Cognitive function can be influenced by sleep, nutrition, stress and everyday habits. Researchers have also investigated a range of naturally occurring compounds in relation to attention and memory, although the evidence varies considerably between ingredients and further research is needed.
Often described as nootropics, these ingredients have attracted research interest because of their possible relationship with different aspects of cognitive function. This guide examines the available evidence, including its strengths, limitations and areas where further research is needed.
What are nootropics?
“Nootropic” is an informal term commonly used for substances studied in relation to aspects of cognition, such as attention, memory and learning. The category can include synthetic compounds, botanical extracts and certain mushroom-derived ingredients.
Research findings vary considerably by ingredient, preparation, dose and population. The term itself does not establish that a substance is effective or safe.
Research into substances described as nootropics has examined biological processes associated with cognition, including:
- Neurotransmitter signalling associated with attention and learning
- Neurotrophic factors involved in neuronal function and plasticity
- Cellular energy metabolism
- Oxidative processes
The evidence depends on the ingredient.
Three researched ingredients
01
Lion’s Mane Hericium erinaceus
Lion’s Mane is an edible mushroom that has attracted research interest in neurological and cognitive contexts.
It contains naturally occurring compounds known as hericenones and erinacines. These have been studied in laboratory and animal research in connection with nerve growth factor. A small randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled human study also investigated Lion’s Mane in adults with mild cognitive impairment.1
02
Bacopa Monnieri Brahmi
Bacopa monnieri is a botanical with a history of use in Ayurvedic traditions and has been studied in relation to cognition. It contains compounds known as bacosides, which have been investigated in research concerning neurotransmitter signalling and oxidative processes.
Human studies have assessed particular standardised Bacopa extracts over periods commonly ranging from 8 to 12 weeks, using measures such as memory recall and information processing. Findings vary according to the extract, dose, study design and population examined.2
03
Cordyceps C. militaris / C. sinensis
Cordyceps is a fungus with a history of traditional use and has attracted research interest in energy metabolism and exercise performance.
Research has examined pathways involving ATP, the primary energy-carrying molecule in cells. Certain preparations have also been studied using measures of oxygen utilisation, exercise tolerance and fatigue. Research interest has focused more on energy metabolism and physical performance than on cognitive outcomes.3
How have they been studied?
Research on some natural ingredients has assessed repeated use over several weeks rather than immediate effects. Findings for one species, extract, dose or population cannot automatically be applied to another preparation or finished product.
Nootropics and daily performance
Working patterns, sleep quality, stress and daily routines can all influence experiences of focus and mental fatigue. Products described as natural nootropics are increasingly discussed within broader wellness routines.
Consumer and scientific interest commonly centres on:
- Attention and concentration
- Memory and learning
- Cognitive performance
- Mental fatigue
- The role of daily habits in cognition
Preliminary human research is available for some ingredients, but evidence varies considerably. Sleep, nutrition, movement, stress management and other lifestyle factors remain important influences on cognitive performance.
Key takeaways
- “Nootropic” is an informal term covering many different substances.
- Lion’s Mane, Bacopa and Cordyceps have been examined in different areas of laboratory and human research.
- Evidence for one species, extract, dose or population cannot automatically be applied to another product.
- Research on some preparations has assessed repeated use over several weeks.
- Evidence varies between ingredients, and research on a finished combination may be limited.
- Sleep, nutrition, stress and daily habits can also influence cognitive performance.
References
- Mori K, Inatomi S, Ouchi K, Azumi Y, Tuchida T. (2009). Improving effects of the mushroom Yamabushitake (Hericium erinaceus) on mild cognitive impairment: a double-blind placebo-controlled clinical trial. Phytotherapy Research, 23(3), 367–372.
- Stough C, Lloyd J, Clarke J, et al. (2001). The chronic effects of an extract of Bacopa monniera (Brahmi) on cognitive function in healthy human subjects. Psychopharmacology, 156(4), 481–484.
- Hirsch KR, Smith-Ryan AE, Roelofs EJ, Trexler ET, Mock MG. (2017). Cordyceps militaris improves tolerance to high-intensity exercise after acute and chronic supplementation. Journal of Dietary Supplements, 14(1), 42–53.
