Finding high-quality nootropics that suit your needs is challenging, but being limited to vegan options can make this process even harder.
Luckily, our team of nutrition experts has curated a list of the ten best vegan nootropics that will support your brain function and improve your overall cognitive abilities.
All nootropic supplements from our list were hand-picked by our experts based on improvements in memory, motivation, creativity, focus, and mood.
Our Top Vegan Nootropics (September 2023)
1 - Mind Lab Pro
Mind Lab Pro is one of the most effective smart drugs for boosting your sense of alertness and improving your mood.
The best time to take this nootropic is in the morning before a meal and at lunchtime.
You can take it with any beverage, but I’ve noticed the best results when taking it with coffee. The standard dose is two capsules a day.
Bacopa monnieri, coupled with organic lion's mane mushroom and Rhodiola Rosea, reduce inflammation, improve brain cells' growth and help your body adapt to stress better [1][2][3].
In addition, citicoline, one of the ingredients, boosts neural regeneration and helps you stay sharp during the working days [4].
It should be noted that the dosage of its main ingredients is fairly, so reducing the daily intake may be more beneficial to some users.
Supplement Facts
- Citicoline : 250 mg
- Bacopa Monnieri : 150 mg
- Organic Lion’s Mane Mushroom : 500 mg
- Rhodiola Rosea : 50 mg
- Excellent for controlling stress and insomnia
- Ability to concentrate for longer bouts of time
- All-natural nootropic ingredients
- Supports your brain functions by promoting brain cells' growth
- Normal dosage may be too strong for some people
2 - Onnit Alpha Brain
Onnit Alpha Brain is another excellent nootropic with a number of high-quality ingredients.
Bacopa, one of Onnit Alpha Brain’s primary ingredients, is beneficial for promoting the growth of the nerve cells and recovery of the nervous system [5].
In addition, the combination of a cat's claw and Huperzia Serrata will stimulate the immune system function and help treat cognitive dysfunction [6][7].
You can achieve maximum benefits with only two daily capsules.
However, it took more than a couple of weeks for us to see noticeable effects on cognitive function.
Supplement Facts
- Bacopa Monnieri : 100 mg
- Cat's claw : 350 mg
- Huperzia Serrata : 400 mcg
- Oat Straw : 650 mg
- Transparent formula
- Relieves the symptoms of cognitive dysfunction
- Ideal for afternoon crashes since it's stimulant-free
- It might take longer to see the effects for some people
3 - Gorilla Mind Smooth
Gorilla Mind Smooth is one of the most popular and best vegan natural nootropic supplements known for its productivity-boosting effects.
In addition, this supplement is excellent for people sensitive to caffeine, as it is 100% stimulant-free.
Gorilla Mind Smooth's ingredients, Alpha-GPC and ginkgo extract, will improve your circulation and increase the release of acetylcholine, the neurotransmitter that facilitates memory, learning, and better cognitive functions [8][9].
One of my clients reported seeing the first effects only 15 minutes after consuming a daily dose, while the maximum results are seen within 1 hour.
It would be best to take it on an empty stomach to maximize its cognitive-boosting effects.
Supplement Facts
- Ginkgo Extract : 360 mg
- Bacopa Monnieri : 330 mg
- Alpha GPC 50% : 600 mg
- L-Tyrosine : 750 mg
- Keeps you focused for up to 8 hours
- Sustained levels of energy during the day
- Slight boost in the short-term memory
- Possible side effects if the supplement is taken after eating
4 - NooCube
Resveratrol, a component of NooCube, is an excellent ingredient with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that protect against diabetes and Alzheimer's disease [10].
In addition, Lutemax and bacopa monnieri can significantly reduce stress, anxiety, and serum cortisol [11][12].
Our clients prefer to take this supplement before work and have seen a noticeable reduction in stress and anxiety.
Finally, one of NooCube’s ingredients, Huperzia Serrata, focuses on the root cause of brain health issues and not on stimulating neural function [13].
That said, some of our clients experienced side effects in the form of stomach discomfort.
Supplement Facts
- Lutemax : 20 mg
- Bacopa Monnieri : 250 mg
- Huperzia Serrata : 20 mg
- Resveratrol : 14.3 mg
- Helps with organization and staying more focused
- Doesn't give any jitters
- Contains 60 capsules in a single bottle
- It may cause stomach discomfort in some users
5 - Gorilla Shroom
Gorilla Shroom contains highly effective ingredients, such as cordyceps mushroom, which boosts exercise performance, fights inflammation, and has anti-aging properties [14].
Many of our clients use this nootropic as a pre-workout to get them fired up and ready for working out.
In addition, Shroom contains a dosage of ashwagandha extract that can relieve anxiety and stress and increase muscle and strength [15].
It should be noted that one of its ingredients, Lion's Mane, requires at least six days of use to produce maximum effects and begin promoting neuron growth and brain health [16].
The recommended dose for this product is six capsules daily, but I saw solid results even after taking only three.
It should be noted that some of our clients noticed a bad interaction between this supplement and alcohol.
Supplement Facts
- Lion's Mane Mushroom : 1500 mg
- Vitamin B6 : 10 mg
- Cordyceps Mushroom : 1000 mg
- Ashwagandha Extract : 500 mg
- Increases pre-workout effects if mixed together
- Boosts mood and satisfaction
- Provides a perfect blend of mushroom ingredients
- May induce some side effects if taken before drinking alcohol
6 - Spore Focus Performance
Spore Focus Performance is one of the best smart drugs for increasing your cognitive functions.
Ashwagandha, one of its ingredients, can relieve anxiety and stress and promote muscle growth and strength [17].
In my personal experience, I noticed the benefits when taking it after the workout.
This is because its ingredients, such as cordyceps mushroom, assist your adrenals in recovering from extensive training regimens and fatigue built over time [18].
The daily dose is two capsules, best taken on an empty stomach in the morning and at lunchtime.
The only side effect few customers experienced was slight skin irritation.
Supplement Facts
- Lion’s Mane Mushroom : 500 mg
- Cordyceps Mushroom : 400 mg
- Ashwagandha : 200 mg
- Ginkgo Biloba : 160 mg
- Helps your brain fire faster
- Great for suppressing appetite
- Assists in recovering from a total burnout
- May cause skin irritation in rare instances
7 - Zhou Neuro Peak Brain Support
Zhou Neuro Peak is one of the fastest-working nootropics, as our clients report experiencing effects after just one day of using it.
This product is excellent for people having mental disorders such as ADHD and Alzheimer’s because of ingredients such as Huperzine Serrata and Rhodiola Rosea, which have been proven to aid in such conditions [19].
In addition, the supplement contains a sufficient dose of Bacopa, which is excellent for enhancing your learning process, memory, and cognitive function.
However, some of our clients that participated in the testing experienced side effects such as abdominal pain after a few days of using it.
But, other clients reported lower levels of anxiety and depression after using this nootropic.
Supplement Facts
- Ginkgo biloba : 240 mg
- Bacopa monnieri : 200 mg
- Huperzine serrata : 0.5 mg
- Rhodiola rosea : 50 mg
- Improves memory by supporting oxygen in the brain
- Perfect once-daily dose
- All ingredients follow GMP (good manufacturing practices)
- May cause abdominal pain in rare instances
8 - Qualia Mind
Qualia Mind is one of the most researched nootropics on the market.
Its ingredient, acetyl-L-carnitine, is suitable for treating symptoms of depression and reducing nerve pain in people with diabetes [20].
In addition, L-theanine, another great ingredient found in Qualia Mind, is excellent for improving your sleep and reducing blood pressure [21].
As mentioned earlier, combining ingredients such as Bacopa Monnieri and Rhodiola Rosea is excellent for reducing inflammation and the recovery of the nervous system.
After testing the supplement, our clients reported improvement in their mood and a decrease in anxiety after a couple of days of use.
Supplement Facts
- Acetyl-L-Carnitine : 500 mg
- Bacopa monnieri : 300 mg
- Rhodiola rosea : 300 mg
- L-Theanine : 200 mg
- Helps you fall asleep faster
- Contains only researched ingredients
- Treats depression and reduces nerve pain in people with diabetes
- The taste may be too strong for some users
9 - Genius Consciousness
Genius Consciousness contains high levels of Alpha-GPC, which is excellent for improving your circulation.
In addition, Lion's Mane mushroom is very effective for stimulating nerve growth factors and improving learning ability.
This was confirmed by a couple of our clients, who reported a faster and easier learning process.
Genius Consciousness is one of the best-tasting nootropic supplements on the list, with a variety of flavors like watermelon and mango.
However, it should be noted that due to its contents of caffeine, it should not be taken before bed since it may cause trouble while trying to fall asleep.
Supplement Facts
- Alpha-GPC : 600 mg
- Lion's Mane : 1 g
- L-Tyrosine : 500 mg
- Caffeine : 100 mg
- Natural brain-enhancing ingredients
- Improved memory, concentration, and focus
- Tastes really good
- High in stimulants
10 - Vital Brain Boost
Vital Brain Boost is especially effective for people who seek to stay focused for extended periods.
It is an excellent substitute for coffee, but it also gives you more clarity, and you feel more awake due to vitamin B12 [22].
In addition, Ginkgo Biloba may improve your circulation by reducing the "stickiness" of platelets, cell fragments responsible for forming clots in our blood.
According to my clients, the most significant benefit of this supplement is the improvement of the ability to focus and stay awake for longer.
However, some clients reported experiencing headaches and anxiety after a couple of weeks of using Vital Brain Boost.
- Vitamin B12 : 500 mcg
- Bacopa : 300 mg
- Ginkgo biloba : 100 mg
- Rhodiola rosea : 50 mg
- A perfect blend of vitamins, minerals, and herbal extracts
- Reduces inflammation and helps the body adapt to stress
- Improves circulation by decreasing the stickiness of platelets
- May cause headaches and anxiety in some users
Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose the Best Vegan Nootropic
To know which vegan nootropic suits you the most, you need to know the main nootropic ingredients.
All nootropic ingredients will yield different effects, so knowing what each does is essential.
In addition, knowing the potency, proper dosage, and side effects of nootropic supplements is mandatory.
Let's review these factors separately, so you can easily decide which nootropics to look for.
Active Ingredients
Active ingredients are the most important aspect of a nootropic supplement. Each of the ingredients affects the human body differently.
Some of the most effective supplements and their corresponding benefits are:
- Ginkgo biloba – Improves circulation and cognitive function.
- Maritime pine bark extract – Helps treat symptoms of asthma.
- L-tyrosine – Produces melanin, which is responsible for hair and skin color.
- Rhodiola Rosea – Combats stress and anxiety and supports brain health.
- Vitamins B6, B9, and B12 – Reduce levels of amino acids such as homocysteine, which are responsible for dementia, strokes, and coronary artery disease.
- L-theanine – Supports relaxation and sleep.
- Bacopa monnieri – Regenerates the nervous system by improving brain cells' growth.
- Lion's Mane mushroom – Excellent for memory and learning while reducing brain fog.
- Phosphatidylcholine – Great for repairing the liver.
- Citicoline – Increased energy and anti-aging effects for the nervous system
Potency
Nootropics that contain stimulants can prevent you from sleeping and cause side effects like jitters and anxiety.
Users who are sensitive to these types of ingredients should look for nootropic supplements that are either low or completely free of stimulants.
For example, if a particular supplement contains more than 500 mg of coffee, you should avoid using it.
This is because coffee is one of the most potent stimulants that blocks our adenosine receptors and deceives us into not being tired.
Daily Dose
Consider the number of capsules or the amount of powder you take a day.
Some nootropic supplements require you to take up to six capsules a day, while others only require two capsules.
Try to find a nootropic that recommends as little as one or two daily doses to avoid unnecessary complications.
Lastly, some nootropics contain stimulants, and taking them before bed can make falling asleep difficult. Always aim for a stimulant-free version of a nootropic supplement.
Side Effects
We need to know how to spot nootropics that are less likely to cause side effects.
Here are two things to look for:
- Research-backed tolerability – Always look for nootropics that have human clinical trials.
- Anecdotal tolerability – If a nootropic has been used for centuries, it is usually side effects-free.
Nevertheless, each individual reacts to ingredients differently, so avoid products that contain any substances that caused discomfort in the past.
Who Should Take Vegan Nootropics?
Anyone looking for an innovative way to boost their cognitive abilities should take vegan nootropics.
People with low-stress tolerance and unhealthy private life-job balance can benefit from using nootropics since they are great for stress and anxiety relief.
In addition, some nootropics supplements that include ingredients such as Huperzine Serrata and Rhodiola Rosea may help treat symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease and naturally boost brain function.
Lastly, people who are constantly tired and can't seem efficient enough for their job and family should try using nootropics to gain more sustainable energy levels.
"Nootropics work on improving cognition, memory, alertness, concentration, creativity and attention."
– Amira Guirguis, Lecturer in Pharmacy at Swansea University in Wales, U.K
Who Shouldn’t Take Vegan Nootropics?
People allergic to active ingredients found in the supplement shouldn't take vegan nootropics.
Consuming such ingredients may lead to experiencing side effects and severe health problems.
I always advise consulting your doctor before purchasing a new supplement.
Some people are more prone to developing negative reactions and need to take extra precautions.
Some of the side effects you may encounter are:
- Fast heart rate
- High blood pressure
- Sleep disturbances
- Addiction
- Trouble with vision
If you experience any of these adverse effects, contact your healthcare provider immediately.
FAQs
Are Nootropics Vegan?
No, not all nootropics are vegan. However, most nootropics are derived from plant-based sources, meaning they are vegan-friendly. Always check the label to ensure that all ingredients have no animal-based products.
What Are Natural Nootropics?
Natural nootropics are herbal nootropics, such as American Ginseng or Ginkgo biloba. They are the opposite of synthetic nootropics, which are created in labs.
Are Nootropics Gluten & Lactose-Free?
No, not all nootropics are gluten and lactose-free. However, most of the natural nootropics on our list don’t contain lactose or gluten.
What Vegan Foods Are High in Nootropics?
Vegan foods that are high in nootropics are red wine, dark chocolate, coconut oil, green tea, eggs, blueberries, turmeric, and spinach. The good news is that these food items are delicious and enjoyable to eat.
What Vegan Nootropic Proved to Be the Best?
After weeks of testing and gathering our clients’ feedback, we highly recommend Mind Lab Pro as one of the best vegan nootropics on the market.
Its ingredients, Lion's mane mushroom, Rhodiola Rosea, and Bacopa Monnieri, produce the best benefits when coupled together.
They can help reduce inflammation, adapt to stress, and improve brain health and cell growth.
Most of our clients reported feeling sharp during the day without feeling restless at night due to its notable citicoline dosage.
Make sure to keep us updated with your results if you decide to try this product.
Our #1 Recommendation
Mind Lab Pro
- Excellent for controlling stress and insomnia
- Ability to concentrate for longer bouts of time
- All-natural nootropic ingredients
- Supports your brain functions by promoting brain cells' growth
- Get the BEST PRICE until the end of September
- Normal dosage may be too strong for some people
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