List of Nootropics - 85 Brain-Boosters, 11 Best-in-Class, 1 Universal Stack

Nootropics are complicated. By strict definition, only a handful exist. But today, the meaning of "nootropic" has expanded to include anything that affects the brain and its cognitive effects -- regardless of whether it is safe and effective. The following list of nootropics focuses on this general brain supplement category.

After taking a broad view of the nootropic landscape, we zoom in to a shorter list of 11 true nootropics that work, safely and effectively -- culminating in the one nootropic stack that may deliver all brain benefits.

What Are Nootropics?

Nootropics, often referred to as cognitive enhancers or smart drugs, are substances designed to improve cognitive function. These functions include memory, attention, mental processing speed, and overall cognitive performance. Nootropics come in various forms, such as prescription medications, dietary supplements, and natural nootropic substances.

They work by influencing brain chemistry, increasing blood flow to the brain, and promoting the growth of neurons. While some nootropics have shown significant promise in enhancing cognitive performance, others have raised concerns regarding their safety and efficacy. As the popularity of nootropics grows, it is essential to understand their potential benefits and risks.

Learn More about What Nootropics Are

Choose Your Nootropic Source Wisely

Nootropics can be broadly classified into two main categories: prescription nootropics and dietary supplements. It is essential to note that most nootropics require long-term use to achieve desired effects.

We'll briefly cover some in this next section before we dive into the main list below.

Prescription Nootropics (Smart Drugs)

Prescription nootropics, also known as nootropic drugs, are medications approved by regulatory agencies to treat specific medical conditions, such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), Alzheimer’s disease, and narcolepsy. These nootropics are typically prescribed by healthcare professionals and are subject to rigorous testing and regulation that reduces possibility of health risks, but they may come with side effects.

Examples of prescription nootropics include:

• Modafinil (Provigil): A wakefulness-promoting agent used to treat narcolepsy and shift work sleep disorder.
• Armodafinil (Nuvigil): Another wakefulness-promoting agent used for similar conditions as Modafinil.
• Atomoxetine (Strattera): A selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor used to treat ADHD.

These medications are designed for cognitive neuroenhancement by targeting specific neurotransmitters and brain pathways.

Dietary Supplements

Dietary supplements, on the other hand, are not regulated by the FDA in the same way as prescription medications. They are available in various forms, including capsules, tablets, and powders, and are often marketed as nootropics.

Examples of dietary supplements that are commonly used as cognitive enhancers include:

• Ginkgo biloba: An herbal extract believed to improve blood flow to the brain and enhance cognitive function.
• Bacopa monnieri: An herbal extract known for its potential to improve memory and cognitive processing speed.
• Acetyl-L-carnitine (ALCAR): An amino acid that supports the health of neurons and is believed to improve cognitive function.

These supplements are just a few of the popular choices among individuals seeking to boost their cognitive performance naturally.

How Nootropics Work - Safety, Risks, & Side Effects

Researchers have suggested that nootropics function through multiple brain pathways, enhancing the brain’s diverse structures and cognitive functions in various ways.

Learn More about How Nootropics Work

While certain nootropics have shown potential to improve cognitive performance, it is vital to consider their safety and potential side effects.

Common side effects associated with nootropics include:

• Headaches
• Nausea
• Insomnia
• Anxiety
• Increased heart rate and blood pressure

Additionally, some nootropics can interact with other medications, such as blood thinners, and may not be suitable for individuals with certain medical conditions, including high blood pressure or glaucoma. Therefore, it is essential to consult with a healthcare professional before taking any nootropic supplement, especially if you have a pre-existing medical condition or are taking other medications to validate their safety.

It is also important to note that the long-term effects of nootropics on cognitive function and overall health are not well understood. More research is needed to fully comprehend their potential benefits and risks. As with any supplement or medication, informed and cautious use is paramount to ensuring safety and efficacy.

Learn More about Nootropic Side Effects

List of Cognitive Enhancers and Their Nootropic Effects

This list presents 85 supplements that are related to the brain -- including all of the most effective nootropics you can buy on the market.

Keep in mind, however, that not all of the nootropics listed below are shown to be effective. In fact, not all of them meet the true definition of nootropic. We'll give more details on true nootropics later in this guide.

Many of these nootropics have shown significant improvement in cognitive functions in various studies and randomized controlled trials.

For each nootropic on this list, there is one reference. This reference does not suggest if a nootropic works or not -- but it does explain why it may be categorized as a nootropic, as well as serving as a starting point for additional research. The list of nootropics follows:

1. 5-HTP - amino acid that regulates serotonin and other brain chemicals for relaxation, sleep, and appetite satisfaction.(1)
2. Acetyl L-Carnitine – antioxidant suggested to protect and power brain cells; may help age-related cognitive issues.(2)
3. Alpha Lipoic Acid - fat-soluble antioxidant that can cross the blood-brain barrier and help protect the brain against aging.(3)
4. Alpha-GPC - phospholipid choline source suggested to support brain structure and brain chemicals; used for age-related cognitive decline.(4)
5. Aniracetam - synthetic Russian racetam primarily used for memory and mood in the elderly.(5)
6. Apoaequorin - jellyfish protein used for neuroprotective activity; brand-sponsored research showed benefits for memory and focus.(6)
7. Artichoke - supplies luteolin, an active ingredient that may balance the cAMP that regulates memory and mental performance.(7)
8. Ashwagandha - adaptogen root herb with benefits for mental energy, stress resistance and mood; may also help with healthy brain aging.(8)
9. Astaxanthin – potent antioxidant found in algae and seafood that may offer some brain-protective activity, especially in the context of aging.(9)
10. Bacopa monnieri extract – best nootropic herb for students, shown to improve retention of knowledge and strengthen stress resistance.(10)
11. Caffeine – not a true nootropic, but a stimulant that boosts alertness and almost always is accompanied by a subsequent crash.(11)
12. California poppy - suggested to interact with GABA and HTP receptors for anxiety-soothing effects; also linked to improved sleep quality.(12)
13. Cat’s Claw - South American vine herb with early research suggesting neuroprotective activity that may help with brain aging.(13)
14. Catuaba – traditional Brazilian bark herb suggested in early animal research to have neuroprotective potential.(14)
15. CBD – cannabis derived compound that is suggested to ease anxiety and possess some neuroprotective effects.(15)
16. Celastrus paniculatus - woody shrub seeds used in Ayurvedic herbalism; animal research suggests it may help overall brain health.(16)
17. Centrophenoxine - synthetic smart drug related to DMAE suggested in animal research to help brain energy and cerebral vascular function.(17)
18. Citicoline – best overall nootropic choline source for brain energy and healthy brain structure; shown to help focus, attention, memory, mood.(18)
19. Clitoria ternatea - traditional Asian herb suggested in animal research to have memory-enhancing nootropic effects.(19)
20. Coluracetam - otherwise called MKC-231, a rarely seen synthetic racetams created to help with brain degeneration.(20)
21. Convolvulus pluricaulis - Indian tonic herb and Ayurvedic brain-booster; suggested to help learning, mood and memory in animal research.(21)
22. CoQ10 - coenzyme pseudo-vitamin that helps brain health by powering up brain cell mitochondria and supplying anti-aging antioxidant activity.(22)
23. Creatine - Creatine supplementation is popular among athletes looking to charge-up their muscles, may work in the same way in the brain to enhance mental energy.(23)
24. Choline - similar to B vitamins and related to lecithin, it declines with age but is important for brain chemical acetylcholine and maintaining healthy brain structure.(24)
25. DHA - essential fatty acid that is crucial for early brain development and helpful for sharp cognition in old age.(25)
26. DMAE - found in sardines, helps to optimize brain cell structure and has been suggested to help with attention, mood and cognitive decline.(26)
27. Forskolin - active ingredients of Coleus Forskohlii, promotes cAMP molecules that helps regulate cell to cell communication, mood and memory storage.(27)
28. GABA - inhibitory amino acid that settles nerves producing relaxation and pleasant mood, suggested to help with sleep and potentially attention.(28)
29. Ginkgo biloba – ancient Chinese wellness herb enhances brain circulation, strong reputation for helping with memory and age-related cognitive performance.(29)
30. Ginseng - adaptogen herb that supports brain chemicals and cAMP while countering stress; energizes mental and physical performance.(30)
31. Gotu Kola - traditional Chinese herbal best known for its blood vessel support; maintains circulation to the brain to promote memory and mood, especially in the elderly.(31)
32. Guarana - South American Berry that is one of the best natural sources of caffeine, traditionally used to boost mind energy and physical endurance.(32)
33. Huperzine-A - synthetic alkaloid from Chinese club Moss, used to sustain acetylcholine levels and shown to help with memory and degenerative brain concerns.(33)
34. Kanna (Sceletium tortuosum) - South African herb shown in research to help with mental alertness in seniors with brain degeneration and cognitive deficits.(34) 
35. Kava Kava - psychoactive root herb used in traditional South Pacific ceremonies; may help promote relaxation, ease anxiety and improve sleep.(35)
36. Kratom – controversial legality and questionable safety; a traditional Asian herb that is believed to promote feelings of calmness and positivity.(36)
37. L-Glutamine - amino acid that supports glutamate (the primary excitatory neurotransmitter), a key brain chemical for healthy cognition; may also help to protect the brain.(37)
38. L-Phenylalanine - amino acid that is a precursor to many of the brain chemicals needed for sharp, clear mental function and mood balance.(38)
39. L-Theanine – green tea amino acid that raises Alpha brain waves to promote wakeful relaxation for creativity and productivity; also shown to support sharp mental clarity during aging.(39)
40. L-Tryptophan - precursor to five HTP that helps enhance brain chemicals for calm, relaxed moods; also influences melatonin and has been shown to improve sleep quality.(40)
41. Lecithin - phospholipid found in egg yolk that supplies choline that in turn forms acetylcholine brain chemical while optimizing brain cell healthy structure.(41)
42. Lemon Balm - traditional herb that regulates brain chemicals and their receptors to promote calmness and induce sleep.(42)
43. Lion’s Mane Mushroom – raises nerve growth factor to help with brain plasticity, regeneration and repair; shown to enhance mood.(43)
44. Magnolia - bark herb supplies active honokiol, which is suggested to balance brain chemistry for relaxation without sedation.(44)
45. MCT Oil – supports the use of ketones for brain energy instead of carbohydrates; helpful for mental clarity on keto diet.(45)
46. NADH - antioxidants coenzyme related to vitamin B3 that is required for ATP energy production; also supports the brain chemical dopamine, linked to motivation.(46)
47. Nefiracetam - synthetic racetam smart drug linked with brain chemicals and suggested for helping with age-related memory and cognitive issues.(47)
48. Nicotine – hard to classify it as a nootropic, but nicotine has shown nootropic effects in the realm of brainpower.(48)
49. Noopept - patented racetam, little research suggests it may have stimulating effects that help with cognitive function.(49)
50. Oatstraw - increases Alpha brain waves associated with a state of relaxed alertness.(50)
51. Oxiracetam - stimulating racetam used for acetylcholine; may help memory and focus.(51)
52. Passionflower - traditional herb with calming properties, believed to balance brain chemicals for relaxation and healthy sleep.(52)
53. Phenibut - controversial synthetic nootropic appears to regulate dopamine; suggested to help with mood issues.(53)
54. Phenylpiracetam - considered one of the harsher and more powerful racetams, suggested to help with higher-order cognitive function.(54)
55. Phosphatidylcholine - phospholipid nootropic that is key for brain regeneration; linked to benefits for memory, mood and overall brain health.(55)
56. Phosphatidylserine (PS) – multitasking phospholipid that helps build, power and protect brain cells; best evidence-backed nootropic for memory.(56)
57. Picamilon - synthetic compound that binds GABA with niacin; suggested to help with attention and anxiety, but complex legal status.(57)
58. Pine Bark Extract – antioxidant complex protects the brain and blood vessels; also promotes nitric oxide to boost blood flow to the brain; suggested to help with attention and overall brain health.(58)
59. Piracetam - the original racetam, and the first “nootropic” – optimizes brain chemicals for stimulating, mood balancing effects.(59)
60. Psychobiotics – The gut and the brain are closely connected, and science is discovering that beneficial flora in the GI tract can influence mood and cognitive function.(60)
61. Pramiracetam - racetam suggested to help with acetylcholine; may help with memory formation and recall.(61)
62. Pterostilbene - antioxidant found in berries believed to help strengthen the brain’s resistance to aging.(62)
63. PQQ - super antioxidant that is required for the production of energy within brain cells mitochondria; suggested to help with overall brain health during the aging process.(63)
64. Resveratrol - red wine antioxidant that helps to support healthy brain aging by protecting brain cells against free radicals and inflammation.(64)
65. Rhodiola rosea – legendary adaptogen root herb from Russia that optimizes mental energy and physical endurance by regulating the body’s stress responses.(65)
66. Rosemary – Worn as wreath by students in ancient Greece because its aroma sharpens focus; modern uses include age-related cognitive support.(66)
67. SAMe - catalyzes and supports several brain functions, including cell signaling and cell membrane function; most popularly used to support mood balance.(67)
68. Schizandrol-A - Asian berry supplies this active ingredients suggested to have anti-stress activity and to help protect the brain.(68)
69. St. John’s Wort - bright flower herb supplies active hypericin and hyperforin, which balance brain chemicals related to mood; good research profile for helping with depression.(69)
70. Sulbutiamine - synthetic vitamin B1 that is molecularly altered to make it fat-soluble and capable of crossing the blood brain barrier; may help general brain health.(70)
71. Taurine - amino acid that regulates cell to cell communication, often seen in energy drinks though the only evidence suggests nerve-calming effects.(71)
72. Theobromine – Caffeine-like compound sourced from cocoa believed to have stimulating properties with fewer side effects.(72)
73. Turmeric - root herb supplies antioxidant complex linked to brain cell protection and long-range cognitive health.(73)
74. Tyrosine – precursor used to form brain chemicals tied to attention and focus; shown in research to enhance multiple aspects of mental performance in distracting, multitasking settings.(74)
75. Uridine - raw material that is used by the body to make brain-supportive choline and acetylcholine; suggested to have potential for brain regeneration.(75)
76. Valerian - ancient root herb that may work by sustaining GABA (soothing brain chemical) levels to promote relaxation and ultimately, sleep.(76)
77. Vinpocetine – synthetic form of periwinkle that has a complex legal status but is one of the best brain circulation boosters when taken by healthy adults.(77)
78. Vitamin B1 (Thiamine) - low levels may be linked to pour cognitive performance; suggested to help brain chemicals to function properly.(78)
79. Vitamin B3 (Niacin) - suggested to have roles and brain chemical synthesis and brain protection; may help with healthy brain function later in life.(79)
80. Vitamin B5 (Pantothenic Acid) - suggested as part of a multivitamin to help with attention-related issues, although evidence is conflicted.(80)
81. Vitamin B6 - contributes to nerve sheathing, blood vessel flexibility and brain chemical conversion and synthesis.(81)
82. Vitamin B8 - also called inositol, helps with brain cell membrane synthesis and optimizes some neurotransmitters, mainly serotonin.(82)
83. Vitamin B9 - plays a key role in regulating homocysteine levels in the blood, thereby supporting cerebrovascular health.(83)
84. Vitamin B12 - raw material for nerve-protective myelin, also a key player in brain energy; suggested to help maintain brain volume during aging.(84)
85. Yerba Mate – Traditional herb that is brewed into a stimulating tea with focus-enhancing support.(85)

11 Best-in-Class Nootropics

Out of 85 brain supplements that are called nootropics, far fewer are true nootropics.

Only the best of the best have research-backed benefits for brain health, brain protection and mental performance while remaining safe and side effect-free.

Here is a list of best-in-class brain boosters are considered true nootropics:

Citicoline as Cognizin®

• Choline source that raises levels of brain-building phosphatidylcholine (PC)
• Promotes brain chemical acetylcholine for mood and mental performance in healthy individuals
• Shown to optimize mitochondria and increase brain energy by 13.6%
• Shown to boost brain cell membrane regeneration by 26%
• Promotes mood balance, memory, attention, focus and concentration
• Helps to protect the brain against age-related structural changes

Cognizin® is the best citicoline form: Superior-quality, 99%+ pure citicoline made with a patented process. Extensively researched; shown to be a safe and effective nootropic. More on Citicoline

Phosphatidylserine (PS) as Sharp PS® Green

• Building-block nootropic with versatile brain-supportive bioactivities
• Found in brain cell membranes, where it helps maintain fluidity
• Regulates brain chemicals like acetylcholine and dopamine
• Optimizes brain energy metabolism by enhancing glucose uptake
• Helps raw materials and growth factors for brain cell creation and repair
• Best evidence-backed nootropic for short-term and long-term memory
• May sharpen memory, slow cognitive decline and promote mood in elderly
• Has been shown to curb the effects of chronic stress and anxiety
• Studied as a sports nutrition supplement for focus
• Suggested to help with mood and overall mental clarity
• Supports long-range brain health
• A systematic review of studies on Phosphatidylserine has confirmed its benefits for cognitive health.

Soy-free PS is the best; other forms are soy-based. Look for PS made from Non-GMO sunflower lecithin using eco-friendly methods. More on Phosphatidylserine (PS)

Bacopa Monnieri, 24% bacosides and 9 bioactives

• Ayurvedic cognitive herb that supplies active nootropic bacosides
• Supplies and amplifies cell-protective antioxidant activity in the brain
• Promotes brain chemicals acetylcholine, GABA and serotonin
• Animal research suggests it may boost cerebral blood flow by 25%
• Supports memory performance, both short-range and long-range
• Shown to slow the rate of forgetting newly acquired knowledge
• Helps with mental processing, cognition under stress and relaxation
• Best known as a nootropic for students and other learners

24% bacosides (calibrated for 9 bioactives) is the best Bacopa form. Standardized for Bacopa's active bacosides, it also targets 9 specific bacosides that bring brain benefits. More on Bacopa Monnieri

Lion’s Mane Mushroom, Full Spectrum Extract

• The only mushroom in nature with brain-boosting nootropic properties
• Shown to stimulate Nerve Growth Factor (NGF) for brain regeneration
• Suggested to support brain plasticity for learning and memories
• Shown to help with mild age-related cognitive impairment
• It has also been shown to help with cognitive impairments in various studies.
• Shown to help maintain a balanced, healthy mood

Full-spectrum is the best form of Lion's Mane. Full-spectrum supplies the mushroom's active nootropics, which are called hericenones and erinacines. More on Lion’s Mane Mushroom

Maritime Pine Bark Extract, 95% proanthocyanidins

• Potent antioxidant complex that can cross the blood-brain barrier
• Helps protect the brain and cerebral blood vessels from free radical damage
• Signals for nitric oxide (NO) to enhance blood flow to the brain
• Brain regenerative potential for age-related cognitive and memory issues
• Suggested help with mental energy, focus, attention, learning and other cognitive functions
• Helps to promote long-range brain health, sharp memory and mental clarity

95% proanthocyanidins is a best-in-class Pine Bark Extract form. Maritime Pine Bark has a stronger antioxidant profile; 95% proanthocyanidins is the most potent available. More on Maritime Pine Bark Extract

L-Tyrosine as N-Acetyl-L-Tyrosine (NALT)

• Amino acid precursor to dopamine, epinephrine and norepinephrine
• Assists with mental recovery after stress
• Optimizes memory, mood and mental processing
• Helps cognition under multitasking conditions
• Enhances mental performance under stressful conditions
• Maintains mental sharpness in times of sleep deprivation
• Supports attention and focus
• L-Tyrosine is particularly beneficial for healthy people looking to enhance their cognitive performance.

N-Acetyl-L-Tyrosine is the best form for brain health products: It is bioavailability-enhanced to deliver more nootropic activity than plain Tyrosine. More on N-Acetyl L-Tyrosine

L-Theanine

• Amino acid nootropic found in green tea
• Increases activity of Alpha brainwaves
• Promotes calm without sedation, known as wakeful relaxation
• Balances calming brain chemicals: Serotonin, dopamine and GABA
• Neuroprotective properties appear to help maintain brain health during aging
• Commonly stacked with caffeine because it reduces its jittery side effects
• L-Theanine also supports overall mental health by promoting relaxation and reducing stress.

Suntheanine® is a top form of L-Theanine. It supplies 100% pure L-isomer-Theanine and has been shown in human research to enhance Alpha brainwaves, mental clarity and sleep quality. More on L-Theanine

Rhodiola Rosea, 3% rosavins, 1% salidrosides

• Helps stimulate norepinephrine, dopamine, and serotonin
• Acetylcholine-protective and antioxidant properties
• Stimulates bioelectrical activity in the brain with small dosage
• Adaptogen herb that strengthens mind-body stress resistance
• Blunts the release of the stress hormone cortisol
• Energizing effects within 30 minutes and may last for up to six hours
• May help mental processing, learning, attention, mood and work capacity

Systematic reviews have confirmed the cognitive benefits of Rhodiola Rosea.

3% rosavins and 1% salidrosides is the best Rhodiola form; this standardization of Rhodiola's active nootropics is research-backed for cognitive benefits. More on Rhodiola Rosea

Vitamin B6 as NutriGenesis®

• Needed for synthesis of cognition-oriented brain chemicals
• Helps with formation of myelin sheaths that protect neurons
• Linked to memory and attention enhancement
• Helps maintain healthy mood brain chemistry
• Supports long-term brain health, memory and clarity
• More on Vitamin B6

Vitamin B9 as NutriGenesis®

• Promotes mood-oriented brain chemicals
• Helps balance homocysteine for good cerebral circulation
• Supports long-range brain health and mental sharpness
• Suggested to help with focus, alertness in socialization
• NutriGenesis® B9 efficiently converts into active nootropic L-methylfolate
• More on Vitamin B9

Vitamin B12 as NutriGenesis®

• Basic vitamin needed for overall central nervous system health
• Promotes formation of myelin nerve sheathing
• Helps protect the brain against age-related shrinkage
• Sharpens mental performance in cases of age-related cognitive decline
• Supports brain energy metabolism
• Vitamin B12 has also been shown to help with cognitive decline in Alzheimer's disease patients.
• More on  Vitamin B12

NutriGenesis® is a form of vitamins and minerals grown on cultures in a clean, eco-friendly laboratory setting. This process creates nature-identical B-vitamins with full-spectrum cofactors and enzymes that enhance the nootropic potency, activity and effectiveness of B6, B9 and B12.

One Universal Nootropic

While reviewing the above 11 best-in-class nootropics, you may have asked yourself: What happens if I take all 11 of these at once?

With the pre-made stack nootropic supplement Mind Lab Pro®, you can find out.

Out of 80+ nootropics, Mind Lab Pro® selected the 11 best-in-class brain boosters on this list because they are:

• Supported by strong evidence suggesting a diverse range of brain health benefits;
• Complementary, working well as a team to enhance overall cognitive performance;
• Safe, backed by abundant research demonstrating safety and tolerability

Mind Lab Pro® is formulated with these best-in-class nootropics in superior forms -- including advanced botanicals and branded nootropics with unique patented advantages.

This Universal Nootropic™ nootropic stacking strategy -- innovated by Mind Lab Pro® -- optimizes multiple brain pathways at once to promote overall brain health, enhance all types of thinking and unlock a peak-performing mental state known as 100% Brainpower:

Conclusion

Mind Lab Pro® 's 11 best-in-class from this long list of nootropics forms a Universal Nootropic™ that boosts the whole brain.

This list of nootropics -- while not complete -- is a good at-a-glance representation of the vast number of potential brain-boosters that may be found in popular nootropic supplements. As nootropics continue to gain scientific validation, this list will only continue to grow.

For those seeking a nootropics list to find one brain-booster to try out, there are many good standalone options above.

For those researching nootropic lists to explore the potential of combining several into a powerful brain-boosting stack, Mind Lab Pro® is the ideal solution:

Mind Lab Pro® combines 11 best-in-class nootropics in upgraded forms into a true Universal Nootropic™ that works for everyone, is safe for everyone, and fits any lifestyle.

PLEASE NOTE: Always go with a reputable source and make sure the product is of Hemp origin and THC Free. We are not involved in CBD production and do not endorse or support any brand of CBD products. When taking supplements or any substance, particularly in a combination, it is always important to seek the advice of a doctor. CBD is generally held to be safe but we do not suggest or guarantee that this can be applied to all available CBD products – in some individuals high levels of THC may cause interactions with medications and supplements, with unpredictable side effects.