The best nootropic supplements for 2023 cover the fundamentals for supporting great cognitive function, performance, and brain health.
Natural nootropic supplements for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), boost decision-making, enhance cognitive function, learning & memory, focus, energy, and motivation.
And supplements that for many, can reduce anxiety, depression, OCD, PTSD, or age-related cognitive decline.
I have also found over years of hacking my own brain, that we can simplify the list of supplements we use if we narrow our choices down to only 5 categories for brain optimization.
Those brain hacking categories look like this …
Best Nootropics for … |
Recommended nootropics |
Processing speed, Decision-Making, Focus, Flow, & Thinking |
Acetyl-L-Carnitine, CDP-Choline, Lion’s Mane, Magnesium, L-Tyrosine, B-Complex |
Learning & Memory |
Bacopa Monnieri, CDP-Choline, DHA (Omega-3), Magnesium, Phosphatidylserine (PS), Pine Bark Extract, L-Tyrosine, B-Complex |
Anxiety & Depression |
CDP-Choline, Bacopa Monnieri, Magnesium, Rhodiola Rosea, B-Complex, Saffron |
Energy & Motivation |
Caffeine, Acetyl-L-Carnitine, CoQ10, L-Theanine, MCT Oil, Rhodiola Rosea |
Brain Repair & Maintenance |
Acetyl-L-Carnitine, Astaxanthin, CDP-Choline, DHA, Lion’s Mane, Magnesium, Phosphatidylserine (PS), Rhodiola Rosea, Pine Bark Extract, Saffron |
Table of Contents
Best Nootropic Supplements in 2023
I have my favorite nootropics after 17-years of trial and error. And I’ll share what I’ve found and use in this article. Because what works for me may work well for you too. The nootropics I’m talking about here are what I use every day.
You’ll notice in the categories above that some of the most popular nootropic supplements work in multiple areas of cognitive enhancement. This means you can use fewer capsules in a well-rounded nootropic stack.
I encourage you to invest a little time and learn how each nootropic works in your brain. Because you’ll find that many of these compounds work in synergy. This translates to smaller doses of each supplement for a bigger benefit.
The key to success with nootropics is having the willingness and determination to experiment and find out what works best for you.
And there is no “one pill” solution for repairing and optimizing your brain. It often takes several carefully chosen supplements to get the job done.
Pre-Made Nootropic Stack Benefits
Fortunately, I found the best pre-made nootropic stack in late 2015 which includes most of the nootropics I’d selected for my stack. All packed into 2 capsules in a natural pre-made nootropic stack called Mind Lab Pro® v4.0.
I’ll talk more about Mind Lab Pro® v4.0 in a few minutes and how it ties into my brain hacking goals.
The company that makes Mind Lab Pro® also produces a line of dietary supplements called Performance Lab®.
They also make a nootropic snack bar that I use when I need an energy boost. They are called Nu:tropic® bars.
And before I go to the gym, I mix a glass of Pre Lab Pro®. It contains ingredients for mental clarity, more energy, improves cognitive function, better muscle performance and growth, and quicker recovery,
get Performance Lab® Caffeine+
get Nu:tropic® bars
get Pre Lab Pro®
Choose the Best Nootropic Supplement Stack for You in 2023
If you are new to nootropics, or have years of experience but need a refresher on building your own nootropic stack, see my articles:
Beginners Guide to Nootropic Stacks
How to Create the Best Nootropic Stack
Improve Brain Function with the Best Nootropic Supplements to buy in 2023
Each of the nootropics I detail below contain links through to my full review. 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, the mechanism of action in your brain, potential side effects, recommended dosages, and the best supplement to buy.
You’ll also notice in the table above and each nootropic listed below that many of these ingredients are conveniently encapsulated in the Mind Lab Pro® v4.0 formula of two capsules per day.
Or in Performance Lab® Energy or Performance Lab® Caffeine+ or Nu:tropic® bars or Pre Lab Pro®.
Each of these nootropic supplement stacks 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
ALCAR helps transport fatty acids into mitochondria for the creation of adenosine triphosphate (ATP). [i] ATP is your main energy source throughout your day and can boost physical and mental energy.
ALCAR is a necessary cofactor for acetylcholine formation.[ii] Which boosts memory, cognitive function, mental alertness, and fluid thought.
The antioxidant properties of Acetyl-L-Carnitine provide neuroprotection. And ALCAR boosts Brain-Derived Nerve Growth Factor (BDNF) and promotes cerebral blood circulation.
Astaxanthin is one of the few antioxidants that can cross the blood-brain barrier and blood-retinal barrier, benefiting both your brain and vision.[iii]
As a nootropic, Astaxanthin is a potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory providing protection from Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s disease, and other neurodegenerative disease.[iv]
Astaxanthin protects your cells from the destructive effects caused by free radicals and protects cognitive function by increasing cerebral blood flow for better memory, cognitive abilities, and overall cognitive performance. [v]
And supplementing with Astaxanthin helps reduce cortisol, a biomarker for stress and mental fatigue.
Bacopa Monnieri has been used in Ayurvedic medicine for thousands of years and is one of the best nootropics for studying.
Researchers at Banaras Hindu University in India showed Bacopa Monnieri as effective for anxiety as the benzodiazepine drug lorazepam.
And unlike benzodiazepines, Bacopa Monnieri did not cause memory loss. In fact, it boosted mental function.[vi]
Another study done in Portland Oregon demonstrated that 300 mg of Bacopa Monnieri per day for 12 weeks:
- Improved word recall
- Increased attention
- Enhanced processing speed
- Boosted memory
- Improved focus while learning
- Lowered anxiety and heart rate[vii]
Caffeine is the main active compound found in a cup of coffee and is an adenosine antagonist which is why it helps prevent you from getting sleepy. Which in turn influences acetylcholine, epinephrine (adrenaline), serotonin and it boosts the use of dopamine. Providing the stimulant effect you feel when consuming caffeine.[viii]
Caffeine assists in the gene expression of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) which boosts neurogenesis.
And caffeine increases the density of GABA receptors, potentiates dopamine, and causes some serotonin receptors to be more responsive. Which in turn improves mood within an hour of consumption.[ix]
A valuable addition to any potent nootropic stack, the cholinergic compound CDP-Choline is a multitasker which boosts cognition, mental processing, cognitive function, and brain power, improves focus and motivation, and reduces fatigue.
CDP-Choline aids in the synthesis of acetylcholine, and the release of dopamine.[x] Both neurotransmitters involved in learning and memory.
CDP-Choline also helps repair of brain cell membranes. The cytidine in CDP-Choline converts to uridine in your brain. And works as a bridge between choline and neuron membrane synthesis.
Uridine is needed to synthesize phosphatidylcholine (PC) needed to repair damaged neuron membranes.[xi]
Choline is so vital to cognitive functions, 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 supplementing with CDP-Choline.
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 enhances 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. 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 nootropic stack. Something else will get the credit. 😊
The thing is you cannot get these benefits from fish oil or most Omega-3’s on the market. Because the dosage of DHA is far too low. And purity is a problem.
Best to get your DHA from the source. The same place fish and other marine life get their DHA. And that’s from algae.
A recent addition to my nootropic stack, and thousands in our community, is the Performance Lab® Omega-3. It provides 540 mg DHA and 270 mg EPA made from Algal Oil (from life’s™ Omega 60) in two NutriGels® vegan softgels.
Lion’s Mane Mushroom is well-known for its neuroprotective effects. It’s an ancient Chinese remedy and traditional medicine for improving cognitive performance, and overall health.
In our modern world, Lion’s Mane makes it into some of the best nootropic stacks. Why?
Because Lion’s Mane stimulates enzyme production that releases Nerve Growth Factor (NGF).[xii] It stimulates the repair and creation of neurons (neurogenesis). Boosting neurotransmitters and signaling that may effect memory, improve cognitive function, learning, recall, and mood.
And Lion’s Mane helps eliminate brain fog. Restoring function from cognitive impairments, memory, and mental alertness. And lowers anxiety and depression symptoms.[xiii]
Lion’s Mane is a great compliment to any nootropic stack for an immediate cognitive boost.
L-Tyrosine is a precursor to the synthesis of 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.
L-Tyrosine can be an effective for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) symptoms. L-Tyrosine works in synergy with Smart Drugs like Ritalin and Adderall by boosting extracellular levels of dopamine. Helping these drugs be more effective. And mitigating side effects like crashes when these smart drugs wear off.
Tyrosine also improves memory and cognition under acute stress.[xiv] It helps improve decision making, ‘flow state’ and creativity, cognitive flexibility, acts to support cognitive function, and working memory.
L-Tyrosine is a great addition to any nootropic stack, especially if you’re dealing with ADHD or ADD.
For more tips on how to deal with ADHD and ADD symptoms, see my article:
Best Nootropics for ADHD/ADD
Phosphatidylserine is one of the best nootropics 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, cognitive function, memory, recall and mood.[xv]
Maritime Pine Bark Extract is one of the best nootropics around but relatively unknown to the nootropic community. It’s a naturally derived standardized herbal extract of French maritime pine bark.
Pine Bark Extract helps prevent increases in dopamine, norepinephrine, and the glutathione (GSH) to GSH-disulphide reductase (GSSG-R) ratio. Neurotransmitter problems which contribute to hyperactivity in attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).[xvi]
Pine Bark Extract helps by increasing blood flow to and within your brain for better overall brain health.[xvii] By increasing nitric oxide (NO) which helps dilate blood vessels. And helping repair and maintain the health of the lining of blood vessels. Crucial to overall brain health, maintaining signaling pathways and leading to improved cognitive function and learning and memory.
And Maritime Pine Bark Extract also helps prevent the accumulation of oxidatively damaged proteins. Which may reduce the risk of diseases like Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s, and Huntington’s.
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.
As one of the best nootropics around, this adaptogen helps reduce stress and fatigue, cognitive function, 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 best 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 with 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 Rosea to your nootropic stack – it helps reduce inflammatory C-reactive protein. And salidroside, one of many components of this incredible herb, protects neurons from oxidative stress-induced cell death.
Saffron is the dried stigma of the Crocus sativus plant native to the Middle East. And is the world’s most expensive culinary spice largely due to the way it must be grown and harvested (by hand).
Saffron has been used for thousands of years as an anxiolytic, sedative, and antidepressant.
Recent studies show Saffron as effective as some popular prescription antidepressants. And can even help alleviate the sexual dysfunction caused by these drugs.[xviii]
Saffron extracts (crocin & safranal) inhibit the uptake of dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain which helps improve mood.
Saffron inhibits the deposit of amyloid-β which is associated with the progression of Alzheimer’s disease. Saffron also inhibits the breakdown of acetylcholine (acetylcholinesterase) just like the current medication (donepezil) approved to treat Alzheimer’s.[xix]
Saffron is also a very effective vision supplement. Driving at night is easier on your eyes. And the flicker caused by screens and monitors won’t leave you with eye fatigue later in the day.[xx]
Saffron improves the oxygen and nutrient supply required for healthy eyes. By boosting blood flow in the retina and choroid of your eyes.[xxi]
For the best vision supplement on the market, get: Performance Lab® Vision. I’m serious. Get it!
L-Theanine is an amino acid and one of the main natural substances you get from green and oolong tea. Many consider it the best nootropic when combined with caffeine for the synergistic effect of lowering blood pressure, rejuvenate and relax, boost thinking ability and cognitive function, improve focus and put you in a better mood.
This amazing amino acid:
- Boosts alpha brain waves (8-12Hz) promoting alert relaxation.[xxii]
- Increases GABA, serotonin, and dopamine use in your brain. Producing an energizing and calming effect helping you go into flow. 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 the use of neurotransmitters serotonin, dopamine, and GABA in your brain. As well as increasing Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF) and Nerve Growth Factor (NGF).[xxiii]
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.
-
Vitamin B-Complex
The B-Vitamins are essential vitamins that should be part of every nootropic stack and they include:
- Vitamin B1 (Thiamine) – needed to produce ATP within mitochondria and is a cofactor in acetylcholine synthesis
- Vitamin B3 (Niacin) – used in the synthesis of acetylcholine and cerebral blood flow
- Vitamin B5 (Pantothenic Acid) – needed to make 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, is a component of cell membranes, regulates cellular metabolism and cellular energy consumption
- Vitamin B9 (Folate) – involved in DNA and RNA synthesis, cognitive function, 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 the 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 bioactive B-Vitamin Complex. These essential vitamins are possibly the most important and least expensive addition to your stack.
get Performance Lab® Caffeine+
get Nu:tropic® bars
get Pre Lab Pro®
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 above have links through to a full review which includes information about solubility – fat or water soluble.
To make sure all fat-soluble ingredients in my stack are absorbed, I use one tablespoon of organic Performance Lab® MCT oil with my nootropic stack. But you can use unrefined coconut oil as well.
This healthy oil provides the fat I need for better absorption of fat-soluble supplements. And I don’t have to worry about taking it with a meal.
Using MCT or unrefined coconut oil with my stack does not interfere with water-soluble supplements either. It’s a win-win.
Choose the Clear Path to Improved Performance in 2023
I’ve tried a lot of different nootropic stacks in the last 17 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® v4.0.
I’ve used Mind Lab Pro® as the “base” for my personal nootropic stack since 2015. And continue to use it in 2023. It’s that good.
In fact, in 2017 Mind Lab Pro® upgraded their formula. Their B-Vitamins are now their own proprietary NutriGenesis® vitamins. ‘Nature-identical’ nutrients that your body recognize as food.
Then in 2018, their sister company introduced an entire new supplement brand called Performance Lab®. The company recognized the demand for more choices when it comes to brain optimization. And the need to support the rest of your body.
Performance Lab® offers the pre-formulated nootropic stacks Performance Lab® Mind, Performance Lab® Caffeine+, and Performance Lab® Energy.
Their nootropic stacks are supported by the Performance Lab® NutriGenesis Multi which I also use daily. This multi contains nature-identical NutriGenesis® vitamins and minerals for whole-body and brain performance.
This is now my preferred multivitamin supplement which works very well with Mind Lab Pro® v4.0.
In early 2018, I switched from using individual supplements to Performance Lab® Energy. Because this stack contains the Acetyl L-Carnitine (ALCAR), Coenzyme Q10, PQQ, and R-Lipoic Acid that I was buying and using separately which was more expensive.
Performance Lab® Energy uses the patented, clinically-tested forms of each ingredient in NutriCaps® vegan-friendly capsules and no additives. Just pure, tested nutrients that work.
In 2019 I added Performance Lab® Caffeine+ which I use occasionally when energy is running a little ragged. And I need that extra boost to finish what I’m doing.
Because it contains Natural Caffeine (from Coffea Robusta seeds) 50 mg, L-Theanine (Suntheanine®) 100 mg, Ajipure® L-Tyrosine 250 mg, supported by NutriGenesis® Vitamin B2, Vitamin B6, Vitamin B9 & Vitamin B12. For alert clean energy without the negative side effects like the jitters.
Or a get a quick boost by using a Nu:tropic® bar which contains Norwegian Black Oats, NutriGenesis® Choline, DHA (Omega-3) 150 mg, Prebiotic fiber, Phosphatidylserine (PS), NutriGenesis® Magnesium, and NutriGenesis® Vitamins D3, K2, B2, B3, B6, B9 & B12.
Performance Lab® also offers supplement stacks for Vision, Sleep, Prebiotic, Flex, and Pre Lab Pro® which I use just before I go to my gym for a workout.
And they make an effective T-Booster for men.
Conclusion – Best Nootropic Supplements
If you’re feeling frustrated finding your ideal stack, my hope is this page provides the pointers you need to create your best nootropic stack.
Each nootropic I’ve featured on this page works. How do I know? Because I use them every single day.
But I’m not the only one. 100’s of thousands of people just like you and I have found success with these nootropics too.
I encourage you to try each of them in your nootropic stack in 2023. Or save some money on your monthly supplement purchases and try some of the pre-formulated stacks like Mind Lab Pro® v4.0 and the Performance Lab® supplements. The company even offers a money-back guarantee if you try one of their supplements and are not happy with it.
My attitude is that once I’ve found a nootropic supplement company that puts out high quality product, I keep using them until something better comes along.
So far that has not happened. I’m confident you’ll like and appreciate the pre-formulated nootropic stacks on this page. The company puts out amazing products.
When it comes to brain optimization and what I put in my body, “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 better cognitive ability, cognitive function, cognition, decision-making, focus, flow, thinking, memory, anxiety, depression, energy, motivation, brain repair and maintenance.
What I love about the nootropic supplements outlined on this page is that it covers each of those categories.
And to help you fine-tune your nootropic stack even further. Spend some time with each of the following articles I have written on individual areas of brain optimization here.
Best Nootropics for Learning & Memory
Best Nootropics for Social Anxiety
Best Nootropics for Depression
Best Nootropics for Motivation
Best Nootropics for Hacking a Flow State
Psychobiotics: The Gut-Brain Connection
How to Select the Best Multivitamin for Brain Function
[i] Berg J.M., Tymoczko J.L., Stryer L. Biochemistry. 5th edition. New York: W H Freeman; 2002. (source)
[ii] White H.L., Scates P.W. “Acetyl-L-carnitine as a precursor of acetylcholine.” Neurochemical Research 1990 Jun;15(6):597-601. (source)
[iii] Galasso, C., Orefice, I., Pellone, P., Cirino, P., Miele, R., Ianora, A., Brunet, C., & Sansone, C. (2018). On the Neuroprotective Role of Astaxanthin: New Perspectives?. Marine drugs, 16(8), 247. (Source)
[iv] Nakagawa, K., Kiko, T., Miyazawa, T., Carpentero Burdeos, G., Kimura, F., Satoh, A., & Miyazawa, T. (2011). Antioxidant effect of astaxanthin on phospholipid peroxidation in human erythrocytes. The British journal of nutrition, 105(11), 1563–1571. (Source)
[v] Lobos, P., Bruna, B., Cordova, A., Barattini, P., Galáz, J. L., Adasme, T., Hidalgo, C., Muñoz, P., & Paula-Lima, A. (2016). Astaxanthin Protects Primary Hippocampal Neurons against Noxious Effects of Aβ-Oligomers. Neural plasticity, 2016, 3456783. (Source)
[vi] Bhattacharya S.K., Ghosal S. “Anxiolytic activity of a standardized extract of Bacopa monniera: an experimental study.” Phytomedicine. 1998 Apr;5(2):77-82 (source)
[vii] Calabrese N.D., Gregory W.L., Leo M., Kraemer D., Bone K., Oken B. “Effects of a Standardized Bacopa monnieri Extract on Cognitive Performance, Anxiety, and Depression in the Elderly: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial” Journal of Alternative and Complimentary Medicine 2008 Jul; 14(6): 707–713. (source)
[viii] Walker J., Rohm B., Lang R., Pariza M.W., Hofmann T., Somoza V. “Identification of coffee components that stimulate dopamine release from pheochromocytoma cells (PC-12).” Food and Chemical Toxicology. 2012 Feb;50(2):390-8 (source)
[ix] Gjorness T.E., Greene R.W. “Adenosine and Sleep” Current Neuropharmacology. 2009 Sep; 7(3): 238–245. (source)
[x] Adibhatla R.M., Hatcher J.F., Dempsey R.J. “Citicoline: neuroprotective mechanisms in cerebral ischemia.” Journal of Neurochemistry 2002 Jan;80(1):12-23 (source)
[xi] Wang L., Pooler A.M., Albrecht M.A., Wurtman R.J. “Dietary uridine-5′-monophosphate supplementation increases potassium-evoked dopamine release and promotes neurite outgrowth in aged rats.” Journal of Molecular Neuroscience 2005;27(1):137-45. (source)
[xii] Lai P.L., Naidu M., Sabaratnam V., Wong K.H., David R.P., Kuppusamy U.R., Abdullah N., Malek S.N. “Neurotrophic properties of the Lion’s mane medicinal mushroom, Hericium erinaceus (Higher Basidiomycetes) from Malaysia.” International Journal of Medicinal Mushrooms. 2013;15(6):539-54. (source)
[xiii] Nagano M., Shimizu K., Kondo R., Hayashi C., Sato D., Kitagawa K., Ohnuki K. “Reduction of depression and anxiety by 4 weeks Hericium erinaceus intake.” Biomedical Research. 2010 Aug;31(4):231-7. (source)
[xiv] Coull N.A., Watkins S.L., Aldous J.W., Warren L.K., Chrismas B.C., Dascombe B., Mauger A.R., Abt G., Taylor L. “Effect of tyrosine ingestion on cognitive and physical performance utilising an intermittent soccer performance test (iSPT) in a warm environment.”European Journal of Applied Physiology. 2015 Feb;115(2):373-86. (source)
[xv] Crook T.H., Tinklenberg J., Yesavage J., Petrie W., Nunzi M.G., Massari D.C. “Effects of phosphatidylserine in age-associated memory impairment.” Neurology 1991 May;41(5):644-9. (source)
[xvi] Dvoráková M., Jezová D., Blazícek P., Trebatická J., Skodácek I., Suba J., Iveta W., Rohdewald P., Duracková Z. “Urinary catecholamines in children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD): modulation by a polyphenolic extract from pine bark (pycnogenol).” Nutritional Neuroscience 2007 Jun-Aug; 10(3-4):151-7. (source)
[xvii] Nishioka K., Hidaka T., Nakamura S., Umemura T., Jitsuiki D., Soga J., Goto C., Chayama K., Yoshizumi M., Higashi Y. “Pycnogenol, French maritime pine bark extract, augments endothelium-dependent vasodilation in humans.” Hypertension Research. 2007 Sep;30(9):775-80. (source)
[xviii] Lopresti A.L., Drummond P.D., Inarejos-García A.M., Prodanov M. “affron®, a standardised extract from saffron (Crocus sativus L.) for the treatment of youth anxiety and depressive symptoms: A randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled study.” Journal of Affective Disorders. 2018 May;232:349-357 (source)
[xix] Banerjee S., Hellier J., Romeo R., et al. “Study of the use of antidepressants for depression in dementia: the HTA-SADD trial - a multicentre, randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of the clinical effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of sertraline and mirtazapine.” Health Technology Assessment. 2013 Feb;17(7):1-166. (source)
[xx] Natoli R., Zhu Y., Valter K., Bisti S., Eells J., Stone J. “Gene and noncoding RNA regulation underlying photoreceptor protection: microarray study of dietary antioxidant saffron and photobiomodulation in rat retina.” Molecular Vision. 2010 Sep 3;16:1801-22. (source)
[xxi] Xuan B., Zhou Y.H., Li N., Min Z.D., Chiou G.C. “Effects of crocin analogs on ocular blood flow and retinal function.” Journal of Ocular Pharmacology & Therapeutics. 1999 Apr;15(2):143-52. (source)
[xxii] Mason R. “200 mg of Zen” Alternative and Complementary Therapies. July 2004, 7(2): 91-95. (source)
[xxiii] Yamada T., Terashima T., Wada K., Ueda S., Ito M., Okubo T., Juneja L.R., Yokogoshi H. “Theanine, r-glutamylethylamide, increases neurotransmission concentrations and neurotrophin mRNA levels in the brain during lactation.” Life Sciences. 2007 Sep 29;81(16):1247-55. (source)
[xxiv] Clayton P.T. “B6-responsive disorders: a model of vitamin dependency.” Journal of Inherited Metabolic Disease. 2006 Apr-Jun;29(2-3):317-26. (source)
I am on clonazepam 0.75 once a day. I am in the process of tapering off this. I know you might not be able to answer this but I wanted to try your product but is this safe to take while on clonazepam. Thank you
Keith, depends on what product you are talking about. I suggest looking up the mechanism of action for clonazepam on Wikipedia. Then look up each individual ingredient in whatever product you have in mind and see if they would interact in any way.
Another way is to check out everything that is contraindicated with clonazepam using this checker: https://www.drugs.com/drug_interactions.html
Hi David,
Nice to meet you, my name is Jay, and I’m currently a US college student looking for a nootropic stack that will induce enhanced cognition, focus, memory, energy, and motivation. In the past, I’ve tried using adderall before and found the effects to be amazing for studying and motivation. However, I did notice some adverse effects, like mood swings, so I decided to stop using it after looking into the long term effects as well.
Since then, I’ve been slowly learning more about nootropics to find something that will not only reproduce the effects of adderall as closely as possible without any of the negative side effects but with all the long term benefits. I’ve researched enough to understand that reproducing the intense stimulating effects of adderall is very difficult when taking safety into consideration. However, I’ve since purchased Phenylpiracetam, Adrafinil, and CDP Choline to attempt to replicate the effects of adderall to some degree at least.
It’s been a couple months since I’ve started using them, and I noticed pretty quickly that their synergystic effects still could not match up to adderall. However, the stack still keeps me awake, energized, and somewhat focused, so I’m not complaining. Because I noticed that Phenylpiracetam built tolerance quite quickly, I purchased Noopept for the first time recently and found the effects to be definitely useful. What struck me the most about Noopept though is that it seems like not only can it be used as a handy study drug to increase energy, focus, and memory in the short-term, but it also provides long term benefits that strengthen the brain, which means it can even be taken daily (with a proper cycle).
This kind of changed things up for me because previously I only really thought of nootropics as a tool to help me study and accomplish my goals in the short term. Now however, I see their long-term benefits and really want to take advantage of their effects for myself in the future. After going through your article (which was very helpful), I decided to add Vitamin B Complex and potentially DHA as well to my current stack, and am thinking about taking them daily with Noopept and CDP Choline (this is safe right?). However, I just wanted to consult your advice first before purchasing anything.
So my question to you is what stack would you recommend to me that both maximizes my short term efficiency in helping me study (energy, cognition, memory, etc.) but also provides the greatest range of long-term benefits. With my current stack, I take noopept and CDP Choline quite frequently to help me focus and also reap the long term benefits. When I know I have to sit down and concentrate for a while though, I will take Phenylpiracetam and/or Adrafinil.
What suggestions would you make for me? I am also ok with having a stack for safe, daily/frequent consumption for both short-term and long-term benefits while also having a stack with nootropics like Phenylpiracetam and Adrafinil for more occasional use when work picks up since I’ve read they are not recommended for long-term use. I would also really appreciate it if you could explain the proper dosages and how frequently I should be taking each Nootropic.
I apologize for the long question; I just wanted to make sure I was thorough with my description to receive the most accurate advice from you. Thank you so much, and I truly appreciate your time!
Jay, I suggest using all of the nootropics mentioned under the first two general categories in this post. They’ll provide immediate benefit. And if used daily and long-term will provide anti-aging benefits as well.
Would you mind mentioning what exact nootropics you are referring to when you say:
“Jay, I suggest using all of the nootropics mentioned under the first two general categories in this post. They’ll provide immediate benefit. And if used daily and long-term will provide anti-aging benefits as well.”
Thanks!
Thor, in the table at the top of this article are sections called “Processing speed” and “learning & memory”. Beside each is a list of supplement that address each of those categories.
You can find more detail for each of the supplements I’ve included in that table in the article above. If you’d like even more information on each click on the live link. That will take you to a page for than individual supplement.
Hi, David.
I´m taking Ashwagandha KSM-66, 300-600mg / day.
I´ll have an intense month of reading/writing , and also a couple small public speeking events and I am considering stacking Ginkgo + Panax Ginseng.
I live in another country so it is easier for me to get it from a compound pharmacy here than buying a pre-maid stack from Amazon, for instance.
The Ginseng I´ll ask the compound pharmacy to put in my stack will be the GINSENG GS15-4.
Regarding Ginkgo, they use an extract with 25% glucosides.
I´d appreciate some tips on dosasges, considering I´m taking the ashwgd 1-2/day (300-600mg), and also considering the Ginseng is a more potent extract (GS15-4), then regular Panax Ginseng, I suppose.
I´m thinking on something like:
Ginseng GS15-4………………………. 150mg
Ginkgo (25% glucosides extract)….. 200mg
Taking it once a day.
I´d love to know your thoughts on this stack/dosages, regarding safety and effectiveness.
Thank you!
Bernardo, the only advice I can give you is the dosage recommendations in the reviews I did on these nootropics:
https://nootropicsexpert.com/ginkgo-biloba/
https://nootropicsexpert.com/ginseng/
If you’re getting these from a compounding pharmacy please check with the pharmacist on dosage for these extracts. The compare them to the dosages I have and see if they make sense.
Thank you, David.
The pharmacist told me they do not have the Ginseng GS15-4 at the moment and don´t know if they will have it again, so they are now working with dry extract with only 4% ginsenosides, which I found to be quite low, comparing with most suplements that offer 8-10% ginsenosides extracts. They asked me then if I wanted to double the dose since it won´t be the GS15-4, but I´ll play safe and will make it 250mg instead of the previous 150mg (GS15-4) I was going to make, which will actually give me less ginsenosides at the end, I suppose.
Hi David,
WHat are your thoughts on 7,8 Dihydroxyflavone?
Pulkit, 7,8-DHF looks promising but as far as I can tell there are zero human studies on this compound. It’s not widely known or used in the nootropics world. So appears to be early experimental stages for this supplement. Do you have any experience using it?
Hello! I’m Luke, 33 y.o. from Poland. What would you recommend for OCD, mostly Pure-O with elements of hand washing, fear of germs/contamination and other issues. Sometimes very depressed. I’ve tried many supplements, among which various vitamins, Brahmi, Ashwagandha, Magnolia Bark, Lithium Orotate, St. John’s Wort. With ups and downs. Some days are bearable others hard to manage. I’m affected by weather and air pressure for sure, somehow… I’ve been suffering from various forms of OCD since childhood. After a traumatic event in 2007, when I was 21, it skyrocketed and it lasts up to this day. Meditation, Mindfulness and other spiritual practices seem helpful too. I’m single and afraid to be with someone else (it is the original root cause of the trauma, I was sexually abused). I don’t know if I will get better permanently and strong enough to break free of this marasm. Low self-esteem is another problem. For instance, I can’t resign from the current job although it gets me even more frustrated and stressed out. I feel trapped :[ Thank you very much for your attention! I love your awesome website very much!
Luke, it really depends on the cause of OCD. I suggest using the search function top right and use the keywords “OCD” and another search for “obsessive compulsive disorder” and see what turns up. I know a few of the supplements I’ve reviewed have been helpful.
Thanks For The Article. I have one question though..Have you tried Qualia Mind?
Rikom, I’ve tried regular Qualia but not the slimmed down version Qualia Mind. The original version of Qualia is a good nootropic stack. A little pricey for many but a good product.
Hi, after 15 years of having graduated from university and not having done other important studies at that time, now I must present a very important challenging exam that requires a lot of memory, first because it is not my native language and second because of the length of the topics. S0, at my 40 years old, I need to stimulate my memory because I study, over and over again, but there is little retain of information!
I´m new on nootropics… what do you recommend me? the “mind lab pro” or something more powerful like Noopept?
Zaher, Mind Lab Pro is a good start but please read what I researched and wrote about memory: https://nootropicsexpert.com/best-nootropics-for-learning-and-memory/.
MLP, and Noopept with a good choline supplement and some unrefined coconut oil are good options. Another nootropic that has some rather remarkable memory retention properties after the fact is Methylene Blue if you can get it: https://nootropicsexpert.com/methylene-blue/
I just wanted to share what appears to be more evidence that taking nootropics is a great idea.
https://www.theguardian.com/science/2019/mar/25/humans-can-make-new-brain-cells-into-their-90s-scientists-discover
Thanks for your contribution David. I listened to you & took mindlabpro which works for me- especially in the afternoon when I take the second dose. I’m about to try the Energy product too- on your advice.
Question- have you tried the Genius products? I’m wary of trying them as I’m caffeine-sensitive.
Rab, I have not tried Genius products and tend to shy away from any stack that has caffeine as part of their ingredient list. While caffeine has nootropic qualities, I’d rather get mine from quality coffee and green tea.
Thanks again David; I agree with you on that one.
You suggest the racetams/sulbutiamine, for example. I’m new to this area. The testimonials are obviously compelling(very), but are they ok for long-term, safe health? Is there research to that effect? Or are they for short-term use?
I know you’ll have done your research, of course. Ps I’m a fit, healthy middle-aged guy who plays a lot of tennis/gym etc.
Rab, most are good for long-term use. I’ve been using Aniracetam and Sulbutiamine for about 12 years and my brain has never been in better shape.
Thanks so much for your efforts. Confidence building and insightful. What about taking powders like noopept or uridine (just for example) sublingually? Would that make them more bioavailable, more easily cross blood brain barrier? For fat soluble, a half hour after butter coffee?
Again, many thanks,
Patrick
Patrick, logic tells us that nootropics taken sublingually are more readily absorbed that if it had to work through your digestive system. But it depends because some things need to go through the regular digestive process. Noopept taken sublingually works but not sure about Uridine.
For fat soluble you can take them together for proper absorption.
Hi David do u have any libido problems while being on lions mane? because by surfing through reddit i see so many people saying that when they started taking lions mane their libido and motivation is gone.. so is that only because of form they are taking or is that for every lions mane? im asking taht because mind lab pro has their own lions mane so i thought their might be superior without this defect. thank you
Marek, I’ve never experienced libido lowering effects from Lion’s Mane and did not come across that side effect when researching this nootropic. So I suspect it could be a contaminated or adulterated supplement these folk are using.
Which would not surprise me because this is getting to a big problem in this industry. Supplements like Lion’s Mane have received a lot of press lately. So anyone who wants to get a piece of this pie can put anything in a capsule and sell it as Lion’s Mane.
That is why I prefer to only get supplements from companies I have come to trust. Like Opti Nutra who make Mind Lab Pro and all the Performance Lab supplements.
Here is a post I wrote about tips on choosing quality supplements that may help you > https://nootropicsexpert.com/7-tips-for-choosing-the-highest-quality-nootropic-supplements/
Thank you for your reply.. Actually i started taking permormance lab multi on your recommendation because i trust your word and experience and this multi is seriously real deal.. performace lab is miracle at 21. unhealthy century. Thank you for your work and research.
Coming from someone who has had had blood pressure from caffeine in the past, nootropics really helped me learn a new way to have focus and be alert.
We often do not look at the ingredients in the nootropics that we take so this is why doing research on our own is helpful.
Personally, I have tried two major brands and had positive results from both but in different areas.
One of them boosts my memory retention while the other helping with being alert.
needing motivation first, than low energy, low self esteem. what would fit best from nootropics?…..waiting for a reply thanks!
Ammie, see my response to your questions in the comments section of this review: https://nootropicsexpert.com/hacking-motivation-with-nootropics/
Hey David,
Thanks for your comprehensive and informative article on nootropics! I have a question about the general field of nootropics. I am a teen of 16 and I am considering taking caffeine-free nootropics to enhance my school performance and learning ability. However, I am concerned with the rumor that teens should not take them since they are more tend to become addictive on them, and nootropics will impede brain development. Can/should I use them?
Cyrus, it’s not rumor. The human brain continues to develop until your early 20’s. Some nootropics affect neuroplasticity and neurogenesis which is the ongoing process in your brain for developing memory. Certain supplements can mess with this process in an unnatural way in a brain that is still growing.
So please be careful about what you try. Read each review closely and learn how each nootropic works in your brain. Stick with the lower recommended dosages of each supplement. And avoid things like the racetams.
And the majority of natural nootropics are not addictive.
Hi David,
I really like your stack, primarily because I too am a big fan of Opti Nutra’s products and also happen to have Adult ADD. Currently, I’m taking a lengthy list of nootropics and while almost all other aspects of my cognition seem excellent, I am struggling with problematic verbal fluency, verbal recall, and working memory. I suspect maybe to much ACh in my system. Could you please take a look at my stack and advise me on what to potentially alter or remove?
ALCAR 1000 mg QPM
Alpha GPC 300 mg TID
B-Complex 2 caps QAM
Centrophenoxine 300 mg BID (considering removing this entirely)
L-Methylfolate 15 mg QAM
Mind Lab Pro 2 caps BID
Mydayis* 50 mg QAM
NAC 900 mg TID
NALT 350 mg Q3H
Noopept 20 mg QAM (suspect this may be part of the problem too)
Performance Lab Energy 2 caps BID
Performance Lab Prebiotic 3 caps BID
Performance Lab Vision 1 cap QAM
Performance Lab Whole-Food Multi for Men 2 caps BID
Pramiracetam 600 mg BID
Sulbutiamine 400 mg BID
Vinpocetine 10 mg TID
For those reading who may not know: QAM = every morning, QPM = every evening, BID = twice daily, TID = three times daily, Q3H = every three hours
* Mydayis = new version Adderall XR with 3 releases instead of 2
Thanks so much!
Best,
Adam
Also, what do you think of me potentially adding Pterostilbene? Necessary? Worth it? Can/should I use as needed?
Forgot this:
UnoCardio 1000 (DHA 880 mg + EPA 1304 mg + Vitamin D3 2000 IU) QAM
Forgot:
DHA 880 mg + EPA 1304 mg + D3 2000 IU QAM
L-DOPA 140 mg (Mucuna pruriens 700 mg) TID
Adam, looks like you’ve got a solid stack for Adult ADD. I’ve found Noopept to be helpful. Don’t think Pterostilbene would help you much at this stage although it wouldn’t hurt.
I suggest doing ALCAR at your current dosage 3-time per day; morning, noon and at 4 PM. And use NALT at double the dosage at the same time. I would eliminate Centrophenoxine and Pramiracetam. The latter because I’m in a similar situation as you and found that this racetam was making things worse for the reasons you describe.
In the Best Nootropics List for Depression: the 24 are listed in alphabetical order. Could you list them in importance?
Sharon, what you are asking is very difficult to do because if you carefully read this page > https://nootropicsexpert.com/best-nootropics-for-depression/…
It entirely depends on what is causing the depression in the first place. That determines the order of ‘importance’ of which nootropics would work best. And which ones should be tried first.
If you don’t know where to start then I suggest:
– high quality & potency B-Complex vitamin
– N-Acetyl L-Tyrosine (NALT) for dopamine
– L-Tryptophan or St. John’s wort for serotonin
– Alpha GPC or CDP-Choline for acetylcholine
And see how that works. Then read through the list again on depression and add one or two to your stack later on and see if it helps.
What is your opinion on EGCG and green tea extract? What is the safe dosage?
Venu, there is no “safe dosage” that I’m aware of for green tea extract. All the studies I’ve reviewed refer to and use L-Theanine or conventionally-steeped green tea > https://nootropicsexpert.com/l-theanine/
Hello David,
Could you tell me what is a good stack to add to Modafinil? I have no energy, no focus, no concentration, no memory and trying to study is a joke I’m basically a hot mess lol… any help would be greatly appreciated.
Donna, one of the ways Modafinil works is by occupying the dopamine transporter (DAT). Which releases more dopamine in your certain areas of your brain (nucleus accumbens).
But if you do not have enough dopamine available in your brain naturally, Modafinil hasn’t got anything to work with.
So I suggest trying the same stack I recommend for ADD/ADHD and those using ADHD stimulant meds: https://nootropicsexpert.com/best-nootropics-for-adhd-add/
Hi David. Great information.
I read the article on what you take as your own personal stack. My stack is very similar, however I’ve only been on Nootropics for 2 months. I’m still experimenting on what works best form me.
Can you elaborate on how you take your own personal stack. Do you take all of your nootropics stack at the same time or scattered through the course of the day, or in certain combinations at a time? On an empty stomach or with food? Do you cycle some of them? Do you prefer capsules, powder or sublingual? etc.
Your advise is greatly appreciated!!
Michael, I take my the main nootropics in my stack in the morning and at noon. With a “smaller” stack around 4 pm to prevent a stimulant crash. My final stack is used specifically for sleep about 90 minutes before bed.
I use primarily capsules and if it’s a powder I make my own capsules.
The only thing that works better sublingually are my thyroid meds, low-dose 5-HTP as needed and occasionally a small nicotine lozenge.
The only nootropic in my stack that requires cycling is DMAE. I skip Sat. and Sun. when using DMAE.
Hi,
Thank you for all the information that you provide. I have a question about Aniracetam vs Oxiracetam. Do you find that Aniracetam works better than Oxiracetam?
Your clarification is greatly appreciated.
Charlotte, it depends on what your goals are. The two have very different mechanisms of action in your brain. I prefer Aniracetam because of its antidepressant effects. Some prefer Oxiracetam because of its stimulant effects and ability to improve cognition.
Thanks very much for your quick response and clarification. I’m older and looking to improve cognition and memory. Because Oxiracetam was not listed in your “Best Nootropics 2018” column, I was concerned that it may not be as effective as Aniracetam. But I see in my case, Oxiracetam would better fit my needs.
The help you provide is invaluable! Best Regards!
Thank u so much for your reply, one more thing, I know that b vitamins are water soluble so I try to take 2 hours after breakfast, my question is is that good or is it ok if I take with food, also I really want to know your opinion about multivitamins, are they any good or they’re just waste of money,? Thank u again David
Rashed, it’s OK to take the B-Vitamins at any time. It’s nootropics like amino acids that are a concern because they compete for the same transporters as the amino acids you get from food.
Please see my post on selecting a multivitamin here: https://nootropicsexpert.com/how-to-select-the-best-multivitamin-for-brain-function/. After reading that post I think you’ll begin to see that it’s impossible for us to get all the vitamins and minerals that our body and brain need from food. The only way to ensure our bodies are getting optimal nutrition these days is to start with a quality multivitamin.
I’ve been using the Performance Lab Whole-food Multi for men (https://nootropicsexpert.com/performance-lab-whole-food-multi-review/) for a few months and notice a real difference in how I feel. Even more so that with my previous multivitamin that I had been using for years.