Best Nootropics 2017

Ask a group of neurohackers which are the best nootropics and you’ll get a symphony of opinions. But when you drill down to what people are taking every day you start to see a pattern.

Many biohackers working on cognitive enhancement distill their brain hacking goals into a few defined categories. Then look for the best nootropic to address each one. It looks something like this…

Best Nootropics for …	Recommended nootropics
Cognition, Decision-Making, Focus, & Thinking	Acetyl-L-Carnitine, Aniracetam, CDP-Choline, Lion’s Mane, NALT, B-Complex
Memory	Aniracetam, Bacopa Monnieri, CDP-Choline, DHA, L-Theanine, PS, Vinpocetine
Anxiety & Depression	Aniracetam, CDP-Choline, Bacopa Monnieri, Rhodiola Rosea, Sulbutiamine, B-Complex
Energy & Motivation	Acetyl-L-Carnitine, CDP-Choline, Rhodiola, Pterostilbene
Brain Repair & Maintenance	Acetyl-L-Carnitine, Aniracetam, Ashwagandha, CDP-Choline, DHA, Phosphatidylserine, Pterostilbene, Rhodiola Rosea, Vinpocetine

Total Brain Optimization

I have my favorite nootropics after 10-years of trial and error. And chances are that what works for me may work well for you too. The nootropics I’m talking about here are part of the stack I use every day.

You’ll notice in the categories above that some nootropics work in multiple areas of cognitive enhancement. The obvious benefit is fewer nootropics in a well-rounded stack.

And once you dive into the neuroscience behind each nootropic, you’ll find synergy on how many of these compounds work together. This extends to smaller doses of each for a bigger benefit.

Brain optimization comes with a lot of experimenting to find what works best. Trying different compounds, keeping a log of what works and how well, and a considerable investment.

Naturally, I’m on the lookout for how to save money without cutting corners. So once I’ve narrowed my stack choices, the search begins for a quality pre-made nootropic stack that will save me buying individual packs, tubs of powder or capsules.

Fortunately, I found the best pre-made nootropic stack in late 2015 which covered the bulk of the nootropics I’d selected for my stack. It’s called Mind Lab Pro. I’ll talk more about Mind Lab Pro in a few minutes and how it ties into my brain hacking goals.

Before I get into detail on how my stack works, here are what many neurohackers consider the best nootropics available today.

Acetyl-L-Carnitine	DHA	Pterostilbene*
Aniracetam	Lion’s Mane*	Rhodiola Rosea*
Bacopa Monnieri*	N-Acetyl-L-Tyrosine (NALT)*	Sulbutiamine
CDP-Choline*	Phosphatidylserine (PS)*	L-Theanine*
Coconut Oil (MCT Oil)	Vinpocetine*	B-Complex

7 Secrets to the Best Nootropic Stack

For a more detailed dive into how to build the best nootropic stack, check my other posts:

Beginners Guide to Nootropic Stacks

How to Create the Best Nootropic Stack

Here we’ll do a quick review on building a great nootropic stack.

1. Define your goals – first you need to define exactly what you’re trying to achieve by using nootropics. It could be boosting memory, eliminating brain fog, tackling anxiety or depression, or improving focus. Use the first table in this post for ideas on how to define your goals.
2. Natural vs racetams or combination – next you’ll want to decide if “all natural” nootropics are important to you. Or are you comfortable using semi-synthetic or purely synthetic compounds like the racetams. Either choice is fine.
   
   The more we learn about some of nootropics that have been used for thousands of years for cognitive enhancement. The more we realize these natural compounds are often as good as or better than modern prescription medications.
3. Listen to your body – as your nootropic journey progresses, you’ll find you are more in tune with your brain and how you feel than ever before. At times you’ll know within an hour of taking something of how well (or not) it’s working. Sometimes it many take days, or a couple of weeks, before you can decide if something is working as expected.
4. Dosages are key – every nootropic listed here on Nootropics Expert has recommended dosages. These dosages are based on personal experience and clinical trials. Each compound has an u-shaped response curve. And synergy when taken with other nootropics in your stack. More is never better for the most part. And sometimes more can be downright dangerous.
   
   As you gain experience, you’ll also come to realize that some pre-made nootropic stacks simply don’t make sense. Amounts are well below therapeutic doses to expect any reasonable kind of benefit.
5. Simple is best – it’s wise to understand right from the start that sometimes all you need to boost your memory is a good Vitamin B-Complex. Or using 1000 mg of DHA. This approach is cheaper than trying out the latest racetam first. And you could surprise yourself.
6. What is your risk level? – are you comfortable experimenting with compounds that have only been ‘officially’ tested on animals? Or most of the clinical trials are in Russian? How important is it to you to optimize your brain? Would you risk shortening your lifespan by a few years for optimized cognition how? Only you can decide.
7. Flexibility – flexibility is key when experimenting with nootropics. Realize there will be times it will cost you $50 or $100 just to find out that one of the latest racetams doesn’t work for you. Or your favorite nootropic is suddenly no longer available. Or your favorite supplier has gone out of business.
   
   And understand that no one is a master at the science and art of nootropics. Don’t believe anything I have to say. Find out for yourself if something is true. And change course when you need to if you want to achieve your neurohacking goals.

Next, we’ll take a closer look at each of the nootropics I recommend and use every day.

Best Nootropics Supplements

Each of the nootropics covered below contain links through to a complete and thorough report. When you click through to each individual nootropic supplement review you’ll find more detail on what it is, why we use it as a nootropic, how it feels, mechanism of action in the brain, side effects, forms available and recommended doses.

You’ll also notice in the table above and each nootropic listed below some are marked with an asterisk (*). This means it’s part of the Mind Lab Pro formula of two capsules per day.

Each of these nootropics are generally regarded as safe and non-toxic at recommended doses. Your mileage may vary. How you respond to each of these compounds depends on a host of variables including:

• Genetics
• Interactions with prescription meds
• Current state of health

So please click through to each nootropic and read the side effects, drug interactions and any other notes or warnings. But in general, these are among the safest cognitive enhancers we know of.

Read more about Nootropics Safety and Side Effects

1. Acetyl-L-Carnitine

ALCAR helps transport of fatty acids into mitochondria where they’re needed for energy metabolism.[i] Fueling your cells “power plants” can boost physical and mental energy.

ALCAR is a necessary ingredient for acetylcholine formation.[ii] Which boosts memory, mental alertness, and fluid thought.

The antioxidant properties of Acetyl-L-Carnitine provide neuroprotective qualities, boosts Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF), and promotes cerebral blood circulation.

2. Aniracetam

Aniracetam is one of the best nootropics available today. It’s well-known among experienced nootropics users for reducing anxiety, depression, fear and improving sociability.[iii] But it does so much more.

Aniracetam enhances your brain’s ability to repair damaged cell membranes. It desensitizes glutamate (AMPA) receptors in your brain.[iv] Which boosts neural signaling by increasing the effectiveness of glutamate. Resulting in better focus and concentration.

Aniracetam also improves memory and recall by releasing 200 – 300% more acetylcholine in the brain.[v] Which increases focus, and clarity of thought.

3. Bacopa Monnieri*

Bacopa Monnieri is one of the best nootropics for studying. Researchers at Banaras Hindu University in India showed Bacopa as effective for anxiety as the benzodiazepine drug lorazepam. Unlike benzodiazepines, Bacopa did not cause memory loss. But in fact, it boosted cognition.[vi]

Another study done in Portland Oregon demonstrated that 300 mg of Bacopa per day for 12 weeks:

• Improved word recall
• Increased attention
• Boosted memory
• Improved focus while learning
• Lowered anxiety and heart rate[vii]
  
  

4. CDP-Choline*

A valuable addition to any great nootropic stack, CDP-Choline is a multitasker which improves cognition and brain function, improves focus and motivation, and reduces fatigue.

CDP-Choline aids in the synthesis of acetylcholine, and the release of dopamine.[viii] Both neurotransmitters involved in learning and memory.

CDP-Choline also helps in the repair of brain cell membranes. The cytidine in CDP-Choline converts to uridine in your body. And works as a bridge between choline and neuron membrane synthesis. Uridine is needed to synthesize phosphatidylcholine (PC) which is needed to repair damaged neuron membranes.[ix]

Choline is so vital to cognition and nerve function that, without it, we couldn’t move, think, sleep or remember anything. And one the best ways to provide your brain and body with the choline it needs is with CDP-Choline.

5. DHA

DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) is an omega-3 fatty acid. DHA is crucial for the healthy structure and function of your brain. Your brain is made up of 60% fat. And much of that fat is DHA.

DHA has the ability to turn on brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). Improving neuroplasticity leading to better learning and memory. And DHA acts as an anti-inflammatory by reducing the enzyme COX-2.

If you suffer from chronic depression, within a few weeks of adding DHA to your nootropic stack, you should feel the depression lift. Your cognition will be better. You’ll think clearer and quicker. Your memory and ability to learn will improve. And you’ll likely have more energy and motivation.

But it is very likely you won’t think to attribute these improvements to adding DHA to your stack. Something else will get the credit. 🙂

6. Lion’s Mane*

Lion’s Mane Mushroom is an ancient Chinese remedy for improving cognitive performance, and overall health.

In our modern world, Lion’s Mane makes it into some of the top nootropic stacks. Why?

Because Lion’s Mane stimulates enzyme production that releases Nerve Growth Factor (NGF).[x] It stimulates the repair and creation of neurons (neurogenesis). Boosting neurotransmitters and signaling that effects memory, learning, recall, and mood. And Lion’s Mane helps eliminate brain fog. Restoring memory and mental alertness. And lowers anxiety and depression symptoms.[xi]

Lion’s Mane is a great compliment to any nootropic stack including Aniracetam, CDP-Choline and DHA (Omega-3’s) for an immediate cognitive boost.

7. N-Acetyl-L-Tyrosine (NALT)*

N-Acetyl L-Tyrosine produces the catecholamine-triad of neurotransmitters dopamine, norepinephrine and epinephrine. As your dopamine levels increase, you’re better able to concentrate, organize your thoughts, and stay productive.

NALT can be an effective treatment for ADHD symptoms. NALT works in synergy with pharmaceutical drugs like Ritalin and Adderall by boosting extracellular levels of dopamine. Helping these drugs be more effective. And mitigating side effects like crashes when the drug wears off.

N-Acetyl L-Tyrosine also improves memory and cognition under acute stress.[xii] It helps improve decision making, ‘flow state’ and creativity, cognitive flexibility, and working memory.

NALT is a great addition to any nootropic stack, especially if you’re dealing with ADHD.

For more tips on how to deal with ADHD and ADD symptoms, see my post:
 
Best Nootropics for ADHD/ADD

8. Phosphatidylserine (PS)*

Phosphatidylserine is a favorite nootropic because:

• PS helps the efficient transfer of proteins, enzymes, nutrients, oxygen and glucose into and out of each cell
• PS is involved in the formation and sending of signals within neurons
• PS promotes healthy nerve growth factor (NGF)
• PS supports the neurogenesis needed for long-term potentiation (LTP)
• PS is involved in building mitochondria which are the energy centers of each brain cell

Phosphatidylserine (PS) is arguably one of the most effective and important nootropics we have available today. It has a reputation for improving alertness, attention, cognition, memory, recall and mood.[xiii]

9. Pterostilbene*

Pterostilbene is an amazing cognitive enhancer but relatively unknown to the nootropic community. It’s a naturally derived polyphenol antioxidant found in blueberries, grapes, and in the bark of the Indian Kino Tree.

Pterostilbene increases hippocampus neurogenesis, boosts insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1), and modulates the receptor kinase pathway that is central in learning and memory process.[xiv]

Pterostilbene is a potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory.[xv] Crucial to overall brain health, maintaining signaling pathways and leading to improved learning and memory.

And Pterostilbene has been shown in clinical trials to elevate Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF) in the hippocampus.[xvi] Improving learning and memory.

Recommended daily dose of Pterostilbene is 50 mg for cognitive benefit.

10. Rhodiola Rosea*

In Russia, Rhodiola Rosea is widely used as a remedy for fatigue, poor concentration, and decreased memory. It’s also believed to make workers more productive.

This adaptogen helps reduce stress and fatigue, increase energy, alertness and stamina, while boosting mental performance under periods of chronic stress. Research shows Rhodiola Rosea can increase attention to detail-oriented tasks by improving concentration over a prolonged period. Making it one of the top nootropics for studying.

Rhodiola Rosea boosts mood by influencing serotonin and norepinephrine levels in your brain, and the feel-good opioids like beta-endorphins. It also helps in neurogenesis by repairing and growing new neurons. As well as activating the synthesis and re-synthesis of ATP, your body and brain cell’s main energy source.

One more reason to add Rhodiola to your nootropic stack – it helps reduce the inflammatory C-reactive protein. And salidroside, one of many components of this incredible herb, protects neurons from oxidative stress-induced cell death.

11. Sulbutiamine

Sulbutiamine is one favorite nootropics in my stack. It’s a synthetic derivative of Vitamin B₁ (thiamine). Two Vitamin B₁ molecules joined together help thiamine more easily cross the blood-brain barrier.

Sulbutiamine is directly involved in the citric acid cycle that provides adenosine triphosphate (ATP) energy for your mitochondria. It has been shown to improve glutamatergic, cholinergic, and dopaminergic neurological transmissions. It may also increase the density of D1 dopamine receptors.[xvii]

Sulbutiamine also contributes to the production of the enzyme PDH which is essential in making the neurotransmitter acetylcholine.

I love this nootropic because it boosts cognition, memory, decision-making, improves athletic performance, reduces chronic fatigue[xviii] and erectile dysfunction,[xix] and is one of the best antidepressants I’ve ever used.[xx]

12. L-Theanine*

L-Theanine is an amino acid which naturally occurs in green and oolong tea. Many consider it their favorite nootropic stack when combined with caffeine for the synergistic effect of lowering blood pressure, rejuvenate and relax, boost thinking ability, improve focus and change your mood.

This amazing amino acid:

• Boosts alpha brain waves (8-12Hz) promoting alert relaxation.[xxi]
• Increases GABA, serotonin and dopamine levels in your brain. Producing an energizing and calming effect. And improving cognition and memory.
• Is an antagonist of NMDA receptors and can inhibit synaptic release of glutamate. Protecting your brain from over-stimulation caused by glutamate, and possible glutamate toxicity.
• Boosts Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF) and Nerve Growth Factor (NGF).[xxii]

Most neurohackers report a calming effect within 30 – 45 minutes of taking L-Theanine. Cognition gets a boost, and energy levels rise without the jitteriness caused by stimulants like caffeine. Some report L-Theanine has stopped their anxiety and panic attacks. (Just don’t combine it with anti-anxiety meds like Xanax).

13. Vinpocetine*

Vinpocetine is often found in some of the premium nootropic stacks. This semi-synthetic derivative of the lesser periwinkle plant is known for increasing cerebral circulation, taming inflammation and oxidative stress, and boosting alertness, cognition, concentration, memory and mood.

Vinpocetine inhibits the enzyme PDE1 which boosts cerebral blood flow. It blocks the accumulation of sodium in neurons, reduces the toxic effects of oxidative stress, scavenges free radicals, and protects neurons from glutamate and NMDA toxicity.

And by inhibiting PDE1, Vinpocetine increases cAMP and cGMP.[xxiii] Boosting neuroplasticity which enhances cognition and memory.

14. Vitamin B-Complex

The B-Vitamins that should be part of every nootropic stack include:

• Vitamin B₁ (Thiamine) – needed to produce ATP for mitochondria
• Vitamin B₃ (Niacin) – used in the synthesis of acetylcholine
• Vitamin B₅ (Pantothenic Acid) – needed to synthesize acetylcholine
• Vitamin B₆ (P-5-P)* – required for the synthesis of dopamine, epinephrine, GABA, melatonin, norepinephrine, and serotonin[xxiv]
• Vitamin B₈ (Inositol) – regulates cell volume, signaling pathways in brain cells, DNA repair, long-term potentiation, component of cell membranes, regulates cellular metabolism and cellular energy consumption
• Vitamin B₉ (Folate) – Involved in DNA and RNA synthesis, gene expression, amino acid synthesis, myelin synthesis and repair, and required for synthesis of dopamine, epinephrine and serotonin
• Vitamin B₁₂ (Methylcobalamin)* – required for the synthesis of neurotransmitters dopamine, GABA, norepinephrine, and serotonin

You may not realize the full benefit of a nootropic stack containing CDP-Choline, Acetyl-L-Carnitine, any of the racetams, or any nootropic for that matter without adding a good quality B-Vitamin Complex. Possibly the most important and least expensive addition to your stack.

Check Your Oil

Some nootropic supplement labels recommend taking it with a meal. The implication behind this recommendation is that the nootropic is fat-soluble. And requires some fat for proper absorption and to increase bioavailability.

Each of the nootropics listed above have links through to a full review which includes information about solubility – fat or water soluble.

To be on the ‘safe side’, I take one tablespoon of organic extra virgin coconut oil with my nootropic stack. This healthy oil provides the fat I need for better bioavailability. And I don’t have to worry about taking it with a meal.

Using coconut oil with my stack does not interfere with the water-soluble supplements either. It’s a win-win.

Clear Path to Improved Performance

I’ve tried a lot of different nootropic stacks in the last 10 years. But in late 2015, I finally found one high quality pre-made stack that covered all the bases. That stack is Mind Lab Pro. I used MLP as the “base” for my personal nootropic stack through 2016. And continue to use the same stack in 2017. It’s that good.

So if you’re feeling frustrated in finding the ideal stack, my hope is this page provides the pointers you need to create your optimal nootropic stack.

My attitude on brain optimization is that “good enough” isn’t nearly good enough until I’m performing my best. In all areas of life.

The right combination of nootropics in the right amounts have helped me get to the point where I feel I’m performing better than ever.

Near the beginning of this page we identified the main points that lead to cognitive improvement; cognition, decision-making, focus, thinking, memory, anxiety, depression, energy, motivation, brain repair and maintenance.

What I love about the nootropics outlined on this page is that it covers each of those categories.

But to help you fine-tune your nootropic stack further. You may want to take a look at each of the following posts I wrote on individual areas of brain optimization.

Best Nootropics for Learning & Memory

Best Nootropics for Social Anxiety

Best Nootropic for ADHD

Best Nootropics for Depression

Best Nootropics for Motivation

Best Nootropics for Hacking a Flow State

13 Nootropics to Boost BDNF

Psychobiotics: The Gut-Brain Connection