4 Types Of Nootropics (Know What Are Their Uses)

Nootropic dietary supplements usually consist of a combination of all-natural ingredients that can help balance brain chemistry and enhance cognition [1].

There are many types of all-natural ingredients that we will discuss now.

Herbal Extracts

Popular herbs in nootropic stacks include ashwagandha, Bacopa monnieri, Ginkgo biloba, and Panax ginseng.

Bacopa monnieri, for example, is a staple of traditional Ayurvedic medicine for its cognitive effects [2].

“Bacopa monnieri is an herbal supplement that has been shown to improve memory and information processing when taken for several months.”

- Erica Julson, M.S., R.D.N.

Amino Acids

Amino acids play an essential role in bodily processes, including brain function, like building new proteins responsible for brain cell growth.

Amino acids also aid communication between neurons leading to better cognitive performance.

Common amino acids in nootropic supplements include L-tyrosine and acetyl-L-carnitine (ALCAR).

The amino acid creatine is also a great addition to nootropics supplements because it helps fuel brain cells [3].

One systematic review shows creatine supplementation improves short-term memory and reasoning skills [4].

Cholinergic compounds increase acetylcholine in the brain, which is critical for memory and learning.

Common cholinergic substances include alpha-GPC, huperzine-A, dimethylaminoethanol (DMAE), and citicoline (CDP-Choline) [5].

The compounds may improve overall mental performance and reduce age-related memory decline associated with dementia or Alzheimer’s disease.

Vitamins and Minerals

Vitamins and minerals help maintain proper organ health throughout our bodies and regulate neurotransmitters related to cognitive function. This process aids learning and working memory.

B vitamins are a common addition to nootropic supplements, and studies link cognitive impairment to deficiency in this group of vitamins [6].

Zinc is another common addition for cognitive enhancement and general well-being [7].

Adaptogens

Adaptogens are natural substances that modulate how your body responds to stress.

These substances, like Rhodiola rosea, Ashwagandha, and Bacopa monnieri, can reduce stress hormones and promote relaxation, allowing focus even under stressful conditions [8].

Nootropics formulated in a lab are synthetic compounds not found in nature, though they may mimic the cognitive benefits of natural substances.

Racetams are a well-known class of synthetic nootropics that enhance behavior and cognition [9].

Common examples of racetams are:

• Piracetam
• Sunifiram
• Phenylpiracetam
• Aniracetam
• Oxiracetam
• Nebracetam

Adrafinil is an over-the-counter synthetic nootropic included in some supplements.

Adrafinil is a stimulant, so many use it for increased alertness and energy, enhanced athletic performance, and weight loss [10].

Adrafinil is not to be confused with Modafinil, in a class of prescription stimulant medications called Eugeroics.

Modafinil use began in the 1990s to treat narcolepsy, obstructive sleep apnea, and shift work sleep disorder [11].

Related: What is Noopept?

3. Prescription

Prescription nootropics are a class of drugs with cognitive-enhancing properties prescribed by medical professionals to treat narcolepsy, Alzheimer’s, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and Parkinson’s disease.

Commonly prescribed prescription nootropics include Donepezil (Aricept), Rivastigmine (Exelon), and Memantine.

These drugs seem to increase the availability of neurotransmitters like acetylcholine and dopamine in the brain [12].

Over-the-counter nootropics are a form of cognitive enhancers and brain supplements that people can purchase without a doctor’s prescription.

These products usually contain herbal extracts, vitamins, minerals, amino acids, and other compounds believed to support cognitive performance, brain health, and mental alertness.

I covered prevalent amino acids, vitamins, minerals, and herbal extracts earlier when discussing natural nootropics, but there are a couple of other compounds worth mentioning.

PhosphatidylSerine

PhosphatidylSerine (P.S.) is a chemical called a phospholipid naturally found in cell membranes throughout the body, particularly the brain, and plays a vital role in cognitive function [13].

Omega-3

Fish, like mackerel, salmon, sardines, and anchovies, is the most common source of Omega-3 fatty acids. Fish oil is a common over-the-counter supplement of these vital brain-healthy fatty acids.

Research shows that supplementing with fatty acids for 24 weeks improved cognition in individuals with mild cognitive impairment [14].

“Omega-3 fatty acids play several important roles in your body. They have anti-inflammatory effects and are an essential component of your brain and eyes.”

- Kris Gunnars, B.S.c.

Several herbal supplements date back thousands of years in traditional medicines like Chinese and Indian that promote focus and concentration.

Ginkgo biloba is one such example; recent studies show it increases blood flow and, thus, oxygen to the brain, acts as an antioxidant, and may even stop the progression of dementia symptoms [18].

Rhodiola rosea is an herb native to Europe and Asia, and studies suggest it helps improve learning capabilities by reducing stress-related interference with the recall of information [19].

Related Articles:

• Are Nootropics Cognitive Enhancers?
• How Long Does It Take for Nootropics to Work?

4. To Reduce Stress

Reducing stress is one of the most popular reasons people seek a nootropic supplement.

Bacopa monnieri is an excellent option for stress relief as it is an adaptogen.

Studies support Bacopa monnieri’s efficacy in reducing stress, anxiety, and depression while enhancing cognitive abilities [20].

Additionally, the aforementioned Rhodiola rosea reduces stress and mental and physical fatigue [21].

L-theanine is an amino acid naturally found in green tea leaves. It possesses calming properties, promoting relaxation without sacrificing energy levels and simultaneously allowing users to be relaxed and alert.

Second, research the supplement best suited to your goals, as some have adverse side effects that you should weigh.

Additionally, some supplements are free of common allergens like soy and gluten, while others are not.

If you follow a vegan lifestyle, you will want to look at all the ingredients, including what makes up the capsule.

Also, consider the daily dosing. Do the directions state to take the supplement once daily or three times, and can you easily manage that in your routine?

3. Consult a Medical Professional

Finally, it is always advisable to consult your doctor before beginning any supplement, even if you are a healthy individual.

Your doctor can tailor advice to your health conditions and needs and discuss any potential medication interactions.

Following these steps will help you make an informed decision about a nootropic that will best help you meet your goals.