Science-Backed Nootropics: Enhancing Memory and Focus Naturally

Nootropics. Cognitive enhancers. Smart drugs. These synonyms describe drugs believed to enhance cognitive function; including memory, creativity, motivation, and executive function. The term “nootropics” was coined in 1964 by a Romanian psychologist and chemist named Corneliu E. Giurgea. He defined them as drugs that enhance learning and memory while being safe and non-toxic, a definition that continues to be widely accepted¹.

This article aims to provide an overview of some of the more commonly used nootropics. It will explore the scientific evidence for their benefits and some words of warning. A summary table of additional compounds can be found at the end of the article (click here to skip ahead). Any use of nootropics should be discussed with a healthcare provider and done so with adequate research to weigh the risks and benefits.

Nootropics Growing Popularity

The use of nootropics has become increasingly popular. Many turn to these drugs as a shortcut to improve focus and learning capacity. As such, nootropic supplements are becoming widely available and increasingly used.

Dietary supplements are perhaps the most common type of nootropics. Worryingly, the use of prescription drugs as study aids is also a growing trend. A survey of UK students found that 19% had taken study drugs, such as Modafinil, Adderall, and Ritalin, during their academic careers².

While some nootropics have been extensively studied, and have demonstrated cognitive benefits, the evidence for many others is inconclusive or lacking. It is also important to note that many nootropics can have adverse effects and may interact with other medications or health conditions³.

Caffeine

Among the most commonly used nootropics is caffeine, a well-known stimulant found in coffee, tea, and other beverages. Caffeine works by antagonising adenosine receptors in the brain, leading to increased feelings of alertness and wakefulness. However, long-term caffeine use can lead to desensitisation and reduced stimulating effects. To overcome tolerance, it is recommended to minimise caffeine intake or take a caffeine-free break every few months⁴.

Creatine

The most common supplement in the fitness industry, creatine monohydrate, is another nootropic that may improve short-term memory. Creatine is a non-essential amino acid synthesised in the liver, kidneys, and pancreas. It is used to produce adenosine triphosphate (ATP), the foundational compound for energy production in the human body. ATP is the energy substrate that drives most processes within living cells, including muscle contraction, nerve impulse propagation, and chemical synthesis⁵ ⁶.

Nicotine

Another nootropic with strong evidence for improving attention, cognition, short-term memory, and working memory, is nicotine. This well studied drug acts as a stimulant of the cholinergic system. This system regulates a range of brain functions through acetylcholine receptors. Smoking and vaping are associated with high-risk side effects, such as lung cancer. However, nicotine can also be delivered via gum, patches, tablets, lozenges, and mouth sprays. Ongoing studies, such as the Memory Improvement Through Nicotine Dosing (MIND) study, are assessing the effectiveness of nicotine supplementation via a patch for older adults with mild cognitive impairment⁷.

L-Theanine

L-theanine, an amino acid found in tea, especially green tea, is also considered a nootropic due to its role in promoting relaxation without causing drowsiness. Studies have shown that L-theanine can improve sleep quality and exhibit mild cognitive-enhancing effects. L-theanine has been found to temper the effects of caffeine. It especially attenuates caffeine’s impact on blood pressure, and has been suggested to elicit more sustained attention compared to caffeine alone. However, more research is needed to justify its use clinically in chronic stress. Higher doses of L-theanine can impair fine motor skills and amplify the sedating effects of alcohol and hypnotics⁸ ⁹.

TLDR;

In conclusion, the potential benefits of nootropics can be alluring. However, it is essential to remember that the evidence supporting their use is still evolving. Nootropics, as with all drugs, come with risks and side effects. Before you consider supplementation with any of the compounds discussed in this article, it is recommended that you consult with a healthcare professional. Always evaluate the potential benefits and risks for your specific situation. Additionally, it is worth noting that non-supplementation alternatives are available for improving cognitive function. You should explore meditation, brain-training, exercise, sleep, and social connection as other memory enhancing tools. These methods are safe and effective in enhancing overall brain health. Have a look at our introductory guides on meditation and sleep to learn more.

Overview: Nootropic Pro’s & Con’s

Nootropic	Benefits	Evidence	Side Effects
Bacopa Monnieri	Improved cognition, stress relief, vitality	Inconsistent effect on memory improvement	GI side effects when taken on an empty stomach; anxiolytic effects
Rhodiola Rosea	Reduced stress and fatigue, increased mental performance, potential anti-ageing and anti-cancer effects	Adverse effects reportedly rare; interacts with liver enzymes, raising potential for drug interactions
Panax Ginseng	Mood, cognition, and immunity	Slight improvement in attention and cognition	GI side effects
Ginkgo Biloba	Improved cognitive function, particularly in people with dementia	There is inconclusive evidence for benefit in healthy individuals; some studies suggest increased bleeding risk and rare reports of seizures in people with epilepsy.	Potential carcinogen in some rodent trials
Noopept	Brain health, neuroprotection	Derived from studies on rodents with brain damage	Risk of sleep disturbance, irritability, increased blood pressure
Piracetam and other racetams	Improved cognitive function in people with cognitive decline	No evidence for benefit in healthy individuals
Phenotropil (Phenylpiracetam)	More neuroprotective than piracetam, effective in tempering cognitive decline
CDP-choline	Attenuate cognitive decline, neuroprotective, enhances learning.	Comparable potency to alpha-GPC
Modafinil, Adderall (amphetamines), Ritalin (methylphenidate)	Cognitive enhancement, focus, increased alertness		Adverse effects include addiction, anxiety, irritability, and potential for abuse.

References

[NB. All images created using MidJourney]

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