OUGD602 DBA - What are Nootropics?

The Basics

What are Nootropics?

nootropic

ˌnəʊəˈtrəʊpɪk,ˌnəʊəˈtrɒpɪk/

noun

plural noun: nootropics

1. a nootropic drug.

Nootropics are a smart drug that enhances cognitive abilities. Some of the main benefits of Nootropics include; Enhanced memory and ability to learn. Helping the brain function under disruptive conditions, such as hypoxia (low oxygen) and electroconvulsive shock. Also protects the brain from chemical and physical assaults, such as anti-cholinergic drugs and barbiturates. It can also Increase the efficacy of neuronal firing control mechanisms in cortical and sub-cortical regions of the brain. The positive aspects of this drug through research suggest there are few or no side effects and is virtually non-toxic.

Nootropics where first discovered some time ago but are not often marketed. The first known Nootropics were discovered in the 1960s this was utilised to stop motion sickness. After this it was then tested for other functions such as memory enhancement.

' Greek combination of “nous” meaning “mind” and “trepein” meaning “to bend”. Literally, the drugs were able to help bend the mind.'

'Neuro enhancing drugs can be incredibly effective for anyone who is trying to get ahead in the modern world. Just a few years ago it wasn’t even that popular as it was taboo to take the drugs outside of a prescription. Today it seems a lot more interesting to get involved within the industry and even partake in the pills themselves.'

Most of the Nootropics have specific functions, the main 4 are;

• L-theanine with caffeine for focus and attention
• Creatine for reasoning
• Bacopa Monnieri for memory
• Ashwaganda anxiety mitigation

L-Theanine is one of the main psychoactive compounds found in tea. L-theanine is extremely safe and has been shown to mitigate the negative aspects of caffeine, such as anxiety, increased blood pressure and diminished sleep quality, while possibly improving upon the positive aspects.

Creatine acts as an energy buffer in the brain. It is converted into high-energy phosphocreatine in the body, which helps to create ATP. During times of activation the brain rapidly drains phosphocreatine to keep ATP levels constant.

Bacopa Monnieri is a herb which has been used in Ayurvedic medicine for centuries. It's currently one of the most well tested nootropics. A 2012 review of 6 trials on Bacopa Monnieri noted large and statistically significant memory enhancing effects in older adults.[27][28] Bacopa's primary mechanism of action is still unclear, it seems be an anti-oxidant, a weak acetylcholinesterase inhibitor and a cerebral blood flow activator.[29] In animal models, Bacopa Monnieri seems to increase cortical concentrations of acetylcholine, dopamine and serotonin.

Ashwagandha is an herb from India with a history of use of over 3000 years. Ashwagandha seems to be a reliable anxiolytic (anxiety reducer).[89][90] Ashwagandha may also increase aspects of attention, but there's only preliminary evidence here.[91] Ashwagandha's mechanism of action isn't entirely clear. Ashwagandha seems to have GABA-mimetic activity, which may account for its anxiolytic effects