Nootropic

Nootropics are plants that help to enhance cognitive function, such as learning capacity, memory and mental clarity. These herbs can act via various mechanisms — improving cerebral circulation, increasing oxygen and nutrient delivery to neural tissue, modulating neurotransmitters like acetylcholine and dopamine and reducing oxidative stress within neural pathways.

Some nootropics have multiple actions including promoting neurogenesis and neuroplasticity in turn supporting long term cognitive health. They can be prescribed to support conditions including cognitive decline, difficulty in concentrating, memory loss or stress related cognitive impairment.

Examples of nootropic herbs include lion’s mane (Hericium erinaceus), brahmi (Bacopa monnieri) schisandra (Schisandra chinensis) and ginkgo (Ginkgo biloba).