best thesis nootropics

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Maintain focus and Support attention

Fight fatigue and Build mental stamina

Maintain willpower and Support productivity

Support memory and Promote deep thinking

Verbal fluency and Maintain confidence

Feelings of calm and Positive outlook

• Promote Energy
• Fight Fatigue
• Build Mental Stamina

TeaCrine® has been shown to increase energy, motivation, and concentration.

• Maintain Focus
• Support Attention
• Enter Flow State

Alpha-GPC has been shown to support healthy cognitive function and physical performance.

• Maintain Willpower
• Manage Procrastination
• Support Productivity

CDT (Dynamine® ) has been shown to help with cognitive control and reaction time during mentally demanding tasks.

• Support Memory
• Promote Deep Thinking
• Maintain Processing Speed

Synapsa® has been shown to significantly improve working memory.

• Spark Inspiration
• Support Verbal Fluency
• Manage Stress

KSM-66® Ashwagandha has been shown to significantly reduce stress and anxiety.

• Encourage calm state
• Support mental flexibility
• Promote positive outloook

Zembrin® has been shown to improve in mood and disposition.

Nootropics aren’t one size fits all

We formulate potent nutrient compounds to enhance mental performance and make personalized recommendations based on your goals and unique brain chemistry

Your Personalized Thesis Journey

1. take the quiz.

Tell us about yourself and your goals. We’ll use your answers to determine your baseline and build your recommendations.

2. Get Your Starter Kit

You’ll sample 4 blends over the course of the month to understand what you can accomplish with each formulation.

3. Optimize with a Coach

Check in with your wellness coach and our nootropics experts to customise your blends based on your experience so far.

A powerful, natural way to boost your cognition

Thesis can help you.

• Raise your energy level
• Feel more motivated
• Clear brain fog
• Increase focus

We’ve Helped Over 500,000 People Find Their Formula

“Motivation gets me going during my six days in a row at work, and Clarity keeps my mind sharp and alert so I’m performing at my best . Creativity does just as it says -- I love this one for when I’m doing the Reading Comprehension and/or Arguments section of LSAT prep; I truly feel like it gives me an edge.”

Britney’S BLENDS

"I did feel different since day one. I got more motivated and had an overall better mood. [Thesis] has been a game changer for me."

Ondrej's BLENDS

“I always feel energized and focus without the afternoon crash that I typically experience with coffee. I can get hours of work done and stay motivated all day.”

Renee’S BLENDS

"For someone who has struggled with attention and staying awake, [Thesis has] been life saving."

Trish's BLENDS

Trusted by experts

Dr. gabrielle lyon.

Functional Medicine & Nutritional Sciences

“I work with CEOs, celebrities, and other top performers in my practice. Thesis is what I recommend and take personally for focus and cognition. I even used it to help me nail my first TedX talk.”

Gabrielle’s blends

Professional Basketball Player & Mental Health Advocate

“With a busy life on and off the court, Thesis gives me energy and focus to get through the longest days and keep me sharp.”

Kevin's blends

Ultra-endurance Athlete & Nutrition Advocate

"Thesis has provided a substantial benefit to my ability to focus. Creativity works best for me — I take it 30 mins before a podcast or writing and it helps get me into the zone."

RICH’s blends

Pure and effective ingredients

Potent active ingredients.

Quality counts when supplementing, and only the active ingredients in a blend make an impact.

Clinically Studied Dosage

We only use nutrients that have been proven to safely deliver desired effects in clinical trials.

All ingredients in each batch are tested with a third party lab to ensure optimal potency and purity.

“ The Thesis process was developed by systematically testing different combinations of high quality ingredients. We made the process of finding the right nootropics quicker & safer.”

DAN FREED CEO & Founder, Thesis

Our research and product development teams review clinical studies and information on safety, side effects, and any potential interactions for each ingredient being considered for a Thesis blend.

Each ingredient goes through two rounds of internal testing, in which members of our research and product development team share feedback on individual ingredients.

The research and product development team reviews existing clinical literature about synergistic benefits between ingredients and integrates it as we continue to formulate, developing 2-4 blends to move forward to Phase 3 testing.

We test each prospective blend internally, as members of our research and product development team try each of the blends before we move forward to Beta testing.

Next, we test multiple iterations of each blend with a group of 100 Thesis beta group customers and collect quantitative and qualitative feedback to help us refine the final blend.

We finalize our winning blend (based on the Alpha and Beta test feedback) by completing a final round of safety testing by our third party lab partners before we release it. Ongoing safety testing occurs with each batch of production.

After the blend undergoes third party lab testing for safety, we launch a limited release to 5,000 customers to help us gather additional feedback and work through our supply chain process

Once a blend passes the limited release phase, we launch full production in a cGMP facility and release it to all customers.

The Thesis Story

As long as I can remember, people thought I was stupid, lazy, or unmotivated. I started to believe it. In school, I would read the same page over and over again, without absorbing anything. At 16, I dropped out of high school and went to work at a sandwich shop.

Fast-forward ten years — I scored in the 99th percentile on the GMAT and earned Master’s degrees from Yale and INSEAD. Nootropics turned everything around for me, and helped me form the positive habits that I built my success on. Once I balanced my brain chemistry, I could perform like never before.

I take Energy to get me going in the morning and Motivation to power through long afternoons.

DAN’s blends

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Table of Contents

About Thesis Nootropics

Hands up if you guzzle five coffees a day to stay awake, have tried all the supplements in the book desperate to improve your headspace, and aren’t interested in prescribed medications. Designed to increase focus , Thesis nootropics might be for you. 

Thesis offers a customized blend of ingredients designed to optimize your cognitive function , with personalized details that tackle your specific needs. Nootropics boost brain performance in the same way a stimulant would, without the common negative effects. 

A study published in the Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease found that nootropics may help improve cognitive function in people with Alzheimer’s disease.

Interested in finding out more about the brand and how it works? Leaf through our Thesis Nootropics review. We’ll be your guide through the company and the process, as well as details on the treatments, highlights from customer reviews, answers to important FAQs, and more, to help you decide if it’s worth the try.

Pros and Cons

• Multiple cognitive benefits: Thesis Nootropics offers a variety of blends that cater to multiple aspects of cognitive function.
• Long-term effects: On top of short term benefits for daily life, Thesis nootropics ingredients are designed to impact the brain in the long-term.
• Personalized recommendations: Thesis Nootropics makes personalized recommendations based on your goals and unique brain chemistry.
• Potential side effects: The most common side effects to watch out for when you start taking Thesis Nootropics include heartburn, headaches, confusion, dizziness, loss of appetite, and digestive issues.
• Need to stop taking if issues arise: If you experience a headache or an upset stomach that won’t go away while taking their nootropics, Thesis recommends that you stop taking them.

What is Thesis Nootropics?

Nootropics are nutrient compounds and substances that are known to improve brain performance , such as caffeine and creatine. They help with issues that affect motivation, creativity, mood, memory, focus, and cognitive processing.

Nootropics are the ideal addition to an already healthy lifestyle that consists of exercise, proper nutrition, and enjoyable activities.  Thesis nootropics are carefully formulated to target specific needs, ranging from energy to creativity. The brand focuses on safety, ensuring that all supplements adhere to FDA guidelines and go through multiple clinical trials. 

How Thesis Nootropics Works

With all that being said, you may be wondering how Thesis provides users with an option that is specific to their needs. Fortunately, the process is simple and hassle free. Here’s how it works:

• Take the Thesis nootropics quiz
• Answer questions about your basic information
• Receive personalized recommendations 
• Get your starter kit for $120 , or $79 monthly when you subscribe 

After that, you’ll select one formula to take each week, taking one day off in between each different option. You’ll also track your results in the daily journal over the month to see how they affect your daily life. 

From there, it operates as a subscription service. Users will be able to optimize their next shipment by telling the brand which formulas worked best.

If you don’t like any of the blends in your box, let the company know and they’ll switch it for something that’s a better fit for your lifestyle, genetics, and goals.

Thesis Nootropics Ingredients

Thesis Nootropics is a brand that offers personalized nootropics designed to enhance cognitive function and overall brain health. Their blends contain a variety of ingredients that are carefully chosen for their cognitive-boosting properties. Here are some of the key ingredients in Thesis Nootropics:

• Cognizin (Citicoline) : Cognizin is a type of choline that is known for its ability to enhance cognitive function, including memory and focus.
• L-Theanine : L-Theanine is an amino acid that is found in green tea, and is known for its ability to promote relaxation and reduce stress and anxiety.
• Lion’s Mane Mushroom : Lion’s Mane Mushroom is a type of medicinal mushroom that is believed to have cognitive-boosting properties, including improved memory and focus.
• Rhodiola Rosea : Rhodiola Rosea is an adaptogenic herb that is known for its ability to reduce stress and fatigue, and improve mental clarity and cognitive function.
• Ashwagandha : Ashwagandha is an adaptogenic herb that is known for its ability to reduce stress and anxiety, and improve memory and cognitive function.
• Phosphatidylserine : Phosphatidylserine is a type of phospholipid that is found in high concentrations in the brain, and is believed to support cognitive function, including memory and focus³
• Alpha-GPC : Alpha-GPC is a type of choline that is known for its ability to enhance cognitive function, including memory and focus.
• TAU (uridine): TAU is a blend of uridine, choline, and DHA, which is believed to support brain health and cognitive function.
• Artichoke extract : Artichoke extract is believed to enhance cognitive function by increasing levels of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter that is important for memory and learning.
• Dynamine : Dynamine is a type of alkaloid that is believed to enhance cognitive function by increasing levels of dopamine, a neurotransmitter that is important for mood and motivation.

Overall, the ingredients in Thesis Nootropics are carefully chosen for their cognitive-boosting properties, and are designed to work together to enhance overall brain health and cognitive function.

Thesis Nootropics Health Benefits

Thesis Nootropics is a brand that offers personalized nootropics designed to enhance cognitive function and overall brain health. Their blends contain a variety of ingredients that are carefully chosen for their cognitive-boosting properties, and offer numerous health benefits. Here are some of the health benefits of Thesis Nootropics:

• Increased cognitive energy : One of the key benefits of Thesis Nootropics is increased cognitive energy, which can help improve productivity, mental alertness, and motivation, as it contains cognizin .
• Enhanced mental clarity : Another benefit of Thesis Nootropics is enhanced mental clarity,given from Lion’s Mane Mushroom which can help reduce brain fog and improve focus.
• Improved memory and learning abilities : Thesis Nootropics contains ingredients that are believed to improve memory and learning abilities, like Phosphatidylserine , which can help users retain information more effectively.
• Elevated mood : Thesis Nootropics may help elevate mood and reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression, thanks to ingredients like L-Theanine and Ashwagandha .
• Lowered stress levels : The adaptogenic herbs in Thesis Nootropics, such as Rhodiola Rosea and Ashwagandha , are known for their ability to lower stress levels and promote relaxation.
• Boosted focus : Thesis Nootropics contains ingredients like Alpha-GPC and Artichoke extract , which are believed to boost focus and concentration.

While Thesis Nootropics offers numerous health benefits, it’s important to note that the long-term effects of nootropics are not yet fully understood and more research is needed.

3 Thesis Nootropics Bestsellers

Thesis energy review.

If you’re constantly struggling to keep up with the demands of your busy life, it might be time to try a natural energy booster like Thesis Energy. This powerful nootropic blend is specifically designed to increase energy, overcome fatigue, and build mental stamina.

Thesis Energy is caffeine-free, making it a great option for those who are sensitive to caffeine or looking for a natural alternative to traditional energy drinks. The Energy formulation is designed to help improve focus and mental clarity, increase cognitive energy, and reduce fatigue. Whether you’re facing a busy day at work, recovering after a night of poor sleep, or gearing up for an intense workout, Thesis Energy can help you power through.

Each ingredient in Thesis Energy is carefully chosen for its energy-boosting properties. The specific ingredients can vary depending on your needs, but they work together to help increase energy, improve mental clarity, and reduce fatigue.

To get the most out of Thesis Energy, take it every morning on an empty stomach. You can also take it again after lunch if you need an extra boost. It’s designed to help you tackle busy, hectic days, recover from poor sleep, and power through intense workouts.

If you’re tired of relying on coffee and energy drinks to get through the day, it might be time to give Thesis Energy a try. Check availability and start boosting your energy naturally today!

Thesis Creativity

If you’re someone who struggles with creativity or finds yourself feeling stuck in your creative endeavors, Thesis Creativity may be worth considering. This nootropic supplement is designed to help spark inspiration, enhance verbal fluency, and boost confidence in your own great ideas.

So what’s in Thesis Creativity? The ingredients may vary depending on your specific needs, but these ingredients work together to support stress management, memory function, mood regulation, and energy production.

By supporting stress management, memory function, and mood regulation, Thesis Creativity can help free up mental space for more creative thinking. Additionally, the caffeine and L-theanine combo can provide a boost of energy and focus without the jitters and crash that can come with caffeine alone.

To get the most out of Thesis Creativity, it is recommended to take it every morning on an empty stomach and again after lunch if you need an extra boost. This nootropic blend is particularly helpful for brainstorming and creative thinking, writing and creative projects, and public speaking and social situations.

As with any nootropic supplement, it’s important to note that the long-term effects of Thesis Creativity are not yet fully understood and more research is needed. It’s always a good idea to speak with a healthcare professional before adding any new supplements to your routine.

In summary, if you’re looking for a little extra help in the creativity department, Thesis Creativity may be a valuable addition to your nootropic lineup. Its unique blend of ingredients can help support mental clarity, mood regulation, and energy production, making it a valuable tool for any creative individual.

Thesis Logic

If you’ve been having trouble with your memory lately, such as forgetting what you had for lunch yesterday or struggling to recall common words, then Thesis Logic may be just what you need. This formula is designed to help enhance your processing speed, boost your memory, and deepen your thinking.

Thesis Logic is caffeine-free, making it a great option for those who are sensitive to caffeine. The formula is ideal for use during deep, focused work, complex problem-solving, research projects, and completing tedious tasks.

Taking Thesis Logic is easy – simply take it every morning on an empty stomach, and take it again after lunch if you need an extra boost. By incorporating Thesis Logic into your daily routine, you may notice improvements in your cognitive function and overall mental performance.

Who Is Thesis Nootropics For? 

Thesis nootropics are designed for a number of different specific needs, including anyone who wants to focus better, have more energy, and maintain mental clarity. All in all, the products are specifically formulated to improve day to day life and target your specific needs .

Thesis Nootropics Side Effects

While Thesis nootropics are designed to enhance cognitive performance and provide a range of benefits, it’s important to be aware of the potential side effects that can occur. As with any supplement, individual reactions can vary, and some people may experience side effects while others may not.

Some of the potential side effects of Thesis nootropics include:

• Insomnia : Some nootropics contain caffeine or other stimulants that can disrupt sleep patterns and lead to difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep.
• Blurry vision : Certain nootropics, such as those containing alpha GPC, have been linked to temporary blurry vision.
• High blood pressure : Stimulant-based nootropics can increase blood pressure, which can be dangerous for people with hypertension or other heart conditions.
• Fast heart rate : Similarly, stimulants can also increase heart rate, leading to palpitations or a rapid pulse.
• Circulation problem s: Certain nootropics, such as vinpocetine, can affect blood flow and circulation, leading to issues like dizziness, nausea, or headaches.
• Addiction : Some nootropics, such as those containing racetams, have been associated with the potential for addiction or dependence if used long-term.

It’s important to remember that not all nootropics will produce these side effects, and the severity of any reactions will depend on individual factors such as dosage, duration of use, and underlying health conditions. However, it’s always wise to discuss any potential risks with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen.

Additionally, it’s important to follow dosage instructions carefully and not to exceed recommended amounts, as this can increase the risk of side effects. By being mindful of potential risks and using nootropics responsibly, users can reap the benefits of these supplements without experiencing adverse effects.

Thesis Nootropics Reviews: What Do Customers Think?

At this point in our Thesis nootropics review, it’s time to turn to what customers are saying. So, we sourced testimonials from the brand’s website, Reddit, and ZenMasterWellness. And spoiler alert, the Thesis nootropics reviews we came across have nothing but good things to say.

On takethesis.com , the brand earns 4.4/5 stars out of 7,956 reviews. One patron describes their particular blend as the perfect alternative to prescription meds :

“ I have been off stimulants for months now and these formulas are far superior. My husband and daughter both noticed the change and said I have been more productive, focused, less anxious, and more “thinking outside the box”. I have tried for years to get off stims and nothing would work .”

On Reddit, many reviewers share similar sentiments about how effective the products are. One buyer shares that they tried tons of different nootropics on the market, and Thesis stands out amongst the crowd . 

On ZenMasterWellness, one reviewer states that their blend provided the exact results they were looking for :

“ They offer notable improvements to how well I’m able to focus, stay on task, and grind when it’s time to grind. In practice, this usually looks like a clearer mind and an improved ability to just… chill. With the Clarity and Creativity blends, in particular, I just feel leveled out .”

Backed by clinical trials and real customer experiences, Thesis stands out in the world of nootropics and supplements. The personalized selections prove effective, while the quality ingredients live up to expectations. 

Is Thesis Nootropics Legit?

If you’re wondering if this brand offers products that are too good to be true, this Thesis nootropics review is here to say that it is the real deal .

The brand is backed by numerous clinical trials, which highlight how 86% of customers reported improvements in a wide range of cognitive challenges, while 89% noticed an improvement in their ability to reduce stress and maintain energy.

Is Thesis Nootropics Worth It?

Thesis is an appealing choice in the world of nootropics because it provides a completely customized selection based on your needs and goals. Plus, the ingredients are potent and ensure the best effects—and you only end up paying for the benefits you actually need.

With that in mind, this Thesis nootropics review deems the brand worth the try.

Alternatives

Here are some alternatives to Thesis Nootropics that you might find interesting:

• Mind Lab Pro – This nootropic supplement is designed to improve cognitive function and mental performance. It contains 11 ingredients that work together to enhance memory, focus, and overall brain health.
• Thorne Supplements : If you’re looking for high-quality, science-based supplements, Thorne is a great choice. Their products are designed with the latest research in mind and are rigorously tested for quality and purity. Some of their popular offerings include multivitamins, protein powders, and omega-3 supplements.
• WeAreFeel Supplements : WeAreFeel is a supplement brand that offers a variety of products designed to support different aspects of your health. Their supplements are vegan-friendly and free from artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives. Some of their popular offerings include multivitamins, probiotics, and omega-3 supplements.
• Neuro Gum : If you’re looking for a quick and easy way to boost your focus and energy levels, Neuro Gum is a great option. This gum is infused with caffeine and other natural ingredients that can help improve mental clarity and alertness. Plus, it’s sugar-free and comes in a variety of delicious flavors.
• Neuriva Plus : Neuriva Plus is a brain supplement that’s designed to improve memory, focus, and cognitive performance. It contains a blend of natural ingredients, including coffee fruit extract and phosphatidylserine, that have been shown to support brain health. If you’re looking for a natural way to boost your cognitive function, Neuriva Plus is worth considering.

Thesis Nootropics Promotions & Discounts 

There aren’t currently any Thesis promos or discounts available. That being said, if you subscribe for recurring shipments of your recommended products, you’ll save $40 monthly .

Where to Buy Thesis Nootropics

At the time of this Thesis nootropics review, the products are exclusively available on the brand’s website, takethesis.com .

Is Thesis Nootropics vegan?  

Thesis nootropics are made with only vegan ingredients . That being said, while the brand has taken precautions to protect against cross contamination, the products are not certified vegan.

Is Thesis Nootropics gluten-free? 

On top of being vegan, Thesis products are made without gluten, eggs, or nuts . Again, while the brand strives to protect users against cross contamination, the products are not certified gluten free. 

What is Thesis Nootropics’ Shipping Policy?

If you’re anxiously awaiting your order from this Thesis nootropics review, you’ll be happy to hear that the company offers speedy shipping, sending orders out within 1 business day. After that, packages should arrive within only 1-3 business days . Costs are calculated at checkout.

At this time, Thesis is not able to offer international shipping. This Thesis nootropics review recommends following the brand on social media and signing up for the newsletter to stay up to date with shipping policies. 

What is Thesis Nootropics’ Return Policy?

If you find that your Thesis formula isn’t working out, the company requests that you contact them to make changes and adjustments to ensure you are able to receive the proper help.

If you would still like to make a return, follow these simple steps for a refund:

• Submit your refund request
• Ship the items back within 30 days of the original delivery
• Send an email with your tracking number to the brand
• Return any remaining product in their original packaging to: 

Thesis Returns 902 Broadway

6th Floor New York, NY 

Once your return has been received, a refund will be processed and email confirmation will be sent. It’s also important to note that the brand can only refund one month’s supply per customer and return shipping is the customer’s responsibility. 

How to Contact Thesis Nootropics

We hope you enjoyed this Thesis nootropics review! If you have any further questions about the brand or its products, you can contact them using the following methods:

• Call 1 (646) 647-3599
• Email [email protected]

902 Broadway Floor 6 New York, NY 10010

If you’re looking for other ways to boost your productivity via supplements, check out these other brands we’ve reviewed:

Thorne Supplements Review

WeAreFeel Supplements Review

Neuro Gum Review

Neuriva Plus Review

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Thesis stands out in the wellness industry with its personalized nootropic supplements, designed to cater to the individual’s specific cognitive needs. It has been pushed by health and wellness celebrities, causing a wave of popularity.

Do Thesis nootropics live up to the hype?

• Variety Of Blends: Various nootropic blends based on individual brain chemistry, maximizing effectiveness for each user.
• Strong Advocacy and Support: Gained endorsements from notable wellness advocates and public figures, like Andrew Huberman, enhancing credibility.
• Limited Clinical Research: While the company plans clinical trials, the current scientific backing may be limited.
• Price: The ongoing cost of customized nootropics may be higher than standard off-the-shelf supplements or medications.
• Dependence on Self-Reporting: The effectiveness of blends relies partly on user feedback, which may not always be accurate or consistent.
• Many Underdosed Ingredients: As you’ll read below, many ingredients are dosed below what was used in human clinical trials.

Quick Verdict

Thesis has a range of suitable nootropic blends to cater to many needs.

However, our #1 nootropic of choice is Nooceptin. It’s designed for long-term brain changes, not short-term boosts in mental performance.

What Is Thesis Nootropics?

Thesis Nootropics is a company specializing in customized cognitive performance products. It was founded by Dan Freed in 2017.

Freed’s personal challenges with focusing, which he faced from a young age, led him to discover nootropics.

This personal journey of transformation through nootropics inspired him to create Thesis, aiming to help others find the right combination of nootropic ingredients that work for them.

The company’s unique approach involves allowing customers to experiment with high-quality nootropic ingredients to maximize results systematically.

Thesis has gained popularity primarily through word-of-mouth and a strong focus on personalization.

The company has raised over $13.5 million in funding and is reportedly profitable with a robust growth trajectory.

Thesis has garnered support from health and wellness advocates like Dr. Andrew Huberman, Rich Roll, Kevin Love, and Kate Bock.

Thesis Nootropics

Customized Blends For Cognitive Enhancement

Take the quiz and see which blends are right for you.

Thesis Nootropic Ingredients

Thesis have six unique blends designed to target various aspects of cognitive function. What’s similar between them is the option to include or exclude caffeine and L-theanine. The caffeine and l-theanine combination is the most potent instant nootropic, making each blend effective.

The caffeine L-theanine stack benefits physical and cognitive function. Some advantages include faster reaction time, faster visual processing speed, better working memory, increased awareness, and less tiredness and mental fatigue [1] [2] .

The research employs a 2:1 L-theanine to caffeine ratio, which Thesis has followed. Since this stack is available in every blend, I won’t include it in the ingredients breakdown below.

Thesis Clarity Blend

Alpha gpc (speculative).

Alpha GPC, a choline-containing phospholipid, improves cognitive function in neurological conditions like dementia [3] .

Research indicates it enhances memory and attention and may support brain health. Clinical trials show it can improve cognitive performance, especially when combined with other treatments like donepezil [4] .

It’s generally well-tolerated and safe. Alpha GPC increases acetylcholine levels in the brain, which is essential for memory and learning [5] .

It’s used both as a medicine and a nutritional supplement. Studies suggest Alpha GPC effectively boosts cognitive functions, particularly in adult-onset dementia disorders [6] .

Thesis Clarity Blend contains 500 mg, which is more than any other nootropic available.

Lions Mane Mushroom (Speculative)

The Lion’s Mane mushroom (Hericium erinaceus) includes chemicals that stimulate nerve growth factor (NGF) synthesis, which is necessary for nerve cell proliferation and differentiation [7] .

According to research, Lion’s Mane improves cognitive abilities, particularly memory and brain cell regeneration [8] .

It is renowned for its neuroprotective qualities, which may be effective in treating illnesses such as Alzheimer’s disease and cognitive impairment [9] .

Brain functioning, memory, and mood improvements have been linked to regular ingestion [10] .

While the mushroom does not directly improve cognitive skills, it does increase NGF, which improves brain health [11] . The dosage varies but is generally well-tolerated and has few negative effects.

Thesis Clarity contains 500 mg of Lions Mane, which may give a long-term nootropic effect.

Mycelium is typically avoided since the active chemicals are found in the primary mushroom. Jeff Chilton, a long-time mushroom researcher, discusses this in the podcast below:

Camellia Sinensis Tea Leaf (Speculative)

Camellia Sinensis, commonly known as tea, exhibits varying neuropharmacological effects based on the part of the plant used.

Seed extracts tend to be more stimulating, enhancing motor functions and showing potential as an antidepressant without causing drowsiness.

Leaf extracts, on the other hand, tend to produce a calming effect on the mind and mood. Both seeds and leaves have shown positive results in various tests assessing motor function and behavior in animal models [12] .

The study suggests these parts of the Camellia Sinensis plant have potential as cognitive enhancers, warranting further research, especially on seed extracts for their mode of action and possible new beneficial compounds.

I couldn’t find any human studies for this ingredient, so I can’t give you an efficacious dose range. But Thesis Clarity contains 278 mg of Camellia Sinensis Tea Leaf.

Dihydroxyflavone

Dihydroxyflavone research is all performed in rodents, so extrapolating to humans is rather challenging. 7,8-Dihydroxyflavone (7,8-DHF) is a compound that acts as an agonist for the TrkB receptor, which is associated with brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF).

BDNF is crucial for neuronal survival and brain plasticity. Studies have shown that 7,8-DHF can improve memory and cognitive functions [13] .

It enhanced memory formation in healthy rats, and in Alzheimer’s disease mouse models, it improved spatial memory [14] .

Further, 7,8-DHF has been shown to counteract aging-related cognitive impairments in rats, improving spatial memory and synaptic plasticity in the hippocampus [15] .

This suggests that 7,8-DHF is a potential therapeutic agent for memory impairment and dementia, at least in rodents.

Thesis Energy Blend Ingredients

Citicoline is commonly mentioned in relation to memory enhancement. According to studies, 500 mg daily may improve episodic memory or the ability to recall personal experiences and specific events [16] .

According to other research, taking at least 500 mg of this supplement daily may provide cognitive benefits to healthy persons [17] .

The formulation of Thesis Energy Blend contains 300 mg of Citicoline. This dose may not achieve the full potential seen in studies proposing a higher dose.

Mango leaf extract, rich in the polyphenolic compound mangiferin, shows promise in neuropharmacology due to its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antidiabetic properties.

Studies indicate its potential in treating central complications associated with metabolic disorders like type 2 diabetes, which are risk factors for Alzheimer’s disease and vascular dementia [18] .

In animal models, mango leaf extract has demonstrated effects on reducing brain inflammation and spontaneous bleeding and improving cognitive functions [19] .

These findings suggest its utility in addressing symptoms of neurodegenerative diseases and cognitive impairments [20] .

Thesis Energy contains 300 mg of mango leaf.

Theacrine is a purine alkaloid similar to caffeine, found in the Camellia Kucha plant, and often included in dietary supplements.

Studies show that it can increase energy, focus, and cognitive performance, similar to caffeine, but without habituation [21] .

Theacrine’s impact on cognitive performance and physical endurance has been researched in athletes, indicating possible benefits in reaction time and endurance [22] .

It may work well alone or in combination with caffeine to enhance cognitive function and physical performance [23] .

Theacrine appears to be a promising supplement for improving mental alertness and physical capacity. Bear in mind the manufacturers of Theacrine fund some of these studies.

Thesis Energy contains 100 mg of Theacrine, which tends to be less than the dose used in these studies, suggesting it may have a weaker effect.

N-Acetyl Cysteine

N-acetyl cysteine (NAC) is explored for its potential to improve cognitive functions in psychosis and bipolar disorder due to its antioxidant, neurogenesis, and anti-inflammatory properties.

Studies show N-acetyl cysteine can improve working memory in psychosis [24] . However, results in bipolar disorder didn’t show significant cognitive improvements [25] .

Research indicates potential benefits for Alzheimer’s disease by promoting cognitive health and countering oxidative stress [26] .

The effectiveness of N-acetyl cysteine in various cognitive disorders still requires more targeted, larger studies to confirm its benefits [27] .

N-acetyl cysteine’s role is promising but not yet firmly established in cognitive enhancement.

In human trials, it seems a 600 – 2000 mg dose is needed for cognitive benefits. Thesis Energy contains 500 mg, being potentially underdosed.

Indian Trumpet Tree

Indian Trumpet Tree is known as Oroxylum indicum. In a 12-week study, older adults with memory complaints took 500 mg of Oroxylum indicum extract twice daily [28] .

Compared to a placebo, this supplementation led to improvements in episodic memory and numeric working memory. It also accelerated learning in location tasks.

However, there were no significant changes in other cognitive tests or overall cognitive and memory skills.

The study suggests that Oroxylum indicum, while well-tolerated, may primarily enhance specific memory functions.

Its potential effects could be linked to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties and interactions with neurotransmitters like dopamine and GABA.

This is the only human study on the Indian Trumpet Tree, so more research is needed to fully understand its impact on cognitive health. Thesis Energy only contains 100 mg of this, making it potentially underdosed.

L-tyrosine, an amino acid, has been shown to increase dopamine levels in the brain. L-tyrosine supplementation has improved cognitive regulation, particularly in mentally demanding settings [29] .

It is especially helpful in improving cognitive flexibility, which is impacted by dopamine.

While L-Tyrosine’s promise for treating clinical problems and improving physical activity is limited, it is useful in stressful or cognitively taxing situations.

It has the greatest cognitive benefits when neurotransmitter activity is intact, but dopamine and norepinephrine levels are momentarily decreased [30] .

According to research, optimal doses for cognitive improvement begin at a minimum of 2 grams. That is more than six times the dose in Thesis Energy.

Thesis Creativity Blend Ingredients

Thesis Creativity contains 150 mg of Alpha GPC, yet their Clarity Blend contains 500 mg. I’m not sure why there is a large discrepancy, especially when 500 mg is likely a more efficacious dose.

Agmatine Sulfate

Currently, agmatine sulfate has only been tested in rodents. It is a central nervous system (CNS) neurotransmitter/neuromodulator that has been studied for its potential effects on stress-related conditions like depression, anxiety, and cognitive performance.

Research suggests that agmatine can have antidepressant and anxiolytic (anxiety-reducing) effects, possibly related to its influence on the nitric oxide pathway [31] .

It may reduce oxidative stress and corticosterone levels while increasing brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), which is beneficial for brain health.

Agmatine sulfate has been shown to be safe and well-tolerated in animal studies, with oral administration effectively increasing its levels in the brain [32] .

This indicates potential for therapeutic use in neurological disorders, though more research is needed to fully understand its effects and mechanisms.

Thesis Creativity contains 250 mg. In these studies, patients were administered 15-600 mg per kg, which is a much higher dose.

Panax Ginseng

Panax ginseng is available in two varieties: white ginseng and red ginseng. It has vasorelaxant and moderately hypotensive effects on nitric oxide generation in the body [33] .

It increases antioxidant enzyme activity and may prevent oxidative damage associated with aging in rats [34] .

Ginseng has shown promise in boosting memory, particularly in age-related cognitive decline, as well as in improving mental and physical resilience, reducing fatigue, and assisting the body in adapting to stress [35] .

Daily doses of 200 mg extract or 0.5 to 2 g dry root are recommended. It is not suggested for persons with acute asthma or hypertension because it may cause overstimulation and elevate blood pressure in excessive dosages.

Thesis Creativity has an effective dose of 200 mg, which may provide you with these mental performance benefits.

Ashwagandha Root

Ashwagandha is a traditional herbal remedy used to improve various health conditions. Animal studies have shown that it can increase blood cell counts, which might enhance aerobic capacity [36] .

It also demonstrates the potential to reduce oxidative stress and lipid peroxidation, which could be beneficial in treating disorders like tardive dyskinesia [37] .

Additionally, Ashwagandha has shown nootropic effects and might be useful in treating Alzheimer’s disease [38] . Recommended dosages range from 6 to 10 grams of ground roots or 100 to 1250 mg of extract daily [39] [40] .

It’s generally safe but should be used cautiously, especially in cases of hyperthyroidism or pregnancy. High doses can have sedative effects and may cause gastrointestinal issues.

Thesis Creativity contains 300 mg of Ashwagandha, which is within the recommended range for cognitive benefits.

Sceletium Tortuosum

Sceletium tortuosum, also known as Kanna, is traditionally used for its mood-enhancing properties. It’s been studied for its potential in treating cognitive and neurodegenerative disorders like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s [41] .

Research suggests its constituents could target enzymes and receptors relevant to these diseases, offering neuroprotective benefits like antioxidant activity [42] .

Additionally, Sceletium Tortuosum is known for its antidepressant and anxiolytic effects, promoting relaxation and well-being, which could be beneficial in managing stress, anxiety, and depression [43] .

The plant’s bioactive alkaloids are also being explored for commercial medicinal use.

The 25 mg dose in Thesis Creativity is the same as used within the human trials.

Thesis Motivation Blend Ingredients

L-phenylalanine.

L-phenylalanine is a vital amino acid and has been explored for its potential benefits in managing conditions like attention deficit disorder and depression.

In studies, doses of up to 1200 mg showed initial improvements in mood and attention in individuals with attention deficit disorder, but tolerance developed over 2-4 months [44] .

In another study involving depressed patients, a dosage range of 75–200 mg/day for 20 days led to significant improvements in 12 out of 20 patients [45] .

However, the effectiveness and safety of L-phenylalanine can vary, and it is used in the treatment of various conditions, including depression and arthritis, and even as part of addiction recovery [46] .

Thesis Motivation has a 500 mg dose, which may provide some of these benefits. Will it improve motivation? I’m not sure.

Methylliberine

Methylliberine is a purine alkaloid explored for its cognitive and mood-enhancing effects. Studies have shown it can improve concentration, motivation, and mood, especially when combined with caffeine.

Methylliberine also appears to positively affect energy levels and well-being without significantly impacting vital signs like heart rate and blood pressure [47] .

These findings suggest its potential as a nootropic supplement, particularly for enhancing cognitive function and mood in various contexts, such as gaming or in tactical scenarios [48] [49] .

However, it’s essential to consider the dosage and combination with other compounds like caffeine for optimal effects.

The 100 mg dose in Thesis Motivation aligns with the current research.

Vitamin B12 (Speculative)

Vitamin B12 is essential for cognitive health and may be linked to neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.

Low levels of B12 are associated with cognitive impairment, but supplementation is only shown to be effective in improving cognition in cases of existing B12 deficiency [50] .

There is limited evidence that increasing B12 levels benefits people without B12 deficiency [51] .

B12’s impact on cognitive health may involve multiple mechanisms, including brain volume and function [52] . However, more extensive research is needed to fully understand its effects and potential as a cognitive enhancer.

Thesis Motivation contains 1000mcg. The research states that it may have no effect if you’re not Vitamin B12 deficient.

Forskolin (Speculative)

Forskolin has only been studied in rodents regarding cognitive function. Forskolin is an herbal extract that shows the potential to improve memory and reduce Alzheimer’s disease symptoms.

In studies, it restored nest-building and social behaviors in mice with Alzheimer-like symptoms, reduced amyloid plaque deposition, and regulated brain inflammation [53] .

Forskolin also influences memory and tau protein phosphorylation in the brain, which is relevant in Alzheimer’s [54] .

Additionally, forskolin has shown protective effects against Huntington’s disease-like neurodegeneration in rats by improving learning and memory and reducing oxidative stress [55] .

These findings indicate forskolin’s potential as a neuroprotective agent for certain neurological conditions, at least in rodents.

I’m skeptical whether 250 mg of Forskolin in Thesis Motivation will help you “feel” more motivated.

Artichoke (Speculative)

Artichoke extract is known for its prebiotic properties and promotes probiotic bacteria growth in the gut, potentially benefiting cognitive functions in mice [56] .

In elderly individuals with mild cognitive impairment, combining artichoke extract and aerobic training improved cognitive status and reduced blood glucose and insulin resistance [57] .

Artichoke varieties Spinoso Sardo and Romanesco Siciliano demonstrated antioxidant properties and potential protective effects against cardiovascular and neurodegenerative disorders, with Romanesco Siciliano showing higher antioxidant power [58] .

The 450 mg dose is well under the dose used in these studies.

Thesis Confidence Blend Ingredients

Saffron (speculative).

Saffron is traditionally used in herbal medicine and shows promise in improving cognitive function in individuals with Alzheimer’s Disease (AD) and Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) [59] .

Research indicates that saffron’s effectiveness is comparable to common drugs used for these conditions without increasing side effects. It’s also well-tolerated in cognitively normal individuals [60] .

However, most current studies have a high risk of bias. More comprehensive, low-bias clinical trials are needed to confirm saffron’s potential as a treatment for cognitive impairments like AD and MCI.

All of the research used 30 mg of saffron daily. Thesis Confidence has 28 mg, and I’m unsure why they formulated it without the extra 2 mg.

Magnesium Bisglycinate

Magnesium is essential for brain functions and has been researched for its potential cognitive benefits. Magnesium is particularly effective in increasing brain magnesium levels and has shown promise in improving memory and cognition in healthy adults [61] .

However, its role in anxiety and mood disorders is less clear [62] .

Studies indicate magnesium may help reduce symptoms of depression, but results are not consistent across all mental health conditions [63] .

Further research is needed to conclusively establish magnesium’s effectiveness and appropriate use as a therapeutic supplement in various psychiatric and cognitive disorders [64] .

500 mg of magnesium may help if you’re deficient, but there’s no clear benefit to making you more confident.

Sage (Speculative)

Sage is known as Salvia and has been traditionally known to enhance memory. A recent study supports this, showing that acute ingestion of sage oil can significantly improve immediate word recall in healthy young adults [65] .

This suggests that sage may positively influence cognitive functions like memory, potentially due to its acetylcholinesterase inhibition activity in the brain.

However, this has not been replicated.

While historically used for various mental disorders, such as depression and age-related memory loss, contemporary research is needed to fully understand its benefits and potential as a cognitive enhancer.

Regardless of the 333 mg dose, this is one of the more speculative ingredients in all Thesis blends.

Sceletium Tortuosum (Speculative)

As mentioned in the Creativity Blend, Sceletium Tortuosum is known for its mood-enhancing properties. It is the same dose of 25 mg, which is used in human trials.

Magnolia Bark (Speculative)

Magnolia officinalis is commonly used in traditional medicine for mental disorders like anxiety and depression and shows potential as a nootropic supplement.

Studies have demonstrated that its ethanol extract can improve cognitive function and memory in stress-induced situations. It also exhibits anxiolytic properties, reducing anxiety-related behaviors in rats [66] .

The extract’s effectiveness is also evident in lowering stress-induced increases in corticosterone and tyrosine hydroxylase levels.

Moreover, Magnolia officinalis, especially its component honokiol, has neuroprotective effects and can regulate mood disorders by modulating GABA and CB1 receptors in rats [67] .

These are rodent studies, so it’s impossible to extrapolate to humans. Regardless, it’s included based on the mechanistic data with the theory of doing the same thing in humans with the 10 mg dose.

Ashwagandha Leaf & Root

The 120 mg of root and leaf ashwagandha may be enough to have a nootropic effect as the extract dose is between 100-1200 mg, as stated in the Creativity Blend section. However, this is root and leaf, and the main benefits are derived from the root.

Thesis Logic Blend Ingredients

Ginko biloba.

Ginkgo biloba is extracted from the leaves and fruit to improve cognitive function. Its compounds include antioxidants, enhance blood flow, and have anti-inflammatory properties.

Ginkgo biloba extract has been shown in animal studies to help with chronic brain difficulties by modifying inflammatory mediators and the cholinergic system [68] .

It has been shown in clinical trials to improve working memory and processing speed [69] . However, its usefulness in healthy people under the age of 60 is debatable [70] .

Typical daily doses vary from 120 to 300 mg. Although side effects are uncommon, they can include stomach irritation and headaches, which may cause blood to thin, affecting people on certain drugs.

Thesis Logic contains 160 mg of Ginkgo Biloba, which is within the recommended dosage range.

Theobromine

Theobromine is a compound found in chocolate and has been studied for its potential cognitive effects.

Research indicates that theobromine might have a lesser immediate nootropic effect compared to caffeine but could have neuroprotective benefits with long-term consumption, possibly reducing Alzheimer’s disease-related pathology [71] .

Further studies are needed to fully understand its impact on cognition.

Additionally, theobromine’s effects on mood and vigilance appear to be different from caffeine, with some studies suggesting it might not significantly influence these aspects in nutritionally relevant doses [72] .

However, combining theobromine with caffeine could modify its effects, potentially offering cognitive and mood benefits without significant blood pressure increases [73] .

More research is required to confirm theobromine’s cognitive and mood-related effects.

Thesis Logic contains 100 mg of theobromine, but it seems doses greater than 400 mg are needed to enhance cognition.

Phosphatidylserine

Phosphatidylserine is essential for proper brain function. Phosphatidylserine has been proven to be critical for maintaining nerve cell membranes and myelin, which is required for successful neurotransmission [74] .

Phosphatidylserine can help reverse cognitive loss as the brain ages by boosting cognitive activities such as memory formation, learning, concentration, and problem-solving [75] .

It is well absorbed in humans and crosses the blood-brain barrier.

Supplements containing phosphatidylserine have been shown to increase cognitive functions and are generally well-tolerated, with dosages ranging from 100 to 800 mg per day advised for cognitive support [76] [77] .

Thesis Logic contains 400 mg of phosphatidylserine, which may provide you with these cognitive-enhancing effects.

High DHA Algae

DHA is a vital component of neuronal membranes and plays an important role in brain health and cognitive function.

Adult cognitive abilities are improved by DHA consumption, especially when paired with eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) [78] .

This impact is most noticeable in older people who have mild memory problems. Higher DHA and EPA doses (above 1 g per day) have been associated with better episodic memory.

Observational studies also show a link between DHA/EPA intake and memory performance in the elderly. DHA, both alone and in combination with EPA, improves memory in the elderly.

Thesis Logic contains 200 mg of DHA, suggesting insufficient DHA to provide a benefit.

Triacetyluridine (Speculative)

Triacetyluridine is being explored as a potential treatment for bipolar depression. In a study involving eleven patients with bipolar depression, high doses of triacetyluridine (up to 18 g per day) were administered over 6 weeks [79] .

The study measured the effects on depression symptoms using the Montgomery-Asberg Depression Rating Scale (MADRS) and evaluated cellular bioenergetics using phosphorus magnetic resonance spectroscopic imaging (P-MRSI).

Results indicated significant early improvement in depression symptoms.

Additionally, triacetyluridine responders showed notable differences in pH changes from baseline, suggesting triacetyluridine may improve mitochondrial function and reduce symptoms of depression.

Thesis Logic has 30 mg of triacetyluridine, which is well below the dose used in this study.

Bacopa Monnieri

Bacopa monnieri is a traditional plant that has been shown to improve cognitive performance, particularly memory.

Bacopa extract, namely bacosides A and B, has been demonstrated in studies to increase memory formation, recall, and cognitive function [80] .

It has neuroprotective properties and is used to treat cognitive dysfunctions such as Alzheimer’s disease.

Adults should take between 200 and 400 mg each day. Bacopa is generally well accepted, with only rare reports of mild drowsiness or stomach difficulties.

Clinical trials show that older people have better memory, attention, mood, and overall cognitive ability [81] [82] [83] . More research is needed, however, to thoroughly grasp its usefulness across many cognitive domains.

Thesis Logic contains 320 mg of Bacopa, giving you the efficacious dose to feel these benefits.

Thesis Nootropics Price

Thesis has two options: one time purchase or a subscription. Here’s how the prices break down:

• Subscription = $79
• One Time Purchase = $119

This is regardless of whether you purchase a personalized starter kit or build your own box.

You can’t buy them individually either. You must purchase 4 boxes. When building your own, you can choose if you want 4 of the same blend or mix and match.

They want you to try each blend for a week as part of the starter kit (there’s only a week’s worth of each blend in each container) to see which you like best.

Thesis has positioned itself as the most expensive nootropic available by adding the personalized element.

Is Thesis Nootropics Really Personalized?

I went through the initial quiz to see how they “personalize” their nootropic stack.

Here is what they recommended me:

Look, I get the marketing angle. In no way is this a truly personalized nootropic product. It’d be nearly impossible to create custom formulations for every unique individual.

However, the fact they have multiple blends means people can experiment to find which works best for them.

I will say, though, if you choose the caffeine options, every blend will work. Many of the ingredients used in these blends are speculative and only based on animal research, with many being underdosed.

Benefits Of Thesis Nootropics

Multiple blends for different purposes.

To be honest, this benefit is more of a marketing tactic. However, some people may find certain blends jive well with them over others, giving you options within the same brand.

Further, Thesis claims the ingredients in each formulation work synergistically. There’s no research to back that claim, but at least know there are no negative side effects from their interaction.

Options For Stimulants Or Not

You can choose whether or not you want stimulants within your Thesis Blends. Every blend will provide similar benefits if you add the caffeine and L-theanine nootropic stack, which is the most potent synergistic brain booster.

However, if you’re already a coffee addict or plan to take Thesis in the evening, having no stimulants is the better option.

My Experience With Thesis

Based on my quiz, I was recommended Thesis Clarity, Logic, Motivation, and Confidence Blends. I tried each for a week to see if one stood out. I took them without caffeine as they all work if you have the caffeine L-theanine stack.

I have to say the Confidence and Motivation Blends did absolutely nothing for me. I didn’t “feel” any brain-boosting effects or feel more confident or motivated.

I felt the Logic and Clarity Blends had small positive effects when concentrating on mentally demanding tasks like writing, coaching, or podcasting.

If I were to continue taking Thesis, I’d opt for either of these two blends.

Who Is Thesis For?

Busy working professionals.

Thesis Nootropics are ideal for busy professionals facing demanding schedules and high-stress environments. These blends can help enhance focus, improve decision-making, and increase productivity.

They are designed to support sustained mental energy throughout the day, enabling professionals to manage their workload more effectively without the usual mental fatigue.

Creative Artists

For creative artists, Thesis offers blends that stimulate creativity and enhance divergent thinking. These nootropics can aid in breaking through creative blocks, fostering innovative thinking, and maintaining a heightened state of inspiration.

They are particularly beneficial for artists seeking longer periods of creative flow and those seeking fresh perspectives.

Students can significantly benefit from Thesis Nootropics, especially during intense studying or when facing challenging academic projects.

The blends are formulated to enhance memory retention, improve concentration, and boost learning capabilities. This makes them a valuable tool for students who need to absorb and retain large amounts of information and perform well in academic assessments.

Gamers find Thesis Nootropics beneficial for improving their gaming performance. The blends can enhance reaction times, increase focus, and improve strategic thinking skills.

They are particularly useful during long gaming sessions, helping gamers stay alert and responsive, which is crucial in competitive gaming scenarios.

Coffee Haters

Thesis Nootropics provides an excellent alternative for those who dislike coffee or want to avoid caffeine jitters.

These blends offer a way to boost mental energy and alertness without relying on caffeine. This makes them ideal for individuals sensitive to caffeine or those seeking to reduce caffeine intake while maintaining high cognitive function.

User Testimonials And Reviews

You can’t access the review database on the Thesis website, so I did some digging to find user reviews. Here’s a couple of positive reviews:

“I must admit that during the weeks that I consistently take them, I perform better & I generally feel better just knowing I’ve ingested something intended to positively alter my natural brain state. Minor tasks/chores no longer seem as daunting and I get this underlying kick to complete my work well.” – ParsnipExtreme2502 (Reddit)

“I didn’t find Weeks 1 and 4 to do anything for me, but Weeks 2 and 3 really helped avoid the post-lunch, post-work slumps I tend to get now that I’ve been working from home; Energy is especially useful for days when I haven’t gotten enough sleep the night before.” – leftylucy88 (Reddit)

I can’t find many negative reviews other than potential side effects like migraines, which can be caused by many different factors.

Thesis Side Effects

Side effects are rare from the ingredients in these blends. I personally didn’t have any adverse reactions to the four blends I tried. However, like any supplement, they may have potential side effects.

Consult with a healthcare provider before starting any nootropic regimen, especially if they have pre-existing health conditions, are pregnant or breastfeeding, or are taking other medications.

Thesis Alternatives

If Thesis Nootropics isn’t quite the right match for you or you’re just curious about other products, here are some alternatives I’ve tried and can provide an insider’s look into.

SAP Nutra nootropic Nooceptin improves memory, concentration, and cognitive performance without stimulants. It offers gradual brain health gains.

It improves memory and focus and provides a prolonged boost without a caffeine crash. Students, gamers, professionals, and seniors should use Nooceptin to boost cognition.

This brain supplement contains Lion’s Mane Extract, Citicoline, Rhodiola Rosea Extract, L-Theanine, Bacopa Monnieri, Ginkgo Biloba, and Panax Ginseng.

Some of these compounds have been shown to be useful, but others are experimental. Nooceptin, a non-stimulant method for long-term cognitive enhancement, usually works after 7-14 days.

Despite the risk of underdosed components and increased cost, Nooceptin may provide a stimulant-free cognitive boost.

Read more in our Nooceptin review .

Mind Lab Pro

Mind Lab Pro is a popular nootropic that has gained appeal as a result of its alleged cognitive benefits.

Pure substances are used in its formulation, which is intended to improve mental clarity and attention. It is stimulant-free, making it an excellent choice for anyone seeking a well-rounded routine.

Its unique combination of 11 research-backed components distinguishes it from competitors in the brain health supplement sector.

These compounds were carefully chosen to help cognitive processes like memory, focus, mental clarity, mood, and cognitive processing speed.

Despite some criticism about the quantity of specific substances and the need for more scientific data, Mind Lab Pro has earned worldwide recognition for its ability to improve cognitive performance in professionals, students, the elderly, and athletes.

Our Mind Lab Pro review goes into great detail.

Braini distinguishes itself by being stimulant-free, providing long-term results, and having a short ingredient list focusing on long-term cognitive gains. It does not, however, deliver the immediate euphoric boost that some users may expect from a brain supplement.

Peptylin, a silk protein peptide with neuroprotective effects and potential benefits for executive function; NeurXcel, which is rich in omega fatty acids; and Wild Canadian Blueberry extract, which is known for its antioxidant characteristics and cognitive support, are all key ingredients in Braini.

Braini is backed by clinical trials, a 60-day money-back guarantee, and a 30-day challenge to scientifically quantify changes in brain function.

Our Braini review contains an in-depth breakdown.

Vyvamind is a nootropic supplement containing caffeine and L-theanine to help focus and improve cognitive performance. Users claim increased focus, vitality, and cognitive abilities without big crashes.

Vyvamind’s formulation, which contains less L-tyrosine and citicoline than some studies suggest, is intended to supplement the major nootropic duo of caffeine and L-theanine.

This combination is well-known for boosting concentration and cognitive function. The supplement is touted as a non-stimulant alternative, appealing to clients seeking a more natural and less intensive approach to cognitive growth.

Vyvamind is suitable for coffee-averse people, busy professionals who require a focus boost, and students during study sessions.

Our Vyvamind review goes into great detail.

Because of its purported fast cognitive effects, NooCube is a popular brain-boosting product. NooCube contains ingredients such as Bacopa Monnieri, L-Tyrosine, and L-Theanine.

These are well-known for their mental health advantages. Several compounds, such as Huperzine-A and Alpha GPC, remain speculative without additional investigation.

NooCube is intended to improve cognition and alertness without using stimulants, and the amounts of each ingredient are clearly labeled.

Because it gives different cognitive benefits without the jittery side effects associated with caffeine, NooCube is especially good for working professionals, students, elders, gamers, and combat athletes.

Our detailed analysis can be found in our NooCube review .

Frequently Asked Questions

What is thesis nootropic and what does it do.

Thesis Nootropic is a personalized supplement formulated to enhance cognitive functions. Users can expect improvements in focus, reduction in procrastination, stress management, and memory recall, depending on which blend you choose.

Does Thesis Work Like Adderall?

Thesis Nootropics and Adderall are used to enhance cognitive functions, but they are fundamentally different. Adderall is primarily prescribed for treating Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and narcolepsy.

Adderall is an amphetamine, classified as a controlled substance due to its strong stimulating effects and potential for abuse and dependency.

Thesis Nootropics are dietary supplements designed to enhance healthy individuals’ cognitive functions, such as memory, focus, and mental clarity. They are not intended to treat medical conditions like ADHD.

How Long Does It Take Thesis Nootropics To Work?

If you have the caffeine version, within 30 minutes. You may feel the non-stimulant blends kicking in just as quickly, but they won’t be as pronounced. Sometimes, they can take multiple weeks to feel them working.

I’ve taken a deep dive into the world of nootropics and shared my firsthand experience with Thesis Nootropic’s various blends. While the personalization is nothing more than a marketing tactic, the different blends are a nice touch for those who want to experiment with different ingredients.

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Thesis Nootropics Review 2024: Honest Thoughts + Am I Still Buying?

• Last updated: May 16, 2024

About Dr. Steve Kim, MD

Physician Advisor

After using Thesis nootropics for more than a year, for me, the higher price point is definitely worth it for the cognitive benefits I’ve experienced. Specifically, I’ve noticed that I am not feeling overwhelmed as often as I was prior, and I am able to focus and complete tasks with more ease.

Thesis Overview

• Price:  $119 for one-time purchase or $79 with subscription
• Helps With:  Cognitive function, including motivation, memory, focus, and more
• Side Effects:  Headache, stomachache, and more
• Safety: Made with ingredients that are Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) by the FDA or have passed Phase III clinical trials
• Dietary Information:  Vegan, and made without gluten, eggs, and nuts

Thesis offers a variety of  nootropics, also called “smart drugs,” which are medicinal substances that improve cognitive function, specifically memory, thinking, and learning. While some prescription nootropics are FDA-approved, Thesis is not regulated by the FDA and is available over-the-counter (OTC). However, their ingredients are third-party tested and they only use ingredients that are either Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) by the FDA or have passed through Phase III clinical trials. 

I’ve been taking Thesis for over a year now, about six times a week, and I’ve noticed some significant improvements in terms of how often I feel overwhelmed, as well as my ability to focus and stay on task. While I know Thesis won’t work well for everyone, these nootropics agree well with me and I’ll continue using them to help boost my productivity, focus, and more. 

In this article, I’ll delve into my experience using Thesis nootropics, as well as discuss their potential benefits, side effects, and more.

• Custom blends
• Personal coaching / support by nootropic experts
• No proprietary blends (AKA no hidden ingredients!)
• Caffeinated or noncaffeinated formulas
• Effective ingredients
• No free trials
• Relatively high monthly cost

My Experience Taking Thesis Nootropics

I’ve been loving Thesis since I started using their products, specifically the Clarity, Creativity, Logic, and Energy blends, over a year ago. While there’s no nootropic that’ll offer you the same potency you’d get from Adderall, or other prescription stimulant medications, I’ve found Thesis to work surprisingly well for my needs.

When using them 6 times a week, they have offered notable improvements in how well I’m able to focus and stay on task. In practice, this usually looks like a clearer mind and an improved ability to maintain a relaxed state of mind while completing various tasks. As someone who feels overwhelmed fairly often, this is a welcomed change of pace.

With their Clarity and Creativity blends, in particular, I just feel leveled out. I’m able to sit down and work, without feeling like I’m just hopped up on too much caffeine, a feeling that really makes me uncomfortable. 

In the world of nootropics, where certain products don’t seem noticeable whatsoever, it cannot be overstated just how awesome my experience with Thesis has been.

Benefits of Thesis

As a customer, you’ll have the opportunity to speak with their coaches at any time. I have reached out on a few occasions, just to talk about the fascinating world of nootropics. In particular, I have had amazing conversations with one of their neurologists, Cindy. It truly is nice to speak with other individuals who are as fascinated with the science behind nootropics as I am.

Another aspect of Thesis that I really respect is that they clearly publish not only which ingredients they include, but also the exact amounts of each ingredient. This matters because it allows consumers to actually cross-check the research behind the ingredients/dosages, an unfortunate rarity in the supplement space.

•  6 custom blends, each with unique effects that may work well for many individuals
• Personal coaching/support from nootropic experts
• No proprietary blends (hidden ingredients)
• Caffeinated or non-caffeinated formulas
• Effective ingredients that are backed by science and are third-party tested
• Available OTC
• Not FDA-approved
• Relatively high monthly price, which may not work for everyone

How Does Thesis Work?

You’ll start by filling out a questionnaire on their website, which should only take a few minutes. Once you’re done with the survey, Thesis’ algorithm will run through its millions of data points to predict which of their blends may work best for you. 

Once you place your order, either as a one-time purchase or as a subscription, you’ll be shipped your blends.

Per the instructions, you’ll begin taking your blends and note how you feel in the included daily journal. This will help your track whether your blends are the right fit for your needs or if they need to be adjusted. You’ll also be able to speak with one of their coaches at any time for additional support. 

Related reading: Stasis Supplement Review – Our Research, Testing, and Impressions

Thesis vs. Alternatives

 We’ve created this comparison table to pit Thesis up against Onnit and Mind Lab Pro , two other popular nootropic brands.

Thesis Nootropics Side Effects

The ingredients in Thesis may lead to side effects in some individuals, including: 

• Stomachache
• Signs of an allergic reaction

If you experience any prolonged discomfort, stop taking Thesis and reach out to your healthcare provider. Seek urgent medical care if you experience serious symptoms of an allergic reaction.

The Verdict: Are Thesis Nootropics Worth It?

Thesis offers a complete toolkit of nootropics that are tailored to your needs, in addition to ongoing expert support. Unlike other nootropics, which may include unnecessary or hidden ingredients, Thesis only offers what you need with their six unique blends that focus on supporting logic, energy, creativity, clarity, motivation, and confidence. Once you find the blend or blends that work for you, you can opt into a subscription and save on costs. 

While the monthly cost may be on the higher side, the ability to select only the blends you need, instead of opting for a nootropic that may include ingredients that are unnecessary for your particular needs, is definitely a major benefit of opting for this provider over others.

Keep in mind that Thesis will not feel as potent as prescription stimulant medication and that certain blends may lead to side effects, like gastrointestinal problems or headaches, in some. It’s always best to speak with your healthcare provider prior to trying Thesis to ensure that it is safe for you to do so.

Thesis will not be as potent as Adderall, a prescription medication. However,  Thesis , a type of nootropic or “smart drug,” may work well for some individuals in boosting cognitive function, focus, and more. 

Some nootropics can be used every day. However, it’s best to follow the specific’s products instructions, as well as speak to your healthcare provider about safe use.

Thesis  may be safe for some individuals to use. According to the company, they only use ingredients that are either classified as Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) by the FDA or that havve passed through Phase III clinical trials. However, it’s always best to speak with your healthcare provider prior to trying Thesis to ensure that it is safe for you to use.

Thesis does not offer free samples, however, they do offer a no-questions-asked refund. 

Thesis offer caffeinated and caffeine-free formulas.

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Smart drugs designed to improve your memory are everywhere in 2024. We researched the top contenders and tried them ourselves to help you pick the right one for your needs.

Lee is a senior editor and writer at Innerbody Research. They received a bachelor's degree in Psychology with a focus in Neuroscience from Ohio Wesleyan University, and an MFA in Creative Writing from Northern Arizona University.

In this Review

We researched, investigated, tried, and compared the most compelling nootropic options of 2024 to help you find the right smart pill for your needs. If you’re short on time, here is the rundown of our top picks.

Summary of recommendations

• Best overall: Thesis
• Best budget pick: Focus Factor Original
• Best generalized nootropic: Mind Lab Pro
• Best for brain health: Thesis Logic
• Best for memory: Mind Lab Pro
• Best for stress and anxiety: Thesis Creativity
• Best for studying: Thesis Clarity
• Best non-stimulant: Mind Lab Pro
• Easiest to take: TruBrain Personalized Drinks
• Best range of products: BrainMD Brain & Body Power Max

Thesis is our top nootropic recommendation. Their formulas are scientifically backed and stimulant-free.

Thesis supplements help rebalance the brain, without negative habit forming side effects. Choose between 5 personalized brands to enhance your mental performance.

Shop on Thesis and take 10% off your first order with code INNERBODY.

Why you should trust us

Over the past two decades, Innerbody Research has helped tens of millions of readers make more informed decisions about staying healthy and living healthier lifestyles. As nootropics have emerged and proliferated in the supplement landscape, we’ve invested serious time to determine which are worth your consideration.

We’ve spent hundreds of hours researching and testing various nootropics, including specialized formulas, generalized nootropics, and individual ingredients. Over the course of our nootropic studies, we’ve read over 350 clinical studies examining the safety and efficacy of various nootropic ingredients. To get a first-hand look and feel, we ordered and tested nootropic supplements ourselves, meaning we’re speaking from experience — not just regurgitating what others have said.

Additionally, like all health-related content on this website, this review was thoroughly vetted by one or more members of our Medical Review Board for accuracy. To keep things up to date, we monitor the nootropics landscape and update this page as information changes.

How we evaluated nootropics

Nootropics are complicated supplements, but that doesn’t mean it’s impossible for the average person to understand them. When we review nootropic supplements, we consider four main criteria:

• How well they work
• How safe they are and what precautions the manufacturers take
• How much they cost
• How convenient they are to purchase and use

Typically, a nootropic’s effectiveness is the most important criterion: no matter how good of a deal it is or how safe it may be, it doesn’t make sense to invest in a product that just doesn’t work. Safety ranks second above cost; your brain is a delicate organ, and many nootropics contain ingredients without a long history of adequate research, which calls their safety into question far more than something like a multivitamin. Those ingredients and a company’s testing routine vary much more dramatically than cost or convenience.

Thesis comes close to a clean sweep in our ratings in 2024, winning in effectiveness and convenience (with TruBrain as a close runner-up) and matching Mind Lab Pro in safety. It’s one of the most effective nootropics out there, with:

• Rigorous safety standards
• Research-backed ingredient lists that are well-dosed (which is astonishingly rare in the nootropic landscape)
• Lots of little conveniences that add up, like packets with each day’s serving so you don’t have to count pills
• Free one-on-one consultations to help you maximize the benefits you can get

The only area where Thesis falls short is its price: spending $79 or more per month on a nootropic is out of reach for many of us. If you have a tighter budget, Focus Factor has the most reasonable price point on our list by a long shot; it costs four times less per dose than our second least expensive nootropic, Hunter Focus.

Effectiveness

Winner: Thesis

An effective nootropic is one that makes a big difference in your mental state without overloading your system with thousands of unnecessary milligrams of botanicals, vitamins, minerals, and other ingredients. If 100mg works similarly to 10,000mg, it’s going to be much more effective to get 100mg in a blend. And when it comes to nootropics, effectiveness becomes slightly more complicated because there are two major categories:

• Generalized nootropics , which claim to increase memory and focus, reverse brain aging, and regulate mood all in one dose
• Specialized nootropics , which sink all of their focus into one area

Because of their jack-of-all-trade tendencies, generalized nootropics tend to be less effective than specialized nootropics.

We think Thesis is the most effective nootropic because of its reasonable dosing and, more importantly, its unique blend configuration. Where most other nootropics provide one formula, Thesis lets you try four of its six formulas in a Trial Kit before committing to your favorite (or favorites). Each blend is dedicated to a specific part of your cognition you might want to enhance, such as motivation and creativity, so you can utilize effective ingredients to treat the aspect of your cognitive health that’s most important to you.

Here's a short video showing the sort of package you'll receive in the mail if you order from Thesis, as well as sharing summary details about its effectiveness from our team who tested it:

TruBrain’s drinkable nootropics take a similar approach but are ultimately less effective because not every formula has the same scientific robustness as all of Thesis’, and the drinkable liquid means there are more ingredients necessary for a good flavor — like agave syrup, xylitol, citric acid, and cane sugar — that you just won’t see in a capsule nootropic like Thesis.

Runner-up: Mind Lab Pro

Despite having been around since the mid-1950s in some form, nootropics still often use lots of ingredients without much research that backs up positive effects on cognition. Because your brain is a sensitive and delicate organ that controls every part of your life, it’s critical that nootropic supplements are safe. The more research into a product or ingredient has behind it, the more we know about its safety and can make better-informed decisions. We consider the following factors to be critical for our safety scores:

• Clarity around ingredient lists (not hiding dosing information in proprietary blends)
• Transparent testing and manufacturing conditions
• Clear instructions on necessary tasks like cycling

Both Thesis and Mind Lab Pro are exceptionally safe nootropic supplements. Neither contains hazardous ingredients you’d need to cycle (though Thesis still recommends taking at least one day off a week from their nootropics, just in case), and both use ingredients that are backed by the latest research.

Both Mind Lab Pro and Thesis make their nootropics in GMP-certified , FDA-registered facilities, but Thesis is more transparent about its use of third-party testing for ingredient and formula purity. And more importantly, Thesis uses short lists of ingredients in doses that are closely aligned with scientific studies. Mind Lab Pro is mostly underdosed (only three ingredients are present at the same doses found in clinical studies), though their in-house study found the nootropic had great success matching, if not exceeding, said studies.

Winner: Focus Factor

New technologies — and supplements — are often much more expensive than ones that are simpler or have been around for longer. For the most part, nootropics follow this trend. Prices can range considerably depending on the manufacturer, ingredient list, and other factors but generally fit into one of two categories:

• $35 or below and lower quality
• $65 or above and higher quality

Among the group of nootropics that provide a reasonable formula, Focus Factor is our least expensive nootropic by a long shot. The company makes several different nootropic supplements, and its Original formula is one of the best and the least expensive per serving on our list. One 15-serving bottle costs $14.99, and costs per dose decrease as you buy bigger bottles. Even the next least expensive nootropic, Onnit’s Alpha BRAIN, costs more than twice as much per serving.

While some of the biggest nootropic companies make one product and others make dozens, here’s a breakdown of the costs and money-saving opportunities for our top picks’ most popular product in as close to a 30-day supply as possible. (All costs noted are pre-savings.)

Focus Factor doesn’t accept returns, which is a pain, but you can get both bulk deals and savings from subscription programs on your orders, which drops the price further. And it has the least expensive shipping across all of our favorite nootropic options, so while you can’t get it in stores yet, you can get it regularly shipped to your front door for very little.

Convenience

Runner-up: TruBrain

Nootropics aren’t the most convenient supplements. Most of the time, they require taking several medium-to-large pills with food in the morning. Depending on their ingredients, some will ask you to cycle your use. Cycling means that you take a few days, weeks, or months off to keep yourself from developing a tolerance or building up too much of a substance that could harm you in high enough doses. And while nootropics hopefully improve your memory enough to remember when you need a refill, subscription services that are easy to modify or cancel improve a nootropic’s convenience score.

Every formula from Thesis contains multiple capsules, which is a little inconvenient but standard for nootropics. However, its serving sizes are small for nootropics, and the company lets you opt in or out of a caffeinated formula whether or not you’ve purchased either form. Its caffeine pills come as a separate white capsule, so you can identify and skip it if you’d rather not give up your morning coffee. Every day’s serving is packaged in an individual plastic bag, and while you’ll have to pull out a pair of scissors to open it (there’s no tear notch), you won’t have to count capsules and can easily slip the packet in your bag or pocket for on-the-go use.

Except for TruBrain, all other nootropics come in homogenous capsules or tablets in a big bottle, which means lots of counting and a commitment to either caffeinated or non-caffeinated formulas. Add in the excellent starter kit so you can try four of the six formulas before committing to your favorite few, and it becomes clear why we consider Thesis to be the most convenient nootropic.

On the other hand, you can take TruBrain’s six nootropic formulas in three different forms: liquid pouches (like squeezable applesauce), capsules, or powder sticks. It also offers a “brain aging” supplement with its own separate formula. This is the only liquid nootropic worth its salt right now, providing a convenient option for people who can’t swallow pills. Like Thesis’ packets, it’s also easier to carry and take with you, and you won’t have to worry about dividing up your daily dose.

How our top picks compare

Some of our favorite nootropic companies center on one formula. Others have broad horizons and create multiple lines of products. It can make trying to compare nootropic supplements confusing at best. To simplify things, we’ve created two charts:

• One comparing the companies themselves
• One comparing our favorite products from each brand

Here’s a closer look at our top products from each company. This isn’t an exhaustive list, and we’ll go into more detail on a few other products from these same companies later, but this will give you a good starting point in your investigation.

Here are a few important facts about the companies themselves:

What are nootropics, and how do they work?

Broadly speaking, nootropics are substances that improve your cognitive functioning. This definition is generous as it applies equally to supplements, prescription medication, and recreational drugs. In recent years, the supplement industry has grabbed onto this term to describe products with vitamins, minerals, amino acids, and botanicals that are designed to improve your brain game. We’ll follow suit and focus on nootropic supplements in this guide.

The first nootropic to use the term was a drug developed throughout the 1950s and 60s called piracetam. It was intended to treat anxiety and provide patients with a soothing experience that might even lull them to sleep. 2 The effect was quite different than what its creators intended, as users reported sharper focus, and later testing pointed toward improved memory. (At the time of writing, the FDA still hasn’t approved piracetam for use in supplements or as a prescription medication, though many still take it.) 3 Nootropics also include prescription medications like Adderall and Ritalin, as well as medications for dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. Caffeine is also a nootropic substance and an ingredient you’ll find in many nootropic supplements.

Nootropic supplements may have one ingredient, or they may have dozens. Some ingredient lists look similar to multivitamins, and others focus more on cutting-edge botanicals. Because no two brains are identical, the best nootropic for our team or other people may not work for you, but we’ll provide all of the research and information you need to make the best decision in this guide.

Contemporary nootropics generally have three main goals:

• Protect your brain from damage
• Improve your memory, learning, and attention
• Regulate your mood

Not every nootropic does all three; some have a more specific focus, such as improving your learning ability or neuroprotection. These kinds of nootropics are called specialized nootropics. Others, called generalized nootropics, try to improve your brain’s function holistically across all three categories. But either way, all nootropics are designed to help your brain work more efficiently.

As cognitive enhancers, nootropic ingredients alter how your nerve cells and neurons work. This takes place in a variety of ways, including:

• Affecting circulation to the brain
• Positively impacting signaling pathways
• Combating oxidative stress
• Regenerating and strengthening neural connections
• Improving mitochondrial function
• Increasing the expression of neurotransmitters, like acetylcholine and dopamine

Common nootropic ingredients and studies of them

To better understand the potential mechanisms of action in any nootropic, we have to take a closer look at its ingredients. Unfortunately, there are several hundred ingredients used in these kinds of supplements, yet manufacturers claim that all of them work equally well. This, obviously, isn’t true. A vast majority of nootropic ingredients have mixed evidence of their benefits and few research studies verifying these benefits.

That said, there are some nootropic ingredients that research supports wholeheartedly (or close to it). Here are nine of the best ingredients you should consider noteworthy when picking a nootropic supplement.

Choline is an essential nutrient that allows our bodies to make phosphatidylcholine, a fatty acid necessary to build our cell membranes. There are several choline-related ingredients you might find in a nootropic supplement, including choline, phosphatidylcholine, citicoline, and alpha-glycerophosphocholine (alpha-GPC). The latter two are the most common in nootropic supplements; between the two, citicoline works more effectively, but alpha-GPC is more common (though the research suggests that alpha-GPC may not produce statistically significant results over caffeine or a placebo). 4 Citicoline more reliably improves episodic memory without serious side effects and is a contender for a future possible dementia or stroke treatment, though more research is necessary. 5 6

Ashwagandha comes from a plant commonly used in Ayurvedic medicine to lower stress and anxiety levels, improve sleep, and regulate your HPA axis (which, for men, can also boost testosterone levels). 7 In contemporary research, these practices hold up well, consistently lowering self-reported anxiety levels and improving sleep quality by up to 72%. 8 9 By improving your sleep and lowering stress, ashwagandha seems to work as a natural nootropic, but there’s some evidence it may also improve executive functioning in people with neurological and severe psychiatric disorders. 10 Our testers noted significant drop-offs in their stress and anxiety levels when they tried ashwagandha supplements .

Tyrosine is an amino acid commonly found in nootropic supplements because our bodies use it to create dopamine and norepinephrine. Having higher tyrosine levels means you’ll have more materials to make dopamine and norepinephrine, so your body is less likely to fall flat when you need them most. Studies show that higher tyrosine intake translates to better resilience in stressful or cognitively demanding situations, better short-term memory, and improved cognitive flexibility. 11 12 You’re most likely to see tyrosine as NALT (N-acetyl L-tyrosine) in supplements.

You might find you don’t function the same without your morning cup of coffee . That’s thanks to caffeine, a potent nootropic. While scientists don’t know exactly how caffeine works in the brain, the running theory is that it prevents adenosine (which gradually makes you sleepy over the course of a day) from building up in your brain. This makes you feel more alert than you would be without caffeine. Repeatedly in scientific studies, caffeine improves human attention spans as much as prescription stimulants. 13 A 2022 review also outlined how caffeine has neuroprotective effects against Alzheimer’s disease in animal models, though this still needs to be tested more rigorously in humans. 14 And it doesn’t take much caffeine to see these improvements — even 100mg of caffeine, or what you’d get from one cup of coffee, is enough to benefit your brain.

Most common in tea leaves, theanine is another amino acid that’s key for our relaxation. Like ashwagandha, it’s long been known to reduce stress, particularly when used in conjunction with caffeine (where theanine reduces the jittery effect so common when you have a little more than you need). 15 There’s a link between L-theanine and improved sleep quality, too, though there still needs to be more research on this subject before anything can be stated definitively. 16

Rhodiola rosea is an herb common in northern Europe that’s similar to ashwagandha. It’s surprisingly effective at reducing fatigue, calming your nerves, and lowering stress levels. 17 Rhodiola also works in combination with tyrosine to improve your focus during stressful times. 18 There’s some research on its role in learning and memory that’s generally favorable, but most of these studies focus on animals, not humans. 19

Bacopa monnieri is a botanical nootropic ingredient that’s common for a good reason: it’s one of the better-studied nootropic ingredients and improves choline levels, giving ingredients like citicoline or alpha-GPC a boost. According to a 2014 meta-analysis, it seems to improve your attention and decrease reaction time. 20 However, studies are mixed on whether or not bacopa extract improves memory recall, too. 21

There are a few kinds of ginseng you might find, but they can generally be separated into Asian ginseng (including Korean red ginseng, a particularly potent form) and American ginseng. Generally, Asian ginseng improves cognitive performance more than American ginseng, though the American form does still have cognitive enhancement properties. 22 It generally improves concentration, scanning ability, and memory recall and is thought to stabilize the nervous system and decrease neuroinflammation. 23 Ginseng seems to be particularly potent when paired with ginkgo biloba, another nootropic botanical. 24

Huperzia serrata produces a potent compound known as huperzine A. Huperzine A raises your acetylcholine levels by limiting the amount of acetylcholinesterase (which breaks down acetylcholine) released. This essentially means you’ll have more acetylcholine available for synapses to take up for longer. It has potent antiepileptic and neuroprotective effects and, when used correctly, is perfectly safe. 25 However, because nootropic supplements aren’t regulated by the FDA, there’s a greater likelihood that supplements containing Huperzia serrata can be dangerous. When too much acetylcholine accumulates (known as cholinergic toxicity), you can experience things like headaches, nausea and vomiting, and confusion, and it can lead to overdose in extreme situations.

It’s important to note that just because an ingredient works well in one research study, it doesn’t mean the ingredient will work exactly like that in your body. Our brains are just as individual as our fingerprints, shaped by both genetics and our lived experiences. Everything from our weight and what we ate for breakfast to our parents’ reactions to medications can make individual nootropic ingredients interact differently from person to person. Likewise, these ingredients’ doses and interactions with other ingredients can change a lot about how they work. Some ingredients might keep others from working, while others might boost others’ ability to work. Most of this information hasn’t been properly researched yet, so it’s hard to predict how a nootropic will work without an independent study of the product. (We take a look at the four studies that have been done on specific nootropic supplement formulas later in this guide.)

Keep an open mind while you’re starting to try nootropics. We recommend starting with nootropics supplements that have relatively short ingredient lists so you can quickly pinpoint ingredients that do or don’t work for you.

There are some other classes of ingredients that may not directly affect your brain like you might expect a classic nootropic to, but that are still important to support your brain’s overall health.

Like the rest of your body, your brain and central nervous system need amino acids to make proteins. It’s well-known that the brain uses three amino acids — tryptophan, tyrosine, and phenylalanine — to make the three major neurotransmitters (serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine, respectively). 26 But a 2020 study found seven amino acids that improved older adults’ cognitive, social, and psychological functioning: leucine, lysine, isoleucine, histidine, valine, phenylalanine, and tryptophan. 27 The only amino acid that we know doesn’t make much of a difference in your brain is glutamine. You might see some of these amino acids as acronyms like NALT (tyrosine), too.

Fatigue and brain fog are extremely common symptoms of vitamin and mineral deficiencies. B vitamins (especially B6, B9, and B12), vitamin D, iron, and magnesium are the most important vitamins and minerals for your cognitive health. Though direct analyses often yield mixed results, fatigue and brain fog make a big difference in how easily thoughts come to you and how good you feel, and vitamins and mineral deficiencies are more common than you might expect. 28 Healing these deficiencies is often just as good as — if not better than — just taking a nootropic supplement.

Oxidative stress is caused by a buildup of free radicals — reactive oxygen species missing electrons that cause damage to nearby cells. It occurs due to aging, environmental pollution, exposure to tobacco smoke, food breakdown in our digestive system, and dozens of other small factors that add up over time. With enough buildup over time, oxidative stress can cause permanent damage and may lead to things like heart disease and cancer. This damage is most common and harmful in the brain due to its massive oxygen consumption and the fact that adult brains don’t replace dead and dying cells.

Antioxidants have free electrons that they donate to the raving oxygen molecules, taming them and allowing the body to repair damage. There are thousands of antioxidant compounds, but things like omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins C and E, polyphenols, and carotenoids are potent antioxidants. Antioxidants are most useful when consumed alongside chemicals present in their natural forms like fruits, vegetables, and fish , but they can still help on their own in a supplement .

Insider Tip: You likely won’t see pure amino acids in a nootropic supplement. Instead, you’ll see something with a letter before it, like L-theanine. This letter represents the direction the molecule is turned in production — L- means it’s all turned to the left, D- means it’s all turned to the right, and DL- means there’s some of both. L- amino acids are absorbed best by the body and are almost always cheaper.

Tolerance and habituation

Some ingredients require a little more care to use properly. Tolerance (our brains physically adapting to a new situation) and habituation (our psychological adaptations) can both be present while you’re using nootropics. (These are both different from addictions, which involve an inability to control your use even when you want to and developing a dependence on it for daily functioning, among other features. It is possible to become addicted to some nootropics, though it’s not common.)

If a nootropic asks you to cycle, or occasionally take a few days off from taking it, it’s likely that it contains ingredients that could build a tolerance. These generally are ingredients that affect your brain’s acetylcholine levels, like huperzine A.

Ingredients to avoid

Some ingredients with little to no evidence still find their way into nootropic supplements. There aren’t many that are inherently dangerous; vinpocetine can induce miscarriages or birth defects if taken while pregnant, and huperzine A can cause acetylcholine toxicity if taken in extreme doses for too long. But plenty of ingredients are essentially filler. Sadly, most nootropics will contain at least one ingredient with questionable research behind it. Here are some of the worst offenders we’ve found, even in our favorite nootropics:

• Artichoke extract . There’s only one study (from 2022) on this topic. It suggests artichoke extract may reduce some biomarkers associated with Alzheimer’s disease, but there’s no evidence it can otherwise support your brain. 29
• Oat straw extract . There’s no clinical evidence this does anything for your brain.
• Dimethylaminoethanol (DMAE) . This antioxidant was sold as an alternative to ADHD medication called Deanol between 1950 and 1980, but it was recalled due to a lack of scientific evidence on its safety. 30 There hasn’t been much, if any, research on it since.
• Coleus forskohlii extract . This mint-like plant is advertised as being able to do a lot for an aging brain, but there’s no evidence it has any cognitive benefits.
• Glutamine . Despite being the most common amino acid and protein building block in your body, it mostly works on rebuilding muscles post-workout unless you’ve experienced a lack of oxygen to the brain (and even that finding is tentative). 31
• Taurine . Despite how frequently you might see it in energy drinks, and though taurine deficiencies are common in people with cognitive dysfunction, there’s no clear evidence taking taurine improves cognition. 32

Studies on our favorite nootropics

Because nootropic ingredients vary so wildly in their clinical support and almost no research studies look at ingredients in combination with each other, it’s always nice to see a company run a study on its product. There are some clear biases possible — when a company funds a study, the researchers may feel pressured to produce certain results — but some information is better than none.

Four of our top picks tested their nootropics in some capacity: Focus Factor Original, Alpha BRAIN, Mind Lab Pro, and Qualia Mind. In general, Mind Lab Pro worked the best on reaction time, anticipation, memory recall, and information processing (particularly among the 30-and-over crowd), and Focus Factor Original also had some significant positive findings on recall ability. 33 34 Alpha BRAIN has two studies under its belt, both of which are somewhat mixed but suggest that it may improve verbal memory, and Qualia Mind’s findings were disappointing — while participants reported significant improvements across six cognitive categories, they weren’t significant over a placebo. 35 36 37 These findings ultimately make a big impact on how we judge these supplements, and while nothing’s going to work perfectly for every person, it provides insight as to the strengths and weaknesses of these products.

You can read more about these studies in the products’ full reviews, linked under each product breakdown in this guide.

Are nootropic pills safe?

No nootropic pills are created equally, so it’s hard to say they’re all safe. Many are safe for healthy adults who don’t take any prescription medication, but that leaves out two-thirds of all U.S. adults, according to Georgetown University’s Health Policy Institute. 38 And nootropics can also interact with other supplements, so you’ll want to cross-check ingredient lists. As with any supplement, we encourage you to talk to your doctor before starting a nootropic to ensure it doesn’t interfere with any conditions you have or medications you take.

Our top recommendations generally use ingredients in safe doses for most people. They err on the side of caution and are more likely to under-dose than overload your system with the latest and greatest botanicals, which is frustrating in practice but better for you in the long term. This isn’t the case for every supplement — we’ll point out which ones to approach with extra caution in our product breakdowns — but, in general, you’re more likely to experience fewer effects than a laundry list of side effects.

Side effects and contraindications are always a possibility, though. Some ingredients cause more side effects than others. (Since many nootropics have at least 90mg of caffeine, we recommend curtailing your coffee and tea consumption until you know how this new energy source affects you.) Keep an eye out for things like headaches, stomach aches, and dizziness when you’re starting a nootropic. If you find these symptoms don’t go away after a day or two of use, stop using them and contact your doctor. It may be a poor ingredient fit, or nootropics might just not be a good idea for you.

Some nootropics will require you to cycle (take days off in your weekly dosing routine). It’s inconvenient and a bit of a pain to have to remember, but it’s important for your health to follow these instructions. Taking a few days off keeps them from building up in your brain, either flooding your body with excess acetylcholine that can’t get cleaned up (and can cause problems like muscle twitching or decreased respiration) or causing you to develop a tolerance or dependency. Cycling requirements generally depend on a few ingredients — notably huperzine A and other acetylcholinesterase blockers — included in a given formula.

Other ingredients you might see that mean you should regularly take time off include:

• N-acetyl cysteine (NAC)

Caffeine, for example, is an addictive stimulant (as you may know if you drink a cup of coffee each morning and don’t feel right without it), whereas NAC regulates the amount of glutamate released by your body. Cycling NAC prevents building a tolerance, which can have effects on your mood — like an inability to feel pleasure — whereas cycling caffeine can keep you from developing a dependency on it.

You might find that taking your nootropic five days a week and resting for two days works for you. Taking it for three months straight, then stopping for one month, may be better for others. Many nootropics that suggest you cycle have recommendations on how to plan your weeks, but ultimately, deciding the right routine is up to you and how you feel while taking the nootropic.

Who should (and shouldn’t) try a nootropic?

Most of us can understand a desire to be smarter. Many of us have struggled through brain fog and confusion after several nights of staying up too late. A nootropic sounds like something we could all use, but some populations would benefit more from adding it to their routine, and others should stay away at all costs.

Pregnant people, nursing parents, and children under 18 should all avoid taking standard nootropic supplements. There are a few nootropic supplements specifically designed for children (including types from Focus Factor and BrainMD), but we don’t know enough about how they might interact with a developing fetus to state they’re safe for pregnant people.

We always strongly recommend sitting down with your doctor before starting any new supplements, especially nootropics. Your situation may be unique, and they’ll have the best sense of what might work for you. They may also order lab tests to ensure you don’t have any deficiencies, disorders, or other health problems that could be causing your cognitive symptoms.

Psychiatric and neurological medications can cause some of the biggest problems when combined with nootropics. (We’ll explore this in more depth shortly.) You should also avoid nootropic supplements if you’re taking:

• Blood thinners like warfarin
• Levodopa (L-Dopa)
• Cholinesterase inhibitors like Aricept or Reminyl
• Insulin or diabetes medication
• Immunosuppressant medications

Likewise, several conditions can be exacerbated by nootropic supplements. Not every nootropic will affect all of these conditions, but if you have anything listed below, be particularly cautious about starting a nootropic.

• Kidney disease
• Liver disease
• Thyroid disorders
• Heart problems (especially if you have bradycardia, a slow heart rate)
• Lung conditions like asthma and COPD
• GI blockages or stomach ulcers
• Urinary tract blockages
• High blood pressure
• Endocrine disorders (such as diabetes, thyroid problems, or low testosterone)
• Phenylketonuria (PKU)
• Muscular dystrophy

Nootropics also don’t interact well with drugs or alcohol. Some nootropics may be safe to have alcohol in moderation (such as a glass of wine with dinner) while taking it, but it’s generally best not to combine the two for your liver’s sake. Ingredients like green tea extract can cause liver inflammation, which is exacerbated by alcohol. 39 Recreational drugs generally increase either dopamine, serotonin, or glutamate (inhibiting GABA), so adding nootropic ingredients that do the same thing can lead to side effects like tremors or worse.

Studies on individual products — such as the self-funded study on Mind Lab Pro — regularly find that nootropics work best for the over-30 crowd. This doesn’t mean that they can’t help college students or young professionals, but because your 20s are generally some of your healthiest years, there’s less age-related dysfunction for the nootropics to address. One of our 25-year-old testers who tried Thesis, for example, found that it supported their focus and clear thinking as much as — if not more than — a 37-year-old peer tester. Like all other factors, age can make a difference, but your youth alone won’t keep you from getting something out of a nootropic supplement.

Psychiatric and neurological conditions

If you have a psychiatric condition — even mild depression or generalized anxiety disorder — you are more likely to experience negative side effects or worsening symptoms by taking a nootropic. This is especially true if you take neurological or psychiatric medications, which act on the same neurotransmitters as nootropics. Having too much of any neurotransmitters is just as bad as not having enough and can lead to unpleasant side effects like headaches, stomach aches, tremors, or serious complications like serotonin syndrome. 40

This neurotransmitter is responsible for our mood, sleep, and digestion, and it stabilizes other neurotransmitters. It’s implicated in many psychiatric disorders, most notably depression, and is the subject of many psychiatric mediations. This includes SSRIs (such as Zoloft, Prozac, Celexa, and Paxil), SNRIs (such as Effexor and Savella), MAOIs, tricyclic antidepressants, and some mood stabilizers like lithium. Nootropic ingredients that affect it include acetyl-L-carnitine, Bacopa monnieri extract, L-tryptophan, and Zembrin (Sceletium tortuosum).

Dopamine plays two roles in our brains: motor movement and reward. It’s responsible for pleasure and plays a critical role in our executive functioning. 41 There’s a huge range of medications that influence dopamine: stimulants like Adderall, Ritalin, and Concerta; medication for Parkinson’s disease like Mirapex; antipsychotic medication (which primarily targets dopamine but may also affect serotonin) like Seroquel, Risperdal, and Abilify; and prescription nootropics like L-dopa and modafinil. Many ingredients in nootropic supplements also affect your dopamine system, including Bacopa monnieri extract, citicoline, L-theanine, L-tyrosine, pyrroloquinoline quinone (PQQ), and uridine.

Like dopamine, acetylcholine controls our muscles and learning, memory, and attention. Cholinesterase inhibitors prescribed for dementia or mild Alzheimer’s disease keep acetylcholine in a neuronal synapse, as do medications treating myasthenia gravis and many eye conditions. 42 Acetylcholine-influencing compounds are extremely common in nootropic supplements. The most common ingredients you’ll find are alpha-GPC, citicoline, and huperzine A, but you might also find DMAE, donepezil, and galantamine.

Glutamate is the primary excitatory neurotransmitter, which makes it easier for neurons to send impulses where they need to go. This speed also means it’s critical for learning and memory. While there aren’t currently many prescription medications that directly affect glutamate, there are several companies investigating its potential for treating severe treatment-resistant depression, substance abuse, and obsessive-compulsive disorder. Ketamine, a dissociative anesthetic, works along the glutamate pathway and has shown promise as a potential treatment for severe depression in small doses. In nootropic supplements, caffeine, cocoa, theobromine, and l-theanine may influence glutamate.

GABA is the primary inhibitory neurotransmitter, turning down the rate of electrical impulses in the brain. Antiepileptic medications, like Lamictal and valproic acid, raise GABA levels. So can traditional anti-anxiety medications like benzodiazepines (Xanax and Klonopin) and barbiturates (Seconal), Gabapentin, and some sedative-hypnotic sleep medications like Ambien. L-theanine can influence GABA, as can phenibut and kratom, but you’re more likely to see GABA on its own as an ingredient in nootropics or on its own as a supplement.

Best overall, best for brain health, best for stress and anxiety, and best for studying

• Available with or without stimulants
• Useful starter pack lets you try up to four formulas at once
• Wellness coaching included
• Outstanding customer support
• Free shipping every time
• Use code INNERBODY for 10% off your first order
• Money-back guarantee is only 30 days

Between strong testing measures and even more robust customer service — along with convenient packets delineating daily doses that are easy to travel with —- Thesis easily ranks as one of our favorite nootropic companies and is our top pick among nootropic supplements in 2024. The company relies on strong science to back its empathetic messaging, emphasizing that having cognitive deficits isn’t a cause for shame but that there are ways to improve your brain in a healthy way.

The company offers six different formulas, posed as working well in pairs. These include:

• Clarity and Logic
• Energy and Motivation
• Creativity and Confidence

Generally, each product contains fewer than 10 ingredients, including caffeine and L-theanine. (You can read more about the individual ingredient breakdowns in our full review of Thesis .) However, there are clear goals for each formula:

• Clarity : increasing blood flow to the brain and stimulating acetylcholine, cutting brain fog
• Logic : improving communication throughout the central nervous system and cell membrane quality
• Energy : boosting cellular energy and blocking adenosine
• Motivation : increasing blood flow to the brain and boosting cellular energy
• Creativity : anti-anxiety and antidepressant
• Confidence : anti-anxiety and boosting dopamine levels

Our testers found that Clarity gave them the biggest effects, with a significant boost to their focus great for a several-hour study session, but some experienced a sense of dissociation or a headache as it wore off. One tester ultimately preferred Logic for a subtler, longer-term sense of clarity and better memory recall.

If you aren’t sure where to start, you can take a short quiz on Thesis’ website to determine which one would be best for you. Most quiz results offer more than one formula in the form of a starter kit. This kit allows you to try each blend for a week to see how they affect you, eventually choosing one (or more) to become your daily nootropic. You can also continue to receive the starter kit on a subscription basis and use different nootropics for different situations.

Insider Tip: If you already know what you want to try, you can skip the quiz by navigating to the Starter Kit page. The first question in the FAQ, halfway down the page, has a link to “Get Started,” where you can assemble your kit yourself.

Special Offer from Thesis: 10% OFF your first order with code INNERBODY

Quite possibly the best part of using Thesis’ is that you can easily toggle caffeine on or off with any formula. Other companies either don’t offer a stimulant-free option or have a different formula that may not be as effective. Thesis simply lets you order any of their formulas without stimulant ingredients included. Our testers did find that caffeine enhanced the effects, so if you aren’t sensitive to caffeine or are looking for the biggest boost, we still recommend going with the caffeinated form. Plus, if you decide later that you don’t want to take caffeine, Thesis keeps each caffeine pill as a separate capsule (the smallest white capsule in each packet), so you can easily ditch it.

Thesis also provides wellness coaching to all subscribers, so you can get the most out of your nootropics and find new ways to improve your life and your brain.

Several companies in this guide take pains to test their products, looking at purity and dosage in particular. But Thesis is among the few who rely on third-party testing rather than internal testing. One of the reasons the ingredient lists in Thesis nootropics are shorter than some of the competition is that Thesis only uses ingredients that are either Generally Recognized As Safe by the FDA or have undergone phase III clinical trials. The only ingredient that’s of any potential concern is ashwagandha, which isn’t safe for people who have thyroid problems.

Pricing and payments

Thesis has a particularly unique structure. If it’s your first time ordering from them, you’ll have to take a quiz to identify what formulas might fit your needs best. Since nootropics can be such a dense, confusing industry to navigate, it’s a definite plus that Thesis helps you select what might work best for you based on real cognitive testing measures and lets you try more than one formula at once (since a test can only reveal so much). Those are two big benefits you won’t find with any other nootropic.

Whether you stick with the starter kit or customize your order, the prices for a 28-day supply remain the same:

• One-time purchase: $119
• Monthly subscription: $79

Subscription orders ship every 30 days, and you can’t change their frequency, but you can pause or cancel at any time.

Insider Tip: We recommend you consider starting a subscription for the $30 discount; you can cancel, pause, or skip shipments at any point without hassle, though there are a few more steps involved than other subscription canceling menus. Luckily, you won’t have to pay for shipping at any step unless you need a refund.

If you aren’t happy with your Thesis nootropics, you can reach out to the company’s customer service team. They’ll recommend adjustments to a schedule or suggest other products to try first. When you know you want a refund, you’ll need to go to the returns page, which sends you an email link to actually process a return. You can send back any unopened box of Thesis for a full refund within seven days of delivery if you have more than you need, or you can refund one month’s supply within 30 days of purchase. You’ll have to physically mail back whatever you have — even if the box is empty — and Thesis doesn’t cover the cost of return shipping.

Mind Lab Pro

Best for memory and best non-stimulant

• Supported by independent research
• Stimulant-free
• Vegan formula
• Flexible dosing options
• Uniquely socially conscious among nootropics
• Free bottle with a purchase of three
• Limited ingredient dosages
• Free shipping on the largest orders only
• Complicated return policy
• No subscription options

Mind Lab Pro has a lot going for it, including third-party testing and research. Its study is the most successful self-funded study out of any nootropic on our list, displaying the best results after three months of taking Mind Lab Pro in the following areas:

• Simple choice and reaction time
• Anticipation (predicting the next step in a structure)
• Information processing (especially for people 30+)
• Immediate and direct recall (memory)

The supplement doesn’t use any novel ingredients, and its components all boast research of their own that show safety and efficacy. These include citicoline, lion’s mane mushrooms, and Rhodiola rosea, among others. Notably, though, all but three (two B vitamins and lion’s mane) are all underdosed compared to the supportive outside research. Luckily, Mind Lab Pro’s study is so successful that it’s still very likely you’ll see positive results from this nootropic.

They also have one of the lowest allergen profiles of any nootropic, as their formula is:

• Gluten-free
• Synthetic additive-free
• Caffeine-free
• Non-irradiated
• Vegan-friendly

We think this is your best option if you want a generalized nootropic and know you don’t want a caffeinated supplement. You can learn more about its ingredient profile and how it’s changed over time in our full review .

Because Mind Lab Pro only offers one product, the pricing structure is simple:

• One Bottle: $69
• Two Bottles: $138
• Three Bottles (plus one free): $207

Shipping on three-bottle orders is free, but smaller orders incur a charge of $9.95 for standard (3- to 10-day) or $14.95 for expedited (2- to 4-day) shipping. Mind Lab Pro has also kept in mind that mail times have slowed substantially in the last few years, extending their delivery windows by a few days.

Their refund policy is confusing, depending on whether you just want a refund or want to use their money-back guarantee.

You can get a refund in full within 14 days of delivery, assuming you haven’t opened the bottle. The money-back guarantee only applies to the first bottle in your first order, but you can claim a refund through this policy within 60 days, and you’ll have to pay shipping both ways. This reduces your expected refund amount to about $40.

Easiest to take

• Several delivery methods into the body
• Various bundles available
• Great for people who can’t swallow pills
• Shots are extremely convenient
• Specific supplement for brain aging
• Free shipping
• No money-back guarantee
• Contains full-spectrum CBD oil
• Drinks contain high-FODMAP ingredients

Designed by UCLA-trained neuroscientists, TruBrain offers a novel delivery method for their most popular nootropics. Each product is available in liquid form and stored in a small pouch. You can crack one open and drink it in short order, and it doesn’t matter if you have any trouble swallowing pills.

There are seven available flavors:

• Sleep: uses GABA, melatonin, and 5-HTP to relax you
• Mellow: an all-around balanced and low-dose nootropic with Noopept, vitamin C, NALT, centrophenoxine, magnesium, L-theanine, and CBD oil
• Matcha: a green-tea-based drink with magnesium, Noopept, and NALT designed to increase mental clarity
• Mushrooms: a botanical blend with four mushrooms and vitamin C intended to promote cognitive health
• Medium : identical to Mellow, but without the CBD oil
• Strong: a caffeinated version of Medium
• Extra Strong: Strong plus 150mg of Adrafinil, a non-prescription version of modafinil

Mellow, Medium, and Strong are all nearly identical; Mellow adds functional CBD oils , and Strong adds caffeine. While they’re easy to take, you’ll need to be careful if you can’t take CBD or regularly need drug testing since full-spectrum CBD oil does contain a small amount of THC. (Though not enough to provide any psychoactive effects, the full-spectrum CBD oil in TruBrain could potentially cause you to fail a drug test.) Overall, the doses are okay, and TruBrain picked somewhat unconventional ranges of ingredients; Noopept is a strong, branded nootropic with some more serious side effects than normal, but there’s little research supporting most of the mushrooms included in the Mushrooms flavor despite not having any major known side effects.

Customers generally report that the flavors are pleasant, though there are a significant number of other ingredients added to make these drinks palatable. Overall, we think that TruBrain’s unique form makes their drinks interesting and a good option for people who don’t like taking pills, but they don’t offer as much value on a supplemental level as something like Thesis, which has many similar customizable aspects, starter kits, and trials and more advantageous formulas.

If you aren’t crazy about the thought of drinking your nootropic, TruBrain has shifted its capsule offerings to encapsulate all seven formulas (pun intended) as TruBrain Capsules . Now, you can get one bottle of 30 servings in every formula for the same flat price, which varies depending on how you’re ordering it. This payment structure is almost identical to Qualia Mind’s, though you’ll get a much more succinct ingredient list and a few more servings for $10 more on your first order.

You can get these drinks with both bulk (from 10 to 60 pouches per order) and subscription deals (10% off every delivery). Uniquely, you can also prepay and save up to a year in advance for 30% savings if you know you like them and will continue to drink these supplements through the subscription program. You can choose exactly how many of which flavors you want, which is a nice bonus.

If you live in the U.S., you can also try 10 drinks for $29 with free shipping, though you won’t be able to pick and choose exactly how many of each flavor you’ll get. Note, though, that it automatically signs you up for a 20-drink monthly subscription; if you don’t cancel within two weeks, you’ll be charged $59/month for a box of 20 TruBrain drinks.

Clockwise is TruBrain’s brain aging supplement designed to counter the effects of time on cognition and memory. It contains nicotinamide, a B vitamin that can increase NAD production and mitochondrial functioning. That improved mitochondrial function should be able to address multiple systems, not just the brain.

Clockwise also contains green tea extract, vitamin C, and alpha-lipoic acid, among other ingredients in smaller quantities. However, note that these capsules are on the larger side, so they aren’t as accessible for people who have trouble swallowing. In that case, stick with TruBrain’s custom drinks.

One bottle of Clockwise costs $69, or you can subscribe and get bottles for $65 per month. (Those prices have gone up $4 and $6, respectively, in the last year.)

Powder Sticks

Unlike the shots, which are premixed, TruBrain’s powder sticks are designed for you to mix with water or a beverage of your choice. They contain Noopept, a generous dose of vitamin C, and several other nootropic ingredients. TruBrain uses xylitol, monk fruit, and stevia as sweeteners, so there’s no added sugar.

TruBrain Powder Sticks can make a good substitute for a mid-day cup of coffee. Each one contains 100mg of caffeine.

TruBrain Powder Sticks cost $59 for a one-month supply, or $55 per month if you subscribe.

TruBrain Bars

These bars are one of the few solid, edible delivery methods for nootropics. They contain Noopept, citicoline, and theanine, along with several sources of healthy fats like chia and flax seeds. Their macronutrient balance isn’t the best among protein or meal replacement bars, but these really belong to a different class than those.

TruBrain Bars currently come in just one flavor: triple cacao. They’re primarily sweetened with dates but also contain stevia.

You can get a box of 12 or 24 from TruBrain, and here’s how they price out:

• Box of 12: $55/box or $49/box with a subscription
• Box of 24: $99/box or $89/box with a subscription

Other TruBrain products

In addition to their signature shots, TruBrain offers a handful of other products, some of which are nootropics. (Others include ketogenic powder, coffee, and protein bars, all designed with brain health in mind.) TruBrain has a ‘prepay and save’ system on select products that allows you to save up to 30% when you buy in bulk. Here’s how it breaks down:

• 3-month supply: 10% off
• 6-month supply: 20% off
• 12-month supply: 30% off

You can get free shipping on any order that costs more than $55. TruBrain’s return policy is quite strict and will only accept a return if you send back an unopened box within seven days of delivery (not just the products themselves, but the container they’re delivered in). You also won’t be refunded the cost of shipping.

Focus Factor

Best budget pick

• Extremely inexpensive
• Almost all formulas are uncaffeinated
• Extensive ingredients list
• One of two companies to make a kids’ formula
• Gummies and drinks available
• Comes with its own companion app
• Some formulas are particularly unsafe for pregnant people
• Unclear nootropic dosage
• Some ingredients lack long-term safety data
• No safety and testing information available

Focus Factor has its hands in several different areas of your cognitive health, branded and packaged specifically to help you while also providing things like energy drinks and partnering with NASCAR. Their Original formula includes a litany of ingredients connected with higher brain function. Some of these include:

• L-Glutamine
• Bacopa monnieri​ extract
• Phosphatidylserine
• Vinpocetine
• Electrolyte concentrate
• Huperzine A
• More than a dozen vitamins

Focus Factor provides a dose for their proprietary blend of nootropics, but they don’t reveal the quantities of individual ingredients in their blend. They do have specific measurements for each of their vitamins and minerals because it’s required by law, but everything else hides under the blend label. And that blend is relatively small, too — Focus Factor Original contains only 640mg of the entire blend, whereas most successful studies use that much on one ingredient alone.

A self-funded study found moderate success, improving participants’ scores on a verbal learning test over six weeks with no complaints of serious side effects. However, because it has huperzine A (albeit in a likely very low dose), you may find you need to cycle this nootropic.

One important ingredient is vinpocetine, which is present in Focus Factor Original. Vinpocetine is a known teratogen, meaning it might cause birth defects and miscarriages if someone consumes it regularly or in a high enough dose while pregnant. Nootropics aren’t generally a good thing to take while pregnant or lactating, but you should especially stay away from Focus Factor for your baby’s health. There’s no clear information on Focus Factor’s website about the products’ safety, nor any information about in-house or third-party testing, and asking customer service doesn’t provide any new knowledge, either.

Ultimately, if you’re already taking a multivitamin, you likely won’t get anything new out of Focus Factor. However, if your general nutrition needs a boost or if you’re hesitant to try a potent nootropic, Focus Factor Original could be a good fit. We don’t recommend any of Focus Factor’s other products, aside from their children’s line and Focus Factor Brain & Vision, because there just aren’t enough differences to justify their increased costs.

And in the case of the company’s energy shots, they’re identical to 5 Hour Energy and Monster drinks, which are significantly more accessible from your nearest gas station or vending machine, whereas Focus Factor isn’t sold in stores.

You can learn more about Focus Factor — including a full product breakdown — in our review.

Here’s a look at the company’s lineup and costs, which come down with larger orders:

The Focus Factor Kids formula is extremely mild compared to the adult-oriented formula. We think this is a good thing, as children’s brains are still developing and are more susceptible to potential side effects.

The children’s formula includes the following in their nootropic blend:

• Bilberry (fruit)
• N-Acetyl L-Tyrosine
• Coenzyme Q10

The company has also added a new line of nootropic products in the last year, which are designed to work better for gamers. However, we still prefer their Original and Brain & Vision formulas; the nootropic formulas are closer to pre-workout and energy drinks than true nootropic supplements.

In the last year, Focus Factor has added free shipping to U.S. addresses for orders of $50 or more. If you don’t meet that $50 threshold, shipping from Focus Factor costs the following:

• Standard (5-7 days): $6.95
• Priority Mail (1-3 days): $14.95

Focus Factor doesn’t accept any returns unless your product arrives defective.

One of the coolest things that Focus Factor offers is the Brain Hub app. You can try it for free for seven days, and it provides you with guided meditations, a small audiobook library, mind and mood trackers, and a suite of five kinds of brain games (in focus, memory, math, problem-solving, and language) designed to keep you sharp and show how you’re progressing as you take their supplements. However, our testers only found two game categories actually fun (focus and problem-solving).

The app looks old and isn’t super intuitive, and we think there are better cognitive training apps on the market, but because this one is paired with Focus Factor and comes with a free trial, it’s worth it to give it a shot. Just be sure to cancel as soon as you can so you don’t accidentally get charged.

After your week-long free trial, you can pay for the Brain Hub app in the following ways:

• Monthly plan - $17.49/month
• Yearly plan - $59.99/year (saves you $149.89)
• Lifetime plan - $299.99 billed only once

Best range of products

• Huge range of nootropic supplements
• Supplements have a targeted focus
• Quiz is useful and not overly prescriptive
• Can shop by dietary restrictions
• Good learning resources
• Too many nuanced options for some users
• Generalized nootropics are very expensive
• Some supplements use up to 10 capsules per serving

BrainMD offers both comprehensive nootropics like Brain & Body Power and more targeted combinations like Calm My Brain. The latter supplement provides only magnesium and ashwagandha, whereas Brain & Body Power boasts more than 40 ingredients. Generally speaking, products with shorter ingredient lists tend to be higher in quality — with doses more in line with scientific research — than products like Brain & Body Power that contain dozens of ingredients. The company’s more targeted supplements tend to deliver higher doses of specific ingredients, and their more comprehensive offerings have relatively low doses of each component. It’s a great brand if you know you’ll want to shop around and try a few different kinds of supplements for your cognitive health.

It can be difficult to know which of the company’s vast array of products you should take, so they offer a short quiz about your lifestyle and cognitive performance. After the quiz, an algorithm will identify yours as one of 16 brain types. The site then lets you shop by your brain type to see only the supplements that would provide you with the biggest potential benefit. It’s more comprehensive and less prescriptive than Thesis’ quiz, which is better for people who want a more hands-on approach to their supplement journey.

BrainMD’s prices vary widely depending on their ingredient lists (as do the products’ efficacy). Subscribing is a good way to save, as you’ll take 15% off your order, but the company’s supplements are a bit expensive for what they offer. They aren’t as high-priced as TruBrain’s Clockwise or Qualia Mind, but they also don’t generally have the same first-time saving discounts. Instead, you can bundle both subscription and bulk deals for extra savings, like Focus Factor.

Here’s a look at a few of their most popular supplements:

Previously, all seven of these supplements were available as part of a free trial program . Now, they only offer Put Me To Sleep Naturally, Happy Saffron Plus (which is one of our top picks for the best saffron supplement ), Brain & Body Power, and Serotonin Mood Support, but you can still try any one of them for free for up to 14 days. After that, BrainMD will automatically enroll you in a subscription program for that supplement at the products’ standard cost.

Shipping with any subscription order is free, and non-subscription orders cost a flat $7.95 unless you order at least $75.

Hunter Focus

• Well-designed nootropic ingredient combination
• Free shipping on bulk orders
• Buy three bottles, get one free
• Part of a three-supplement plan
• Large serving size (six capsules)

Hunter Focus is the nootropic component of Hunter’s supplement system. Much like Onnit’s range of products, the company’s system includes Hunter Burn, a thermogenic fat burner, and Hunter Test, a natural testosterone booster.

Hunter Focus is a relatively straightforward supplement. It contains many of the most popular nootropic ingredients in relatively high doses. Here’s a brief look at some of their most effective ingredients:

• Acetyl-L-Carnitine (800mg)
• L-Tyrosine (500mg)
• Lion’s mane (500mg)
• Bacopa (300mg)
• Ashwagandha (300mg)
• Citicoline (300mg)
• Maritime pine bark extract (75mg)

All told, Hunter Focus contains 20 active ingredients that can directly or indirectly improve cognition, memory, and mood. This nootropic is very similar to Mind Lab Pro but contains more ingredients at slightly higher doses. Some of these ingredients are likely to bring positive benefits — ashwagandha root and ginseng, for example — while others are still on the newer side in research, such as Spanish sage. Hunter Focus contains 100mg of caffeine, so it’s not a good option for people who want a stimulant-free nootropic. (100mg is about what you’ll get in a cup of coffee and is very typical to find in nootropics that have caffeine.)

Between the two, we think Mind Lab Pro will be better for more people because some of Hunter Focus’ ingredients may inadvertently cancel each other out or cause strange side effects. Combining ashwagandha and caffeine may cause a particularly complicated response, for example. However, there’s nothing that stands out as harmful or otherwise strange in this supplement, so it is still a solid option.

Hunter Focus doesn’t offer any subscriptions, but you can save a little bit by buying in bulk (though comparatively much less than other products that offer bulk savings). Here’s how Hunter Focus’ pricing works out:

• One bottle: $90
• Two bottles: $180
• Three bottles (plus one free): $270

You’ll get free shipping as long as you buy two or more bottles at a time. Shipping for one bottle costs $7.95. Hunter has some of the widest-reaching international shipping options available with depots in London and Tennessee, and they can ship to all but 17 countries. If you don’t like Hunter Focus, you can return your bottle, opened or unopened, within 30 days of delivery; just reach out to their customer service team with your name, email, and order number, and tell them you’d like to return your bottle of Hunter Focus (and why) to get the ball rolling.

Qualia Mind

• Transparent formulation
• Large B vitamin doses
• Contains several well-regarded ingredients
• Steep discount on first subscription delivery
• 100-day money-back guarantee
• Non-stimulant option available
• Particularly expensive
• Most ingredients are underdosed
• Several ingredients lack clinical backing
• Take seven capsules daily for a full dose

These ingredients include:

• Vitamin B12
• Pantothenic acid
• Acetyl-L-Carnitine HCL
• Artichoke leaf extract
• Bacopa monnieri extract
• Rhodiola rosea extract
• DL-Phenylalanine
• Uridine-5’-monophosphate
• Whole coffee fruit extract
• Velvet bean seed extract
• Celastrus paniculatus seed extract
• Ginkgo biloba leaf extract
• Coleus forskohlii root extract
• Pyrroloquinoline quinone
• Huperzia serrata

It’s also important to note that Qualia Mind is generally underdosed in these ingredients compared to clinical studies. You could make the argument that we don’t know if the ingredients can all boost each other to sufficient efficacy, but we’d have to turn to the self-funded study on Qualia Mind to determine that. This study was thorough and clinically run, but after measuring six major cognitive performance aspects (executive function, attention and focus, inspiration, perceived stress, work engagement, and mindfulness) as well as self-reported sleep quality, immune health, productivity, and mood, researchers found that there was little difference between Qualia Mind and a placebo.

While it’s a relatively safe and very well-tested supplement, Qualia Mind isn’t going to be the best option for someone who’s just getting started with nootropics. If you don’t mind taking a lot of pills and are looking for a generalized nootropic with focus- and attention-boosting potential but are sensitive to high ingredient doses, Qualia Mind may be a good fit for you.

Learn more about Qualia Mind’s ingredients in depth in our full review .

Neurohacker Collective offers steep sales on all products when you start a subscription program. You can save $100 by ordering Qualia Mind as a subscription once and then canceling your subscription rather than purchasing a single bottle one time.

Here’s a closer look at Neurohacker Collective’s nootropic lineup:

The company used to offer free shipping on most orders but now charges either $7.98 for standard shipping (3-5 days) or $12.98 for priority shipping (2-3 days), only to a restricted list of English-speaking countries. Or, if you order from a third party, you’re more likely to get a now-extinct product called Qualia Mind Essentials, which comes in smaller sizes and has a shorter ingredient list. For the greatest chance of effectiveness, we recommend purchasing from the Neurohacker Collective website specifically.

Neurohacker Collective has one of the longest money-back guarantees in its category, offering users 100 days to see if the product works (and you’ll still get a refund if you open the bottle and test it). But a closer look reveals downsides here:

• The refund will only apply to your initial order or the most recent order within a subscription. You could start a subscription and ask for a refund on day 99, but you’ll only get a refund for whatever was part of that last month’s order.
• Your entire household will only be eligible once. This means you won’t be able to access a refund if someone in your household happened to try Qualia Mind in the past and returned it.

Onnit Alpha BRAIN

• Company has a focus on fitness
• Liquid nootropic shots available
• 90-day money-back guarantee
• Military discount available
• Limited dosage information
• Free shipping only on orders over $150

Onnit is a full-scale fitness brand offering everything from nutritional supplements to workout equipment. They have four Alpha BRAIN nootropic products that are caffeine-, dairy-, nut-, and gluten-free, as well as more than two dozen other supplements designed to optimize your health and wellness. We’ll focus mostly on their flagship product, Alpha BRAIN capsules, which also come in a Black Label version (with clearer dosage information, albeit a dissimilar ingredient list), an Instant powder, and Focus Shots, which are premixed caffeine shots with other nootropic ingredients.

Alpha BRAIN has a decent ingredient list as far as nootropics go, with a big focus on boosting your acetylcholine levels as much as possible (which may lead to things like intense lucid dreaming. and requires a strict cycling routine). 57 However, most of these ingredients are hidden behind a few proprietary blends, meaning Onnit provides the measurement of blend per serving but not each individual ingredient. While it’s used to keep competitors from copying an exact formula, it also keeps you from understanding what you’re actually taking. Onnit does well with testing measures, but the lack of greater transparency is a disappointment for Alpha BRAIN’s overall safety measures. Proprietary blends make it difficult to determine what side effects you’ll be more likely to experience, if any. And while proprietary blends are sadly not uncommon in nootropics (and Alpha BRAIN isn’t the worst offender, at least breaking down their blend into three separate smaller blends), it isn’t something that gives us confidence.

Alpha BRAIN has been subject to two scientific studies with mixed results, though they both found some evidence that Alpha BRAIN improved verbal memory scores. If you’re looking to improve learning and memory overall with a special focus on being able to restate what you know and are able to track a cycling schedule, this might be a good option for you.

You can learn more about Alpha BRAIN and its specific ingredient breakdown in our full review .

Alpha BRAIN pricing

Onnit Alpha BRAIN supplements come in various quantities, with larger orders offering impressive savings. Here’s a look at how their four nootropics price out:

A 30-count bottle of Alpha BRAIN is the only option where you can get a bulk discount. If you buy two bottles, you’ll save 25% ($26.22/bottle, or $52.43 total), and if you order three bottles, you’ll save 30% ($24.47/bottle, or $73.40 total). Both bulk deals give you a free copy of Joe Rogan’s seven-page eBook on his life philosophy and workout routine, but you shouldn’t let the free gift sway you — you can find the PDF for free elsewhere on the Onnit site.

You can also get a 15% discount as a member of the military, first responder, or medical provider, though you’ll need to verify your identity at checkout with an ID the first time you want to use this discount.

Shipping from Onnit is free on orders over $150. Otherwise, shipping varies depending on your location; our testers found it averaged between $7 and $11.

If you know where to look, you can also get a free trial of Alpha BRAIN . Onnit will give you a 30-count bottle of Alpha BRAIN for just the cost of shipping and sales tax, though it’s slightly hidden on Alpha BRAIN’s webpage. Onnit also features the second-best return policy on our list with an extra twist — you have 90 days to return any bottles that are at least half-full for a full refund. If you ordered a 30-count bottle for your first purchase and didn’t love it, Onnit will give you a full refund for the bottle without asking you to return it within that same 90-day window.

Alternatives to nootropic supplements

Your brain is the control center of the rest of your body, but there’s a two-way connection. What you eat, how you sleep, and hundreds of other small decisions influence how well your brain works. Not every factor is something you can control — as much as we might like to, there’s no stopping aging — but there are still plenty of things you can control. Improving other areas of your health will also often improve your daily cognitive functioning.

Generally, we first recommend checking in on your daily habits (are you sleeping and eating enough? Are you getting time outside?) and making lifestyle changes if you’re otherwise healthy. Adding supplements like vitamins, minerals, and individual nootropic ingredients is also a good bet if you’re struggling without an identifiable cause — especially B and D vitamins, omega-3s, and ashwagandha. And if things don’t get better with nootropics, lifestyle changes, and other vitamins, we encourage you to reach out to your doctor. There may be a more serious underlying cause, and they’ll be able to point you in the right direction.

Supplements

Many of the individual ingredients in nootropics can be purchased on their own as supplements, like ashwagandha, ginseng, vitamins, and minerals, if you’re curious about how a particular supplement works but don’t want to commit to the full ingredient roster (or price) of a nootropic supplement. However, there are a few other kinds of supplements that improve common complaints also addressed by nootropics.

Fatigue can be hugely detrimental to your cognition, making it more difficult to think, recall memories, and convey ideas, and can dampen even great moods. It’s also a common symptom of multiple kinds of vitamin deficiencies — most notably vitamins B and D — so simply taking a vitamin (or multivitamin) supplement for energy can improve your cognition without having to turn to nootropics. (If you still want to try a nootropic but feel like a multivitamin may help you more, try Focus Factor Original.) Otherwise, vitamin supplements are cheaper and safer than nootropics. If a multivitamin isn’t the right step, you can also try a pre-workout supplement, which is designed for muscle building and exercise expansion, rich with amino acids and caffeine; they’re generally safer but less convenient to take, and they may not do much for you if you aren’t working out while you’re taking them.

Omega-3 — found in things like fish oil , algae, and walnuts — is one of the best things you can take for your brain as you get older. One large study in late 2022 found that even among people in their 40s, omega-3 intake correlated almost directly with brain health and structure, altered slightly by APOE genotype. 43 Omega-3 supplements are generally inexpensive and high-quality, as they’ve been around for a significant amount of time and are highly popular. If you aren’t thrilled about the possibility of dealing with fishy burps, NAD+ supplements improve mitochondrial functioning that wanes with age. Since NAD+ is closely linked to vitamin B3, these supplements are generally safer than the botanical blends in nootropics, though they aren’t necessarily less expensive, depending on the brand you choose. (We recommend Renue by Science’s NMN SL sublingual powder, which is easy to take and only about $32.)

However, we recommend not using Prevagen, another nootropic supplement advertised as the best for an aging brain. It only contains a small dose of vitamin D and apoaequorin, a protein found in bioluminescent jellyfish that binds to calcium, which some researchers think may lead to neuronal death in excess. Studies have shown that Prevagen just doesn’t really work. 44

For anxiety and depression

The best ingredients for anxiety and depression in a nootropic supplement are easy to find on their own. Ashwagandha and ginseng are likely to be your best bets, as they have some of the most reliable clinical backings for stress relief.

You may also find success with a GABA supplement , particularly if you struggle with anxiety. However, if you have low blood pressure, you shouldn’t take a GABA supplement. GABA effectively lowers blood pressure, which is situationally great (high anxiety can raise blood pressure, even if you don’t have hypertension), but it can be dangerous if your blood pressure is low at the outset. We think Thorne’s PharmaGABA is the best GABA supplement on the market because of its high efficacy and flexibility. It comes in two doses: 100mg, which will be better for low-level anxiety, and 250mg, which will be better for more moderate anxiety and insomnia.

There aren’t as many non-prescription options for depression as there are for anxiety, and most of them that do exist have some serious problems. 5-HTP, a precursor to serotonin, is one of the bigger names you’ll see, but we hesitate to recommend it because 5-HTP can be toxic, causing serotonin syndrome in high doses. Most studies seem to agree that 5-HTP can alleviate depression symptoms, but these studies are also small.

If you’re struggling with depression, don’t be afraid to reach out to your primary care provider. Most general practitioners will write prescriptions for common SSRI antidepressants like Zoloft, Prozac, and Celexa, so you don’t have to wait for a psychiatrist appointment.

Lifestyle changes

We know: this is the last thing you want to hear. But living through the last few years means you’ve likely picked up some bad habits, experienced extremely high stress levels, or changed your lifestyle completely. It’s worth re-examining your daily routine to find ways you can naturally improve factors that impact cognition. These steps may make a bigger difference for some people than others — it may be more practical to fix your sleep cycle as a college junior than as a new parent — but it’s always going to be faster, safer, and generally better to try making lifestyle changes first.

Getting your eight hours a night is critical for proper brain function. While the exact mechanisms of sleep are still elusive, one theory is that sleep helps “wash” your brain , and medical experts know that your risk of brain disease increases the more sleep debt you get into. And sleep debt is difficult to recover from — even missing just two hours a night during one work-week means you’ll need to sleep an additional ten hours just to catch back up to baseline. Sleep deprivation is also closely tied to poor mental health outcomes and worse higher-level cognitive abilities. 45

Some people find they experience sharper cognition when they eat fewer calories, closer to their basal metabolic rate. Others find they aren’t actually eating enough, and eating more improves their capacity. Researchers have found that people suffering from anorexia nervosa who are underweight have diminished sensorimotor speeds and struggle with forgetting long-term memories, which improve with recovery and weight gain. 46 Different foods can make an impact on our cognitive states, too; our brains need healthy amounts of carbohydrates, protein, and healthy fats in order to function at full capacity.

According to a 2020 meta-analysis, long sessions of coordinated exercises — such as yoga, tai chi, and pilates — are the most beneficial for our brains, particularly if you’re male. 47 The length of time you’re exercising is important here, as longer exercise routines require you to practice your planning, concentration, and willpower abilities, which strengthen the brain beyond the other healthy effects of exercise. 48 The neural benefits of exercise are even greater for people with mild cognitive impairments, as evidenced by a study that also found lower levels of depression and better sleep quality. 49

Psychological researchers agree: touching grass really can make a big difference in your mental health. Exposure to natural settings improves participants’ working memory, cognitive flexibility, and attentional control more than exposure to urban centers, likely due to our long-standing evolutionary ties to natural settings. 50 Even things like air pollution and city noise can decrease your focus and general psychological functioning over time. 51 Spending a few hours in spaces rich in green — whether it’s your backyard, a forest on a long hike — or kayaking down a river can help reset your brain and improve your cognition.

The harmful effects of blue light on our sleep are well established. Sunlight is blue light, and so is the kind that emanates from our screens. Your brain uses blue light to regulate your internal clock; getting too much blue light disrupts your natural melatonin production, making it more difficult to sleep and causing sleep loss, which dramatically affects cognition. Using blue light filters (built into iPhones and with downloadable programs for computers) and wearing blue light glasses can help diminish blue light’s effects, but minimizing screen time — especially in the two hours before bedtime — makes the biggest difference.

Our testers all listen to music regularly while they work and find it makes a big difference in their ability to focus. Studies generally agree: background music improves attention scores, with a few caveats. The best music to listen to if you want to improve your attention is generally low-energy music without lyrics that you already know. 52 53 Genre doesn’t matter, but anything that you dislike — or enjoy — too much can be distracting. 54 Both scientists and musicians are picking up on this, and new concepts like binaural beats (providing slightly different tones to each ear in stereo) are starting to pop up, but note that familiarity is still one of the most important parts that makes music effective. 55

Focus Factor had the right idea when the company decided to release a cognitive training and diary app alongside supplements. Cognitive training through electronic games has been around as long as the technology it runs on, and many companies make huge claims about what their apps can help with (including things like ADHD, PTSD, Alzheimer’s, and dementia). However, a 2017 meta-analysis looking at almost 8,000 studies found only two brain training programs had more than one study in their favor (BrainHQ and CogniFit), and there’s no evidence to support them as a preventative or treatment strategy. 56 Ultimately, playing brain games won’t make a huge difference in your cognition, but it can help you flex some skills better than another round of Candy Crush.

See a doctor

Whether you’re struggling with mild depression or the signs of early dementia, nootropics might help, but they aren’t a cure. We always recommend talking to a doctor before trying any supplements, especially nootropics, as there may be an underlying cause for your brain fog that needs to be professionally treated.

Depending on your experiences, you may be given:

• Stimulants like Adderall or Ritalin
• Dopaminergic medications like L-Dopa
• Antidepressants like Paxil
• Anti-anxiety medications like Xanax
• Sleep medications like Ambien

It can be difficult to identify the root cause of cognitive issues because it’s a symptom of hundreds of different conditions, so checking in with a medical professional might help you catch something like hypothyroidism or anemia or, more seriously, something like MS or early-onset Alzheimer’s. You could also be experiencing a vitamin B12 deficiency, depression, or long COVID. A doctor will be able to look at your particular cognitive struggles and give you tests to identify the specific underlying problem. (Again, a nootropic supplement cannot, and will not ever, give a diagnosis, nor will it cure or prevent medical concerns.)

Nootropics FAQ

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No. Like any other supplement, when you stop taking a nootropic, you’ll stop seeing its effects. This doesn’t mean that you’ll lose access to new memories you’ve made, but any cognitive benefits you’ve gained will revert back to how your brain was functioning pre-nootropic. Most studies suggest that it takes 4-6 weeks of consistent use to reach a nootropic’s full potential. Studies also suggest that the effects slowly wear off over the course of one month after stopping if you’ve been taking them for at least six weeks. You can always go back on a nootropic after you’ve stopped taking it, too.

Can nootropics make me smarter?

Taking a nootropic doesn’t mean you’ll wake up a genius after a few weeks (or days). Nootropics can help you stay focused and improve your memory recall abilities, which may make studying easier or help you remember what you learned on your latest Wikipedia deep-dive. But you’ll still have to put in the effort to learn new facts and skills.

Can nootropics treat my ADHD?

Nootropic supplements aren’t a replacement for prescription medications. As a supplement, it’s against the FDA’s rules to state that they can treat or cure (or diagnose, prevent, or mitigate) any diseases and disorders, including those related to your cognitive health like ADHD or Alzheimer’s disease, no matter how mild they are. Nootropics may improve aspects of your cognitive performance, and some ingredients show promise in clinical studies by improving the quality of life of people with dementia, but nothing is proven or guaranteed. If you’re struggling with your mental health, we strongly recommend reaching out to a psychiatrist or your general physician first.

Is it possible to build your own nootropic?

Not only is it possible, but many people prefer building their own nootropics from individual ingredients. This is called building a “stack,” or a combination of ingredients much like one you’d find in a traditional nootropic supplement. There are pros and cons to this strategy.

On the negative side:

• You’d have to do the research to determine the proper dose.
• This approach sometimes involves swallowing many pills.
• Your safety isn’t as guaranteed as it is with a trusted nootropic manufacturer who’s done the right testing or formulated its product with proper caution and respect for what clinical studies have shown.

But it does mean you can choose to take only the ingredients that work well for you, which is always a good approach. Since it can be a little tricky to identify what does and doesn’t work, we recommend finding single-ingredient supplements from trusted manufacturers like Nootropic Depot through companies like iHerb, where you can order all of your ingredients in one place.

How do you pronounce “nootropic” anyway?

The term nootropic comes from two Greek words: nous , meaning mind or intelligence, and tropikos , meaning turning or changing. (That means that nootropic roughly translates to “mind-changing.”) Noo - sounds like “new,” and -tropic would rhyme with “toe-pick.”

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