Citicoline is a cholinergic and a direct precursor to acetylcholine and phosphatidylcholine. Clinical studies show significant improvements in executive cognitive performance following citicoline consumption, largely due to greater acetylcholine availability. Citicoline also increases phosphatidylcholine levels. This is a vital component of brain cell membranes. The compound has also been found to have anti-apoptotic effects in rat neurons, and it may increase brain cell metabolism by potentiating mitochondria activity.

The bioactive nootropics in Rhodiola Rosea likely have multiple simultaneous mechanisms of action. Studies have shown that salidroside modulates the HPA axis stress response, as well as potentially supporting long-term potentiation in the hippocampus and preventing cerebral apoptosis. Rosavin primarily works by inhibiting degradation enzymes to support neurotransmitters in the brain, lowering stress and improving mood. Specifically, rosavin appears to inhibit the enzymes which break down monoamine neurotransmitters such as serotonin and dopamine, which largely control mood and stress levels.

Bacopa monnieri is one of the most interesting ingredients in Nooceptin because its exact mechanism of action is still debated. Given the available clinical research, it is likely that Bacopa’s effects on memory are largely down to its ability to promote dendrite outgrowth. Each neuron connects to another neuron’s synapse via dendrites. These are appendages which appear like branches growing from the end of your neuron. They receive the electrical signals which carry information from one neuron to the next. The bacosides in Bacopa monnieri appear to stimulate the growth of these dendrite branches (a process called dendritic arborization), thereby increasing the number of connection points between neurons. Rodent studies showed this effect to be particularly strong in the hippocampus; the area of the brain most associated with memory function. Clinical research has suggested several other mechanisms of action of bacopa monnieri, from an antioxidant effect to neurotransmitter modulation to an adaptogenic effect. One study found that bacopa monnieri increased BDNF levels in the brain. It is likely that all of these mechanisms are at play simultaneously.

Theanine is an amino acid present in large quantities in tea leaves, as well as in smaller amounts in other plants. Dozens of clinical studies have shown that taking large doses of theanine can have significant effects on cognitive performance. One of the main things Theanine does is increase levels of serotonin, dopamine and GABA in the brain. These neurotransmitters promote relaxation and a positive mood. GABA in particular has a powerful relaxing and anti-anxiety effect since it is the main inhibitory neurotransmitter in humans. There is also evidence that consuming sizable doses of L-Theanine promotes Alpha Brain Waves, which are known to coincide with calm, clear-headed focus and low anxiety levels. These effects are why Theanine is known to counter the worst side effects of caffeine. By promoting GABA and Alpha Brain Waves, Theanine calms the CNS, preventing the jitters and anxiety that come with caffeine consumption.

Ginkgo biloba is a uniquely rich source of two potent nootropic compounds - glycosides and terpenes. Together these compounds increase blood flow to the brain by both lowering blood viscosity in the brain and by dilating cerebral blood vessels. The result is far better circulation within the brain, meaning your brain tissues get more oxygen, nutrients, and nootropics delivered to them. Multiple studies show significant improvements in cognitive performance immediately following the administration of Ginkgo biloba (when using extracts rich in glycosides and terpenes). As well as immediate improvements in focus, learning and mental energy, Ginkgo biloba supports long-term memory function when taken daily over long periods. Some people have suggested that Ginkgo biloba may be effective for treating age-related cognitive decline that has a vascular cause (i.e. blood restriction). There is no direct evidence for this. If you are suffering from cognitive impairment, speak to a healthcare professional.

Lion’s Mane Extract is one of the most effective natural nootropics for supporting cognitive performance over the long-term. In fact, when taken daily for prolonged periods, Lion’s Mane can deliver benefits that last long after you stop taking it. Lion’s Mane contains two compounds called erinacines and hericenones, both of which have powerful nootropic properties. Specifically, clinical studies show that erinacines and hericenones consumption can trigger the release of Nerve Growth Factor (NGF) in the brain. NGF controls the growth, maintenance, proliferation, and survival of neurons (especially sympathetic and sensory neurons). In the absence of NGF, neurons die. It is its ability to release NGF that underlies Lion’s Mane’s impressive nootropic effects. Multiple studies show marked improvements in cognitive performance after 12 weeks of consistent Lion’s Mane supplementation.

Panax ginseng is one of the best nootropics for anxiety and stress control, and it is highly effective for protecting brain health over the long-term. First and foremost, Panax Ginseng is an anxiolytic. This means it helps suppress anxiety. Clinical studies have identified ginseng saponin rb1 as one of the key bioactives responsible for this anxiolytic effect. In a 2002 study researchers concluded that “Rb1 can improve memory for a visual discrimination task and that the nootropic effect may be related to changes in anxiety”. Other studies have found that Panax Ginseng can protect the brain from damage caused by free radicals. This matches up with a large scale study looking at 6422 adults which concluded that chronic Panax Ginseng consumption is associated with improved cognitive function later in life.