Cognitive enhancers are natural or synthetic substances that are taken with the intention of boosting mental performance amongst healthy people. They are very popular in today’s society and are used to boost memory, creativity, focus, intellect, and motivation.
The Best Cognitive Enhancers And How They Enhance Performance
Caffeine
This is a naturally occurring chemical that proliferates one’s vigilance, attention, and reduces the reaction times. It is an extensively used psychoactive substance in the world today.
It is found in coffee, tea, kola nuts, cocoa, and guarana. It is also an additive in sodas, some medications, and some energy drinks. Sometimes it is taken as supplement independently or with other substances.
It works by obstructing adenosine receptors in one’s brain thus reducing fatigue. Low moderate doses boosts concentration and attention.
L-theanine
This is an amino acid found mainly in tea. It intensifies the feeling of tranquillity and also linked to advancing creativity. Its effectiveness is enhanced when combined with caffeine. L-theanine can also be taken as a supplement. In low doses it causes a calming effect with no sleepiness. In large doses found in like in two cups of tea, it increases the alpha-waves in the brain which are associated with creativity.
Its effectiveness is boosted when taken with caffeine. In this regard, they are mostly used together as performing-enhancing supplements.
Creatine
This is another amino acid used in boosting short-term memory and intellectual skills. More effective amongst vegetarians and stressed persons. It is a common bodybuilding supplement that stimulates muscle growth but is also good for the brain.
After consumption, it enters the brain where it combines with phosphate and creates a molecule that the brain then uses speedily to fuel its cells. The enhanced brain energy explains the improved short-term memory and cognitive skills.
Bacopa Monnieri
It is an herbal supplement that fosters memory and information processing when taken over a period of time. It contains active compounds known as bacosides that guard the brain from any oxidative stress and improves signalling process in the hippocampus.
Rhodiola Rosea
It is a natural herb that can help your body acclimatize to periods of high stress and aid reduce mental fatigue. Supplements of Rhodiola Rosea can improve the mood and reduce the feelings of burn out in anxious and stressed individuals. Common amongst students during exam periods.
Panax Ginseng
It is an olden medicinal plant used to boost brain function. In medium doses the cognitive enhancer reduces brain fatigue and considerably improve the performance on difficult tasks. The strong anti-inflammatory effects of the drug is what enhances the brain function by protecting the brain from oxidative stress.
Ginkgo Biloba
This is a cognitive enhancers that improves memory and mental processing and highly beneficial during stressful times. They are extracts from leaves of the Ginkgo biloba tree which have positive effects on the brain. They boost the memory and intellectual processing among older adults when taken daily for more than six weeks.
Nicotine
It is a naturally occurring chemical that increases attentiveness, concentration, and motor functions. Nicotine is found in plants especially tobacco. It is very addictive and toxic as well. It can be ingested through nicotine gum or skin absorption from nicotine patches.
Its immediate effects include heightened alertness and devotion among people with concentration issues. Owing to the addiction issue, nicotine is not recommended for use. But it is accepted when trying to quit smoking.
Noopept
This is a fast-acting nootropic that improves the memory by increasing the brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) levels in one’s brain. The BDNF encourages the growth of brain cells. The impact of noopept can be felt immediately as compared to other nootropic stacks. Most used amongst patients with brain injuries.
Piracetam
This is a nootropic supplement that has shown the capability to boost memory in people with age-related mental issues.
Phenotropil
Also called phenylpiracetam. It is a synthetic smart drug that is extensively available over the counter. Helps for brain recovery from major injuries like stroke, trauma, and epilepsy.
Modafinil (Provigil)
This is a prescription drug used mostly to treat narcolepsy. Has similar effects like cocaine. It reduces fatigue and boost memory amongst sleep-deprived adults.
These are some of the top cognitive enhancers that have been used widely for the best results!
