The Top Nootropic Supplements of 2024

By: DTW Health Advisory Board

This website is owned and operated by Stingray Direct. Stingray Direct is the distributor of Stonehenge Health products and may receive compensation from companies featured when you purchase through the provided links.

what to avoid?

what to look for?

top products

One of the most popular supplement categories today is focused on brain and memory health. These kinds of supplements are called nootropics, and they seek to improve memory, focus, mental energy, and problem-solving skills.1

The demand for nootropics comes not only from the 73 million baby boomers living in America but also from college students, investment bankers, career-minded individuals, and even busy moms, all looking to gain an edge.2

The popularity has led to hundreds of nootropic supplements flooding the marketplace. While these supplements all promise to deliver benefits, the reality is that many fall short. Some of the most popular brands use ineffective or insufficient doses of ingredients, and many contain low-quality fillers.

With so many options, it seems many of us might still be unclear about what to look for in a quality brain and memory-supporting supplement. To help cut through the clutter, we have compiled months of research about the key ingredients that have been shown in studies to benefit your cognitive health.

 This short guide will help you know what to look for and what to avoid so you can make an informed decision when it comes to your nootropic needs. We will also list out the top 5 nootropic supplements sold today that we researched so you don’t have to.

Let’s take a moment to understand precisely how nootropics work to help improve your cognitive health and why it’s essential to add it to your daily routine.

1. nootropic: what are they all about?

Natural nootropics are comprised of natural or synthetic vitamins, amino acids, minerals, fatty acids, antioxidants, and other herbal ingredients stacked, or combined, in a supplement to help improve cognitive performance.3

2. understanding cognitive decline

A ten-year study of over 7,000 adults aged 45-70 determined that cognitive decline begins as early as 45 years old. Even more troubling was the revelation that participants aged 65-70 years old had a 300% increase in cognitive decline compared to the 45-49 age group.4 This indicates that as you age your brain’s decline accelerates becoming more noticeable.
 

Studies have revealed that people experiencing cognitive impairment were deficient in essential vitamins and nutrients that play a protective role against normal cognitive decline.5 Scientists discovered that specific nutrients play an important role in cellular activity which is necessary to maintain optimal cognitive function.6
 

Research has shown that stress can accelerate cognitive decline and impair memory function.7 Some nootropics contain ingredients that are considered adaptogens, meaning they help your body cope with stress and, in turn, help improve cognitive function.8

a good nootropic works to:

Help Improve Memory9

Promote Focus and Alertness10

Help Enhance Learning17

Support Verbal Recall14

Support Analytical Thinking17

Boost Mental Energy9

Help Enhance Creativity11

Help Ease Stress7

Promote Cognitive Health6
Title

Top 4 Criteria For A Quality

Nootropic Supplement

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We spent months researching nootropic supplements. There are specific ingredients that, when present in a formula, help differentiate high-quality nootropic supplements from generic ones. Below are the four most essential ingredients to consider before deciding on which nootropic brand suits your needs.

#1 Choline

Choline is an essential nutrient crucial to producing acetylcholine, which supports memory, learning, concentration, and motor skills.31 Studies published in the Journal of Nutrition and the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition confirm that low choline intake is tied to poorer cognitive performance. On the other hand, supplementing choline into your daily regimen can help improve memory and attention in healthy adults.32-33 Also, taking choline may help ease the changes in the brain associated with normal aging and memory loss and support better cognitive function in elderly adults.34

#2 Phosphatidylserine

Phosphatidylserine is a phospholipid nutrient, found in the cerebral cortex, which covers and protects brain cells and helps carry messages between them.12 The normal aging process causes brain cell membranes to become rigid, impairing brain cell communication, which can result in memory recall issues.13 Studies show that supplementing with phosphatidylserine can help improve memory function, especially delayed recall, in both middle-aged and older adults. It works by helping rejuvenate brain cell membranes and supporting the release of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter responsible for memory.14

#3 Bacopa Monnieri

Bacopa monnieri is an herb used for centuries in Ayurvedic medicine.15 Numerous clinical studies found that Bacopa monnieri enhances helps memory retention, helps improves spatial learning, the ability to take in new information about one’s environment, and eases stress.16-18 Scientists found that Bacopa monnieri increases the length and branching of nerve cells, also known as dendrites, in the brain, which is linked to learning and memory.19 The main active compounds in Bacopa monnieri are bacosides, which also protect against oxidative stress, a cause of normal cognitive decline, by acting as a free radical scavenger.20

 

Editor's Advice: Look for brain supplements that contain BacoMind® Bacopa monnieri. This is the only bacopa extract supported by a human safety clinical study.

#4 Huperzine A

Huperzine A, an extract of the Huperzia serrata plant, has been shown in studies to help improve memory and learning from young students to seniors.21,22 Recent research shows that it helps improves memory and normal  cognitive decline by increasing levels of acetylcholine, the compound that functions as a neurotransmitter in the brain.23,24 It’s also been shown to help protect the brain from neuronal cell death.25 Twenty randomized clinical trials involving 1823 participants indicated that it has a beneficial effect on memory, cognitive function, and quality of life.26
Title

4 Things To AVOID

When Buying A Nootropic Supplement

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1. formulas lacking essential vitamins

The brain needs a steady supply of neuro-vitamins and nutrients so it can function properly. Avoid any formula which does not include a complex of B vitamins, vitamin C, vitamin E, magnesium, choline, and zinc.27-29

2. not backed by a doctor

Creating an effective nootropic supplement requires a solid understanding of which ingredients to use and in what level of potency. Avoid a brand which is not supported by a credible doctor.

3. insufficient return policy

A reputable nootropic supplement brand will demonstrate they have faith in their product by offering a 100% money-back guarantee policy. Some try to complicate their refund policies by placing limitations on what kind of returns they will take. Avoid any brand that does not have at minimum a no questions asked 90-day money-back guarantee.

4. depending on amazon reviews

Research showed that in March 2019, there were 1.8 million new unverified reviews, with an average of 99.6% of them being 5-star reviews.30 We can suspect  many of these reviews are from people paid to write them. We can also suspect  many of these fake reviews inflate the number and overall star rating of a product. When deciding on a supplement that can impact your health, don’t just rely on Amazon reviews as they don’t always show the true benefits of a product or if that customer actually purchased and used the product.
Title

How We Evaluated Our Nootropic Supplement Recommendations

natural, science-backed ingredients

We looked for natural, clean, science-backed ingredients to support memory and brain health.

dosage

We noticed some brands don’t have the required hero ingredient amount to substantiate listed claims and benefits. We looked for brands that included ingredients at the dosage necessary to be clinically impactful.

added vitamins and nutrients

We noticed some brands rely on just one ingredient. We looked for a comprehensive formula that addresses overall brain health. 

ease

When choosing a supplement, we know it will become part of your everyday routine, so it needs to be easy. We looked for a reasonable capsule serving per day (Two or fewer) And a 90-Day or more satisfaction guarantee.

2024 Nootropic Supplement Buying Guide

Advertisement sponsored by Stingray Direct, the distributor of Stonehenge Health products.

Pros

40 Vitamins and Nutrients

Contains BacoMind® Bacopa monnieri- only bacopa extract supported by a human safety clinical study

Contains Phosphatidylserine, and Huperzine A

Includes the nutrient Choline

Vegetarian Capsules, Non-GMO, Gluten, Lactose, and Antibiotic Free, No artificial ingredients or fillers

Verified 90-day 100% money-back return policy

Cons

Often out of stock due to high demand

why we approved

Stonehenge Health’s Dynamic Brain tops the recommendation list because this formula contains a potent dose of 40 different vitamins, minerals, and nutrients, including all three essential brain ingredients Phosphatidylserine, BacoMind® Bacopa Monnieri, and Huperzine A.

 

Dynamic brain also includes the nutrient Choline, which is needed to make the neurotransmitter acetylcholine, which plays a crucial role in memory. We were impressed that this formula included a robust Vitamin B complex and a large variety of other essential vitamins and nutrients that studies have demonstrated play a protective role against cognitive decline.5

 

We were able to verify that Stonehenge Health’s formula does not contain any synthetic fillers or artificial ingredients and is non-GMO. Stonehenge Health backs its products with a no-questions-asked, 90-day money-back guarantee and is one of the few brands to be endorsed by a board-certified doctor. We also like that they offer customers discounts on bundles.

 

Click on the link below to see their current specials.

*Please refer to the manufacturer’s product website for detailed information.

find out more >

qualia® mind

researched

Pros
Title

28 Vitamins and Nutrients

Contains All 4 Essential Ingredients

Vegetarian Capsules, Non-GMO, and Vegan

Endorsed by a Doctor

Cons
Title

Very expensive monthly price

7 pills per dose

Mixed consumer reviews

Return policy limited to first time purchase only

Qualia Mind is a popular brand thanks party to its heavy web advertising. The product contains a robust array of 28 vitamins and nutrients, including all three top recommended ingredients. However, there are still fewer ingredients than the first brand on our list, yet it is more than three times the price for a 30-day supply. Qualia enrolls customers in a monthly auto-ship program with an introductory price of $69.50 for the first month and $119.00 for each month after that. If you are not a fan of having your card automatically charged each month, then the price for a 30-day supply is $139.00. Qualia Mind is endorsed by a physician and is GMO and gluten-free. However, consumers have provided mixed reviews on how well the product works. The company offers a limited 100-day money-back guarantee, which only applies to your first order.

Please refer to the manufacturer’s product website for detailed information. Qualia Mind is a registered trademark of Neurohacker Collective, LLC.

find out more >

genius consciousness

researched

Pros
Title

Contains Phosphatidylserine

Contains Huperzine A

Non-GMO, Soy and Gluten-Free

Cons
Title

Does not contain Bacopa Monnieri

Does not come in capsule form

Does not contain essential vitamins and nutrients

Conflicting return policies

Genius Consciousness by The Genius Brand is a popular product with ten ingredients, including two of the three critical ingredients. It is missing the inclusion of the essential Bacopa Monnieri. We were disappointed to see a lack of important vitamins and nutrients, such as a B complex. A drawback of this product is that it does not come in a convenient capsule but rather a watermelon-flavored powder, which some may find a hassle mixing with water daily. Consumers have also reported mixed reviews on the taste. The return policy for Genius Consciousness is unclear as their website product page indicates a 30-day return policy, but elsewhere on the site indicates a 90-day return period.

Please refer to the manufacturer’s product website for detailed information. The Genus Brand is a registered trademark of Pacificnorthwest Naturals, LLC.

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neuriva

researched

Pros
Title

Contains Phosphatidylserine

Caffeine and GMO-Free

Cons
Title

Does not contain Bacopa Monnieri or Huperzine A

User complaints related to headaches, sleep issues, and allergic reactions

Very expensive for minimal ingredients

Contains allergen Soy Lecithin

Limited 30-day return policy

Neuriva by Schiff Vitamins is a relatively new product that improves brain performance. Neuriva comes in “Original” and “Plus” formulas, containing Phosphatidylserine and Coffee Fruit Extract. The “Plus” formula adds vitamins B6, B12, and B9. However, neither version contains Bacopa Monnieri and Huperzine A or  Choline. Neuriva’s key ingredient, Coffee Fruit Extract (Coffee arabica), has only one study to its credit, suggesting it improves cognitive function. We prefer ingredients with more substantial evidence to support memory and focus claims.


We were happy to see that Neuriva is both caffeine and GMO-free. However, allergic reactions have been reported since Neuriva contains soy lecithin and rice. Users have also reported having sleeping issues when taking this product. Neuriva provides a 30-day refund period, but that is only for unopened bottles, which is not much of a guarantee if you’re unhappy with the results.

* Please refer to the manufacturer’s product website for detailed information. Neuriva is a registered trademark of RB Health (US) LLC.

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prevagen

researched

Pros
Title

Contains Synthetic Apoaequorin

Cons
Title

Doesn’t contain Phosphatidylserine, Bacopa Monnieri, or Huperzine A

Does not contain essential vitamins and nutrients

Significant FTC and FDA Legal Issues related to False Claims

Very Expensive considering the lack of proven ingredients

Limited 45-day Return Policy

Prevagen by Quincy Biosciences is a product made known thanks to their massive spending on television advertising. In recent years, the brand has also become infamous for its extensive legal issues related to false claims. This formula, sold in a capsule, chewable form, and a regular and extra-strength version, contains apoaequorin, a protein derived from jellyfish. Through their single clinical study, the manufacturer claims that Prevagen helps improve cognitive function and memory by replacing proteins in the brain that are lost during aging.


Unfortunately, not everyone agrees with this theory. In 2017, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and the New York Attorney General sued Quincy Biosciences for false claims. The primary issue asserted by the FTC is that proteins consumed orally, as in a pill or chewable tablet, go straight to the stomach, where they get broken down into amino acids. In the form of amino acids, they can’t travel to the brain and then re-convert into a protein to replace any proteins lost due to aging. The FTC also charged Prevagen with making false claims, stating the company’s clinical study showed no statistically significant improvement in memory and cognitive function between Prevagen and those given a placebo.
 

In a non-related matter, the FDA has opened a case stating that Prevagen did not warn its users that seizures and strokes were some of the many adverse side effects of taking Prevagen.
 

While some users have reported benefits from Prevagen, we recommend avoiding the marketing hype and possible side effects. Choose a formula with various vitamins, minerals, and neuro-nutrients such as Phosphatidylserine, Bacopa Monnieri, and Huperzine A, shown in recent studies to help support memory and cognitive health.

*Please refer to the manufacturer’s product website for detailed information. Prevagen is a registered trademark of Quincy Bioscience, LLC.

find out more >

Citations

1. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27656235/

 

2. https://www.census.gov/library/stories/2019/12/by-2030-all-baby-boomers-will-be-age-65-or-older.html
 

3. https://phcogrev.com/article/2012/6/12/1041030973-784799949
 

4. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22223828/
 

5. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16464680/
 

6. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18568016/
 

7. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK3914/
 

8. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27713248/
 

9. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37603263/
 

10. https://www.scirp.org/journal/paperinformation?paperid=19921
 

11. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29339474/
 

12. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26828517/
 

13. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27939444/
 

14. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29882776/
 

15. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26971083/
 

16. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24763117/
 

17. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16848706/
 

18. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22071706/
 

19. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5579609/
 

20. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25933483/
 

21. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/8323999
 

22. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21103034/
 

23. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/1589870
 

24. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/11498727
 

25. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23320031/
 

26. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23772955/
 

27. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21655763/
 

28. https://www.aimsci.com/ros/index.php/ros/article/view/75
 

29. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21833673/
 

30. https://journals.lww.com/neuroreport/abstract/1996/12200/huperzine_a,_a_novel_promising.20.aspx
 

31. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/9141073
 

32. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24086396/