For some, the idea of taking drugs to improve cognitive functioning is a frightening proposition. The idea of taking drugs to improve brain power is a concept that has been seen as controversial. However, the vast majority of people agree that the use of cognitive enhancers can be both safe and effective when taken properly. There are many natural options for those who want to enhance their brain power without resorting to synthetic substances. Natural cognitive enhancers are becoming increasingly popular for those who want to increase their focus and motivation without resorting to prescription medication or illegal substances.
The following information looks at some of the most effective natural cognitive enhancers.
Tart Cherries
Also known as sour or pie cherries, tart cherries are rich in melatonin, an antioxidant that protects brain cells. This antioxidant is also found in dark chocolate and grapes; however, tart cherry juice has more melatonin than all of these sources combined. This natural cognitive enhancer is also a great source of quercetin. Quercetin has been shown to improve brain cell communication, which enhances memory and learning skills. Another benefit of tart cherry juice is that it contains small amounts of melatonin, serotonin, and omega 3 fatty acids, making it a great choice for those looking to improve their mood.
Nootropics
Noopept is known as a potent natural cognitive enhancer that can enhance memory by increasing the production of acetylcholine, which allows neurons in the brain to communicate more effectively. You can read reviews about the best nootropics you can currently find on the market on this website. Noopept is fifty times more effective than its predecessor, piracetam, and users report feeling its effects after only fifteen minutes.
On top of enhancing mood, memory, and productivity, nootropics also protect brain cells from damage. Choline is a key nutrient that produces acetylcholine in the body. While many find that supplementing with choline will improve mood and focus, this natural cognitive enhancer can have unpleasant side effects such as gastrointestinal distress if too much is consumed.
Lion’s Mane Mushroom
This medicinal mushroom is also known as yamabushitake, bearded tooth mushroom, and hermit crab mushroom. This unusual-looking mushroom has been used medicinally in Asia for thousands of years. The benefits include improved memory and concentration skills, which enhance the ability to learn new information. It is also believed that lion’s mane mushroom can improve mental clarity, which enhances brain function enough for those with neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s or dementia to begin communicating again. Lion’s mane has even been referred to as “nature’s Prozac.”
Beet Juice
Beet juice has been shown to protect the brain from age-related memory loss and other cognitive conditions. This is because it contains high levels of nitrate, which increases blood flow throughout the body by opening up blood vessels. Beet juice also enhances oxygenation in the brain. In a recent study conducted at Northumbria University in England, beet juice was given to subjects for three days. When the subjects were tested, they showed significant improvement in mental arithmetic skills and their ability to retain information.
Green Tea
Green tea contains an amino acid called L-theanine, which enhances alpha brain waves, which are the brain’s “relaxation waves.” This natural cognitive enhancer can help those who suffer from anxiety, depression, and other mental disorders. Green tea has also been shown to increase the brain’s levels of dopamine and serotonin, two neurotransmitters that can improve mood. In one study performed at the University of Bristol, it was found that 200 mg of L-theanine “produced significant improvements in attention and task enjoyment.”
Bacopa Monnieri
This herb has been used medicinally for hundreds of years. It is a traditional Ayurvedic herb that is used to enhance memory and improve the ability to learn new information. Bacopa monnieri has also been shown to reduce anxiety and depression as well as stress, making it a powerful natural cognitive enhancer.
It works by increasing the presence of serotonin and dopamine in areas of the brain that are responsible for learning and memory, making it very beneficial for students of all ages. It also contains a chemical known as bacoside A, which enhances the ability to retain information and recall it later, making this an ideal natural cognitive enhancer for those who need to improve their focus and concentration skills. There have been numerous studies showing its effectiveness in those who wish to increase their brainpower.
Fish Oil
Omega-3 fatty acids are great natural cognitive enhancers. These fatty acids can be found in cold-water fish such as salmon, halibut, mackerel, anchovies, sardines, and tuna. Fish oil improves memory recall and brain function to prevent age-related decline. This is because DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) decreases the presence of beta-amyloid plaques in the brain. These are the buildup of toxic proteins that can cause Alzheimer’s disease. A study published in the Journal of Psychiatric Research found that fish oil was able to improve memory recall by 34% when compared to a placebo group.
In this article, we’ve highlighted some of the most popular natural cognitive enhancers that have been clinically proven to improve mental function. As you can see from our discussion, there are a lot of options out there and it’s important to find what works for you.
