Nootropics, also known as smart drugs, are natural or synthetic substances that enhance cognitive function. Over the years, the use of nootropics has gained widespread popularity, so today, there are dozens of over-the-counter medications for improving brain function on the shelves.
These products are designed to boost creativity, increase brain power, improve attention and focus, and boost overall energy and wellness.
We prepared a detailed article followed by a buyer’s guide for you explaining how nootropic supplements work and how to select the best nootropics from a vast array of products on the market. In other words, you’ll find the best products for any of your specific needs in the following paragraphs.
The 10 Best Nootropics for 2021
We’re committed to providing you with the best products available. If you purchase through one of the links on our site, we may earn a commission. Read our full Affiliate Disclosure. Mind Lab Pro® Universal Nootropic™
The Overall Best Nootropics on the Market
- Free from caffeine, soy, and gluten
- Third-party tested and validated
- It contains 11 research-backed nootropics
- Non-GMO
Performance Lab® Mind
The Best Nootropics for Mental Exertion
- Allergen-free
- Vegan-friendly
- Non-irradiated
- Non-GMO
Onnit Alpha BRAIN®
The Best Natural Nootropics Product
- Free from gluten, nuts, and caffeine
- Boosts the production of alpha waves
- Keto-friendly
Nootrogen® Ultimate Nootropic
The Best Nootropics for Memory and Focus
- A fine blend of vitamins and plant extracts
- Free from gluten and lactose
- Produced in an FDA-registered facility
Havasu Nutrition® NeuroIGNITE™
The Best Nootropic for Energy
- Third-party tested
- Made in an GMP-compliant facility
- Offers mouthwatering discounts
Organixx® Ageless Brain
The Best Nootropics for Anxiety
- Contains eight brain-enhancing botanicals
- Non-GMO product
- Produced in the US
- Tested and verified by NSF
ZHOU Nutrition® Neuro-Peak®
The Best Nootropics for Motivation
- Gluten-free
- Produced in a GMP-compliant facility
- Non-GMO
Neurohacker Collective® Qualia Mind™
The Best Nootropics for Focus
- Non-GMO
- Gluten-free
- 100% vegan
- Juicy discount offers
NooCube
The Best Nootropics for Alzheimer’s
- Contains clinically-backed ingredients
- Contains no caffeine or GMO ingredients
- Fast action time
- Free worldwide shipping
Roar Ambition™ Hunter Focus
The Best Concentration Pills
- No caffeine-related jitters
- Made in a GMP-certified facility
- Third-party purity tested
Our Top-Rated Nootropics Reviews
Do you need some guidance in relation to finding the best cognitive enhancers? If so, you’re in the right place. We compiled a detailed review of the best smart drugs on the market for you to choose from, so let’s have a look at them.
Mind Lab Pro® Universal Nootropic™
The Overall Best Nootropics on the Market
- Type: Capsule
- Ingredients: Citicoline (Cognizin®), Bacopa monnieri (aerial parts), phosphatidylserine (sharp PS® green from sunflower lecithin), organic lion’s mane mushroom fruit (full spectrum), N-acetyl-L-tyrosine, maritime pine bark extract (95% proanthocyanidins), Rhodiola rosea root (3% rosavins, 1% salidrosides), L-theanine (Suntheanine®), vitamin B12, vitamin B6, and vitamin B9
- Shipping policy: Free shipping on orders over $195
- Return policy: A 60-day money-back guarantee
- Discounts: Order a three-month-supply and receive an extra box for free
Universal Nootropic is one of the best smart drugs currently on the market. One reason for this is that Mind Lab Pro sources all ingredients from leading global nootropics suppliers. In that way, they can get fresh, premium-quality ingredients grown in a clean and pristine natural environment.
All nootropic ingredients are first quarantined and tested for efficacy before entering the production process. Being one of the best neuroenhancers money can buy, this product contains no unnecessary synthetic additives, colors, allergens, microbes, GMOs, pesticides, and herbicides.
Numerous competitors utilize HPMC vegetarian capsules to encapsulate their ingredients. This type of capsule appears natural but contains semi-synthetic polymers. Mind Lab Pro® uses easy-to-absorb, 100% natural vegan plant caps made from tapioca instead. Consequently, due to the purity of its ingredients, Universal Nootropic became one of the safest nootropics out there.
While some nootropics target a maximum of two or three brain functions, Universal Nootropic pills serve as the whole-brain optimizer. They contain 11 evidence-backed nootropic substances that help improve your overall mental performance, making them the best nootropic pills on the market.
They target multiple brain pathways and improve brain energy, brain chemical levels, brain regeneration, brain protection, and brain waves. Consequently, it leads to peak mental performance, keeps you sharp, and helps with overall brain health and function in the long run.
Consumers report immediate cognitive benefits alongside noticeable mental performance improvement following a single consumption. Therefore, it’s no wonder Mind Lab Pro® is grouped among the best brain-enhancing drugs on the market today.
Pros
- + Free from caffeine, soy, and gluten
- + Third-party tested and validated
- + It contains 11 research-backed nootropics
- + Non-GMO
Cons
- − Some users reported receiving poor-quality packaging
Performance Lab® Mind
The Best Nootropics for Mental Exertion
- Type: Capsule
- Ingredients: Citicoline (Cognizin®™), Ajipure® L-tyrosine, phosphatidylserine (soy-free Sharp-PS® green from non-GMO sunflower lecithin), maritime pine bark extract (Pinus pinaster) (95% proanthocyanidins), NuFlow® rice concentrate, Nutricaps® pullulan capsule
- Shipping policy: Free worldwide shipping on orders over $100
- Return policy: You can return unused unwanted items within 14 days of receiving them (you’ll receive full refund minus shipping costs)
- Discounts: Order a three-month-supply and receive an extra box for free
Performance Lab® Mind is one of the most popular nootropics known for enhancing cognitive functions such as focus, energy, memory, speed, motivation, etc. This product is especially beneficial for mental exhaustion recovery.
With this top nootropics supplement, you can comfortably multitask and achieve a lot more than usual. It encourages blood flow to the brain and safely and effectively delivers oxygen, glucose, and micronutrients into the brain for improved function. Additionally, it restores brain chemicals for healthier, sharper bounceback from mental exertion and stress burnout.
Performance Lab® Mind smart drugs come in convenient, easy to swallow, 100% plant-based capsules made from fermented tapioca. They’re naturally prebiotic-infused and ultraclean, enabling easy digestion and superior nutrient absorption.
Lastly, this top nootropics brand suitable for vegans is free from allergens, GMOs, synthetic additives, and preservatives.
Pros
- + Allergen-free
- + Vegan-friendly
- + Non-irradiated
- + Non-GMO
Cons
- − Lacks vitamins
Onnit Alpha BRAIN®
The Best Natural Nootropics Product
- Type: Capsule
- Ingredients: Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine HCl), cat’s claw bark extract (Uncaria tomentosa), Onnit® flow blend (oat straw extract, L-tyrosine, L-theanine, phosphatidylserine), Onnit® focus blend (toothed clubmoss extract (Huperzia serrata), bacopa aerial parts extract (Bacopa monnieri), alpha-GPC), Onnit® fuel blend (pterostilbene, L-leucine), maltodextrin, rice hull concentrate (Nu-Flow®), vegetarian capsule (water, cellulose)
- Shipping policy: Free shipping for orders over $150 within contiguous US states
- Return policy: A 90-day money-back guarantee on the first-time purchase
- Discounts: You can save 15% on subscription orders
Since its launch in 2011 by the Onnit brand, Alpha Brain® has become one of the most popular nootropic products on the global smart drug market.
This product enhances memory, improves attention span, and supercharges one’s overall learning ability. It does all this while protecting the brain from chemical and physical stress.
What’s more, Alpha Brain® is non-toxic and produces almost no side effects. Its ingredients have been clinically studied and proven to support verbal memory, improve your information processing capacity, and help you stay focused for extended periods. These are some of the primary reasons why it made our nootropics reviews list.
There’s an abundance of natural ingredients in this keto-friendly product, making it one of the best natural nootropics on our list. These ingredients are safe for consumption and highly bioavailable.
Let’s take a closer look at some of the most important natural ingredients and see how they uniquely contribute to this excellent supplement’s overall brain-enhancing effect.
L-theanine: L-theanine is an amino acid (obtained through our daily diet) that positively affects cerebral blood flow, cognition, and mood. Additionally, it can stimulate the release of serotonin and dopamine in the brain.
L-tyrosine: L-tyrosine is another top nootropic ingredient that improves cognitive and mental performance and that your body can’t produce on its own. It can also help boost motivation and focus.
Phosphatidylserine: Phosphatidylserine is a type of fat produced in the body that helps maintain cellular function in the brain, especially in aging individuals.
Oat Straw Extract: Nootropics reviews indicate that oat straw extract promotes cognitive function when taken as part of a healthy, balanced diet.
Alpha-GPC: This ingredient aids the production of acetylcholine—a neurotransmitter that helps improve the condition of patients with cognitive dysfunctions.
Bacopa: Bacopa is a perennial herb that has been clinically proven to improve nerve signal reception. It also helps improve cognition and increase reaction time (even under stress).
Pterostilbene: Pterostilbene promotes cellular integrity and helps protect nerve and brain cells.
Finally, this BSCG-certified best natural nootropics title is free from caffeine and allergens such as gluten, dairy, and nuts.
Pros
- + Free from gluten, nuts, and caffeine
- + Boosts the production of alpha waves
- + Keto-friendly
Cons
- − May cause jaw pain and nausea
Nootrogen® Ultimate Nootropic
The Best Nootropics for Memory and Focus
- Type: Capsule
- Ingredients: Dimethylaminoethanol, glutamic acid, L-glutamine HCl, bacopa extract (Bacopa monnieri), green tea leaf extract (Camellia sinensis), N-acetyl L-tyrosine, inositol, gamma-aminobutyric acid, bilberry fruit extract (Vaccinium myrtillus), grapefruit seed extract (Citrus paradisi), grape seed extract (Vitis vinifera L.), olive leaf (Olea europaea L.), licorice root extract (Glycyrrhiza glabra), cinnamon bark extract (Cinnamomum cassia), boron (boron citrate), 14% vanadyl (vanadyl sulfate), phosphatidylserine, docosahexaenoic acid, huperzine A, rice flour, cellulose (vegetable capsule), silicon dioxide, magnesium stearate.
- Shipping policy: A shipping fee applies to all orders
- Return policy: A 30-day money-back guarantee
- Discounts: Order two bottles and save $6.94 or order three bottles and save $40.84
This product is one of the best neuroenhancers out there. Nootrogen® is a supplement made with natural ingredients such as bacopa, glutamic acid, and over 30 different vitamins, plants, and minerals.
This fantastic supplement is ideal for memory improvement and promoting the natural synaptic plasticity of the brain. The inclusion of glutamic acid and bacopa extract provides the perfect memory support for your brain.
This product, as one of the best nootropics for memory and focus on the market, is excellent for those who often find themselves in stressful situations. In addition, it’s ideal for anyone looking for a supplement to boost their motivation without getting wired or jet-lagged.
The inclusion of various vitamins, trace minerals, and phosphatidylserine ensures that these top smart drugs become your ideal go-to supplement when your brain needs a massive boost. These substances work together to support the cognitive system. Other substances like L-tyrosine (involved in the formation of dopamine) ensure the natural support of focus all day long.
Lastly, Nootrogen® is manufactured in the US within an FDA-registered facility that strictly adheres to GMP guidelines with locally and internationally sourced ingredients from reliable sources.
Pros
- + A fine blend of vitamins and plant extracts
- + Free from gluten and lactose
- + Produced in an FDA-registered facility
Cons
- − It contains allergens such as fish and soy
Havasu Nutrition® NeuroIGNITE™
The Best Nootropic for Energy
- Type: Capsule
- Ingredients: Bacopa monnieri herb (20% bacosides), dimethylaminoethanol bitartrate, St. John’s wort aerial parts extract (Hypericum perforatum), Ginkgo biloba leaf (24% ginkgo flavone glycosides), acetyl L-carnitine HCl, phosphatidylserine (20%), huperzine A 1% (Huperzia serrata herb), magnesium stearate, gelatin
- Shipping policy: Free shipping for orders of minimum of $35 within the US (including Hawaii and Alaska). A shipping fee of $3.99 applies to orders under $35
- Return policy: A 60-day money-back guarantee on all purchases
- Discounts: Subscribe and save 25% off your first order and 10% on subsequent subscription purchases
Havasu Nutrition® NeuroIGNITE™ is an extra-strength natural brain enhancer and mood booster that also made our best nootropics list in 2020. This supplement promotes a positive mood, boosts energy, and improves one’s concentration and overall mental performance without causing jitters or crashing like caffeine.
This fast-acting smart pill is one of the best OTC nootropics on the market. It contains natural ingredients such as St. John’s Wort, Ginkgo biloba, and other top-notch nootropic brain boosters. Despite being a caffeine-free option, it can keep you energized and focused all day long.
Many consumers specifically praise this top nootropic for its ability to quickly provide a considerable energy boost with no unpleasant side effects. For example, a busy single mom of three reported a significant energy boost upon using it without a jittery feeling. This further corroborates why it’s the best nootropic for energy on our list.
Lastly, this product is formulated in the US in an FDA-registered facility and produced under good manufacturing practice standards.
Pros
- + Third-party tested
- + Made in an GMP-compliant facility
- + Offers mouthwatering discounts
Cons
- − It contains soy (lecithin), a potential allergen
Organixx® Ageless Brain
The Best Nootropics for Anxiety
- Type: Capsule
- Ingredients: Organic cat’s claw root and back powder, organic camu camu fruit powder, organic pau d’arco bark, organic cocoa bean powder, organic Bacopa monnieri powder (whole plant), organic guayusa leaf extract, organic cinnamon bark, dragon’s blood resin extract (dried resin powder)
- Shipping policy: Free shipping for orders over $99 within the US
- Return policy: A one-year complete money-back guarantee on all purchases
- Discounts: Save 15% on subscription orders
Ageless Brain is a nootropic supplement made with a combination of eight highly effective nutrients with nootropic capacity. So, if you’re looking for the best nootropics for social anxiety, look no further. Besides supercharging your memory, this product can reduce feelings of mental stress and anxiety, eliminate brain fog, and keep you sharp all day long.
Ingredients like Bacopa monnieri and guayusa extract are the main ingredients in charge of relaxation. They promote feelings of calmness and provide anxiety relief. Furthermore, cacao powder is an excellent mood promoter that easily qualifies this product as also the best nootropics for mood enhancement you can buy.
Ingredients like dragon’s blood and camu camu, alongside other top nootropics, help eliminate brain fog and fuzzy thinking. These two ingredients contain antioxidants that help reduce inflammation, support healthy cells, and prevent free radical damage in the brain..
The ingredients used in all Organixx®’s products focus on real plants and whole foods that are readily bioavailable and provide numerous health benefits to your body. Sourced directly from the Amazon rainforest, this product’s ingredients are readily bioavailable and of the highest purity. This explains why many hail it as the best brain booster on the market.
Organixx® is a household name in the supplement industry and all their products are NSF-tested. They’re also certified free from glyphosate, pesticides, GMOs, herbicides, heavy metals, and insecticides.
Finally, this top-rated nootropics brand for social anxiety is free from soy, fillers, artificial colorings, preservatives, flavorings, and binders.
Pros
- + Contains eight brain-enhancing botanicals
- + Non-GMO product
- + Produced in the US
- + Tested and verified by NSF
Cons
- − It might take some time to notice the effects
ZHOU Nutrition® Neuro-Peak®
The Best Nootropics for Motivation
- Type: Capsule
- Ingredients: Vitamin B12 (methylcobalamin), phosphatidylserine complex (phosphatidylserine, soy, lecithin, Huperzia serrata), Bacopa monnieri leaf extract, Rhodiola rosea root extract, Ginkgo biloba leaf extract, dimethylaminoethanol bitartrate, vegetarian capsule, rice flour, vegetable silica, magnesium stearate
- Shipping policy: Free shipping on orders over $30
- Return policy: A 60-day complete money-back guarantee on all purchases
- Discounts: Subscribe and save 20% plus free shipping
Zhou Nutrition®, as a brand, is well-known for using only the highest quality ingredients in its product formulations. As a result, only one capsule of these natural stimulants will keep you on the run all day long.
Ranked among the best nootropic stack for 2020, this product is your ideal nootropic supplement for hitting peak performance. It supports memory and cognition, gives clarity, and helps you remain focused all day long. Also, Neuro-Peak® supports oxygen circulation in the brain, brain cells, and neurons.
The inclusion of ingredients with antioxidant properties like Ginkgo biloba and Bacopa monnieri maintains healthy serotonin levels in the brain, supports healthy memory, cognition, and overall brain function. Therefore, using these concentration drugs can help overcome occasional stress.
Ingredients like Rhodiola rosea, Bacopa monnieri, and Ginkgo biloba in combination with vitamin B12 also boost motivation like no other supplement, therefore deserving the title of the best nootropics for motivation. These substances ensure superb motivation levels perfect for business professionals, students, and anyone who finds it hard to keep up with their daily activities and would love to be at their best.
Lastly, Neuro-Peak® is manufactured in a GMP-certified facility and is free from allergens.
Pros
- + Gluten-free
- + Produced in a GMP-compliant facility
- + Non-GMO
Cons
- − It contains soy (lecithin), a potential allergen
Neurohacker Collective® Qualia Mind™
The Best Nootropics for Focus
- Type: Capsule
- Ingredients: Vitamin C, thiamine, vitamin D3, vitamin B12, vitamin B6, pantothenic acid , artichoke leaf extract, acetyl-L-carnitine HCl, Bacopa monnieri leaf extract, DL-phenylalanine, Rhodiola rosea root extract, uridine-5′-monophosphate heptahydrate disodium, niacin, taurine, N-acetyl-L-tyrosine, L-theanine, Cognizin®, organic Coffeeberry® whole coffee fruit extract (90 mg caffeine), alpha GPC, velvet bean seed extract, theobromine, phosphatidylserine from sunflower lecithin, Docosahexaenoic acid from algae, Celastrus paniculatus seed extract, Coleus forskohlii root extract, Ginkgo biloba leaf extract, pyrroloquinoline quinone disodium, hypromellose, Huperzia serrata leaf extract, organic rice concentrate, silicon dioxide, organic rice extract blend, calcium carbonate
- Shipping policy: A shipping fee applies to all orders
- Return policy: A 100-day money-back guarantee on all purchases
- Discounts: Subscribe and save $80
Our nootropics list would be incomplete without this advanced mental performance supplement. Its fast-acting formula is designed to fuel cognition and support long-term brain health. Therefore, if you’re looking to increase focus, conserve more energy throughout the day, and decrease procrastination, this fantastic smart pill from Neurohacker Collective® is ideal for you.
Many ask how it’s possible to bring a product as effective as Qualia Mind™ into existence. Here’s the answer. This supplement is a result of the extensive empirical research in the field of neurobiology and organic chemistry.
As one of the best nootropics for focus, this supplement can help you beat brain fog and achieve mental clarity. What’s more, it can also amplify your willpower, upgrade energy, heighten creativity, and fuel focus and concentration.
Consumers of this top-rated nootropics product report positive effects within minutes of consuming only two or three capsules. What’s more, a particular user who had tried different nootropic products in the past with little to no result claimed he experienced improved focus and cognition soon after resorting to these pills.
Lastly, this top nootropics brand is devoid of artificial flavors, sweeteners, and colors. It’s also 100% vegan, non-GMO, and gluten-free.
Pros
- + Non-GMO
- + Gluten-free
- + 100% vegan
- + Juicy discount offers
Cons
- − Some may find it quite expensive
- − May cause nausea if taken on an empty stomach
NooCube
The Best Nootropics for Alzheimer’s
- Type: Capsule
- Ingredients: Alpha glycerylphosphorylcholine (alpha GPC), cat’s claw, huperzine A, bacopa, L-tyrosine, L-theanine, oat straw
- Shipping policy: Free worldwide shipping on all orders
- Return policy: A 100% money-back guarantee (including handling and shipping costs)
- Discounts: Buy two bottles and get one bottle for free, or buy three bottles and get three bottles for free
NooCube ranks high in the best nootropics stack, combining the power of numerous nootropics in one product to help support overall brain function. With this remarkable supplement, you can improve your mental speed, memory, and focus, all without experiencing severe side effects.
This fantastic smart pill provides a powerful blend of amino acids, vitamins, and other essential building blocks for a healthier, well-functioning mind. Therefore, it can help you safely and effectively improve your cognitive functioning.
These top-rated mind-enhancing drugs promote utmost mental clarity and focus within just 30 minutes of taking them. With only two capsules of NooCube a day, you can experience a heightened mental state that’ll keep you alert, focused, efficient, and productive all day long. Additionally, the inclusion of ingredients like alpha-GPC, huperzine A, and bacopa make it a top choice for treating the symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease.
NooCube is formulated with the purest nootropic ingredients available to safely and effectively improve your cognitive function. Each component in these nootropic drugs has been rigorously tested through clinical research and is considered safe for consumption.
This product can help you stay mentally alert and productive despite not containing caffeine. What’s more, unlike products that contain caffeine, it does so without inducing anxiety or jitters.
Lastly, NooCube is among the best cost-effective nootropic products. It also has a free worldwide shipping policy and comes with no extra charges.
Pros
- + Contains clinically-backed ingredients
- + Contains no caffeine or GMO ingredients
- + Fast action time
- + Free worldwide shipping
Cons
- − May cause stomach pain and headaches
Roar Ambition™ Hunter Focus
The Best Concentration Pills
- Type: Capsule
- Ingredients: Lion’s mane mushroom mycelium (Hericium erinaceus), citicoline, phosphatidylserine (from sunflower lecithin), ashwagandha root extract (Withania somnifera), passion flower 10:1 extract (Passiflora incarnata), bacopa (Bacopa monnieri), L-theanine, N-acetyl-L-tyrosine, maritime pine bark extract (Pinus pinaster)
- Shipping Policy: Free shipping on orders over $80
- Return policy: Returns are available for unused and unopened items
- Discounts: None
Roar Ambition™ is the leading brand when it comes to the creation of natural nootropics. Hunter Focus features safe, tested, and methodically proven ingredients to deliver the ultimate cognitive advantages.
This scientifically optimized top-rated nootropics product provides your brain with the nutrients it needs to function at its optimum all day long. Furthermore, it improves memory retention and decreases anxiety.
With Hunter Focus, there are no caffeine crashes since it doesn’t contain caffeine. Instead, it utilizes powerful anti-fatigue ingredients to keep your mind sharp all day long. With this product, processing, retaining, and recalling information becomes a breeze.
This incredible supplement is one of the best natural nootropics specifically formulated to meet the demands of ambitious, aspirational men (aged 30+) looking to stay ahead in their careers and their workplace.
Hunter Focus gives you the concentration you need to excel at your workplace. It helps you decompress from the stress and strain of office life, and helps you maintain calmness, even under pressure.
Lastly, this top contender for the best concentration pills title is produced in a cGMP facility in the UK using natural, high-quality ingredients.
Pros
- + No caffeine-related jitters
- + Made in a GMP-certified facility
- + Third-party purity tested
Cons
- − Lacks vitamins, plant extracts, and minerals
- − Contains gelatin which is unsuitable for vegetarians and vegans
How to Choose the Best Nootropics Supplement Option: A Buyer’s Guide
Buyer’s Guide
Almost everyone today consumes one form of cognitive enhancer or the other. That’s because there’s been an increase in the use and popularity of natural stimulants in recent years, especially among busy professionals and aging adults.
In the following paragraphs, we’ll educate you on everything you need to know about mind-enhancing drugs. In other words, we’ll introduce you to the various criteria you need to look out for when selecting a nootropic supplement that suits your needs.
What are Nootropics and Nootropic Supplements?
Nootropics refer to any substance (plants, supplements, etc.) that enhance memory, cognition, and overall brain function (either immediately or long-term), without producing any severe side effects. Certain nootropics are clinically proven to help improve mood, energy levels and manage stress.
When combined with behavioral changes like exercise and restful sleep, nootropic drugs can positively impact your brain health and overall well-being. Nootropics also have neuroprotective features that help them protect brain cells from external damage (such as brain fog and mental fatigue).
Before a substance can be considered a nootropic (one of the smart drugs), it must possess all of the following features:
- The ability to help the brain function under stress
- The ability to increase the efficacy of neural circuit function and improve decision-making processes
- The ability to enhance memory and learning capacity
- The ability to protect the brain from chemical or physical harm
- A small number of slight side effects
Benefits of Nootropic Supplements
The numerous benefits of nootropic supplements touch on various aspects of life, such as:
Mood
There’s a direct link between mood and brain function. Namely, even minor disruptions in the flow of brain chemicals or reduced brain energy can lead to anxiety, depression, stress, etc.
Some types of nootropics (smart drugs) can improve your mood by using their neuroprotective properties to prevent disruptions in the brain’s normal functioning. These are L-theanine, Bacopa monnieri, lion’s mane mushroom, etc.
Memory
Nootropics improve memory and have been used in traditional medicine for decades, especially aging individuals experiencing a decline in brain function. Research shows that nootropics can benefit all forms of memory—long-term memory, short-term memory, and free recall.
Some of the most popular nootropics that boost brain memory are citicoline, Bacopa monnieri, vitamin B6, L-tyrosine, phosphatidylserine.
Energy
Did you know that your brain utilizes 20% of the total energy your body generates every day? Activities like brain cell repair, regeneration, and maintenance contribute to the brain’s daily energy demands.
Top smart drugs are capable of:
- Supporting healthy blood flow to the brain, thus aiding the supply of oxygen and glucose for generating energy
- Optimizing brain cells mitochondria to help them efficiently perform their role in the energy production
- Building up the brain’s resistance to stress, eliminating brain fatigue, and improving overall efficiency
This explains why nootropics are considered to be effective energy boosters.
Attention
Focus and attention go hand-in-hand. They’re defined as a person’s ability to effectively concentrate on a specific task or numerous tasks for a while. Mind-enhancing drugs help with innumerable aspects of attention, such as:
- Focused attention: The ability to focus on a particular task
- Selective attention: Concentration on a task despite distractions in the background
- Alternating attention (cognitive flexibility): Being able to switch from one task to another easily
- Divided attention (multitasking): Having numerous cognitive tasks under control at the same time
Stress
The strongest nootropic supplements can naturally restore brain chemical levels forced out of balance by stress. They also expand the body’s stress threshold, promoting feelings of calm and relaxation.
Learning
Nootropics aid learning by providing the brain with adequate mental energy. They also help by promoting feelings of relaxation and calming your mind, even under stress. Finally, they also increase your focus and attention.
All aspects mentioned above work together to boost your learning capacity.
Creativity
Nootropic drugs affect numerous brain functions such as relaxation, focus, and mood, directly impacting creativity. Nootropics like Rhodiola and citicoline can energize you and enhance motivation, driving your creative vision to artistic realization.
Motivation
Dopamine is a neurotransmitter the body produces and releases in the brain when we feel pleasure. Dopamine-related issues can be associated with low motivation, low mental energy, etc. Nootropics can help regulate the release of dopamine in the brain for increased motivation.
List of Nootropics—Natural Sources
You can find nootropics in both plant-based and animal-based sources. Some of the best sources of nootropic supplements include:
- Dark chocolate
- Eggs
- Blueberries
- Red wine
- Green tea
- Coconut oil
- Turmeric
- Spinach
- Salmon
Nootropics Deficiency
It’s impossible to develop nootropics deficiency. Namely, nootropics are external supplements for boosting productivity. They aren’t produced in the body and aren’t a mineral vital for growth.
Common Ingredients in Nootropic Supplements
Caffeine
Nootropics reviews show that caffeine is the world’s most consumed smart drug and psychoactive substance. Due to its ability to block adenosine receptors in the brain and make you feel less tired, it’s a common ingredient of energy drinks, medications, and supplements, serving as an energy booster.
Natural sources of caffeine include coffee, cocoa, tea, kola nuts, and guarana.
L-Theanine
L-theanine is a naturally occurring amino acid found mainly in green and black tea. This substance is a common ingredient of some of the best nootropic supplements. Consumption of L-theanine can promote feelings of calmness without causing drowsiness.
L-theanine can increase alpha waves in the brain, thereby promoting creativity. In addition, when combined with caffeine, it can enhance cognitive performance and subjective alertness.
Creatine
Creatine is another amino acid found in top nootropic products. Besides having the ability to promote muscle growth, this substance increases the body’s stores of phosphocreatine. Phosphocreatine aids the formation of ATP molecules that your brain cells utilize for optimal function.
Supplementing with creatine can be used for treating Alzheimer’s disease, as well as improving brain function and memory in older adults.
Bacopa monnieri
Bacopa monnieri is an ancient herb used to enhance brain function. It contains active compounds called bacosides. They protect your brain from oxidative stress and improve signaling in your hippocampus (an area of your brain responsible for processing memories).
Several studies found that nootropic products containing Bacopa monnieri can speed up information processing in your brain, reduce reaction times, and improve memory.
Rhodiola rosea
Rhodiola rosea is an adaptogenic herb that helps your body handle stress more effectively.
Panax Ginseng
Panax ginseng root is a plant with anti-inflammatory properties often used to boost brain function. However, a particular study suggests that the effects of this top nootropic ingredient diminish over time (after about eight weeks of continuous use).
Nicotine
Nicotine is a naturally occurring alkaloid found in tobacco and many other plants. Scientific studies show that nicotine intake is linked to improved alertness, attention, and enhanced motor function. However, nicotine is a very addictive substance that can be harmful when consumed in excess.
Noopept
Unlike most concentration drugs’ ingredients, Noopept is a synthetic nootropic commonly found in supplements. Clinical studies show that Noopept speeds up memory formation and retrieval. Noopept can also help hasten brain injury recovery.
Piracetam
Piracetam is another synthetic nootropic that’s very similar to Noopept in structure and function. It improves memory in people with age-related mental decline.
Types of Nootropics
There are two primary types of nootropics—prescription and nonprescription ones.
Prescription Nootropics
These nootropic products are medications with stimulant effects vital to brain health and the overall mental state. Due to their specific features, medical specialists may prescribe these prescription nootropics to treat conditions like Alzheimer’s disease, dementia, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), or narcolepsy.
Example of prescription nootropics include:
- Modafinil (Provigil): A stimulant that addresses the sudden drowsiness of narcolepsy
- Adderall: A drug containing amphetamines, and one of the best nootropics for ADHD
- Methylphenidate (Ritalin): A stimulant that can manage symptoms of narcolepsy and ADHD
- Memantine (Axura): Suitable for treating Alzheimer’s disease symptoms
Nonprescription Nootropics
Nonprescription nootropics are substances that enhance brain performance and focus. The term nonprescription nootropic can also refer to any natural or synthetic substance capable of boosting mental performance.
Unlike prescription nootropics, nonprescription nootropics are not used for treating any specific disorder. Instead, they provide health benefits useful to anyone (supporting thinking, memory, and other mental functions). Examples of nonprescription nootropics are caffeine, L-theanine, L-tyrosine, creatine, etc.
Purity
Purity is a big issue in the nootropic drugs industry. Unfortunately, many brands make unfounded claims about their products, and various supplements might not contain what their label states. For this reason, it’s essential only to purchase supplements from reputable dealers and brands that undergo independent testing, such as the ones on our list.
Dosage
There’s a growing list of nootropics on the market, both prescription and nonprescription ones. However, there’s no standard recommended dosage. This is because supplements are not classified as drugs and are therefore not regulated by the FDA.
Nonetheless, manufacturers provide recommended dosage for some of the nootropics based on in-house experts and doctors’ findings.
Caffeine: Despite the various benefits of this powerful nootropic products’ ingredient, the FDA recommends that people consume no more than 400 mg of caffeine a day (four to five cups of coffee). Caffeine is highly addictive, and excessive consumption may lead to serious health complications.
L-theanine: Medically, there aren’t any dosage recommendations for L-theanine. However, credible reports on concentration drugs recommend taking 100–400 mg per day.
Ginkgo biloba: Research shows that taking at least 200 mg of Ginkgo biloba a day can help with dementia symptoms.
Panax Ginseng: Typical dosage for proper cognitive function is 100–600 mg per day. However, Panax ginseng is a nootropic that can interact with many medications and is not advisable to use without consulting your healthcare provider.
Price
Price plays a vital role in deciding which supplement to purchase. With this in mind, we went the extra mile in our nootropics review to include only the top products with affordable prices.
Overdose and Toxicity
Consuming a high dose of any nootropic, especially caffeine, can be toxic and cause dizziness, headache, insomnia, diarrhea, etc.
Nootropic Supplements Side Effects
Nootropic supplements side effects include:
- Headache
- Nasopharyngitis
- Diarrhea
- Gastrointestinal discomfort
- Insomnia
- Myalgias
- Restlessness
- Fatigue
- Psychomotor agitation
- Dysphoria
- Dizziness
- Spatial memory impairment
- Possible motor function impairment
Interactions with Prescription Drugs
It’s important to note that, as with any supplement, there’s a risk of side effects and the interaction with medications. For example, natural nootropics like Panax ginseng can interact with numerous drugs such as stimulant medications.
Therefore, you should always consult your healthcare provider before taking any nootropic supplement.
Conclusion
Nootropics are natural or synthetic substances capable of enhancing mental functions. They can either be prescription or over-the-counter products. Prescription nootropics (such as Adderall) have the strongest and most significant effects on memory and attention. They are often prescribed for treating specific disorders such as dementia.
On the other hand, non-prescription nootropic supplements like caffeine and noopept are widely available and are mainly used to improve mental function and overall brain health.
FAQs
How many nootropics should I take as a supplement?
Most nootropic supplements have dosage recommendations on their label. Depending on the supplement’s content, you could be instructed to take one to three (or even more) capsules a day or at once.
Why should I take a nootropic supplement?
Nootropics are mind-boosting substances that can propel your cognitive capacity towards new heights. Nootropics can also improve your memory and help you focus and multitask with ease. If you’re looking to boost motivation, increase energy, improve your mood, and boost your overall brain health, you should consider taking nootropic supplements.
Who should not take nootropic supplements?
Nootropics aren’t suitable for pregnant or nursing mothers. Additionally, individuals taking prescription medications are also advised to avoid nootropics or consult their healthcare provider before consuming them.
Which is the best form of nootropic?
Various nootropic products can cater to different needs, so it’s best to consult your health practitioner before deciding on a nootropic.
According to our reviews, the Mind Lab Pro® Universal Nootropic™ is one of the best nootropics for the general populace. This is because it contains 11 evidence-backed nootropics, causes no caffeine-associated jitters, and is suitable for vegans. In addition, reviews from users suggest it helps boost confidence and reduces stress levels.