Nootropics - Gamechanger for your brain

Noo-what? The word nootropic is derived from ancient Greek: nóos means "mind", tropḗ "manner". Nootropics are a somewhat fuzzily defined term; it is used in pharmacology as well as in the fields of well-being and selfcare. Basically, nootropics refer to substances and supplements that have a positive effect on the central nervous system and thus on your concentration and focus. Or in other words: true gamechangers for your brain!

Nootropics are becoming increasingly important due to their properties to increase memory, concentration, creativity and motivation. We have analyzed these substances for you in more detail and have taken a closer look at 4 special nootropics for you. 🔍

The benefits of nootropics at a glance

The term nootropics refers to a wide range of supplements and substances that may be taken to improve brain function and your well-being. The term includes synthetically produced compounds, nutrients, vitamins, minerals, as well as neurotransmitters. 

Nootropics have been shown to improve your brain function by affecting a number of physiological processes. They act to support nerve transmission, intracellular signaling, and various molecular processes. As a result, this can improve cognition, memory, and learning. Many nootropics may also improve the production of proteins that are neuroprotective and promote the health of your brain. 

Although it remains a myth that nootropics will increase your IQ and boost your intelligence. Still, some nootropics can have a major impact on brain function. This is where the combination of the right ingredients and your routines play an important role.

Which nootropics exist?

The best known herbal nootropics are ingredients such as Ginkgo Biloba, Lion's Mane, Panax Ginseng and Rhodiola Rosea. B vitamins, citicoline, and GABA are also substances that are often associated with boosting your performance. Therefore, they are important building blocks of your Braincare routine. 

For some of these effective substances we have compiled the most important information for you:

1. Citicolin - Better Focus

Citicoline (sometimes referred to as CDP choline) is a naturally occurring molecule that is essential for key neuronal functions. In particular, for those functions related to cognition, learning, and memory. This is because citicoline is rapidly converted to choline in the body. Choline is an important precursor molecule used for the synthesis of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine. Acetylcholine is essential for your attention and alertness. It plays a role in the cholinergic system of neurons because it is involved in numerous aspects of concentration, learning, and memory. Citicoline, unlike some other nootropic substances, is subject to fairly rigorous scientific investigation. This means that effects, efficacy, safety and optimal use are already well researched.

2. Lion’s Mane - Adaptogen for concentration

Lion's Mane consists of many minerals and trace elements, such as iron, magnesium, zinc, phosphorus and selenium. The power mushroom also contains so-called adaptogens. They have the function to adapt to specific needs of the body. Adaptogens stimulate the hormonal activity of the body to improve bodily functions and overall health. They help our body fight the effects of stressors, reducing oxidative stress. Lion's Mane offers benefits beyond that, as this adaptogenic mushroom has two unique compounds, Hericenone and Erinacine, which can stimulate brain cell growth.

3. Ginkgo Biloba - Gehirnfunktion verbessern 

Ginkgo Biloba has a very high level of antioxidants. The active components of Ginkgo are flavonoids, terpenoids and ginkgolides. The high concentration of flavonoids and terpenoids, are responsible for the strong antioxidant effect. These antioxidants neutralize the harmful effects of free radicals. 

Ginkgo constituents can also inhibit the harmful neurotoxicity and death of nerve cells caused by nitric oxide. Ginkgo Biloba can be taken as a supplement to improve age-related memory loss and cognitive decline. Studies have focused on older people with Alzheimer's disease and vascular dementia, with many showing positive effects on cognitive symptoms and memory. Studies suggest that ginkgo helps maintain mental well-being by supporting memory during times of increased stress. It may also support blood circulation, which has been linked to brain performance and responsiveness.

4. Vitamin B - Boost mental performance

B vitamins are at the heart of your braincare routine for boosting your mental performance. These vitamins are essential for a number of important cellular processes. Without them, both our brains and our bodies can suffer. In terms of mental performance, there are a number of important B vitamins that we need to consume in sufficient amounts to maintain optimal cognitive performance. Thiamine (vitamin B1) and cobalamin (vitamin B12) play a crucial role here. 

Thiamine (vitamin B1) 

Thiamine (or vitamin B1) is an essential component of mitochondrial metabolism. Mitochondria are the power plants of our cells, as they produce energy molecules that are necessary for the operation of our cells, so to speak. Thiamine is also necessary for the production of the enzymes required for the production of numerous neurotransmitters. Research has shown that thiamine deficiency may severely impair brain function. In particular, prolonged deficiency can lead to decreased cognitive performance and increased neuron death. Studies suggest that thiamine may play a role in regulating the primary balance between excitatory (glutamate) and inhibitory (GABA) neurotransmitters in the brain. These two neurotransmitters work together to produce a balanced level of neuronal activity. Thus, many people report a noticeable improvement in mental clarity and energy after taking supplements with vitamin B1.

Cobalamin (Vitamin B12)

Cobalamin (or vitamin B12) has several important roles in our brain. It is known that the vitamin is essential for the synthesis of DNA and RNA, which control the production of key proteins and neurotransmitters.

In addition, research has shown the importance of B12 in regulating and maintaining the fatty substance known as myelin, which surrounds the axons that neurons use to communicate. Cobalamin has been shown to help regulate important neurotransmitters such as serotonin, GABA and dopamine. This has a positive effect on mood, reduces anxiety, provides mental clarity, and allows us to take full advantage of our cognitive abilities. Various studies have shown that even a small deficit can lead to accelerated cognitive decline. Thus, it is important to maintain an optimal level of B12.

Which nootropics are right for me?

Nootropics are often very complex and it's hard to keep track of all of them. With nootropics, the same applies as with all supplements: check the dosages (NRV), the bioavailability of the nutrients used and the combination of ingredients. 

To make your choice a little easier, we have created a Supplement 101 - Guide, where you can get more detailed tips for the right choice. 

In our NOUMEN Braincare supplement we use the nootropics Lion's Mane, Citicoline (CDP Choline), Ginkgo Biloba, and a number of essential B vitamins. With a long-term intake you can thus benefit from the far-reaching advantages and optimize your performance.