We also liked how there is no upper limit regarding the right age for consuming it, thus making it one of the best nootropic supplements for adults of all age groups. We recommend it to everyone seeking a caffeine-free nootropic to support better brain health and mood.

You might want to take Onnit Alpha Brain to increase your cognitive processing speed. It is considered one of the best nootropic supplements to boost mental clarity, focus, memory, and speed — which is why people who work in competitive environments love using this supplement.

Alpha Brain was created by Onnit researchers who wanted to help people fight mental fatigue and perform well intellectually every day. This daily nootropic supplement was designed to cater to the needs of people who follow dietary restrictions as well.

The working mechanism of Onnit Alpha Brain revolves around alpha brain waves, which can help boost cognitive performance immensely, and their obstruction can negatively affect the brain.

Hence, the makers of this supplement used several ingredients that can help boost such waves naturally while promoting better memory, focus, and speed among its users.

We loved how the Onnit Alpha Brain supplement stands out by taking a unique approach to boosting mental energy and performance. While most nootropics aim to rejuvenate brain health, this supplement boosts alpha waves supply.

It is also worth noting that along with boosting memory, focus, and mental energy, Alpha Brain may also promote better speed — which is not a commonly offered benefit even when it comes to the best nootropics.

We also felt it was reasonably priced, so we recommend purchasing it. Although Modafinil was primarily created to help people struggling with conditions like narcolepsy stay awake for more extended periods, today, it is used to promote better mental alertness and focus.

It is one of the few prescription medications that can work for its users without inducing a plethora of side effects — although there have been a few cases where people have reported experiencing specific adverse effects. Michel Jouvet and Lafon Laboratories invented the Modafinil formula to help people with narcolepsy.

However, with the rising levels of stress among the common public, it also became a popular choice for people looking for the best nootropics to boost their mental performance. Modafinil works by inducing two significant actions in the body — DAT blockage and higher dopamine production.

The main reason Modafinil counts among the best nootropic supplements, even though it is a prescription medication, is its effectiveness. It has helped thousands of men and women all over the world enhance cognitive health, and everything seems fine until the issue of accessibility comes up.

You see, not everyone can get a prescription. Further, even the ones who get legal access to Modafinil may experience specific side effects like breathlessness and poor health. If you feel these risks are not worth the risk, you may want to skip Modafinil.

While there are numerous nootropic products available in the market, the best ones usually incorporate certain vital ingredients that have been scientifically proven to enhance their efficacy.

In this section, we will discuss some of these common ingredients:. Bacopa Monnieri, also known as Brahmi, is a herb used in traditional Ayurvedic medicine for centuries.

A study conducted by researchers at Swinburne University of Technology in Australia examined the effects of Bacopa Monnieri on cognitive function in healthy older adults. The participants were divided into two groups — one group received a placebo, while the other group received a Bacopa Monnieri supplement.

The study found that the group taking the Bacopa Monnieri supplement showed significant improvements in memory, attention, and information processing compared to the placebo group.

One of the main reasons Rhodiola Rosea is added to nootropics for memory retention is its ability to enhance the activity of neurotransmitters in the brain.

Rhodiola Rosea contains active compounds known as rosavin and salidroside, which have been found to modulate the levels of neurotransmitters like dopamine, serotonin, and norepinephrine. These neurotransmitters play a crucial role in memory formation and retention.

By increasing the activity of these neurotransmitters, Rhodiola Rosea promotes optimal brain function, leading to improved memory and cognitive performance. Additionally, Rhodiola Rosea has been shown to have adaptogenic properties, which help the body and brain adapt to stress.

Chronic stress can harm memory and cognitive abilities, leading to brain fog and difficulty concentrating. By reducing stress levels, Rhodiola Rosea enhances cognitive function and memory retention. Ashwagandha, also known as Withania somnifera or Indian ginseng, is an ancient herb that has gained popularity for its potential benefits in promoting brain function and enhancing cognitive abilities.

This powerful adaptogenic herb is typically found in the form of a small shrub with yellow flowers and red fruit. In a randomized clinical trial, participants were given either Ashwagandha extract or a placebo for eight weeks.

The study found that the group taking Ashwagandha extract significantly improved cognitive function, including working memory, task performance, and attention accuracy. Furthermore, neuroimaging data revealed increased cerebral blood flow in regions associated with cognitive function in the Ashwagandha group.

Omega-3 fatty acids include three main types: ALA alpha-linolenic acid , EPA eicosapentaenoic acid , and DHA docosahexaenoic acid. ALA is primarily found in plant-based sources such as flaxseed and walnuts, while EPA and DHA are mainly derived from fatty fish like salmon and tuna.

A study conducted by Dyall et al. The study focused on individuals with depression, a condition often associated with impaired neural pathways and decreased brain function. Participants were given Omega-3 supplements containing high levels of EPA and DHA. The second aspect is helping support the acetylcholine levels in the body.

As an essential neurotransmitter, the researchers working at Onnit believe its higher production can significantly improve brain health. Even though Onnit Alpha Brain is the most expensive nootropic supplement on this list, we have to admit that it is a value-for-money investment for most people due to its premium quality.

We love how it can be stacked with other supplements to accelerate its benefits. Further, Onnit's official website displays the exact function and benefit of each ingredient in Alpha Brain, thus maintaining excellent transparency with its users. We recommend investing in Alpha Brain if you can afford to invest in pricey options.

It is one of the most popular brain boosters in the field of prescription medications, and many medical experts also refer to it as a potent nootropic. Who Created Modafinil, And Who Should Consume Its Nootropic Supplements? Michel Jouvet and Lafon Laboratories created Modafinil to help people achieve better mental health.

It is one of the best nootropics supplements in terms of effectiveness as its makers focus on inducing quick results. Only people who already suffer from severe mental disorders or are at risk of suffering should consider taking Modafinil to improve brain function.

How Does Modafinil Improve Cognitive Performance Among Healthy Adults? Modafinil works by promoting better hormonal balance in the body. It helps restrict DAT levels and enhances dopamine production at the same time.

This results in a better mood among its users. A lot of Modafinil users report that this substance helps them stay happy as well as focused for long periods. We mainly included Modafinil on this list because it can help enhance cognitive functioning quickly.

A lot of healthy adults use it to reduce the symptoms of Alzheimer's disease as well. However, Modafinil is a prescription drug. This means that a doctor must prescribe Modafinil to you if you want to consume it, which may make it inaccessible for some people.

Modafinil also has some side effects, like increased oxidative stress and breathlessness. Pros Of The Modafinil Nootropic Supplement Quick results It can help reduce physical oxidative stress in some cases Not highly addictive Many induce permanent results Cons Of The Modafinil Nootropic Supplement There are more side effects than any other natural or synthetic substance on this list.

Understanding The Extent of Clinical Backing of Smart Drugs Listed Above Now, let's get real for a moment. In the world of smart drugs, a wide range of options are available, each claiming to have unique benefits for enhancing cognitive function.

However, it's crucial to approach these claims skeptically and closely examine the clinical research behind their ingredients. So let's dive into this section to help you get a clearer understanding of how well the ingredients in the above-listed supplements are proven by science: D-Aspartic Acid D-Aspartic acid is a crucial ingredient in several smart drugs on this list.

It helps regulate glutamate receptors. Glutamate is the primary excitatory neurotransmitter crucial for brain function and overall cognitive health. It stimulates neuronal activity and is involved in learning and memory processes.

However, an imbalance in glutamate levels can lead to excitotoxicity, a condition associated with neurodegenerative disorders. This is why several effective nootropic supplements include D-aspartic acid in their formula to maintain healthy glutamate levels.

Rhodiola Rosea In terms of appearance, Rhodiola rosea typically grows to about centimeters and has slender, yellowish-brown stems with spiral-shaped leaves. The leaves are green in color and have a thick, fleshy texture. Regarding its working mechanisms, Rhodiola rosea has been found to exert its effects through various biological pathways.

One key mechanism is its ability to modulate neurotransmitters in the brain, such as serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine. Rhodiola rosea may help improve cognition and mental performance by affecting the levels and activity of these neurotransmitters.

In a study , 56 young, healthy physicians were randomly assigned to receive either a standardized extract of Rhodiola rosea or a placebo for 20 days. The participants' cognitive performance was assessed using various neuropsychological tests. The results showed that the group receiving Rhodiola rosea extract significantly improved mental fatigue.

Bacopa Monnieri Bacopa monnieri, also known as Brahmi, has been used in traditional Ayurvedic medicine for centuries, and scientific studies have backed its effectiveness in enhancing cognitive function. A study that provides evidence for the effectiveness of Bacopa monnieri in supporting brain health and delaying cognitive decline was published in the Journal of Integrative Medicine.

In this double-blind, placebo-controlled trial , 54 healthy elderly participants were randomly assigned to receive either a standardized Bacopa monnieri extract or a placebo for 12 weeks.

The study found that the participants who took the Bacopa monnieri extract showed significant improvements in cognitive performance, including attention, memory, and processing speed.

Furthermore, the Bacopa monnieri group exhibited a higher percentage of participants who experienced clinically relevant improvements. Huperzine A Huperzine A is a natural compound often added to smart drugs and supplements to enhance mental acuity, agility, and memory retention.

It is derived from Huperzia Serrata, a moss in China and Southeast Asia. Huperzine A's mode of action involves inhibiting the enzyme acetylcholinesterase AChE , which breaks down acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter crucial for memory and learning processes in the brain.

When Huperzine A inhibits AChE, it prevents the breakdown of acetylcholine, leading to increased levels of this neurotransmitter in the brain. This increase in acetylcholine enhances communication between neurons and improves cognitive functions such as attention, focus, and memory.

By inhibiting AChE, Huperzine A promotes the availability and utilization of acetylcholine, resulting in improved mental clarity and agility. Furthermore, Huperzine A also acts as an N-methyl-D-aspartate NMDA receptor antagonist.

This means that it blocks the activity of NMDA receptors, which are involved in synaptic plasticity and memory formation. By partially blocking these receptors, Huperzine A modulates the balance of excitatory and inhibitory signals in the brain, improving memory retention and learning abilities.

Ginkgo Biloba Ginkgo biloba is a unique tree with distinct leaves. The leaves of the ginkgo biloba tree are fan-shaped and have a distinct parallel vein pattern. Along with its striking appearance, ginkgo biloba has been used for centuries in traditional Chinese medicine for its potential cognitive-enhancing properties.

Moreover, ginkgo biloba has been found to increase blood flow to the brain. It achieves this by dilating blood vessels and enhancing the elasticity of red blood cells, thereby improving circulation. This boost in blood flow facilitates the delivery of oxygen and essential nutrients to the brain cells, promoting optimal functioning and overall cognitive health.

A study involved healthy middle-aged individuals randomly assigned to receive ginkgo biloba extract or a placebo. The participants underwent a battery of cognitive tests at baseline and after six years of treatment. The results revealed that the group receiving ginkgo biloba extract demonstrated significantly better cognitive performance than the placebo group.

Pterostilbene Pterostilbene is a naturally occurring compound that belongs to the stilbenoid family, similar to resveratrol. When added to nootropics, pterostilbene works through various modes of action to promote mental insight, agility, and memory retention.

One of the critical ways pterostilbene benefits mental function is by acting as a potent antioxidant. It helps to neutralize harmful free radicals in the brain, which are known to cause oxidative stress and damage cells.

Additionally, pterostilbene has been found to promote neuroplasticity, which is the brain's ability to modify and adapt its connections.

Activation of the sirtuin pathway has been associated with improved cognitive function, increased synaptic plasticity, and enhanced memory consolidation.

On the other hand, diets consisting of saturated fat, sugar-laden items, or processed food can impede brain development. Drugs used to treat various neurological disorders may have nootropic effects — although those without a condition will only experience a slight improvement in certain aspects of cognition.

With these medications, individuals struggling with ailments resulting in cognitive deficits such as ADHD can benefit from greater clarity and focus. Dietary supplements generally deemed nootropics include L-tyrosine, Bacopa Monnieri, Alpha-GPC, and Ginkgo Biloba.

Studies suggest that these nutritional additions may boost cognitive function, but further research is required to determine the ideal dosages and supplementation duration. Research has shown that certain supplements can support brain health and alleviate the feeling of cognitive impairment, such as being foggy or unfocused.

Those supplements include the following:. Bacopa monnieri is a powerful nootropic herb used in traditional medicine for longevity and improving cognitive functioning. Taking this supplement can enhance short-term memory and provide some mental health benefits.

Packed with antioxidants and anthocyanins, blueberries are particularly beneficial for slowing cognitive decline.

Not only have blueberries been found to help sharpen mental faculties in people experiencing this, but research on rodents has also shown that they can be beneficial for those with healthy cognition.

Therefore, they may serve as a nootropic supplement. In addition, they may be able to accelerate the development of nervous tissue and diminish neurological inflammation. Caffeine is considered a nootropic because not only does it sensitize neurons, but it also provides cognitive enhancement.

Caffeine stimulates alertness and wakefulness by blocking the action of adenosine known to produce a feeling of sleepiness and relaxation , which can affect the dopamine, serotonin, acetylcholine, and adrenaline systems.

Although they contain caffeine, these herbs possess unidentified bioactive ingredients that could interact with your medication. While initial evidence indicates that cognitive improvements, above and beyond what caffeine alone would provide, can be achieved with either of these herbs, more research is needed to prove this conclusion.

Rhodiola has extraordinary adaptogenic properties that present notable benefits, such as decreasing stress and exhaustion levels while boosting mental clarity under difficult circumstances.

Rhodiola has been utilized for centuries to promote healing and alleviate stress, resulting in greater well-being. Ginkgo biloba, a tree whose leaves are renowned for their cognitive-boosting properties, is commonly utilized as an herbal dietary supplement to enhance brain function.

These leaves contain different bioactive compounds, such as numerous flavonoids and terpenoids. Extensive research suggests that Ginkgo biloba can heighten cognitive performance in people with dementia. Additionally, there are indications that the herb may likewise be a booster for normal cognition among healthy middle-aged and older adults.

Some studies have indicated that Panax ginseng may enhance overall cognitive function. A few trials found an improvement in reaction time and accuracy when taking this herb. However, additional analysis must be conducted to validate such effects. L-theanine is known to promote relaxation by reducing stress and anxiety levels.

While it is not a sedative, L-theanine may still help to improve your sleep quality by inducing a more tranquil mental state.

In addition, taking L-theanine alongside caffeine has been proven to enhance cognitive performance, making it a beneficial supplement for improving mental alertness and focus.

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com editorial staff. Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made. Brands We Love. Say Hello To Nootropics From TruBrain. Share This Article. More on Enhanced Humans. Brain Transparency.

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Eyes Have It. Meet the Neuralink Cofounder Who Left and Started a Competitor That's Now Rapidly Catching Up. Keep up. Our Lucid stack takes advantage of this by combining small doses of caffeine with other powerful nootropics like lion's mane, ginkgo biloba, BCAA's, and more.

Alpha-GPC is a choline source that helps promote energy and brain function on a cellular level. This can be especially helpful for those suffering from low-energy and lack of motivation due to low-dopamine depression but keep in mind that depression needs to be diagnosed and treated by your doctor.

In animal studies, cordyceps has been found to upregulate ATP regeneration , or the primary molecule known for carrying energy within the cells. Cordyceps has also been linked to improved endurance in young adults during high-intensity exercise and in one animal study involving mice.

Beyond its most common benefits, like potential antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects that may help to balance mood and improve memory, it may also help to quickly improve symptoms of fatigue.

In fact, one study found that human subjects experienced an overall improvement in fatigue symptoms after taking rhodiola rosea for just one week. Instead, it may help indirectly by boosting mood and overall feeling of well-being which can help to boost motivation.

In fact, ginkgo may even be helpful for managing anxiety according to one study involving subjects with generalized anxiety disorder. Many nootropics are safe to take together. In fact, some nootropics have synergistic effects, meaning they work together to provide increased benefits compared to taking any one supplement on its own.

This is where nootropic stacks come in—thoughtful combinations of nootropic supplements designed to help you meet specific health goals. It really depends on what you want out of your daily nootropic dose, but we recommend giving Lucid instant drinks a shot.

Carolyn Meers is an editor and copywriter based in Los Angeles. She has more than a decade of experience in the luxury lifestyle realm, specializing in health and wellness, and has contributed to publications including CSQ, C Magazine, Robb Report, Living and The Knot.

National Library of Science: Frontiers in Physiology: Brain Fog and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. American Psychological Association: By the Numbers, Our Stressed-Out Nation.

American Psychological Association: Stress in America by Carolyn Meers Be creative, be on time, finish that project, launch that new business idea, make that really important decision and definitely call your parents back…sound like your morning to-do list?

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