Nootropics (also known as smart drugs or cognitive enhancers) are drugs, supplements, and other substances that may improve your brain. They can improve cognitive function (particularly executive functions), memory, creativity or motivation in healthy individuals. Just because they’re listed below, doesn’t mean they’re recommended for use, especially the ones at the bottom. Always consult with a doctor and know your dosage before taking anything, period. Below, I’m going to list the best nootropics for intelligence (your brain).
Piracetam (Racetams)
Piracetam is another synthetic nootropic molecule that’s very similar to Noopept in structure and function. It has been shown to improve memory in people with age-related mental decline, but it does not seem to have much benefit in healthy adults. It’s also said to work in synergy with other drugs or nootropics to improve the experience of them; however, this also exacerbates the myriad of negative symptoms.
It’s all fun, fun, fun for everyone.
During the 1970s, a few small, poorly designed studies suggested that piracetam may improve memory in healthy adults. However, these findings have not been replicated. Though piracetam is widely available and promoted as a smart drug, research on its effects is lacking. Piracetam is marketed as a nootropic supplement, but research supporting its effectiveness is still ongoing.
CDP and Alpha GPC (choline)
Choline is an essential nutrient. This means it’s required for normal bodily function and human health. Though your liver can make small amounts, you must obtain the majority through your diet. Choline is an organic, water-soluble compound. It is neither a vitamin nor a mineral. However, it is often grouped with the vitamin B complex due to its similarities. In fact, this nutrient affects a number of vital bodily functions. It impacts liver function, healthy brain development, muscle movement, your nervous system and metabolism. Therefore, adequate amounts are needed for optimal health.
Just to add emphesis — I am Choline. No, that’s my name.
CDP-choline (citicoline) is a nootropic compound that is essentially a prodrug for both choline and uridine, conferring both of those molecules to the body following oral ingestion of CDP-Choline. This supplement is catered towards preventing or treating memory impairments associated with aging due to the fact that both of the molecules it confers are neuroprotective and potentially enhance learning. CDP-choline has some other potential uses in relation to cognition. It is commonly used as a memory enhancer (for attention) in youth. However, despite some rodent studies suggesting that this is possible with oral CDP-choline, there are no human studies in youth at this point in time.
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Another, Alpha-glycerophosphocholine (Alpha-GPC or α-GPC) is a cholinergic compound that is used for its cognitive-promoting properties, and to enhance power output in athletes. It’s also great help to those experiencing Alzheimer’s disease. It appears to also support cellular membranes, and may aid in preventing cognitive decline. This is often used in conjunction with CDP-choline for synergy to harness better results. While citicoline is more for the mind, Alpha-GPC is more for the rest of body, muscle output, and it’s release of growth hormone. They both, however, are great for physical performance and mental acuity on their own.
Caffeine (The Best Nootropics)
(Caffeine) is the most widely consumed psychoactive substance in the world. It’s naturally found in coffee, cocoa, tea, kola nuts and guarana and added to many sodas, energy drinks and medications. It can also be taken as a supplement, either on its own or in combination with other substances. Caffeine works by blocking adenosine receptors in your brain, thus making you feel less tired.
Up and buzzing like a beeZZZZzzz.
A low to moderate caffeine intake of 40–300 mg increases your alertness and attention and decreases your reaction time. These doses are especially effective for people who are fatigued. Caffeine is a naturally occurring chemical that increases your alertness, improves your attention and reduces your reaction times.
Lion’s Mane Mushroom (mushrooms)
Yamabushitake, known as the Lion’s Mane Mushroom, is a dietary mushroom that can be a supplement. It appears to be a promising cognitive enhancer and immunomodulator (thought to stimulate or suppress inflammation depending on context).
Take it, Lion, take it. Yeah, the toilet is clean.
The mushroom is known to help with memory impairment (dementia and Alzheimer’s). It’s also been known to help with symptoms of depression and anxiety. Not only this, it’s been studied to help speed the recovery from nervous system injuries. Not only will you heal your digestive tract, you’ll reduce your chances at contracting heart disease. It can also help fight diabetes and cancer. Finally, it also reduces inflammation and oxidative stress, and it’ll boost the immune system.
Creatine
Creatine is an amino acid, which your body uses to make protein. It’s a popular bodybuilding supplement that promotes muscle growth but is also beneficial for your brain. After it’s consumed, creatine enters your brain where it binds with phosphate, creating a molecule that your brain uses to quickly fuel its cells. This increased availability of energy for your brain cells is linked to improved short-term memory and reasoning skills, especially in vegetarians and highly stressed people.
Create and destroy… no pain, no gain… .
Studies show that it’s safe to take 5 grams of creatine per day without any negative effects. Larger doses are also effective, but research on their long-term safety is unavailable. Creatine is an amino acid that can improve short-term memory and reasoning skills. It’s most effective in vegetarians and people who are stressed. Doses of 5 grams per day have been shown to be safe in the long term.
Noopept (The Best Nootropics)
Noopept is a synthetic smart drug that can be purchased as a supplement.Unlike some of the natural nootropics, the effects of Noopept can be felt within minutes, rather than hours, days or weeks, and typically last for several hours.
Well, I know that it came out recently, and it’s certainly Noopept on the market.
Animal studies have shown that Noopept speeds up how quickly the brain forms and retrieves memories by boosting levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), a compound that promotes the growth of brain cells. Human research has found that this smart drug helps people recover more quickly from brain injuries, but more studies are needed to understand how it might be used as a nootropic in healthy adults.
Phenibut
Phenibut, sold under the brand names Anvifen, Fenibut, and Noofen. It’s a central nervous system depressant with anxiolytic effects, and is used to treat anxiety, insomnia, and for a variety of other indications. It is usually taken orally as a tablet, but may be given intravenously.
Put it where?
Phenibut is an anti-anxiety medication prescribed in Russia. Since the 1960s, it has been used to treat insomnia, depression, stuttering, vestibular disorders, irregular heartbeat, and post-traumatic stress disorder. The effects take several hours to kick in and have been said to feel similar to benzodiazepines like Xanex.
Theanine (The Best Nootropics for Intelligence)
L-theanine is a naturally occurring amino acid found in tea, but it can also be taken as a supplement. Several studies have shown that taking 200 mg of L-theanine has a calming effect, without causing drowsiness. Taking even just 50 mg — the amount found in roughly two cups of brewed tea — has been found to increase alpha-waves in the brain, which are linked to creativity.
Do you love me? Yes, now that I’ve taken my supplements, dear.
L-theanine is even more effective when taken with caffeine. For this reason, they’re often used together in performance-enhancing supplements. What’s more, they are both naturally found in tea. L-theanine is an amino acid found in tea that can increase feelings of calmness and may be linked to increased creativity. Its effectiveness is even greater when combined with caffeine, but be careful.
Tyrosine (The Best Nootropics for Intelligence)
L-Tyrosine is an amino acid that is used to produce noradrenaline and dopamine; it appears to reduce stress during exposure to acute stressors (which tend to deplete noradrenaline) and may help to prevent stress-induced memory deficits. When it comes to the topic of actually increasing dopamine and adrenaline outright, L-tyrosine does not seem to hold much promise. The synthesis of catecholamines is highly regulated in the body, so simply increasing the amount of L-tyrosine in your body does not necessarily increase catecholamine production.
Tear it up, and tear it good.
Some studies have noted that in stressful situations where noradrenaline exerts a protective effect, supplying L-tyrosine seems to provide a ‘safety buffer’ of building blocks that can prolong the anti-stress effect of catecholamines by delaying their depletion. This has been noted in situations of cold stress and sleep deprivation in humans but at a relatively high dose. Improvements in memory during stressful situations have also been found. However, more research is needed to confirm this. What little research done doesn’t suggest an effect on depression.
Phenotropil (The Best Nootropics for Intelligence)
Phenotropil, also known as phenylpiracetam, is a synthetic smart drug that is widely available as an over-the-counter supplement. It’s similar in structure to piracetam and Noopept, and it helps the brain recover from various injuries like stroke, epilepsy and trauma.
Learn some chemistry while you’re at it.
One study in rats found that phenotropil slightly enhanced memory, but research to support its use as a smart drug in healthy adults is unavailable. Phenotropil is marketed as a smart drug, but research showing memory-enhancing benefits in healthy adults is unavailable.
Rhodiola Rosea (The Best Nootropics for Intelligence)
Rhodiola Rosea is an adaptogenic herb that helps your body handle stress more effectively. Several studies have found that Rhodiola rosea supplements can improve mood and decrease feelings of burnout in both anxious and highly stressed individuals.
Take it, and take it good!
Taking small daily doses of Rhodiola rosea has been shown to reduce mental fatigue and increase feelings of well-being in college students during stressful exam periods. More research is needed to determine optimal dosing and better understand how the herb causes these effects. Rhodiola rosea is a natural herb that may help your body adapt to periods of high stress and reduce associated mental fatigue.
Panax Ginseng (The Best Nootropics for Intelligence)
Panax ginseng root is an ancient medicinal plant used to boost brain function. Taking a single dose of 200–400 mg of Panax ginseng has been shown to reduce brain fatigue and significantly improve performance on difficult tasks like mental math problems. However, it’s unclear how Panax ginseng boosts brain function. It may be due to its strong anti-inflammatory effects, which help protect your brain from oxidative stress and enhance its function.
Don’t get too HARDwired on this great supplement.
Some longer-term studies have found that your body may adapt to ginseng, making it less effective after several months of use. Therefore, more research is needed on its long-term nootropic effects. Occasional doses of Panax ginseng may help improve mental function, but more research is needed on its long-term effectiveness.
Ginkgo Biloba (The Best Nootropics for Intelligence)
Extracts from the leaves of the Ginkgo biloba tree may also have positive effects on your brain. Ginkgo biloba supplements have been shown to improve memory and mental processing in healthy older adults when taken daily for six weeks. Taking Ginkgo biloba before a highly stressful task also reduces stress-related high blood pressure and decreased levels of cortisol, a type of stress hormone.
What if he chopped down a different tree? Adam, man, get it together!
It’s hypothesized that some of these benefits may be due to increased blood flow to the brain after supplementing with Ginkgo biloba. While these results are promising, not all studies have shown beneficial effects. More research is needed to better understand the potential benefits of Ginkgo biloba on your brain. Some research suggests that Ginkgo biloba can improve memory and mental processing and may be beneficial in stressful situations. Yet, more research is needed.
Bacopa Monnieri (The Best Nootropics for Intelligence)
Bacopa monnieri is an ancient herb used in Ayurvedic medicine to enchance brain functions. Several studies have found that Bacopa monnieri supplements can speed up information processing in your brain, reduce reaction times and improve memory. Bacopa monnieri contains active compounds called bacosides, which protect your brain from oxidative stress and improve signaling in your hippocampus, an area of your brain in which memories are processed.
I feel good, nahnurnahnurnahnurnah, more that I should…
The effects of Bacopa monnieri are not felt immediately. Therefore, doses of 300‒600 mg should be taken for several months for maximum benefit. Bacopa monnieri is an herbal supplement that has been shown to improve memory and information processing when taken for several months.
Modafinil (Provigil)
Commonly sold under the brand name Provigil, modafinil is a prescription drug that is often used to treat narcolepsy, a condition that causes uncontrollable drowsiness. Its stimulating effects are similar to those of amphetamines or cocaine. Yet, animal studies suggest it has a lower risk of dependence. Several studies have shown that modafinil significantly reduces feelings of fatigue and improves memory in sleep-deprived adults. It also enhances executive functioning, or the ability to properly manage your time and resources to accomplish your goals.
They did say that you had a funny nickname.
While modafinil appears to have strong nootropic effects, it’s only available via prescription in most countries. Even when prescribed, it’s important to use this drug responsibly to avoid negative side effects. Though modafinil is generally considered non-addictive, instances of dependence and withdrawal have been reported at high dosages. Modafinil is a prescription drug that can reduce drowsiness and improve brain function in healthy adults, particularly those who are sleep deprived. However, it should only be taken as prescribed.
Amphetamines (Adderall)
Adderall is a prescription medication that contains highly stimulating amphetamines. It’s most commonly prescribed to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and narcolepsy, but it’s increasingly taken by healthy adults to improve attention and focus. Adderall works by increasing the availability of the brain chemicals dopamine and noradrenaline within your prefrontal cortex, an area of your brain that controls working memory, attention and behavior. The amphetamines found in Adderall make people feel more awake, attentive and optimistic. They also reduce appetite. A review of 48 studies found that Adderall significantly improved people’s ability to control their behavior and enhanced short-term memory. Depending on the dose and type of pill prescribed, the effects last up to 12 hours.
Adderall, folks, adderall. Don’t be dumb, and be sure you need and get a prescription before taking this drug. Don’t abuse drugs, everyone.
It’s important to note that these drugs are not without side effects. Adderall is widely abused on college campuses, with some surveys indicating that up to 43% of students use stimulant drugs without a prescription. The side effects of Adderall abuse include anxiety, depression, low sex drive and sweating, especially during the comedown. Recreational Adderall abuse can also cause more severe side effects, such as heart attack, especially when mixed with alcohol. Evidence that Adderall enhances mental performance is strong, but it should only be taken as prescribed. Adderall is not available without a prescription but does appear to improve brain function in healthy adults and those with ADHD.
Methylphenidate (Ritalin)
Ritalin is another prescription drug used to manage symptoms of ADHD and narcolepsy. Like Adderall, it’s a stimulant and increases dopamine and noradrenaline concentrations in your brain. However, it does not contain amphetamines. In healthy adults, Ritalin improves short-term memory, information-processing speed and attention. It’s typically well tolerated, but may have the opposite effect and impair thinking if an excessive dose is taken. Like Adderall, Ritalin is widely abused, especially by people aged 18–25.
Don’t take drugs, kids! They create more issues.
The most common side effects of Ritalin include insomnia, stomach ache, headache and loss of appetite. It can also cause hallucinations, psychosis, seizures, heart arrhythmias and high blood pressure, particularly when taken in high doses. Ritalin is a powerful stimulant that should only be taken as prescribed and monitored closely for abuse. Ritalin is a smart drug that enhances information processing, memory and attention. It’s only available with a prescription.
Nicotine
Nicotine is a naturally occurring chemical found in many plants, especially tobacco. It’s one of the compounds that make cigarettes so addictive. It can also be consumed through nicotine gum or absorbed through your skin via a nicotine patch. Studies show that nicotine can have nootropic effects, such as improved alertness and attention, especially in people with naturally poor attention spans.
Don’t Smoke Cigarettes, kids!
It has also been found to improve motor function. What’s more, chewing nicotine gum is linked to better handwriting speed and fluidity. However, this substance can be addictive and is lethal in high doses, so caution is warranted. Due to the risk of addiction, nicotine is not recommended. However, nicotine use is justified if you are trying to quit smoking. Nicotine is a naturally occurring chemical that boosts alertness, attention and motor functions. Nonetheless, it’s addictive and toxic in high doses.
The best nootropics for intelligence…
This list can be endless, but this is certainly a start
Nootropics: www.webmd.com
Piracetam, why yes, madam.Choline, so don’t be so mean to thine spleen.Caffeine, the shite startin’ machineLion’s Mane, mang, and goin’ out with a bang!Creatine, you know what I mean?Noopept in your step…Phenibut, you dang… .Theanine, you mean green fightin’ machineTyrosine, and gettin’ ready for a cleanPhenotropil, down in ConstantinopleRhodiola Rosea, oh my, mama miaPanax Ginseng, eh, it was just a fling fixing.Gingko Biloba, uh, glad to know ya?Bacopa Monneiri, so why’d you have to scare me?Modafinil, so, did you get your fill?Amphetamine and Adderall, is that all?Ritalin, the uppercut to my chin.Nicotine, boy, you better be gettin’ clean.- Now you know, and you’re ready to go.