Nootropics are naturally derived substances that can help to improve cognitive function and contribute to long-term brain health*.
These substances have always been around, but the phrase was coined in 1972 by Corneliu Giurgea and interest in them has increased ever since – especially in recent years. The promise to improve cognitive function whilst increasing resilience to stress has proved a seductive one to our highly strung minds!
You need not look any further than record levels of stress, burnout and anxiety to understand why nootropics have found a permanent home in many of our daily routines.
What is an example of a Nootropic and what are the benefits of taking them?
A good example of a Nootropic that everyone is familiar with is coffee. Coffee is a nootropic because it contains caffeine, which stimulates the central nervous system (brain & spinal cord) and doing so can enhance mood, focus and both mental and physical stamina.
Most commonly Nootropics are used to boost cognitive function; improve memory, concentration, focus and stamina. But they can also help to calm, destress and relax the mind whilst facilitating deeper sleep and recovery.
How do Nootropics work and how can they contribute to long-term brain health?
There are hundreds of substances that could be defined as nootropic & because of this variation, they exert their effects in different ways.
Power of Antioxidants
We demand a lot from our brains. But they demand a lot from us too.
The brain consumes around 20% of our body’s energy on a daily basis. This high energy output means the brain is particularly vulnerable to oxidative damage. Many nootropic compounds have antioxidant properties, meaning they can neutralise ROS (reactive oxygen species) and help protect the brain.
For this reason, our formulas are rich in antioxidants – Bilberry Extract, Vitamin C & E, Zinc, Selenium, Ashwagandha and Rhodiola + more.
Go with the Flow
Our brains also require a healthy flow of blood, oxygen and nutrients for it to function optimally. Some nootropics such as Ginkgo Biloba help to nourish the brain by increasing blood and nutrient flow through the central nervous system. Helping the brain to want for nothing.
A Balancing Act
The pressures of modern-day life can leave our brain & bodies feeling frazzled. Hormone and neurotransmitter imbalances are becoming increasingly common & these can contribute to mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression, insomnia and OCD.
Neurotransmitters are chemical messengers that are essential for brain & body communication. By supplying the body with pre-cursors to these chemicals, it can help stimulate or modulate neurotransmitter synthesis, reducing the risk of imbalance.
An example is the amino acid Tyrosine, which is needed for the synthesis of dopamine and norepinephrine. By increasing the synthesis of these two neurotransmitters, it could help improve one’s mental clarity and focus during stressful periods.
The Stress Epidemic
Stress has a toxic effect on the brain. Long-term exposure to stress has the ability to kill brain cells and even shrink the pre-frontal cortex – the main area that is responsible for cognition.
Nootropics are well known for their enhancing effect on cognitive function, but they are equally capable of calming the brain and protecting it from the impact of stress. An example of this is the amino acid Theanine, found in green tea leaves. Aside from exhibiting strong antioxidant & neuro-protective properties, Theanine promotes calming alpha brain waves which are associated with relaxation and mental tranquillity.
Adaptogenic herbs such as Ashwagandha, Chamomile and Passionflower act as nerve tonics, helping to soothe the brain and adapt to cope with stress more efficiently. They can also help encourage restorative sleep which is paramount to a healthy brain.
Grounded in Research
Developed by Nutritional experts, our formulas are based on the latest research. Using science, we were able to create two powerful Nootropics that deliver on their promises.
During our research we rigorously assessed:
- Quality of Ingredients.
- Quality of Research supporting each Ingredient.
- Where is the Ingredient Sourced From/Is it Sustainable.
- Bioavailability.
- Synergistic with other Ingredients or Antagonistic.
- Quantity of Ingredient vs Efficacy.
The result is two highly synergistic blends of vitamins, minerals, amino acids and essential fatty acids that are vital for mental & physical health. Combined with carefully selected phytonutrients, herbs, and adaptogens that have been used medicinally for generations.
It’s time to Level Up and Unwind.
*In healthy individuals.