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Nootropics are so-called "smart drugs." The word derives from noos or
mind and tropos to bend. Proponents claim that these substances enhance
mental performance in a variety of ways, for example by enhancing
cognition, memory, oxygen and glucose utilization or blood
circulation in the brain.
Some classic examples of nootropics are:
Similar claims have been made for a variety of stimulants such as:
Acetylcholinesterase inhibitors and acetylcholine precursors - two class of drugs/supplements which have demonstrated nootropic effects at certain dosages:
- Alpha-GPC (L-alpha glycerylphosphorylcholine, Choline alfoscerate) - most effective choline precursor, readily crosses the blood-brain barrier
- Huperzine A - potent acetylcholinesterase inhibitor
- CDP-Choline (Cytidine Diphosphate Choline) - choline precursor, a more economical alternative to Alpha GPC
CAUTION: Excess acetylcholine can be potentially harmful.
Herbs that exhibit nootropic effects:
External links
General pages on nootropics:
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