For those new to nootropics, it can be a bit tricky to pronounce and understand what they are. We’ve put together a quick guide to help you get a handle on nootropics and how to use them.

In this article, we’ll break down what nootropics are, the risks involved, how to mix different types (known as ‘stacking’), and the best ways to take them.

What are Nootropics?

Nootropics are basically supplements or drugs designed to boost brain function. Most of them have very few side effects and are aimed at long-term brain health.

These things can help with memory, focus, attention, drive, behavior, and overall mental sharpness. Many nootropics come from natural compounds that help improve how your body works.

A lot of people are skeptical about nootropics, and honestly, I get it. The idea that a pill can make you smarter sounds like science fiction.

But let’s be clear: these supplements won’t turn you into Einstein or work miracles on your brain. What they do is help fix some of the deficiencies in your body, which can improve your brain’s performance and health to varying degrees for different people.

Take them regularly, and you should notice some benefits.

How They Function

Your brain’s got billions of neurotransmitters and synapses that keep the neurons connected. These are what run the show for your memory, mood, mental sharpness, and focus.

Tweaking certain chemicals in your brain can help improve how information flows and how these neurotransmitters form. This can boost cognitive performance, like awareness, memory, behavior, and alertness. Taking care of your neurons can also help fend off age-related cognitive issues and diseases like dementia.

A lot of nootropics work by increasing blood flow to your brain. Blood delivers oxygen throughout your body, including your brain. When there’s more blood and oxygen up there, functions like memory and focus get a bump.

Some nootropics also boost the production of neurotransmitters that fight age-related decline. Without some help, many brains lose neurons faster than they can make new ones. This is just part of aging, but nootropics can slow it down.

A Few Examples

Some substances that mess with the central nervous system but aren’t called nootropics include caffeine, nicotine, cannabis, and Ritalin. Real nootropics follow specific criteria, more like nutrients than drugs. Check these out:

• Aniracetam – This stimulant and cognitive booster kicks in as quick as 20 minutes.
• Theanine – Found naturally in green tea, it helps reduce anxiety and improves learning.
• Piracetam – One of the most studied nootropics out there for boosting cognition.
• Pramiracetam – A stronger version of piracetam, enhancing memory and learning.

All these have no documented side effects and are generally safe as regular supplements. Research on nootropics is ongoing in top university labs, but it’ll take some time before we see a huge database of findings.