Nootropics are supplements that people take to boost your brain function and cognitive performance. People use them to support things like short-term memory, focus, brain fog, and mental fatigue. The best nootropic supplements generally contain a variety of different nootropic ingredients to support brain function in healthy adults. These compounds and substances act together as cognitive enhancers to help boost brain power. Nootropic supplements may sometimes be confused with what some people call “smart drugs” or “smart pills”. These are synthetic supplements or prescription medications that some use to enhance brain functions but may induce potentially harmful side effects.

Read on for our list of the best nootropic supplements to naturally help improve cognitive support and mental performance:

L-Tyrosine

L-Tyrosine is an amino acid that the body naturally creates. Our bodies use this amino acid for the production of substances such as dopamine and adrenalin. It is useful for supporting memory function and may help especially during times of increased stress.

Bacopa monnieri

Bacopa monnieri, also known as Brahmi, is a tropical herb that is commonly used in Ayurveda to support brain function. Bacosides, the main active compounds in this herb, may have antioxidant effects. Ayurvedic practitioners use Bacopa monnieri as a nootropic supplement to help improve memory and to aid in alleviating symptoms of stress.

Vitamins B1, B6, and B12

These B-vitamins are important for our cognitive function and supporting a healthy brain. They can also help with increasing energy levels in the body.

Vitamin B1, sometimes known as thiamine, is vital for turning everything we consume into energy. It is particularly important for brain cell and heart health and for keeping other functions running smoothly.

Vitamin B6 also plays an important role in converting food into energy. Especially when it comes to metabolizing protein, fat, and carbs. It also helps in the creation of red blood cells which help to carry oxygen from our lungs to the rest of our body – including to the brain!

Vitamin B12 also aids in the creation of red blood cells, nerves and DNA. It plays an important role in many of the body’s functions. A deficiency can lead to symptoms like anemia, cognitive or memory problems, and fatigue.

Read more about essential B vitamins here.

Huperzine A

This ingredient is extracted from a plant called Chinese club moss and is used as a cognitive enhancer. Huperzine A might help in supporting the function of acetylcholine, a chemical in the brain that helps to promote memory function.

Caffeine

Many of us find it hard to start our day without a steaming cup of coffee or tea. The caffeine found in these beverages helps to stimulate the central nervous system. This can make you feel more alert and awake. It does this by preventing the neurotransmitter that promotes sleep, adenosine, from binding to neurons in the brain. Recently, some have been carrying out more research to investigate the benefits of caffeine on our cognitive function, memory, and learning. Some studies have shown that this compound found in your morning cup of joe can have a positive effect on our mental performance. One study even indicates that in some cases it could possibly enhance long-term memory. However, more research is required for definitive results.

Rhodiola Rosea

Rhodiola Rosea extract is added to many brain supplements to help improve mental clarity, focus and to promote the recollection of names and memories. Also known as arctic root or golden root, you can find this herb in colder climates, particularly the mountainous regions of Europe and Asia.

Theobromine

Chocolate lovers pay attention – we have some good news for you! Theobromine, a substance found in chocolate, has recently been touted as having positive effects on cognitive and physical health. You can find this compound in cacao beans, as well as in coffee, tea, and guarana. It is similar to caffeine in that it also acts as a stimulant. This helps to provide the brain cells with an energy boost. However, it may have fewer unwanted side effects. More research has been conducted in recent years to further explore the potential benefits of theobromine on memory, mood, and cognitive performance.