A Comprehensive List of Nootropics, Mind-Boosting Supplements, and Drugs
Nootropics, sometimes called “smart drugs,” are substances that are claimed to improve cognitive function. Nootropics are becoming an increasingly popular way to boost mental performance, and there is a wide variety of different substances that fall into this category.
This comprehensive list will outline all of the most important nootropics, including their key benefits and side effects. If you’re looking to give your mind an extra edge, then read on!
5-HTP
Adrafinil
Adrafinil is a popular nootropic supplement that was originally developed in France in the 1970s as a treatment for narcolepsy. It works by increasing levels of several neurochemicals in the brain, including dopamine, norepinephrine, and serotonin. This helps to boost mental clarity and focus, as well as relieve symptoms of depression and anxiety.
Adrafinil is often used by people who want to improve their concentration and cognitive function, especially those suffering from age-related cognitive decline or disorders like ADHD or dementia. It is also commonly used as a study aid or to enhance athletic performance, due to its ability to improve energy levels and reduce fatigue.
In addition to these benefits, Adrafinil may also be used to treat certain sleep disorders such as REM behavior disorder or obstructive sleep apnea. While it has not been approved by the FDA for any medical purposes, it is generally considered safe when taken in recommended dosages. However, it should not be taken by individuals with liver disease or high blood pressure.
Ampakines
Ampakines are a class of cognitive-enhancing supplements that are primarily used to treat various symptoms associated with neurological disorders and mental health conditions. These supplements are believed to work by increasing the activity of AMPA receptors in the brain, which help facilitate communication between nerve cells and improve overall brain function.
The origins of ampakines date back to the 1970s, when researchers discovered that certain drug compounds could increase the neuroplasticity of brain cells. Since then, they have been extensively studied for their potential therapeutic benefits in treating a wide range of disorders, including Alzheimer’s disease, ADHD, autism spectrum disorder, and many others.
Today, ampakines are typically prescribed as add-on treatments for these conditions, as well as for general cognitive enhancement. They are generally well tolerated and considered safe when used as directed by a healthcare professional.
Bacopa Monnieri
Bacopa Monnieri is a powerful nootropic supplement that is derived from a plant native to India. Used for centuries by Ayurvedic healers, this herb is prized for its ability to improve memory, enhance focus, and boost overall cognitive function.
Bacopa Monnieri is often used to treat a variety of symptoms related to brain health, including conditions like age-related memory loss, anxiety, depression, and ADHD. In addition to these mental health benefits, this potent herb also has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that can help protect the brain from damage caused by oxidative stress.
CBD
CBD, short for cannabidiol, is a natural compound found in the cannabis plant that has been used for centuries to relieve a wide variety of symptoms. Its origins can be traced back to ancient India and China, where it was used as an herbal remedy for everything from pain and inflammation to anxiety and depression.
Today, CBD is widely used to treat a multitude of conditions, including chronic pain, insomnia, headaches, and cancer. It has become especially popular in recent years as an alternative treatment option for those who wish to avoid the harmful side effects of traditional medications. Additionally, many people use CBD as a way to promote overall wellness and enhance their physical and mental well-being.
Celastrus Paniculatus
Celastrus Paniculatus is a powerful botanical supplement that has been used for centuries to treat a variety of different ailments. This potent plant originates from India, and has been used in traditional Indian medicine as a treatment for everything from insomnia and anxiety to joint pain and digestive issues.
Celastrus Paniculatus is commonly used as a natural alternative to conventional medications, thanks to its wide range of potent healing properties. People use this powerful herb to treat everything from inflammation and headaches to chronic pain and even conditions like depression.
Additionally, this supplement is believed to be an excellent source of antioxidants, which help protect the body against harmful free radicals.
Citicoline
Citicoline is a dietary supplement that is derived from a type of oily substance found in the liver and brain. It is commonly used to treat symptoms such as memory loss, confusion, and age-related cognitive decline. Additionally, citicoline has been shown to improve mood, focus, and overall brain health. While research on this supplement is still ongoing, it has been shown to be safe and well-tolerated in most people.
Citicoline was first discovered in the 1950s by Italian researchers who were studying brain chemistry. Since then, it has become widely used as a therapeutic supplement for treating various mental health conditions.
Some of the primary symptoms that citicoline is used to treat include memory loss, cognitive decline, mood disorders like depression or anxiety, and increased focus and concentration.
Delta 8 THC
Delta 8 THC is a synthetic cannabinoid compound that is derived from the Cannabis sativa plant. This supplement is commonly used to treat a variety of symptoms, including chronic pain, nausea, and anxiety.
Delta 8 THC was first synthesized in the 1970s by researchers who were investigating the effects of cannabinoids on the brain. Since then, it has been widely used for both medical and recreational purposes due to its analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties.
However, unlike Delta 9 THC, which is known to cause psychoactive effects and is therefore illegal in most parts of the US, Delta 8 THC is considered non-psychoactive and can therefore be legally purchased and consumed without restriction.
DLPA
DLPA, or DL-phenylalanine, is a supplement originally developed in the 1960s to treat a range of symptoms and conditions. It is used to ease pain and inflammation associated with conditions like arthritis and fibromyalgia, as well as chronic migraines and other types of headaches.
Other uses include treating chronic fatigue syndrome, depression, anxiety, insomnia, and more. DLPA works by increasing the levels of endorphins in the body, which are natural chemicals that help relieve pain and promote feelings of well-being.
Additionally, DLPA may affect certain receptors in the brain that are involved in regulating mood and emotional states.
GABA
GABA, also known as gamma-aminobutyric acid, is a naturally occurring compound in the brain that plays an important role in regulating mood and behavior. It is produced through a series of complex chemical reactions and is thought to be involved in a number of neurological processes, including memory formation, sleep regulation, and anxiety management.
Despite its importance in maintaining normal brain function, GABA supplements have been used for many years as a treatment for various symptoms associated with mental health disorders. Some of the most common symptoms that GABA supplements are used to address include insomnia, stress and anxiety, depression, and hyperactivity. Additionally, they may be taken to help improve focus and cognitive performance in people with attention-deficit disorders like ADHD.
The origins of GABA supplements can be traced back several centuries to traditional herbal remedies used in Ayurvedic medicine.
Glutamate
Glutamate is a supplement commonly used to treat a variety of symptoms, including mood disorders, pain, and mental health conditions. The origins of this supplement are not entirely clear, though it is believed to have developed as a byproduct of other amino acids in the body.
There are several different types of glutamate available, each with its own set of benefits and uses. Some common forms include L-glutamic acid and monosodium glutamate (MSG), which are typically used to help manage mood disorders like depression and anxiety.
Other forms of glutamate can be used to help alleviate symptoms of chronic pain or reduce inflammation in the body. In addition to these potential benefits, glutamate has also been shown to be effective at improving mental clarity and memory retention.
Green Tea Extract
Green tea extract is a popular dietary supplement, and for good reason. Green tea extract is rich in antioxidants, which have been shown to offer numerous health benefits. These include reducing inflammation, boosting brain function, and protecting against heart disease and cancer. Green tea extract supplements are typically made from the dried leaves of the Camellia sinensis plant.
The leaves are then ground into a powder and concentrated into an extract. This process preserves most of the beneficial compounds in green tea, including polyphenols like epigallocatechin-gallate (EGCG). When it comes to cognitive benefits, green tea extract has been shown to improve memory and reaction time.
One study showed that participants who took green tea extract performed better on a memory test than those who didn’t.
Another study found that green tea extract can help improve reaction time in people with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). The mechanism of action behind these cognitive benefits is not fully understood, but it is thought that the EGCG in green tea extract helps to protect the brain from damage and improve blood flow to the brain.
So, if you’re looking for a natural way to boost your brain power, green tea extract could be worth trying. Just be sure to talk to your doctor first, as green tea supplements can interact with some medications.
NAC
NAC, or n-acetyl cysteine, is a supplement that is used to treat a variety of different symptoms and conditions. It is believed to have its origins in the 1960s, when research first began to explore its possible benefits for preventing and treating respiratory tract infections like bronchitis and pneumonia.
Today, NAC is most commonly used as a treatment for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), a debilitating lung condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It is also used to help reduce symptoms associated with asthma, as well as other respiratory conditions like cystic fibrosis and pulmonary fibrosis.
Additionally, NAC has been shown to have antioxidant properties, making it useful in the treatment of certain neurological disorders like Parkinson’s disease. It may also be effective in reducing the severity of some psychiatric disorders like addiction and depression.
PRL-8-53
PRL-8-53 is a dietary supplement that was originally developed in the 1970s by researchers at the University of Rhodesia, now known as Zimbabwe. It has been used for a variety of purposes, including enhancing memory and cognitive function, reducing stress and anxiety, and improving sleep quality.
The exact mechanisms by which this supplement works are not well understood, though some research suggests that it may affect levels of certain neurotransmitters in the brain. It is also believed to interact with receptors for the hormone melatonin, which plays an important role in regulating sleep cycles.
Overall, PRL-8-53 appears to be a safe and effective option for those looking to boost their cognitive performance or improve the quality of their sleep.
Reishi Mushroom
Reishi mushroom, also known as lingzhi mushroom, is a medicinal fungus traditionally used in Chinese medicine to treat a variety of ailments. This powerful natural remedy is believed to have anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and immune-boosting properties, making it highly effective for treating everything from respiratory infections and chronic fatigue to high blood pressure and anxiety.
Reishi mushrooms are thought to have originated in China and Japan, but they have been used for centuries in many different parts of Asia. Today, this remarkable supplement is widely available both online and at health food stores, where it can be found in capsule or liquid extract form.
There are many different symptoms that reishi mushrooms may be used to treat, including colds and flu, hypertension, liver disease, asthma, allergies, insomnia, chronic pain, depression and anxiety. Due to its various therapeutic properties and wide range of uses, reishi mushrooms are considered one of the most versatile natural supplements available today.
Sarcosine
Sarcosine, also known as N-methylglycine, is a naturally occurring amino acid that is produced by the human body. It has been used in supplement form to help treat a number of different symptoms, including depression, schizophrenia, and drug addiction. Some research has also suggested that it may be useful in promoting weight loss and improving cognition.
Although the origins of sarcosine are somewhat unclear, it is believed to have first been discovered by German chemist Justus von Liebig in 1847. Since then, its use as a supplement has become increasingly common, particularly among people dealing with mental health issues or drug addictions.
One of the main uses for sarcosine supplements is in treating symptoms related to schizophrenia. This condition is characterized by distorted thoughts and perceptions, hallucinations, and other neurological issues. Sarcosine has been shown to help improve these symptoms by reducing levels of an amino acid called glutamate in the brain.
Additionally, sarcosine may be helpful for individuals suffering from depression and addiction issues. Research suggests that this supplement can help increase levels of dopamine and serotonin in the brain – two important neurotransmitters associated with mood regulation and happiness. As such, sarcosine may be able to help alleviate some of the symptoms associated with depression and addiction disorders.
Theacrine
Theacrine is a natural supplement that is believed to help improve mood, focus, and energy levels. It is believed to have its origins in China, where it was traditionally used in tea as an energizing beverage.
Today, theacrine is used primarily as a nootropic supplement, and is often taken to help alleviate symptoms of fatigue or low mood. Some people also use it to help enhance mental clarity or focus, making it a popular supplement among students and other busy professionals. Additionally, some users claim that theacrine can help improve athletic performance by reducing feelings of pain or discomfort during physical activity.
Overall, theacrine is considered a safe and effective supplement with a wide range of possible benefits for those looking to boost their physical and mental well-being.