Nootropics are a category of supplements, drugs, or other substances that are believed to enhance cognitive function. These substances are also commonly known as “smart drugs” or “brain boosters.” Nootropics are thought to work by altering the levels of certain neurotransmitters, enzymes, and hormones in the brain to improve memory, focus, creativity, and other cognitive abilities. Some popular nootropics include caffeine, modafinil, and omega-3 fatty acids.
However, it is important to note that not all nootropics are safe or effective, and their long-term effects on the brain and body are still largely unknown. Therefore, it is crucial to consult a healthcare professional before using any nootropic supplement or drug. In our review below, we take a closer look at the five most popular nootropics.
What Are Nootropis?
The human brain is a remarkable and intricate organ that handles a multitude of tasks on a daily basis. However, many individuals experience difficulties with concentration and focus. In such cases, nootropic stacks may offer a potential solution.
These supplements contain ingredients that support cognitive function, leading to improved memory retention, productivity, concentration, and overall brain health. By providing our neurons with the fuel they need, nootropic stacks can promote healthy brain function and optimize cognitive performance.
Why Nootropics?
In today’s fast-paced world, staying focused and productive amidst constant digital distractions and cut-throat competition can be challenging. Whether you’re a student striving for academic success, a working professional navigating a corporate job, or a senior citizen experiencing reduced cognitive function, you may be a candidate for a nootropic supplement. These brain-boosting supplements are designed to optimize brain health and enhance cognitive abilities.
While getting sufficient restful sleep, managing stress, and consuming a nutritious diet are critical for maintaining mental wellness, sometimes they may not suffice. In such cases, incorporating a brain health supplement may help improve memory and retention. Additionally, incorporating natural nootropic ingredients into your routine could enhance mental energy, improve brain health, and potentially prevent cognitive decline associated with aging.
Furthermore, nootropic supplements, commonly referred to as “smart drugs,” can also be useful in managing attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), dementia, and Alzheimer’s disease, as they enhance memory and cognitive function.
Top 5 Nootropics On The Market in (April. 2023)
- Noocube – Top neuroscientists formula
- Mind Lab Pro – Reader’s choice
- Alpha Brain – Best product for focus
- Qualia Mind – Mental boost
- Modafinil – High performance
| Test Winner | |||
 |  |  | |
| Product | Alpha Brain | Mind Lab Pro | Noocube |
| Effects | ✓ Alpha waves ✓ More focus ✓ Third-party tested | ✓ More Cognition ✓ Vegan-friendly ✓ Better focus | ✓ Brain activity ✓ More focus ✓ Vegan-friendly |
| Side Effects | ✓ NO side effects | ✓ NO side effects | ✓ NO side effects |
| Content | 90 capsules | 60 capsules | 60 capsules |
| Dosage | 2-4 times daily | 2-4 times daily | 1-3 times daily |
| Enough for | Depends on usage | Depends on usage | Depends on usage |
| Price | 79,95 Dollar | 49,00 Dollar | 64,99 Dollar |
| Rating | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4/5 | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4/5 | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5/5 |
 | |  |
Who Are Nootropics For?
Nootropic supplements are recognized for their ability to increase brain capacity and optimize cognitive function. By enhancing focus, concentration, and reducing brain fog, these supplements can assist individuals in achieving a variety of goals, whether they pertain to education or work. If you’re seeking to elevate your mental performance, nootropic supplements may be a viable option.
Top Five Nootropics Supplements 2023
Test Winner: Noocube
- Developed by neuroscientists
- Better communication within brain areas
- More energy & concentration
Noocube is a brain supplement produced by UK-based company Wolfson Brands Limited, and formulated by top neuroscientists. Noocube’s all-natural formula contains a synergistic blend of vitamins, amino acids, and herbs that have been shown to improve brain function and mental performance. This makes it an excellent choice for individuals who experience attention deficit issues or have difficulty focusing.
Noocube provides numerous benefits, including enhancing memory, learning capacity, multitasking ability, and communication skills. It also improves focus, reduces brain fog and mental fatigue, and promotes mental clarity. Noocube reduces anxiety and enhances alertness and concentration, while also protecting brain cells from stress-related oxidative damage. By repairing damaged neurons and promoting new cell generation, it improves overall cognitive function.
Additionally, Noocube is a caffeine-free, fast-acting formula that boosts brain function. The recommended daily dose of Noocube is two capsules with breakfast, which can be gradually increased to three or four capsules, with dosage adjusted accordingly. However, it is not recommended to take more than four capsules per day. Noocube comes with a 60-day money-back guarantee.
Product features:
Manufacturer: Wolfson Brands limited
Pros: 30-day money-back guarantee, improves brain activity, improves inner brain communication
Cons: Refund only for unopened bottles
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Second Place: Mind Lab Pro
- Improves mental & cerebral performance
- Natural ingredients
- Third-party tested
Mind Lab Pro is a UK-based company that launched in 2015 and is marketed as the first universal nootropic supplement in the world. This dietary supplement is designed to enhance cognitive function by utilizing 11 science-backed nootropics that act on four different brain pathways. Mind Lab Pro is a top-rated brain health supplement that supports attention, learning, memory, concentration, and focus, all while promoting overall brain health.
The recommended daily dosage is two capsules in the morning and early afternoon, or up to four capsules a day during times of intense cognitive demands, such as before an exam or during an interview. However, it is not recommended to exceed four capsules within a 24-hour period.
Product features:
Manufacturer: Mind Lab Pro
Pros: Third-party tested, 11 proven ingredients, better mental performance
Cons: little side effects are possible
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Third Place: Alpha Brain
Alpha Brain is a nootropic supplement manufactured by one of the industry’s leading companies in dietary supplements. Onnit, the brand behind the product, has been selling high-quality nootropics since its establishment in 2011, based in Austin, Texas. Their products are highly regarded among athletes and celebrities, including Joe Rogan, for their effectiveness. Scientific research backs the ingredients used in their products, ensuring maximum benefit to human health.
Alpha Brain has dominated the nootropic market for over a decade, providing long-term benefits to brain health. It is an excellent supplement for individuals performing complex tasks or multitasking. The presence of L-tyrosine in Alpha Brain helps maintain peak mental performance during stressful times. Additionally, Alpha Brain can aid in burning more calories. Onnit offers a 90-day money-back guarantee for their product.
Product features:
Manufacturer: Onnit
Pros: More alpha waves, money-back-guarantee, improves memory
Cons: relatively expensive, ingredients could interact with other preparations
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Fourth Place: Qualia Mind
Qualia Mind is a nootropic supplement that offers a sophisticated blend of vitamins, amino acids, minerals, choline donors, antioxidants, and herbal extracts, including adaptogens. This potent combination of ingredients is designed to enhance both short-term and long-term cognitive performance.
The benefits of taking Qualia Mind are numerous and include reduced brain fog and procrastination, as well as an uplifted mood, mental clarity, and improved brain nutrition. It is known to increase creativity, willpower, focus, and concentration while improving mental function and memory recall.
Qualia Mind is specifically designed to target different areas of the brain associated with cognitive abilities and mental performance. It focuses on brain chemistry, energy, membrane health, neuroprotection, neuroplasticity, dopamine signaling, choline signaling, and neurogenesis.
Product features:
Manufacturer: Qualia Mind
Pros: More focus and concentration, better brain performance, money-back guarantee
Cons: 7 capsules per day & more or less expansive
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐
Fifth Place: Modafinil
Modafinil, commonly sold as Provigil, is a popular prescription drug primarily used to treat narcolepsy, a condition characterized by excessive daytime sleepiness. It is classified as a stimulant or an agent promoting wakefulness, as it alters the natural substances in the brain responsible for regulating sleep and wakefulness.
Apart from narcolepsy, Modafinil is also used to prevent excessive sleepiness caused by obstructive sleep apnea/hypopnea syndrome (OSAHS), a sleep disorder that causes shallow breathing or breathing pauses while asleep, resulting in disrupted sleep. While Modafinil’s stimulating effects are comparable to those of drugs like cocaine and amphetamines, its potential for dependence is relatively low.
It has been known to reduce feelings of mental fatigue and enhance memory in adults with sleep deprivation. Additionally, it improves executive functioning and time management, making it easier to accomplish tasks and goals.
However, it’s important to note that while Modafinil is considered non-addictive, cases of dependence and withdrawal can occur when taken at high doses. If you’re considering using Modafinil, it’s crucial to consult with a healthcare professional to determine whether it’s the right choice for you and to ensure that you take it as prescribed.
Product features:
Manufacturer: Modafinil
Pros: Used to treat narcolepsy, improves shift work sleep disorder, enhances memory
Cons: Not a typical nootropic, possible dependence when using high doses, high price
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐
Intake & Dosage of Nootropics
Nootropics are available in various forms on the market, including dietary supplements, prescription drugs, and synthetic drugs. They come in the form of gummies, capsules, or powders, and the method of consumption varies depending on the type of nootropic. Most nootropic dietary supplements come with detailed instructions on how and when to consume them, but it’s always recommended to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the ideal dosage for your specific needs.
When taking nootropics, it’s best to consume them in the morning or evening, depending on the intended effect. Taking them in the morning can help promote a productive day, while taking them in the evening can lead to a more restful sleep. Ultimately, the best time to take nootropics depends on the specific type of nootropic and your individual needs.
Benefits of Brain Pills
Boost Focus
After a long and tiring day, it’s common to experience brain fog. Nootropics can assist in clearing the fog by helping to focus on a single task while filtering out external distractions. This results in improved performance, increased focus, and a sense of relaxation.
Better Sleep
Long-term sleep deprivation can have negative effects on one’s health, such as anxiety, lack of focus, and poor attention span. It can also affect short-term memory retention and overall health. Nootropics can help promote relaxation and better sleep.
For example, tyrosine is known to reduce anxiety and stress and promote restful sleep. On the other hand, modafinil is often used as a wakefulness-promoting agent for people who are sleep-deprived, and it has been shown to improve cognitive function in such individuals.
Balanced Mood
Anxiety and mood swings are common in today’s fast-paced life, and they can have negative effects on memory, mood, and performance. Nootropic supplements can help with these issues. L-Theanine, for example, is known to increase alpha brain waves, which promote relaxation and alertness. L-Theanine is often used as a cognitive enhancer to reduce tension and anxiety. L-Tyrosine is an amino acid that assists in the production of dopamine, adrenaline, and norepinephrine.
Lower Stress Level
Nootropics can enhance mental energy and improve mental clarity. Ginkgo biloba is a popular nootropic that increases blood flow to the brain, resulting in increased mental energy. Studies have shown that Ginkgo biloba supplements can improve mental processing and memory.
Improves Memory
Nootropics can improve memory by supporting neurons in the transmission of signals through amino acids. Bacopa monnieri is a nootropic that is known to enhance short-term memory and the signaling between the hippocampus. The hippocampus is responsible for storing memories in the brain and also plays a crucial role in memory recall.
Natural Nootropics Ingredients For Cognitive Function
Caffeine
Caffeine is a commonly consumed substance that can affect the brain. Many people drink coffee to feel more alert and focused. Caffeine works by blocking the action of a brain chemical called adenosine, which makes us feel more awake and energetic.
This can also cause an increase in other brain chemicals like norepinephrine and dopamine. Caffeine has been found to improve mood, reduce the risk of depression, enhance brain function, and even protect against conditions like Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s disease.
Citicoline
Citicoline is a widely used nootropic supplement that can improve cognitive function. It gets converted into choline and uridine, which are known to enhance cognitive abilities. Citicoline can increase the levels of neurotransmitters in the brain, which in turn can boost mental and physical performance while also promoting muscle relaxation.
Research has shown that citicoline has substantial neuroprotective properties and can be beneficial in chronic neurodegenerative diseases. Studies on models with central neurodegenerative disease have reported positive results with citicoline treatment.
Phosphatidylserine
Phosphatidylserine is a type of fat molecule that is crucial for the proper functioning of nerve cells in the brain. It plays a role in the transmission of messages between nerve cells. While these supplements were originally made from cow brains, nowadays, they are made from sources such as cabbage or soy. Phosphatidylserine is often used to treat conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and age-related cognitive decline.
Bacopa monnieri Extract
Bacopa monnieri is an ancient herb that has been used in Ayurvedic medicine to improve brain function and enhance brain power. Studies have found that taking Bacopa monnieri supplements can improve mental processing speed, memory, and reaction times.
This herb contains bacosides, which are active compounds that protect the brain from oxidative stress and improve signaling in the hippocampus. The hippocampus is a region of the brain involved in memory processing.
Rhodiola rosea
Rhodiola rosea is an herb with adaptogenic properties, which means it can help the body cope with periods of high stress and reduce mental fatigue. It’s a popular nootropic supplement because it can also reduce depression and stress levels and influence neurotransmitters associated with emotion and mood in the brain.
Studies have shown that Rhodiola rosea supplements can improve mood and reduce burnout in people with anxiety and stress. Other potential health benefits of Rhodiola rosea include improved physical performance and management of diabetes.
Possible Side Effects
Nootropics, also known as “smart drugs” or “brain pills,” are stimulants that can have adverse effects when consumed in the long term. Side effects may include insomnia, high blood pressure, blurry vision, a fast heart rate, addiction, and circulation problems.
These side effects can lead to more serious problems, such as high blood pressure due to insomnia and circulation issues due to a raised heart rate. Teenagers are particularly at risk of addiction from unmanaged dosing of nootropics. Additionally, nootropics can cause drug interactions, so it is best to consult a doctor if you are on medications.
FAQ
Can nootropics help me study or perform better at work?
Some nootropics have been shown to enhance cognitive performance, including memory and focus. However, it’s important to note that nootropics are not a replacement for healthy habits like getting enough sleep, eating well, and staying physically active.
How long does it take for nootropics to work?
The time it takes for nootropics to take effect can vary depending on the specific supplement, dosage, and individual factors. Some nootropics may take effect within minutes, while others may take weeks of consistent use to see results.
Can I become addicted to nootropics?
While most nootropics are not addictive, some may have the potential for dependence, particularly those that affect the brain’s reward system. It’s essential to use nootropics responsibly and avoid overuse or misuse.
Are nootropics safe to use?
Most nootropics are considered safe when taken in recommended doses. However, like any supplement or medication, there may be side effects or risks associated with their use. It’s essential to research and consult with a healthcare provider before taking any nootropics.
Can nootropics improve my mood?
Yes, some nootropics can positively impact mood by increasing the production of neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine, which are responsible for feelings of happiness and pleasure.
Conclusion
Nootropics and smart drugs are supplements that are believed to enhance brain function and cognitive abilities. They can assist in managing stress, promoting relaxation, and improving sleep quality. If you are seeking to enhance your mental capabilities, including memory, focus, concentration, and cognitive function, these supplements may be beneficial for you.
However, it is important to consult with medical professionals to determine the appropriate dosage and ensure that the use of these supplements aligns with your health needs and goals. While they may have benefits, it is crucial to prioritize your health and well-being above all else. Please consider seeking professional advice before incorporating nootropics and smart drugs into your routine.
