As a certified personal coach with a specialization in cognitive health, I frequently get asked by my clients for recommendations on nootropic supplements for memory.
I picked a dozen brain health supplements and planned a group testing for several months to gauge their efficacy and come up with a list of the top nootropics on the market based on concrete results.
Then, I conducted in-depth research and discussed the ingredients of each product with a nutritionist to reduce our selections and preserve only the finest products, so here is the list we came up with.
Best Nootropic Supplements (September 2023)
1 - Mind Lab Pro (Editor's Choice)
This is a 100% natural nootropic supplement launched in 2015 to improve verbal fluency, focus, alertness, and overall long-term brain health.
Mind Lab Pro doesn't contain caffeine, unlike many nootropic supplements. Instead, it contains science-packed herbs and natural substances (all of which are on the label) that can improve brain function without making you jittery.
In our tests, users reported no jitters, compared to 60% for caffeine-containing supplements.
One of the key ingredients is Citociline, a substance believed to boost memory and brain cells in older individuals [1].
Other Mind Lab Pro ingredients proven to prevent age-related memory loss and boost the ability to recall new memories are phosphatidylserine and B vitamins [2,3].
It is the only nootropic supplement that addresses six brain pathways, including brain protection, brain waves, brain regeneration, brain circulation, brain chemicals, and brain energy.
I tested this product myself and was able to train with more focus and clarity after just three weeks of using it. It also helped me clear away all that brain fog.
Supplement Facts:
- Organic Lion's Mane Mushroom : 500mg
- Citicoline : 250 mg
- N-Acetyl-L-Tyrosine : 175mg
- Bacopa Monnieri : 150mg
- Phosphatidylserine (PS) : 100mg
- L-Theanine : 100mg
- Maritime Pine Bark Extract : 75mg
- Rhodiola Rosea : 50mg
- B6 : 2.5 mg
- B9 : 100 mcg
- B12 : 7.5 mcg
- It is convenient as only two capsules are required each day
- You need only two capsules per day, so it is practical
- It doesn’t cause jitters as it is caffeine-free
- All dosages are shown
- It is a bit expensive
2 - Onnit Alpha Brain
Onnit Alpha Brain is another caffeine-free nootropic with 100% natural ingredients.
In our comparative tests, it scored an 8 out of 10 for memory enhancement and a 9 out of 10 for focus, allowing you to get the best out of your time at the gym.
These ingredients include oat straw extract and Bacopa Monnieri, both believed to improve memory function, word recall, and make it easier to learn new skills by helping areas of nerve cells that receive messages grow [4,5].
This is one of the most advanced nootropic supplements our team has ever tested, and it has made it easier for us to complete tasks and improved our mental alertness.
Supplement Facts:
- L-Tysorine : 1.15g
- L-Theanine : 1.15g
- Oat (straw) extract : 1.15g
- Phosphatidylserine : 1.15g
- Cat’s Claw : 350mg
- L-Alpha Glycerylphosphorylcholine : 225mg
- Bacopa Monnieri : 225mg
- Toothed Clubmoss extract : 225mg
- L-Leucine : 65mg
- Black Pepper extract : 65mg
- Pterostilbene : 65mg
- Vitamin B6 : 10mg
- It is stimulant-free, so you won’t feel jittery or sleepless
- Most users report improvements in learning and memory
- Free of dairy, soy, and gluten to prevent most common food allergies
- The company doesn’t disclose the amount of each ingredient the product contains
3 - Gorilla Mind Smooth
This is one of the most known nootropic supplements that provides a formula combining herbs and amino acids to improve cognitive performance.
Ginkgo Biloba and L-Tyrosine boost memory and overall cognitive function [6,7].
And saffron extract is proven to boost memory in individuals with Alzheimer’s disease thanks to its antioxidant properties [8].
“Saffron is a powerful spice high in antioxidants. It has been linked to health benefits, such as improved mood, libido, and sexual function, as well as reduced PMS symptoms and enhanced weight loss. Best of all, it’s generally safe for most people and easy to add to your diet.
- Ryan Raman, Editor
In a previous group test, our team and clients took Gorilla Mind Smooth for ten days and kept journaling how they felt daily.
We found that the majority had improvements in memory and motivation in the gym and that the effect lasted more than most other nootropics (eight hours).
Supplement Facts:
- L-Tyrosine : 750 mg
- Alpha GPC : 600mg
- Kanna : 250mg
- Ginkgo Biloba : 180mg
- Bacopa Monnieri : 165mg
- L-Theanine : 100mg
- Saffron Extract : 15mg
- Huperzine A : 200mcg
- Long-lasting effect
- Packed with herbs and amino acids proven to enhance cognitive function
- It is stimulant-free, so you won’t get jitters
- It is pricey
4 - Hunter Focus
One of our favorite cognitive boosters, it increases mental acuity and memory retention by utilizing 20 components with a track record in clinical studies.
One example is Spanish Sage which is thought to improve word recall substantially [9].
Our group testing revealed that this nootropic supplement helped boost brain function in several areas. We were able to focus on tasks better, remember information, and stay motivated to achieve our tasks.
The effects were not immediate, but we noticed a gradual improvement over the course of a few weeks.
Supplement Facts:
- Acetyl-L-Carnitine : 800mg
- L-Tyrosine : 500mg
- Organic Lion’s Mane Mushroom : 500mg
- Bacopa : 300mg
- Ashwagandha Root (Withania somnifera) : 300mg
- Citicoline : 250mg
- L-Theanine : 200mg
- Ginkgo Biloba : 120mg
- Caffeine Anhydrous : 100mg
- Phosphatidylserine : 100mg
- Maritime Pine Bark Extract : 75mg
- Rhodiola Rosea Extract : 50mg
- Panax Ginseng : 40mg
- Spanish Sage : 25mg
- Transparent formula
- It contains more capsules per bottle (180 capsules)
- It includes a wide range of substances (20 ingredients)
- More expensive than similar products on the market
5 - Gorilla Shroom
This a unique nootropic supplement produced by Gorilla Mind that focuses primarily on various types of mushrooms to help you with memory formation and information retention.
Gorilla Shroom also contains B vitamins and L-Theanine, an amino acid believed to improve mental function [10].
I used this medication myself for a few weeks to test its efficacy, and by the second week, I could already see a difference in my memory and overall mental performance.
Supplement Facts:
- Lion's Mane Mushroom : 1500mg
- Cordyceps Mushroom : 1000mg
- Ashwagandha Extract : 500mg
- Reishi Mushroom : 500mg
- Maitake Mushroom : 250mg
- Yerba Mate Extract : 200mg
- L-Theanine : 200mg
- Vitamin B6 : 10mg
- Black Pepper Fruit Extract : 10mg
- Vitamin B12 : 1000mcg
- It has generous doses of substances proven to boost brain function
- Includes a great selection of B vitamins
- Comes with a thirty-day-money-back guarantee
- You need to take six capsules per day
6 - NooCube
Another nootropic supplement with a convenient selection of natural ingredients is the NooCube.
It aims to prevent neurological disorders such as Alzheimer’s disease and protects brain cells to maintain memory and concentration.
After trying this product, I witnessed an improved memory recall and mental processing speed.
The effects began after thirty minutes and lasted for eight hours.
Supplement Facts:
- Bacopa Monnieri : 250mg
- L-Tyrosine : 250mg
- L-Theanine : 100mg
- Alpha GPC : 50mg
- Huperzia Serrata : 20mg
- Resveratrol : 14.3mg
- Vitamin B7 : 50mcg
- Vitamin B1 : 2.5mcg
- Cat’s Claw Extract
- Oat Straw Extract
- Lutemax
- Stimulant-free, so it won’t make you anxious and cause jitters
- Contains ingredients proven to support mental focus and memory function, like L-Tyrosine and Bacopa Monnieri
- 60-day money-back guarantee
- It is only available on the company’s website
7 - WorkFlo
This is one of the most popular natural nootropics, which works by increasing acetylcholine receptor numbers on the neuronal membrane.
WorkFlo nootropic is especially effective in improving memory, focus, and concentration. It can also help to reduce anxiety and improve mood due to the presence of L-Tyrosine [11].
I put this product to the test myself and noticed a significant improvement in my mental clarity.
It helped me stay focused and organized throughout the day, but it also helped me remember things better.
Supplement Facts:
- L-Tyrosine : 200mg
- Alpha GPC : 150mg
- PhosphatidylSerine : 150mg
- L-Theanine : 100mg
- Noopept : 20mg
- Vitamin B6 : 10mg
- Vitamine B12 : 10mg
- Long-lasting effect
- Contains efficient ingredients proven to enhance cognitive abilities, like L-Tyrosine and L-Theanine
- The vast majority of user feedback is positive
- They do not show the dosage used in all ingredients
8 - Pure Nootropics Citicoline
This nootropic is the first on this list to exclusively contain Citicoline, an all-natural compound that enhances memory and cognitive function during aging [12].
While this product, like all other nootropics, won't miraculously cure memory disorders, it can boost cognitive function and prevent mental fatigue.
Supplement Facts:
- Citicoline : 600mg
- Citicoline is proven to improve age-related decline in memory
- Easy to use
- It is affordable
- It contains only one ingredient
9 - BaCognize Bacopa Monnieri
BaCognize is a Nootropics Depot product that contains Bacopa Monnieri and is designed to enhance cognition, support memory function, and decrease stress.
Bacopa is also used to alleviate the symptoms of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) [13].
The recommended dose for BaCognize is one capsule daily, and it is available in 240 capsules per bottle.
To test this product’s effectiveness, I’ve used it for over two months, and I felt significant improvement in attention and mood, and havent’t noticed any nasty side effects.
Supplement Facts:
- Bacopa Monnieri : 300mg
- Easy to use
- Nootropics Depot is a trusted brand
- Bacopa Monnieri is proven to improve memory recall
- It contains only one ingredient
10 - New Chapter Rhodiola Force
New Chapter Rhodiola Force is a natural supplement available in bottles of 30 capsules.
The company claims it can promote cognitive function and reduce stress with 300mg of Bacopa Monnieri.
The recommended dosage is one capsule daily, preferably thirty minutes before breakfast.
“It’s worth noting that only repeated use of Bacopa Monnieri has been shown to have this effect. People generally take about 300 mg per day and it may take around four to six weeks for you to notice any results.”
- Helen West, BSc in Nutrition and Editor at Healthline.Com
Studies of Bacopa monnieri also show that it may occasionally cause diarrhea and an upset stomach [14].
Because of this, many people recommend taking this supplement with food.
In a group test, my clients reported that it was effective for increasing energy, mood, and motivation after taking it for four weeks.
Supplement Facts:
- Bacopa Monnieri : 300mg
- Easy to use (only one capsule per day is needed)
- No artificial colors or flavors
- Bacopa Monnieri is scientifically proven to improve memory recall
- It contains only one ingredient
How to Choose the Most Effective Nootropics?
To choose the most effective nootropics, you must consider the ingredients, your objectives, and your fitness goals.
1. Understand Your Goals
The first step in choosing the right nootropic supplement is understanding your goals.
It’s important to remember that each product has a different purpose. Understanding what kind of results you want from your nootropics will make it easier to narrow down your options.
2. Look at Ingredients
When researching different types of nootropics, look closely at their ingredient list.
Different ingredients have different effects. Some may help with focus, while others can improve mood and reduce stress, so make sure to choose a product with ingredients that match the results you’re looking for.
My dietitian did confirm that phosphatidylserine, B vitamins, Citicoline, and L-Tyrosine are possibly the more critical ones [15].
Also, be aware of any potential side effects associated with certain ingredients; some supplements may contain stimulants like caffeine or guarana, which could cause jitteriness or insomnia if taken in large doses.
3. Do Your Research
Once you know what kind of effects you’re looking for, you can begin researching different types of nootropics until you find one that meets your needs.
Look at reviews from other users, compare prices, read about ingredients and side effects, and check out any research studies that have been conducted on particular products.
It is also essential to keep in mind that a product can affect each person differently, depending on a few factors, such as gender and age.
FAQs
What Are Nootropics?
Nootropics are smart drugs that improve cognitive function, especially executive functions, memory, creativity, or motivation, in healthy individuals.
How Do Nootropics Improve Cognitive Function?
Nootropics improve cognitive function by increasing blood flow to the brain, which in turn delivers more oxygen and nutrients to the brain cells. Additionally, many nootropics also act as antioxidants, which help protect the cells from damage caused by free radicals.
What Are the Side Effects of Nootropics?
The side effects of nootropics are insomnia, high blood pressure, and a fast heart rate. Nootropics can also cause nausea, vomiting, and headaches. However, adverse effects are rare and most users won't experience any problems.
What Is the Best Nootropic for Memory?
After carefully assessing the top-rated brain supplements in the market, our team’s top recommendation to our clients is Mind Lab Pro.
This might be the best nootropic because it is packed with Citicoline, L-Tyrosine, and L-Theanine, which positively affect memory.
Between our group testing, online reviews, and research, I believe that this product has the most suitable features for individuals looking to support brain health.
Our #1 Recommendation
Mind Lab Pro
- It is convenient as only two capsules are required each day
- You need only two capsules per day, so it is practical
- It doesn’t cause jitters as it is caffeine-free
- All dosages are shown
- Get the BEST PRICE until the end of September
- It is a bit expensive
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