 Science-Based Benefits of Omega-3 Fatty Acids. By Freydis Hjalmarsdottir. Medically reviewed by Amy Richter. Retrieved: December 13, 2023. Healthline.com.
Comments
comments