What Are Nootropics?
Nootropics, often referred to as "smart drugs" or cognitive enhancers, are substances that can help improve brain performance. These can be natural or synthetic compounds that enhance functions like memory, creativity, focus, and overall cognitive processing. Whether you're studying, working on a creative project, or simply looking to stay sharp, nootropics can provide that extra edge. At Grown Folks 502, we focus on the integration of nootropic benefits with cannabis to enhance cognitive growth and well-being.
Popular Food and Drink-based Nootropics
List of popular food and drink-based nootropics, their uses, and the desired cognitive-enhancing effects
Coffee
(Caffeine)
Source:
Coffee beans, black/green tea, yerba mate, energy drinks.
Uses:
Boosting alertness and focus.
Combating fatigue and improving mental energy.
Desired Effects:
Increased attention and concentration.
Enhanced mood and motivation.
Improved reaction time.
Matcha
(L-Theanine + Caffeine)
Source:
Powdered green tea leaves.
Uses:
Promoting calm focus and relaxation while staying alert.
Desired Effects:
Synergistic effect for relaxation without drowsiness.
Enhanced memory and mental clarity.
Reduced stress and anxiety.
Dark Chocolate
(Cocoa Flavanols)
Source:
High-quality dark chocolate, raw cacao.
Uses:
Supporting mood, memory, and blood flow to the brain.
Desired Effects:
Improved cognitive function and focus.
Elevated mood and reduced stress.
Enhanced mental stamina through better oxygen delivery to the brain.
Blueberries (Anthocyanins)
Source:
Fresh or frozen blueberries, blueberry extracts.
Uses:
Protecting against oxidative stress and cognitive decline.
Desired Effects:
Enhanced memory and learning.
Improved brain health over time.
Protection against age-related cognitive issues.
Turmeric
(Curcumin)
Source:
Fresh turmeric root, turmeric powder, or golden milk.
Uses:
Supporting anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activity in the brain.
Desired Effects:
Improved memory and reduced brain fog.
Possible protection against neurodegenerative diseases.
Better mood and reduced symptoms of depression.
Beet Juice
(Nitrates)
Source:
Source: Fresh beetroot juice, beet powder, or roasted beets.
Uses:
Enhancing blood flow to the brain.
Desired Effects:
Increased mental stamina and focus.
Improved cognitive performance under stress or fatigue.
Better endurance for both mental and physical tasks.
Walnuts
(Omega-3 Fatty Acids and Polyphenols)
Source:
Raw or roasted walnuts.
Uses:
Supporting long-term brain health.
Desired Effects:
Improved memory and learning.
Neuroprotection and reduced risk of neurodegenerative diseases.
Enhanced mood stability.
Green Tea
(L-Theanine)
Source:
Brewed green tea leaves.
Uses:
Promoting relaxation and focus without jitteriness.
Desired Effects:
Calm and sustained attention.
Reduced stress and anxiety.
Enhanced creative thinking and focus.
Eggs
(Choline)
Source:
Egg yolks.
Uses:
Supporting acetylcholine production, critical for memory and learning.
Desired Effects:
Enhanced memory and recall.
Better focus and cognitive flexibility.
Spinach
(Folate and Antioxidants)
Source:
Fresh spinach leaves, cooked or raw.
Uses:
Supporting neurotransmitter production and brain health.
Desired Effects:
Enhanced mood and cognitive function.
Protection against cognitive decline.
Kombucha
(Probiotics)
Source:
Fermented tea.
Uses:
Supporting gut-brain axis health.
Desired Effects:
Improved mood and mental clarity.
Enhanced energy levels.
Reduced symptoms of stress and brain fog.
Water
(Hydration)
Source:
Clean drinking water.
Uses:
Maintaining proper cognitive and physical function.
Desired Effects:
Improved attention and mental clarity.
Reduced fatigue and brain fog.
Natural Nootropics Supplements
Below, we explore some of the most popular natural nootropics supplements along with their potential uses. While our focus is on effective over-the-counter supplements, it is important to remember that even over-the-counter supplements can be abused and/or cause harm. We give NO medical advice, but we are sharing three key ideas we believe when exploring nootropic supplements.
We believe:
Inviting a primary care physician onto the wellness journey is a safer way to explore any supplement.
Following the physician's guidance AND understanding and adhering to the manufacturer's instructions label is the best way to utilize any supplement.
Staying informed about these products, any recalls or safety issues, changes in ingredients, etc. is an intelligent way to assist yourself in managing use of supplements.
Ginkgo Biloba
Ginkgo Biloba is derived from the leaves of the Ginkgo tree and has been used for centuries in traditional medicine.
It is known to improve blood circulation in the brain, enhance memory, and reduce symptoms of anxiety and mental fatigue.
Bacopa Monnieri
Bacopa is a herb used in Ayurvedic medicine that has adaptogenic and cognitive-boosting properties.
It supports memory retention, learning ability, and helps reduce stress by regulating cortisol levels.
Rhodiola Rosea
An adaptogenic herb found in cold regions, Rhodiola helps the body adapt to stress.
Potential Use: It is known to reduce fatigue, improve focus, and enhance mental clarity, especially during periods of high stress.
Ashwagandha
Another popular adaptogen used in Ayurvedic medicine, Ashwagandha supports overall well-being.
It helps reduce anxiety, promotes relaxation, and improves focus by balancing stress hormones.
Lion's Mane Mushroom
Lion's Mane is a medicinal mushroom with neuroprotective properties that supports nerve growth.
It boosts memory, reduces cognitive decline, and supports brain plasticity, making it ideal for long-term cognitive health.
Panax Ginseng
Panax Ginseng is a traditional herbal remedy known for its stimulating effects on mental energy.
It enhances mental function, increases alertness, and may improve reaction time and mood.
L-Theanine
Found in green tea, L-Theanine is an amino acid that promotes relaxation without causing drowsiness.
It enhances focus and relaxation, often combined with caffeine for a balanced, smooth energy boost.
Curcumin
(from Turmeric)
Curcumin is the active compound in turmeric, known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects.
It may help improve mood, reduce brain inflammation, and enhance overall cognitive function.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
(DHA & EPA)
Omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish oil, are essential for brain health and cognitive function.
They support memory, reduce age-related cognitive decline, and help maintain brain cell integrity.
Ginseng & Ginkgo Combination
A combination of Ginseng and Ginkgo Biloba that offers a synergistic effect for mental performance.
It boosts memory, improves concentration, and reduces mental fatigue more effectively than using each separately.
These brands are not endorsed by Grown Folks 502 nor do they have any affiliation or sponsorship with Grown Folks 502. We are utilizing these brands as an example of what is commonly seen on supermarket, drugstore, & wellness stores shelves as well as online marketplaces such as Amazon, Ebay, and Walmart. Most brands have their own very informative websites with their own stores. Although we attempt to be up to date with the most credible information, we can make mistakes AND we encourage everyone to
DO YOUR OWN RESEARCH.
We appreciate each company for allowing us to use them as an example on this information page.
Popular prescription nootropics, along with their uses and common desired effects
Prescription nootropics are substances prescribed by healthcare providers to treat specific medical conditions but are also known for their cognitive-enhancing effects.
Note: Although, our focus is on OTC supplements, we feel all credible information on nootropics is valuable.
*Prescription nootropics are intended to treat medical conditions and should only be used under medical supervision.
**Off-label use or misuse of these medications can lead to side effects, dependency, or other health risks.
Wakefulness and Attention Enhancers
Modafinil (Provigil)
Indications: Narcolepsy, sleep apnea, shift work sleep disorder.
Cognitive Effects: Enhanced alertness, focus, and resistance to fatigue.
Armodafinil (Nuvigil)
Indications: Similar to Modafinil, used for narcolepsy and sleep disorders.
Cognitive Effects: Longer-lasting alertness and wakefulness compared to Modafinil.
Adderall (Mixed Amphetamine Salts)
Indications: Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), narcolepsy.
Cognitive Effects: Increased focus, attention, and mental energy.
Methylphenidate (Ritalin, Concerta)
Indications: ADHD, narcolepsy.
Cognitive Effects: Improved concentration, focus, and cognitive performance.
Cognitive Performance and Focus
Atomoxetine (Strattera)
Indications: ADHD.
Cognitive Effects: Enhanced attention and
focus, non-stimulant.
Clonidine and Guanfacine (Intuniv, Kapvay)
Indications: ADHD (often for children),
hypertension.
Cognitive Effects: Improved focus, reduced
hyperactivity and impulsivity.
Memory and Neuroprotection
Donepezil (Aricept)
Indications: Alzheimer’s disease and dementia.
Cognitive Effects: Enhanced memory retention and neuroprotection.
Galantamine
Indications: Alzheimer’s disease.
Cognitive Effects: Boosted memory and learning, often associated with lucid dreaming.
Memantine (Namenda)
Indications: Moderate to severe Alzheimer’s disease.
Cognitive Effects: Slows cognitive decline and preserves function in neurodegenerative conditions.
Anxiolytics with
Cognitive Benefits
Benzodiazepines (e.g., Clonazepam, Alprazolam)
Indications: Anxiety, panic disorders,
seizures.
Cognitive Effects: Reduced anxiety and
improved focus in short-term use
(long-term use can impair memory).
Buspirone
Indications: Generalized Anxiety Disorder
(GAD).
Cognitive Effects: Improved clarity and
reduced stress.
Cognitive Enhancers for Neurological Conditions
Selegiline (Eldepryl, Zelapar)
Indications: Parkinson’s disease, depression
(off-label use for cognitive enhancement).
Cognitive Effects: Neuroprotection,
improved focus and memory.
Rasagiline (Azilect)
Indications: Parkinson’s disease.
Cognitive Effects: Neuroprotective
properties, supports dopamine regulation.
Nootropic Research Links
National Institutes of Health
