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Nootropic forums and blogs often describe depression as a neurotransmitter imbalance in the brain. And then offer suggestions on various nootropics for major depressive disorder or drugs to help lift your mood and reduce depression.
But this simplistic view of depression misses the complexity of this disease.
Recent research has shown that depression can have many possible causes. Including out of whack mood regulation by your brain, genetic problems, stressful events or living conditions, prescription medications or other medical problems causing cognitive impairments.
It’s true that neurotransmitters are involved in the process that contributes to depression. But it’s usually not a matter of one neurotransmitter being too low or another too high.
Here’s the thing. You have several neurotransmitter systems, amino acids, hormones and other neurochemicals working both inside and outside neurons.
The interaction of these neurochemical reactions make up a highly dynamic system that contributes to your mood. And how you perceive and experience life.
With this level of complexity, you may have similar symptoms of depression to the person next to you. But the issues in your brain and body may be completely different. So what works best for someone else experiencing your symptoms may not be best option for you.
And this is why we often say in the nootropic community that Your Mileage May Vary (YMMV) when describing a particular nootropic supplement. And how it feels.
In this article you’ll discover other possible causes contributing to your depression. How to recognize them. How to use nootropic supplements to test different possible causes so you can narrow down what may be causing your depression.
And I’ll share some nootropic supplement suggestions that may help relieve your depression symptoms for a better quality of life.
Depression and Neurogenesis
It turns out that brain cell signaling, neurogenesis and the function of neuronal circuits may play a more important role in depression than simply the levels of serotonin or dopamine.
For example, researchers in Munich studied 24 women who had a history of depression. And on average, their hippocampus was 9 – 13% smaller in the depressed women compared to healthy women. And the more bouts of depression a woman had, their hippocampus was even smaller compared to less depressed women in the study.[i]
We know that stress can play a role in depression and on your central nervous system. And research has shown that stress can suppress neurogenesis. Which would account for the smaller hippocampus in these women.
We also know that Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF), a naturally occurring protein in your brain, is critical for preventing apoptosis (brain cell death), is required for the growth of new neurons (neurogenesis) and the growth and maintenance of synapses.
Please check out my article on “13 Nootropics to Boost BDNF”. Increasing BDNF is one way to combat depression. Below I’ll share a list of nootropics for you to try some of which also help to increase levels of brain derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) among other benefits for a healthy brain.
If you’ve ever tried antidepressants for alleviating depressive symptoms, you know that it often takes weeks to feel any benefit. Scientists have a theory that the value of some of these medications may be in generating new neurons (neurogenesis), strengthening neuron connections, and improving brain cell signaling. Which often takes time before you can feel the result.
So now researchers speculate that new medications could be developed to specifically promote neurogenesis. As it turns out, we already have this ability with several natural nootropic supplements.
Depression and Neurotransmitters
We know that neurotransmitter dysfunction is not the only cause of depression. But we can’t discount their importance either.
Neurons are designed to communicate with each other. When a neuron is activated, it passes an ‘action potential’, which is a tiny electrical signal, down its axon to the axon terminal (synapse). Neurotransmitters are stored in synaptic vesicles.
The action potential (electrical signal) releases certain neurotransmitters into the synapse. Which then sends it over to a synapse on a dendrite connected to the receiving neuron. As the concentration of neurotransmitters rise in the synapse, they bind to receptors embedded in the membranes of the two neurons.
This release of a neurotransmitter from one neuron can activate or inhibit the second neuron. Once the first neuron has released a certain amount of neurotransmitter molecules, a feedback mechanism instructs the transmitting neuron to stop releasing neurotransmitter molecules and begin bringing them back into the 1st neuron. This process is called reuptake.
In those who are severely depressed or manic, this fine-tuned system of neuro-signaling can go out of whack. Either too much or too little of the neurotransmitter is released.
Or if the reuptake is overly efficient and mops up too many neurotransmitter molecules before they have a chance to bind to receptors. It can have a significant impact on mood.
The primary neurotransmitters that can play a role in depression include:
Each one of these neurotransmitters can be boosted, or their reuptake affected by nootropic supplements (listed below).
Depressive Symptoms and Prescription Medication
Depression can result as a side effect of certain prescription drugs. These drugs can include antimicrobials, antibiotics, antifungals, antivirals, heart and blood pressure drugs, hormones, insomnia drugs, tranquilizers, antacids, narcotic pain drugs and more.
We know from experience that many of these prescription drugs may be replaced by safer, natural nootropic supplements.
But I am NOT encouraging you to stop using whatever meds you’re currently on. Without consulting with your doctor first. I am encouraging you to learn about and possibly try safer alternatives that often do the job just as well and will enhance your brain health.
CAUTION: many nootropic supplements are contraindicated with prescription SSRIs, MAOIs, tricyclics, and others that work on the same neurotransmitter system. Combining any of these ‘natural’ nootropic supplements with the wrong drug can do serious harm. Including ending your life. Please, please read the Side Effects section of each nootropic review here on Nootropics Expert®. And if in doubt please ask me and consult with your doctor before trying a nootropic if you are using any of these prescription meds.
Depression and Stress
Nearly all of us experience stressful events. And while not every one of us who faces stress develops depressive disorders or other mental disorders. Stress however often does play an important role in depression.
Depending on how sensitive you are to stress, along with messed up neurochemistry and even genetics. A perfect storm of any or all of these influencing factors can lead to depression.
So, please read my extended article on “Best Nootropics for Anxiety” which includes several nootropic supplements that may help you deal with and conquer stress and even boosts your mental performance.
Recommended Nootropics for Depression and Enhance Cognitive Performance
If you are currently being treated for depression. Or suspect you may be dealing with undiagnosed depression. And are looking for a more natural, safer way to treat your symptoms. Nootropics may be the answer.
You’re not alone looking for a natural alternative to drugs that often often associated with a host of side effects. Research in the United States and other countries show that significant numbers of people use ‘alternative medicine’ to treat their depression.
Researchers conducted a survey of more than 3,000 women in the USA to find out how many turned to alternative medicine for depression. Of the 220 women who said they had been officially diagnosed with depression, 54% said they used alternative medicine to treat their symptoms.[ii]
We have found that the following list of nootropics work well for different types and causes of depression.
As I mentioned before, your mileage may vary. What works for me may not work for you. Wise and careful experimentation is critical to finding a safer alternative for treating your depression.
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- Aniracetam – A member of the racetam-family of nootropics, Aniracetam works with dopamine D2 and D3 receptors in your brain. And desensitizes AMPA (glutamate) receptors which can help control glutamate toxicity.Aniracetam is one of the most effective antidepressants I’ve even tried. And its effects on dopamine in your brain can have a profound effect on anxiety symptoms as well.
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- Bacopa Monnieri – One of the most powerful herbs in Ayurvedic medicine. Bacopa Monnieri has been used for millennia to relieve anxiety, fatigue, restore energy and boost concentration.This adaptogen has been shown in clinical studies to work as well for depression as benzodiazepines and tricyclic antidepressants.[iii]
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- Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) – CoQ10 contributes to your cell’s natural source of energy. Producing ATP in your mitochondria by taking fat and converting it into usable energy. CoQ10 preserves brain function, helps fight mental illness and migraines.Major depression, bipolar disorder and schizophrenia are now being recognized as having mitochondrial dysfunction in common. With higher oxidative stress levels.[iv] Studies show that 1,200 mg per day of CoQ10 in bipolar adults experienced a significant reduction in depression.[v]
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- 5-HTP – I do NOT recommend using 5-HTP for treating depression. But only include it here since it is marketed as a “natural antidepressant”.This amino acid is naturally produced in your body. And synthesized from the amino acid tryptophan which you get from food. 5-HTP is the precursor needed to produce the ‘feel-good’ neurotransmitter serotonin. But a summary published in the Alternative Medicine Review noted a lack of evidence for ‘loading’ precursors to treat depression.[vi] Combining 5-HTP with SSRI’s, Tricyclics or MAOI’s will cause Serotonin Syndrome which can be deadly.
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- Ginkgo Biloba – This tree native to China has been used for thousands of years to boost mental alertness, improve cerebral circulation and for better overall brain function. Many have found Ginkgo Biloba to be very effective for reducing anxiety and stress. And for boosting mood.1,570 men and women in England participated in a study using 120 mg of Ginkgo Biloba extract daily for 4, 6, and 10 months. Those who used Gingko Biloba the longest experienced the most improvement improvements for anxiety, depression, energy, drowsiness, sadness and happiness.[vii]
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- Iodine – Did you know that iodine deficient populations are up to 13.5 IQ points less than those with optimal iodine levels in their system?[viii] Since iodine has largely been removed from table salt in some countries, it has been suggested that iodine deficiency is epidemic. Particularly in countries like the United States.Iodine is essential to thyroid health and the production of thyroid hormones. Nearly every tissue in your body relies on thyroid hormones for healthy function. Not enough iodine can result in hypothyroidism. Negatively affecting acetylcholine synthesis in your brain. Affecting cognition, learning and memory, recall and mood.
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- Kava – Kava is native to the South Pacific. And the islanders use kava for its sedative effects. Kava can help reduce anxiety and depression. Unlike benzodiazepines, Kava does not impair cognitive function. In fact, studies show that not only will Kava improve mood. It may also boost cognitive function as well.[ix]
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- Lion’s Mane Mushroom – Also called the “smart mushroom”, Lion’s Mane boosts brain nerve growth factor which increases neurogenesis. Lion’s Mane can help improve focus and attention, boost thinking and processing speed, repair brain cells, and help relieve anxiety and depression.Women in Japan received Lion’s Mane-laced cookies for 4 weeks during a clinical trial. The researchers found that Lion’s Mane reduced anxiety and depression in these women during the trial.[x]
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- Magnesium – Lack of adequate magnesium can result in brain fog, anxiety and depression. Plasticity of neuron synapses is affected by having enough magnesium in brain cells.A study was conducted with 5,708 people in Norway. The aim of the study was to examine the association between magnesium intake and depression and anxiety. The researchers found that low magnesium intake is related to depression.[xi]
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- Mucuna Pruriens (L-DOPA) – L-DOPA is synthesized from the amino acid tyrosine in your body. And is a precursor to the formation of dopamine, epinephrine and norepinephrine in your brain.Mucuna Pruriens has been used in Ayurveda medicine since 1500 B.C. For treating things like snakebite, intestinal problems, sexual issues and melancholy mood. Research shows that supplementing with L-DOPA extracted from Mucuna Pruriens can be a great natural antidepressant if you are low in dopamine.[xii]
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- N-Acetyl L-Cysteine (NAC) – NAC is an amino acid that regulates the amount of glutamate and dopamine in your brain. It helps restore dysfunctional dopamine receptors. And is a precursor to Glutathione which is your master antioxidant needed to reduce free radicals and oxidative stressA study with 75 subjects with bipolar disorder were given 1 gram of NAC twice daily for 24 weeks. Treatment with NAC resulted in a significant improvement with depression in these patients.[xiii]
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- N-Acetyl L-Tyrosine (NALT) – NALT is a highly bioavailable form of the amino acid L-Tyrosine. Your brain uses tyrosine to produce dopamine and norepinephrine. Dopamine is involved in libido, memory, focus, goal-oriented concentration, is a mood elevator and antidepressant.If you are ADHD, or have other issues with low dopamine, supplementing with NALT or L-Tyrosine may help improve your memory, boost your IQ, and relieve depression. I highly recommend NALT or L-Tyrosine for anyone using stimulants like Adderall or Ritalin for treating ADHD.
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- Nefiracetam – One of the newer members of the racetam-family of nootropics, Nefiracetam is used clinically to treat and prevent seizures, severe depression and has shown neuroprotective qualities.The structure of Nefiracetam is similar to the other great racetam antidepressant Aniracetam. Researchers at the University of Iowa did a trial with 159 stroke patients with major depression. The study concluded that Nefiracetam produced a significant improvement in the most severely depressed patients.[xiv]
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- Noopept – This peptide-derived nootropic related to the racetam-family is much more potent than Piracetam. But its mechanism of action in your brain is similar to other racetams.Noopept stimulates dopamine, nicotinic and serotonin receptors. It boosts cognition, memory, logical thinking, reflexes and mood.[xv] Noopept increases Alpha brain waves and Beta brain waves. Increasing relaxation. Alpha brain waves increase relaxation and the Beta brain waves assist with your state of alertness and mental clarity. Both of these combined can move you into super-learning, flow states and joy.
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- Phenylalanine – This amino acid is a precursor to tyrosine in your brain. Tyrosine helps in the synthesis of dopamine, epinephrine, and norepinephrine.One study was done with 23 patients diagnosed with depression who had not responded to standard antidepressants. They were given 50 or 100 mg of Phenylalanine daily for 15 days. The researchers found that Phenylalanine completely improved mood in 17 of the patients. Within 13 days of the 15-day trial.[xvi]
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- Rhodiola Rosea – Rhodiola Rosea activates AMPA receptors in your brain. Which can decrease depression and stress-related mood swings, reduces fatigue, stimulates energy and alertness, boosts cognition, and motivation.A clinical trial with 57 patients diagnosed with depression were given Rhodiola Rosea extract, sertraline (Zoloft®), or a placebo for 12 weeks. The study found that Rhodiola Rosea was slightly less effective than sertraline for depression. But produced far fewer side effects and was better tolerated.[xvii]
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- SAM-e – SAM-e is the naturally occurring amino acid methionine bound to an ATP molecule. It helps in the process of cell division and repair, and the generation of the neurotransmitters dopamine, serotonin, norepinephrine and melatonin. Which is why it’s considered a potent nootropic.SAM-e is used to boost mood, relieve depression, improve energy levels and reduce symptoms of fibromyalgia. 20 healthy volunteers took part in a study receiving infusions of 800 mg of SAM-e or a placebo for 7 days. EEG mapping during the study identified SAM-e as an antidepressant. Targeting brain regions crucial in the therapeutic efficacy of antidepressants.[xviii]
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- St. John’s wort – This herb has traditionally been used for mood disorders and wound healing. Today it’s used mostly as a treatment for anxiety, depression and stress.St. John’s wort works like prescription SSRI’s by preventing the reuptake of serotonin in your brain. But please read the precautions for using this nootropic in the extended article. Before trying it as a nootropic supplement to treat your depression.
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- Sulbutiamine – Sulbutiamine is a synthesized version of Vitamin B1 (thiamine) which easily crosses the blood-brain barrier. As a nootropic, it’s used to boost mood, memory and motivation.A study at the University of Wales Swansea in the UK worked with 120 young adult females. Study participants took either a placebo or 50 mg thiamine for 2 months. Mood, memory and reaction times were monitored before and after taking the tablets. 2 months after supplementing with thiamine, participants were more clearheaded, felt more composed and energetic, reaction times improved, and mood was better.[xix]
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- Tryptophan – This essential amino acid is a precursor to serotonin, melatonin and niacin (Vitamin B3) in your body. Adding tryptophan to your stack can help boost your serotonin levels. And should help with anxiety, ADHD, depression, insomnia, memory loss, pain and eating disorders.
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- Turmeric– Turmeric is one of the main spices in curries. In parts of India where curries are eaten most often, Alzheimer’s disease is extremely rare. This spice (and its extract called curcumin) has a unique ability to reduce inflammation common to Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s and brain tumors.A study conducted in India looked at the efficacy and safety of using curcumin, the main active ingredient found in turmeric, for treating major depression.60 depressed patients took either 20 mg of Prozac®, 1000 mg of curcumin, or a combination of both daily for 6 weeks. The best response during the trial was with patients using the combination. And the researchers concluded that curcumin could be used as an effective and safe treatment for patients with major depression.
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- Uridine Monophosphate – This precursor to Ribonucleic Acid (RNA) provides instructions from your DNA to help create memory by facilitating connections between brain neurons (synapses).Uridine supplementation as a nootropic uplifts and stabilizes mood, is anti-stress, helps Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), is anti-anxiety and helps modulate and normalize dopamine release.[xx]
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- Vitamin B6 – Vitamin B6 helps your brain make serotonin, norepinephrine and melatonin. The activated form of Vitamin B6 called P-5-P is particularly effective in boosting serotonin and GABA in your brain.For depression, look for a P-5-P supplement or a B-Complex formula that uses P-5-P.
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- Vitamin B12 – This B-vitamin plays a key role in the efficient conversion of carbohydrates to glucose which contributes to cellular fuel production (ATP). It helps your body convert fatty acids into energy.Supplementing with Vitamin B12 can help lower anxiety, and elevate alertness, cognition, energy, vision, elevate mood and relieve insomnia. No more mood swings!
Depressed No More
Nootropics can be a strong alternative to many antidepressant medications currently prescribed by doctors. And promoted by the Big Pharmaceutical companies.
But a very strong word of caution – if you are currently using any prescription antidepressant medications. Or any medication for that matter. Research each nootropic including side effects and prescription drug interactions before using them.
To finally beat depression, you must figure out the root cause of it. It is pointless to try otherwise without doing your research. Experiment with various nootropic supplements until you find what works for you.
Good luck in your search. There is hope. I know because I’ve conquered my own depression. And came out the other side better than before.
Join The Discussion - 330 comments
John Getz
January 5, 2019
Hi David,
I would very much appreciate your help.
Even though I consider myself as a decent person, I have been stupid enough to have an abuse of amphetamine for about a year. The last six month, I have ended up using about 100-150 mg every day because of the consequence of withdrawal symptoms, which manifests in the form of depression, fatigue, brain fog and lack of motivation.
Despite of my amphetamine abuse, I ironically enough live a very healthy life consuming daily many different fruits and vegetables, nuts, vitamins, a low intake of unhealthy fats, and sugar is almost non existent in my life. I have worked out in the gym 3-4 times a week for the last 20 years. Therefore I’m pretty sure, that my symptoms are the result of the daily tampering of the serotonin levels and dopamine depletion in my brain.
I have now decided that this must come to an end now, and I would prefer doing this without prescription drugs and still be able to keep my fulltime job.
So I started a couple of weeks ago to read about the possibilities of nootropics, so I am very inexperienced in this vast universe. From what I have read by now, I have an assumption that I could benefit of a nootropic stack consisting of:
L-tryptophan, vitamin B3, B6, and cherry tart juice for the rebalancering of my serotonin levels and sleep quality. Or maybe 5-HTP if L-tryptophan isn’t effective enough for this matter…??? I am aware of the danger of serotonin syndrome, so if 5-HTP is to be used, I will of course have to stay totally away from the amphetamine from that moment on.
N-Acetyl-Tyrosine/L-Phenylalanine, for rebalancering my dopamine levels. Or maybe L-dopa will be a better choice…???
Aniracetam for dealing with the anxiety, fatigue – and depression (which the above mentioned also will be useful for. Could Kava Kava maybe also be useful for dealing with anxiety..?
And then there of course is SAM-e, St. John’s wort and many others, but I really need some guidance for choosing a stack AND dosage as a good starting point, and then I can adjust from there if needed.
It will probably not be a good idea to quit the amphetamine cold turkey, so I am planning on tapering off from it gradually. Would you agree on this..?
Hope to hear from you.
Best Regards
John
David Tomen
January 6, 2019
John, sounds like you’ve done your homework on what needs to be done here. And your nootropic stack suggestion is certainly on the right track.
You many want to consider trying https://nootropicsexpert.com/phenylethylamine/ which is a TAAR1 agonist and could help with withdrawal symptoms. Quitting ‘cold turkey’ is not a good idea and could be dangerous.
Here’s a tip … this Wikipedia entry is the best explanation on how amphetamines work I’ve come across: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Amphetamine. Study this thing because it will likely spark some ideas on what else you can do. Supplemental magnesium is one suggestion I found in this post.
Anything you can find that increases the density of dopamine receptors will help. I know there are 1 or 2 reviewed here but can’t think of them at the moment. Do a search top right to find them.
Follow the dosage instructions carefully for each of the nootropics you mentioned in your comment. Experimenting is key to finding what works best for you. And do not be shy about finding a local chapter of Narcotics Anonymous if you need to. The right group could be one of the best things you could do while you are on the road to recovery.
mike
December 3, 2018
Study I’m referring to re: number 2 here:
https://developingchild.harvard.edu/wp-content/uploads/2005/05/Stress_Disrupts_Architecture_Developing_Brain-1.pdf
“Sustained activation of the stress response system
can lead to impairments in learning, memory,
and the ability to regulate certain stress
responses. In both young and adult animals,
high, sustained levels of cortisol or corticotropin-releasing
hormone (CRH), which is the brain chemical that regulates the HPA system,
result in damage to a part of the brain called the
hippocampus. This area of the brain is critical
to both learning and memory as well as to some
types of stress response regulation.
mike
December 3, 2018
Hi,
I can’t find the studies you cited, when I click them it just reopens the same page.
Also, I have 2 fundamental questions:
1. In your opinion, is there currently any nootropic on the market that actually raises IQ (however minor)?
2. Depression is sometimes described as brain damage due to chronically elevated Cortisol levels. In your opinion are there nootropics capable of repairing said (theoretical) damage?
David Tomen
December 3, 2018
Mike, for the studies you click on the Roman numeral next to the end of the sentence describing the study. And that click should take you down the the REFERENCES section under the review or page. Each clinical study has (source) which is a live link to the study. I just checked the ‘click’ and it seems to be working. If it isn’t for you then try updating your browser or try a different browser.
I know that L-Tyrosine has been shown to affect IQ. And there are others that I can’t think of off the top. The search function for the keyword “IQ” doesn’t seem to be working very well. I’ll have my developer look into it.
Elevated cortisol levels are associated with stress and inflammation. Several nootropics specifically address inflammation. And as I recall, a couple of them help lower cortisol levels. Bacopa Monnieri is one of them. A search for “cortisol” does work so check the search function please.
mike
December 3, 2018
Hi David,
thanks for the very quick reply. After trying to click the source once more it finally worked. I like to check the studies myself, as sometimes the methodology isn’t great (small sample size, no control group etc.).
I wasn’t referring to Cortisol by itself, rather to the consequence of chronically elevated levels. Nevertheless, I’ll try and see what the search function brings to light.
Thanks for your reply.
David Tomen
December 3, 2018
Mike, check out this post for ideas > https://nootropicsexpert.com/best-nootropics-for-social-anxiety/
And this one > https://nootropicsexpert.com/top-7-nootropic-adaptogens-to-conquer-anxiety-and-stress/
mike
December 3, 2018
Seems Ashwagandha, Gotu Kola and Lion’s Mane fit the bill. I’m already taking Bacopa, Uridine MP, Alpha GPC, Huperzine A and Ginkgo.
I’ve ordered Ashwagandha, will see how that will do. I ordered the most potent – KSM-66.
What do you reckon has the most lasting / permanent effects in terms of neurogenisis and neuronal repair? Is there a point where you reckon one can “stop” taking nootropics? After all, it is a bit pricey to keep restocking and consuming all these drugs.
On a different topic, I’ve also ordered mugwort tea. Have you ever tried it? I’ve tried Gelantamine for lucid dreaming, but it didn’t work. I’m hoping mugwort tea might work. Obviously flying and things like that are fun things to do, but I’m mainly interested in lucid dreaming as people have reported that it may help in resolving psychological issues. I’m also interested in learning during a lucid dream. But so far I’ve had zero success. Your input would be greatly appreciated.
David Tomen
December 4, 2018
Mike, I’ve had the most lucid dreams when using Methylene Blue. Sorry, but do not have any experience with mugwort tea.
The nootropic stack you are using which includes Lion’s Mane will have the most lasting and permanent effects on neurogenesis and brain repair. I hear you loud and clear on cost. But my experience has been I cannot afford to stop using the ALL of the stack that I am using now.
I’ve become so in-tune with how this brain and body work that if I run out of something and don’t use it for a week I can feel it. And I don’t like it.
The thing about nootropics is you can always stop using them. And for most with no withdrawal or side effects. But boy does it suck going back to feeling like you used to.
Jonathan Schultz
December 2, 2018
have you seen Lions mane mushroom interact with zoloft….or i guess any anti depressants?
David Tomen
December 2, 2018
Jonathan, I haven’t come across any reported interactions with Lion’s Mane and anything including prescription antidepressants. Not to say there aren’t any. Just haven’t seen any.
michael arevalo
November 6, 2018
Hi David,
I guess finding the right Nootropic for depression depends on the cause of the depression. I’ve tried many anti depressants, most did not work with the expextion of Effexor which as you know Is an SNRI.
Which Nootropics would you say have a similar function in the brain as an SNRI?
Thanks for all your help!
David Tomen
November 6, 2018
Michael, this is the mechanism of action for Effexor: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Venlafaxine#Mechanism_of_action
So it appears that it boosts levels of serotonin AND norepinephrine in the brain. At higher dosages it also appears to boost dopamine to some extent.
The goal here is to find nootropic that boost serotonin and norepinephrine (NE). Serotonin is easy because you can try L-Tryptophan, low doses of 5-HTP and if you’re careful possibly St. John’s wort.
Norepinephrine is a bit of a challenge because it’s a step up from dopamine. So you could try boosting dopamine with Mucuna Pruriens or L-Tyrosine and hope for the best. See if they work. Otherwise, spend some time searching Nootropics Expert for all the nootropics that positively affect norepinephrine. Valerian comes to mind. And I’m sure you’ll find others.
This will likely take a combo of 4 – 5 nootropics to achieve what you are looking for. And plenty of trial and error.
Suzanne
October 29, 2018
Hello, I have come across your site when researching a supplement I am taking and have been on it for hours reading all the great information. I have been searching for years for the right information to help my situation and hopeful this is it.
I am 49 year old, female and have a long history of depression and ADD. I was even possibly diagnosed with Bipolar II as well in the past. I have tried a few different antidepressants, but never really stick with them for the side effects. I even caused myself some harm with taking Wellbutrim and 5htp which gave me a seizure. Although upon more examination with EEG’s a underlying seizure disorder may have always been there and my history of frequent falls may have had an answer. I was put on Depakote for about 2 years until I was tired of the weight gain and other side effects. My EEGs were normal and was weaned off the depakote – that was 2010.
I recently tried Prozac but started to gain weight again and it did not seem like it worked as well as it did in the past.
At the present I have been trying several supplements and lot of them you have mentioned. This is what I am using. I still try and through 5 htp in with this mix, not sure why I keep trying this – but I guess I keep hoping it will help.
In AM:
DL- Phenylalanine 750mg
L tyrosine 500mg
B6 100mg
Vitamin B complex Total 460mg By Nutricost
Contains Vit C, B1, B2,B3, B6, B9, B12 Methyl and B7, Inositol, Choline Bitartrate
5htp 100mg – some days
After Breakfast:
Theanine Serene with relora – GABA 500mg, Taurine 450mg, L theanine 200mg, Holy Basil leaf extract 100mg
Korean Ginseng 300mg + Ginko Biloba 160mg
Vitamin C 1000mg
Vitamin D3 5000IU
At bedtime:
GABA Soothe – GABA 100mg, theanine 100mg, Sensoril (ashwaganda) 225mg
L tryptophan 1000mg
Magnesium Glycinate chelated 400mg
At times, though I hate to, I add a nighttime allergy with chlorpheniramine and phenylephrine because my boyfriends snoring messes with my sleep.
So hoping you can see my regimen and give some tips.
David Tomen
October 30, 2018
Suzanne, so far it looks like you are on the right track. How are these stacks working for you and what still needs improvement?
Johnny Haugaard
October 23, 2018
Hello David
Is there any place in Europe where i can buy Aniracetam?
I can only find it in US, and with tax, costum and shipping to Denmark. Makes it impossible
Regards
Johnny Haugaard
David Tomen
October 23, 2018
Johnny, regulations seem to vary from country to country within the EU. But I didn’t come across anything specifically mentioning Aniracetam in my research. Please let us know what you find out.
mike
December 3, 2018
Hi Johnny,
I bought mine on ebay.
Michael
October 8, 2018
*thumbs up* I would’ve done this, but my pills are higher mg, so next time I buy them I will get smaller. 🙂