Nootropics that Work (and Don't Work) According to Science

Nootropics, also called "smart drugs" or cognitive enhancers, have gained immense popularity as tools to boost mental performance, memory, focus and more.

But with so many brain boosters on the market, spanning hundreds of natural herbs and synthetic compounds, how do you know which ones work and which are all hype?

In this guide, we cut through the noise to highlight the effective science-backed nootropics versus those that just don't work.

From individual ingredients like Citicoline and Phosphatidylserine (PS) to synergistic nootropic stacks, we’ll explore compounds that enhance brain health and cognitive function according to science.

We will also cover some nootropics that fail to deliver results -- or even worse, may come with health risks or unpleasant side effects that outweigh any potential benefits.

By the end, you'll know which natural nootropics are worth your attention, so you can buy brain supplements based on science and not just hype. Let’s get to it!

We'll discuss each of the effective nootropics listed above in greater detail in this guide. If you're new to cognitive enhancers, you may want to check out our what nootropics are guide before digging in.

Keep in mind, there are many nootropics that have shown benefits in research. For a quick big picture rundown, check this list of 85 nootropics. In this guide, we focus on the best.

Let's start with the top research-backed nootropic formula: Mind Lab Pro.

Top Nootropic Stack Supplement That Really Works: Mind Lab Pro®

Mind Lab Pro® combines 11 scientifically validated nootropics into a full-spectrum formula that boosts the whole brain.

Mind Lab Pro® (MLP®) has led the nootropic market for 10+ years because it is effective. Thousands of repeat customers and positive reviewers from all walks of life report on the cognitive improvements they've experienced while taking MLP.

This stack also works according to science because it is backed by human research. Three peer-reviewed clinical trials have shown that MLP enhances multiple aspects of mental performance. More studies are now underway.

The 11 nootropics in Mind Lab Pro are widely studied and discussed in the scientific community, mentioned in 1400+ published research papers.

MLP's Universal Nootropic design is based on 145 human clinical trials showing the broad-spectrum cognitive effects of these ingredients.

Mind Lab Pro® Ingredients: Number of Clinical Trials and Documented Benefits

Nootropics backed by well-designed human clinical trials can be effective single-ingredient supplements. 

But premade stack supplement MLP® takes it to the next level: Its nootropics are curated and combined to work even better together.

Let's take a closer look at the clinical studies that are now backing MLP's efficacy.

MLP® Research Study #1

"The Efficacy of A Nootropic Supplement on Information Processing in Adults: A Double Blind, Placebo Controlled Study"

*In this study published in Biomedical Journal of Scientific & Technical Research in 2023, researchers linked 30 days of MLP® to enhanced information processing and reaction time in healthy adults, suggesting it may help with sharp cognition while multitasking.(1)

Conducted at the University of Leeds, the first Mind Lab Pro study investigated its effects on cognitive processing speed in healthy adults. 105 healthy people completed the study, taking either Mind Lab Pro (n=61) or placebo (n=44) daily for 30 days.

Researchers measured subjects' mental performance with three cognitive tests before and after MLP supplementation:

1. Simple Reaction Time (SRT): Evaluates mental processing speed and attentional performance.
2. Choice Reaction Time (CRT): Measures processing speed, decision-making and attention control.
3. Anticipation Test: Measures perceptual timing, motor coordination and cognitive processing.

These tests from the first MLP study measure how quickly, efficiently and accurately we think -- including cognitive functions like attention and focus.

Mind Lab Pro Study 1 Results

At the study's conclusion, researchers reported that, compared to the placebo group, the MLP group demonstrated:

• Highly significant performance improvements across all cognitive tasks tested
• Enhanced focus, attention, and decision-making performance
• Faster processing (47% quicker anticipatory responses)

Researchers concluded 30 days of MLP can enhance mental processing speed, anticipatory responses and reaction times.

The researchers noted these are key skills for attention, focus and decision making.

They also suggested MLP's unique set of nootropic benefits position it as a valuable supplement for people in high-pressure roles that demand sharp thinking and fast decisions.

Click here to read the full published MLP study as a PDF file

MLP® Research Study #2

"Efficacy of the Nootropic Supplement Mind Lab Pro on Memory in Adults: Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Study"

*In this study published in Human Psychopharmacology: Clinical and Experimental in 2023, researchers linked 30 days of MLP® to improvements across several types of memory including enhanced recall, auditory memory, visual memory and spatial memory.(2) Most notably:

• 26% average improvement in delayed recall
• 28% average improvement in immediate recall

This study included 49 healthy people between 20 and 68 years of age. Subjects took either MLP (n = 36) or placebo (n = 13) daily for 30 days. Before and after the 30 days, researchers tested subjects' cognition with the Wechsler Memory Scale Fourth UK Edition (WMS-IV UK) which evaluates:

1. Auditory Memory (AM): Recall information presented via speaking.
2. Visual Memory (VM): Remember visual information such as shapes or faces.
3. Visual Working Memory (VWM): Hold and manipulate visual information in your mind.
4. Immediate Recall (IR): Recall information immediately after presentation.
5. Delayed Recall (DR): Recall previously learned information after a time delay.

Mind Lab Pro Study 2 Results

After analyzing the pre- and post-MLP test results, researchers found the MLP group showed significant improvements across all memory types (placebo only affected auditory memory and immediate recall).

Researchers concluded that a 30-day regimen of Mind Lab Pro may effectively enhance various aspects of memory in healthy adults.

The researchers noted the biggest gains were seen in immediate and delayed recall abilities, which are linked to day-to-day benefits like remembering names, places and locations of objects like car keys.

Click here to read the full published MLP study as a PDF

MLP® Research Study #3

"Effect of a Plant-Based Nootropic Supplement on Perceptual Decision-Making and Brain Network Interdependencies: A Randomised, Double-Blinded, and Placebo-Controlled Study"

In this randomised, double-blinded, placebo-controlled experiment published in Brain Sciences in 2025, researchers suggested 60 days of MLP® may help different areas of the brain to work together more efficiently.(3)

This study included 32 participants who took either MLP or placebo for 60 days. Before and after the supplementation period, subjects took computer-based tests that measured how quickly and accurately they could make visual decisions, while also tracking their brain activity using EEG (a method for recording brainwaves) to see how the brain’s networks were working together. The metrics tested:

• Perceptual decision-making performance (the ability to make rapid decisions based on sensory information);
• Brain network interdependencies (the collective interactions between brain regions)

In the test, subjects were shown blurry images of faces or cars for a very short time (just 50 milliseconds) and had to quickly decide which one they saw by pressing a key. They had just over a second to respond. After each image, they received feedback telling them if their answer was correct, wrong, or too slow.

MLP Study 3 Results

Researchers reported that even though subjects didn’t demonstrate faster or more accurate decisions during testing, different brain areas were working together more closely and in more complex ways. In particular, there were stronger patterns of teamwork between brain regions -- especially in slower brainwave activity called the delta band.

Researchers suggested that the brains on MLP may have been processing information in a deeper, more connected way, even if it didn’t show up in the test performance.

They noted that the meaningful changes in brain activity associated with MLP could explain why some people report feeling sharper or more mentally balanced even if their test results don't show big improvements.

Click here to read the MLP Study 3 in full

As we await the results of more studies, one thing is clear:

Mind Lab Pro® is not just the best nootropic on the market, it sets today's Gold Standard for nootropic science in supplement form.

The Mind Lab Pro® Approach to Cognitive Results

Brain stack supplements that work must start with research-backed nootropics. Formulation -- how they are combined -- can take nootropics to the next level.

MLP's 11 cognitive enhancers were chosen because they stack up and complement each other in ways that amplify their combined effects.

In MLP the best nootropics work even better together, delivering brain-boosting results greater than the sum of their parts.

Let's find out more about how it works.

Six Pathways to Peak Brain Performance

The brain is incredibly complex. It relies on many biological pathways to perform at its best. Six of the most important pathways for cognition and brain health are:

1. Energy: The brain consumes a lot of power. Some nootropics help support brain energy metabolism, which in turn promotes cognition and brain health.
2. Brain Chemicals: Nootropics regulate dopamine, serotonin, GABA (gamma aminobutyric acid) and acetylcholine for mood, focus, motivation, and learning.
3. Blood Flow to the Brain: Good cerebral blood flow helps the brain get oxygen, glucose and nutrients to function optimally, fire with energy and stay healthy.
4. Brain Regeneration: This is the brain's ability to repair damaged neurons and form new connections (neuroplasticity).
5. Alpha Brain Waves: Alpha brain waves represent a state of relaxed alertness: a sweet spot between being fully focused and deeply calm.
6. Neuroprotection: Antioxidant and "raw material" nootropics protect the brain from unhealthy structural changes that affect memory, cognition and health.

Learn more about How Nootropics Work

By boosting all 6 brain pathways, MLP enhances many cognitive functions at once while nourishing brain health -- so it can help people from all walks of life to achieve 100% Brainpower and perform better at whatever they do.

Learn More About How Mind Lab Pro® Works

Next let's take a closer look at some individual nootropic supplements that work according to science.

While we can't cover all the evidence, we've included top research highlights for each nootropic, including:

Human Clinical Trials: Research studies involving human subjects to evaluate the possible benefits and safety of nootropic supplements.

Clinical Reviews: Summarized evaluations of existing clinical studies on a nootropic: trends, research results and knowledge gaps.

Meta-Analyses: A step up from reviews. Statistical analyses that combine data from multiple studies to form overall conclusions about a nootropic.

Now let's dig into the nootropics... and the science.

11 Nootropics That Work: Science-Based Highlights

Citicoline (CDP-Choline) as Cognizin®

Researchers report citicoline as Cognizin® improves mental energy, attention, processing speed, verbal fluency, memory and more.

Every nootropic regimen should include some type of choline: it supports production of the brain chemical acetylcholine, which is essential for memory, learning, cognition and overall brain health.

Citicoline (CDP-Choline) is the best form of choline you can take. It supplies choline brain chemical benefits but also sparks brain energy, protects the brain and promotes brain regeneration.

Cognizin® is the top citicoline form with the most research-backed benefits.

Some Cognizin human research has focused on elderly populations, showing benefits for brain health, verbal fluency and memory.(4-6) Additional research suggests Cognizin works to boost brainpower in other age groups, too. Let's take a look.

Human study: 16 healthy adults, averaging 47 years old, took either 500 mg or 2,000 mg of Cognizin® Citicoline daily for six weeks. Researchers measured changes in subjects' brain structure and function and reported that Cognizin® supplementation was associated with:(7)

• 13.6% increase in brain energy as ATP (the brain's "cellular currency" for energy)
• 26% faster formation of brain cell membranes (accelerated repair and renewal)

Based on these results, researchers said Cognizin could help restore peak energy levels in the brain and help improve cognitive function in cases of age-related decline.

Human study: 60 women age 40-60 took either Cognizin citicoline (250 mg or 500 mg) or a placebo daily for 28 days and tested for attentional performance. Results showed that women who received citicoline, especially at 500 mg, showed significantly improved attention, made fewer mistakes, and had faster response times compared to placebo.(8)

Human study: 75 healthy adolescent males were given either 250 mg or 500 mg of Cognizin® Citicoline, or a placebo, daily for 28 days. Researchers reported subjects who took Citicoline experienced improved attention and psychomotor speed compared to the placebo group. The higher 500 mg dose worked better at enhancing attention.(9) 

Learn more about Citicoline

Phosphatidylserine (PS)

PS is the most effective memory nootropic known to science. It's also a full-spectrum cognitive booster that's good for brain health.

Phosphatidylserine (PS) is a phospholipid: A raw material for the formation, function and integrity of brain cell membranes.

PS is highly concentrated in the brain. Here, it supports healthy brain cell energy, neurotransmitters, stress responses and more, which in turn enhances several aspects of mental performance -- especially memory. Some research highlights:

Clinical review: In one meta-analysis of 127 published scientific articles, researchers reported that PS enhanced a wide array of memory functions, working to improve:(10) 

• Recall (quick and accurate memory retrieval)
• Formation and storage of short-term memory
• Long-range memory function
• Memory retention and learning ability

In the same review, authors noted PS nootropic benefits beyond memory, including for:

• Attention, focus & concentration
• Reasoning and problem solving
• Language and communication skills

Let's look at some individual research studies where PS worked:

Human study: Might PS help mental health? Young adults took 300 mg of PS daily and tested with a stressful mental task (math). In their conclusion, researchers reported PS supplements improved mood and reduced stress, especially in the more anxious study subjects.(11)

Human study: 149 subjects with diagnosed age-associated memory impairment (AAMI) took 100 mg of PS three times daily (300 mg per day total) for 12 weeks. Researchers reported that patients who took PS showed significant improvements in learning and memory compared to placebo.(12)

Human study: Phosphatidylserine benefits have positioned it as a sport nootropic for athletes. In one study, researchers reported PS may improve golf scores by enhancing cognitive control and reducing stress-related performance decline.(13)

Learn more about Phosphatidylserine (PS)

Bacopa Monnieri

Bacopa monnieri works to boost learning and memory. It's also used for attention, processing speed, stress reduction and mood balance.

Bacopa Monnieri is a nootropic adaptogenic herb that works. It's so effective, in fact, that it's been used for over 3,000 years in India's Ayurveda system of wellness. Here, it is classified as a Brahmi herb for spiritual growth, memory, stress resistance and mental clarity. But what does the science say?

Modern research suggests Bacopa works in part by optimizing neurotransmitters and stress resistance, unlocking multiple cognitive and mood benefits.

Let's take a look at some of the research results that show Bacopa really works. In human studies, subjects who took Bacopa have demonstrated significant improvements in:

• Verbal learning, memory acquisition, and delayed recall memory.(14)
• Retention of new information: subjects "forgot" new learning at a slower rate.(15)
• Attention and processing speed; also reduced depression and anxiety scores.(16)
• Working memory, attention, and cognitive processing (faster reaction times).(17)

Meta-Analysis: This analysis included 9 randomized, placebo-controlled research studies on Bacopa monnieri for cognition (518 human subjects total). The researchers concluded Bacopa has potential to enhance overall cognition, specifically noting accelerated reaction time that may indicate improved speed of attention.(18) 

Learn more about Bacopa monnieri extract

Lion’s Mane Mushroom

Lion's mane mushroom raises Nerve Growth Factor (NGF), which may explain its research-backed benefits for mood and cognition.

Lion’s Mane (Hericium erinaceus) sure seems to work: It has been used for centuries in traditional Chinese and Japanese herbalism to support the brain, digestion, and overall vitality.

Lion's mane mushroom is now a red-hot nootropic, studied for its neuroprotective properties and potential mental health benefits.

Lion's mane is unique among nootropics for its ability to stimulate Nerve Growth Factor (NGF).(19) Low NGF levels are linked to spotty memory, mood imbalance and brain fog. Supporting NGF with Lion's Mane may help. Let's check out some studies.

Human study: In a study involving 30 females, researchers found those who consumed 500 mg (0.5g) of powdered Lion’s Mane daily for four weeks experienced notably lower levels of anxiety and depression compared to the placebo group.(20)

Human study: 30 adults aged 50 to 80 years with MCI (mild cognitive impairment) took four 250 mg tablets of 96% Hericium erinaceus powder or placebo 3X daily for 16 weeks. Researchers reported those who took Lion's Mane showed significant cognitive function improvements that tailed off after supplementation ended.(21)

Learn more about Lion's Mane Mushroom

Maritime Pine Bark Extract as Pycnogenol®

Pycnogenol® maritime pine bark extract works for attention, mood, memory and mental performance, while also offering neuroprotective effects.

Maritime Pine (Pinus pinaster) trees adapted to their harsh coastal habitat by developing a powerful cell-protective antioxidant complex within their bark. These proanthocyanidins are also found in other antioxidant powerhouses like red wine, cocoa, and grapeseed.

Maritime pine bark antioxidants can cross the blood brain barrier and protect brain cells directly.

Maritime Pine Bark Extract also helps raise nitric oxide, which widens blood vessels to boost blood flow to the brain; and stimulates brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) that supports healthy brain function.(22,23) Some research highlights:

Human study: Healthy professionals aged 35 to 55 who took Pycnogenol® daily for 12 weeks demonstrated significant improvements in attention and mental performance (versus placebo). Researchers concluded it may help enhance cognitive abilities in working adults.(24)

Human study: 53 students aged 18-27 took Pycnogenol® (or placebo) for eight weeks and were tested for cognitive function. At the study's conclusion, researchers reported students who took Pycnogenol® had significant improvements in attention, memory, executive functions and mood.(25)

Scientific research review: In a 2009 review, researchers reported that flavonoid antioxidants like those from Maritime Pine Bark are "highly effective in reversing age-related declines in neuro-cognitive performance," support sharp memory function and promote overall brain health.(26)

*Note: While there are many Maritime Pine Bark extracts in the dietary supplement market, Pycnogenol® is by far the most science-backed form available.

Learn More about Maritime Pine Bark Extract

L-Tyrosine (and N-Acetyl L-Tyrosine)

L-Tyrosine works for boosting brainpower -- typically memory, attention and executive function -- during times of stress and fatigue.

L-Tyrosine is an amino acid nootropic that works on brain chemistry, especially as a nootropic for dopamine and norepinephrine neurotransmitters.

Mostly via brain chemical support, L-Tyrosine helps you think clearly, stay focused, and make better decisions in demanding situations. For example, when you're juggling multiple tasks or working on little sleep.

Researchers have tested L-Tyrosine's mettle by measuring study subjects' cognition under stress: loud noise exposure, cold water dunks, high temp exposure, intense multitasking and sleep deprivation. Under these conditions, L-Tyrosine has been shown to: 

• Enhance working memory.(27)
• Support learning speed.(28)
• Improve divided attention.(29)
• Accelerate reaction time.(30)
• Promote sharp overall cognitive function.(31)

Clinical Review: In a review 15 L-tyrosine studies, researchers reported it helps cognitive performance -- especially working memory, multitasking, and mental flexibility -- under stress, fatigue and pressure. Researchers concluded L-Tyrosine is an effective, fast-acting nootropic for situations involving psychological or environmental stress.(32)

Learn More about L-Tyrosine

L-Theanine

L-Theanine works for promoting calm focus. It also enhances attention, working memory and executive function while easing stress and anxiety. 

Sourced from green tea leaves, nootropic amino acid L-Theanine works in a few ways. It protects the brain, calms the central nervous system and raises Alpha brainwaves for a state of "relaxed alertness."

L-Theanine's calming, clarifying effects can help all sorts of thinking, including focus and creativity. This nootropic is also taken by students, professionals and athletes in the legendary L-theanine + caffeine stack that boosts caffeine benefits while reducing jitters.

In human research studies, L-Theanine has been linked to:(33,34)

• Reduced stress responses in multitasking settings
• Better stress resilience in people with anxiety
• Improvements in sustained attention

Human study: 91 middle-aged and older adults took 100.6 mg/day of L-theanine or a placebo for 12 weeks. Researchers reported the L-theanine group showed significant improvements in verbal memory, executive function, and attention. A single dose of L-theanine also worked; it was found to acutely enhance memory and attention during cognitive testing.(35)

Learn more about L-Theanine

Rhodiola Rosea

A stress-busting adaptogen for mental sharpness and physical prowess, Rhodiola is the ultimate performance-enhancing nootropic.

Rhodiola rosea is legendary in folk herbalism and a subject of extensive Soviet-era scientific research. It was popularly used by Russian Olympic athletes, cosmonauts, soldiers, farmers, and workers to boost stamina and brainpower while fighting fatigue in extreme conditions.

As Rhodiola blunts the negative consequences of stress, it unlocks versatile benefits for brainpower, mood, focus, energy and more.

Rhodiola rosea's beneficial physical and cognitive effects are backed by a good deal of science. Here are results from a small sampling of human clinical studies and research reviews, reporting that Rhodiola works to:

• Boost mental performance (memory, concentration and speed of perception) and reduce fatigue in night-shift doctors (as SHR-5).(37)
• Consistently boost cognition (memory, focus, reaction time) in people who must perform under pressure, including athletes and those in the military.(38)
• Accelerate reaction times, improve working memory, and enhance overall cognitive performance in people with post-COVID brain fog.(39)
• Significantly reduce mild to moderate depression symptoms, resulting in better mood balance, improved sleep quality and sense of physical well-being.(40)

Clinical Review: This review analyzed studies on Rhodiola (typically 200-600 mg/day) for stress management and cognitive function in healthy adults. Researchers reported Rhodiola improves short-term memory, stress resilience and executive function, particularly under pressure. It was consistently effective in reducing mental fatigue and enhancing performance on cognitive tests under stress.(41)

Learn More about Rhodiola Rosea

Vitamins B6, B9, B12

B-complex vitamins work to maintain sharp overall cognition and brain health, especially in the aging brain.

B-vitamins are essential nootropics, literally. They play critical roles in brain chemical production and conversion, as well as supporting cell energy production. The B-complex -- especially B6, B9 (folate) and B12 -- are some of the best nootropic vitamins for brain health and mental performance.

Let's take a look at research that explains why.

Vitamin B6: Key for production and conversion of neurotransmitters that drive bright mood, clear cognition and healthy memory function.(42) Researchers have suggested B6 significantly improves the brain's capacity to store information.(43)

Vitamin B9: Regulates the homocysteine interferes with brain circulation and raises cognitive decline risk.(44) In one study, researchers linked Vitamin B9 supplementation to a 26% reduction in homocysteine plus significant improvements to processing speed and memory in older adults.(45)

Vitamin B12: Often associated with cell energy, vitamin B also nourishes myelin, the fatty layer that protects nerves.(46) Researchers have reported supplementing B12 can help with cognitive deficits in the aging brain and protect the brain against age-related shrinkage.(47,48)

Note: A healthy diet supplies B-complex vitamins. However, aging populations have a harder time absorbing B-vitamins, while vegetarians and vegans often fail to get enough. A high-quality multivitamin or vitamin-enhanced nootropic stack can help.

Bonus Effective Nootropics

We've now covered 11 nootropics that not only work according to science, but work especially well (also according to science!) when combined into Mind Lab Pro. Next let's touch upon some additional effective nootropics to consider.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids (DHA and EPA)

Omega-3 fatty acids (DHA [Docosahexaenoic acid] and EPA [Eicosapentaenoic Acid]) are "good fats" that play several important roles in supporting human health, including brain health and cognitive function.

Human research: Researchers tracked 899 elderly subjects free of dementia. Over a nine-year follow-up period, researchers reported those who had the highest levels of DHA in their body (top 25%) had a 47% reduction in risk of age-related cognitive dysfunction versus the rest.(51)

Meta Analysis Review: Researchers analyzed 26 clinical trials with 2,160 participants and reported that omega-3s have mood balancing effects. They further reported that certain Omega-3 formulations that include EPA and DHA may be helpful supplements for depression.(52)

Learn more about the best Omega-3 supplements

Caffeine

Caffeine is one of the most reliable nootropics known to science. It's been estimated that 90% of adults globally consume some form of caffeine daily; mostly as coffee, but also as green tea and caffeine pills. Caffeine is also one of the most extensively investigated natural substances, backed by thousands of research studies.

Caffeine has been shown in research to enhance mental alertness, mood, reaction time and more. It's also popular as a top nootropic for athletes. Studies show low-to-moderate doses work the best and may work even better when paired with L-Theanine (in a 2:1 L-Theanine to Caffeine ratio).(53)

Medium-Chain Triglycerides (MCT)

MCTs are a type of fat that is converted into ketones: "alternative fuel" for the brain. Research suggests that MCTs are rapidly burned for energy, which is good news for the energy-hungry brain.(54) MCTs also optimize brain cells’ powerhouse mitochondria, supporting sharp cognition and brain health.(55)

Beyond brain energy, ketones raised by MCT have been shown in human research to improve vigilance and enhance cognitive performance.(56)

Coenzyme Q-10 (CoQ10)

Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) plays a crucial role in cell energy production, particularly in high-energy organs like the brain. Research has shown that CoQ10 may help protect brain cells from oxidative stress, which in turn helps preserve healthy function and fight cognitive decline and degenerative brain concerns.

Human study: In a study of 64 adults aged 65–99, researchers linked higher plasma CoQ10 levels to better cognitive and executive functions. Researchers concluded that lower CoQ10 levels may contribute to cognitive decline, and that CoQ10 helps with neuroprotection and cognitive longevity.(57)

Prebiotics & Probiotics (Psychobiotics)

The gut microbiome – a colony of beneficial bacteria (probiotics) that lives in in the GI tract – has been increasingly linked to mental performance. In fact, some scientists have called it the “second brain” and theorized that nourishing the microbiome may improve cognitive function. Research seems to agree:

Research Review: Researchers analyzed 23 clinical studies with a total of 1,495 participants: healthy, mild cognitive impairment and Alzheimer's. They reported prebiotic, probiotic, and symbiotic supplementation can improve cognitive performance via the gut-brain axis across all groups.(58)

Human study: 49 healthy individuals aged 65–80 years received a daily probiotic capsule (Lactobacillus helveticus or Bifidobacterium strains) or a placebo for 12 weeks. Researchers concluded the probiotic group showed significant improvements in cognitive function and mood.(59)

Learn about the top prebiotic supplements

Stacking: When Nootropics Work Better Together For Cognitive Performance

Here is a list of nootropics that have been studied in combination, along with a brief explanation of the research supporting their combined effects:

Caffeine + L-Theanine: L-Theanine helps caffeine work better, with fewer jitters and side effects. Researchers have reported caffeine and l-theanine significantly improve alertness and accuracy during task switching, suggesting the stack helps to focus attention during demanding tasks.(60)

Phosphatidylserine + DHA: PS is often combined with the Omega-3 DHA (docosahexaenoic acid). In one study, researchers found that combining PS with DHA enhanced cognitive function, especially in sustained attention and memory recognition.(61)

L-Theanine + DHA: These two have been studied for their complementary effects on neuroprotection. DHA contributes to maintaining phosphatidylserine levels in neuronal membranes, while L-Theanine modulates neurotransmitters like GABA, aiding in stress reduction and cognitive performance.(62)

Herbal Combinations with Phosphatidylserine + L-Theanine: In some studies, herbal extracts like Ginkgo biloba or Rhodiola rosea have been combined with phosphatidylserine or L-Theanine and shown to enhance memory, mood, and stress resistance.(63)

Mind Lab Pro: Rare example of a scientifically researched commercial stack supplement. MLP's 11-in-one Universal Nootropic formula has been shown in well-designed human research studies to help mental processing speed, reaction time and multiple memory functions.

Each of these nootropic combinations demonstrates brain benefits, particularly for enhancing cognitive function, memory, and focus in different populations.

Nootropic "Smart Drugs" That Don't Work

Technically, if it doesn't work it's not really a nootropic. By definition nootropics must provide some benefit while maintaining overall brain health. So take this section with a grain of salt, as we call out some nootropics that just aren't the best.

Apoaequorin: Apoaequorin is a protein derived from the jellyfish Aequorea victoria. Some products claim it supports brain function by helping to protect neurons. However, despite aggressive marketing, there's little scientific evidence supporting its effectiveness for improving cognitive health.(64)

Coconut Oil: Coconut oil supplies 4 brain-healthy MCTs -- C6, C8, C10, and C12. The problem here is that C6 and C12 are notorious for causing gastric distress, to the point where it's difficult to take. MCT oil is a better choice, especially when sourced from organic coconuts and supplying gut-friendly C8+C10 MCTs only.

Acai: Acai has been marketed for brain health due to its high antioxidant content. However, while acai berries do contain antioxidants, there is limited scientific evidence to support the claims for brain health or cognition. Maritime pine bark extract is a better brain-protective antioxidant choice.

Colloidal Silver: Colloidal silver is marketed as a brain-booster, but there's no scientific evidence to support it as a nootropic. In fact, it can be harmful, leading to side effects like toxicity from silver buildup in the body. It's not a safe or effective choice.

DMAE (Dimethylaminoethanol): Marketed as a focus and memory enhancer, DMAE is included in various nootropic stacks. Few human trials have been conducted, and existing evidence is largely anecdotal, with no solid data confirming its cognitive benefits.

Top Nootropic Supplements that Work

Mind Lab Pro®

MLP® Ingredients: Citicoline 250mg, Phosphatidylserine (PS) 100mg, Bacopa monnieri 150mg (24% bacosides), Organic Lion's Mane Mushroom 500mg, Maritime Pine Bark Extract 75mg (95% proanthocyanidins), N-Acetyl L-Tyrosine 175mg, L-Theanine 100mg, Rhodiola rosea 50mg (3% rosavins and 1% salidrosides), NutriGenesis® Vitamin B6 (2.5 mg), Vitamin B9 (100 mcg), Vitamin B12 (7.5 mcg)

Mind Lab Pro® (MLP) is the top nootropic that really works because it is backed by two clinical studies demonstrating its far-reaching cognitive performance benefits for memory, focus, attention and processing speed. But MLP is just getting started: more research is currently underway.

It doesn't hurt that MLP has thousands of repeat customers and hundreds of positive reviews, too. It's also a clean-label supplement, featuring premium ingredients in vegan NutriCaps® capsules. MLP is truly a Universal Nootropic that works for everybody.

Mind Lab Pro®

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Next let's look at top products from other supplement categories that include effective nootropics discussed in this guide.

Pre Lab Pro®: Nootropic pre-workout. Supplies moderate-dose caffeine, sports nutrients and nootropics like L-Tyrosine and Theanine to unlock mind-over-matter performance. Energy, endurance, focus, motivation and intensity in a great-tasting berry-flavored drink mix.

Caffeine 2: Smart caffeine pill. Enhanced with nootropics L-Theanine, L-Tyrosine and B-Vitamins that help caffeine to work better, it produces a clean surge of mental energy and alertness without the jitters and crashes associated. A smarter, smoother caffeine pill.

Performance Lab® Omega-3: Advanced plant-based Omega-3 fatty acids (DHA+EPA) nootropic. All of the brain health and cognition benefits Omega-3s, but in an ultraclean algae-sourced form. No fishy taste, gastric distress, or negative environmental impact like with fish oil.

MCT Energy Oil: Fastest acting performance boost for brain and body in a versatile neutral-tasting oil format. Supplying purified C8+C10 MCTs (medium-chain triglycerides) from 100% organic non-GMO coconuts, it is high-octane fuel for clean, efficient brainpower.

Performance Lab® Energy: Top caffeine-free nootropic. Optimizes cells powerplant mitochondria, which are highly concentrated in the brain. If you want to boost brainpower (and physical vitality) with a clean, stim-free energy surge, this formula is for you.

Performance Lab® Prebiotic: Top supplement to boost the gut-brain connection. Premium fiber in vegan capsules that nourishes gut probiotics (the microbiome) which in turn promotes brain chemicals that help depression, anxiety and overall mood.

Summary

Modern science is now establishing natural nootropics as a safe and effective option for helping brain function, memory, focus, and overall mental performance. But there remains a lot of questions regarding which nootropics work, and which nootropics fail.

We've covered many of the most well-researched and effective cognitive enhancers in this article, including both standalone nutrients and multi-ingredient stacks.

Among all nootropic formulations, Mind Lab Pro stands out as the best science-backed choice -- backed by two well-designed human clinical trials, with more on the way. This level of scientific validation is rare in the world of nootropics and sets Mind Lab Pro® apart as a product that doesn’t just claim to work -- it actually does work.

With its well-researched formula and clinical validation, Mind Lab Pro is considered the most reliable nootropic supplements on the market today.