Discover the Best Nootropics for Focus: Boost Your Productivity and Clarity

Imagine your brain as a high-performance sports car. Now, wouldn't it be great if you could give it a tune-up that helps it run smoother, faster, and more efficiently? That's what natural nootropic supplements aim to do for your noggin.

Whether you're cramming for that make-or-break exam, gunning for that corner office, or simply want to keep your mind as sharp as a tack as you gracefully age, these brain-boosting buddies might be your new best friends. You'll love natural nootropics for their ability to boost focus and give you the edge whether you're a student, professional, or retiree. The mental benefits cross many age groups.

Key Takeaways

• The brain is not as fixed and machine-like as was once thought. It's dynamic and flexible... which means we can take charge of our brain health and use nootropics to enhance focus, learning, and memory.
• Nootropics are substances that enhance brain function by improving blood flow to the brain, enhancing neurotransmitter levels, reducing cognitive fatigue, and supporting brain energy pathways, ultimately helping to improve focus, memory, and overall cognitive health.
• Many people of all ages -- students through seniors -- are embracing neurohacking, the use of nootropics such as Citicoline, Lion's Mane, Bacopa Monnieri, and Fish Oil, as well as many more to enhance mental performance, reduce anxiety, and support long-term brain health.

What Are Nootropics?

Nootropic supplements are natural substances -- sometimes called smart drugs -- that improve memory and cognitive function, enhance focus, drive creative ability, and improve brain health. In other words, boost mental performance and mental alertness. [3]

The term nootropic was first coined back in the 1970s to describe any natural or synthetic substance that enhances brain function, particularly in those with impaired brain function. Today, the term is used more loosely and often refers to cognitive enhancer supplements as a way to improve cognitive health.

In this article, we'll review the 12 top natural cognitive enhancer supplements you'll want to consider to achieve your best brain performance. Each one can help you improve cognitive function in different ways. You can usually find them marketed as “memory enhancers” and “brain boosters.”

Another thing to know: Nootropics fall into two broad categories -- natural and synthetic substances. We will be focusing on natural substances in this article. First, let's delve into how your brain focuses, and what's behind poor focus and concentration.

What is Focus?

In the context of overall brain health, memory, and cognitive enhancement, focus is defined as the concentration of attention on a specific task or topic. Focus may in fact be the key to mental performance and cognitive wellbeing.

A sharply focused mind readily interprets audio and visual cues and distinguishes key sensory information from unnecessary distractions. A focused student can give their full attention to studying for an exam even though their cell phone notifications are going off every few minutes. Or focus on a lecture despite noise in the hallway or outside. Driving is a routine task that requires a sharply focused brain.

Contrast this to an unfocused mind, or a mind plagued by brain fog... unable to discern potentially important cues from all the background distractions.

What Causes Poor Focus?

There are numerous causes of brain fog and poor focus -- including insufficient sleep, physical fatigue, mental fatigue, stress, and inadequate nutrients and oxygen to the brain. Each of these are linked to poor cognitive performance and other health risks.

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is also strongly linked with focus issues and poor cognitive function. Physicians often prescribe synthetic nootropic substances to address ADHD, which can come with side effects.

Benefits of Natural Nootropics for Cognitive Function

Almost anyone can benefit from the best nootropics for focus, as we live in a world that's constantly pulling us in a thousand directions. Nootropic supplements support cognitive improvements and overall brain health in many ways, including by supporting the brain in energy creation.

The brain comprises 10% of your body's weight, but consumes 20% of your body's energy. It's the biggest "energy hog" in the body. So, it should come as no surprise that when brain energy falls, your focus will blur.

Nootropics that boost the brain's natural ATP energy pathways may support mental focus and improve memory. They are cognitive enhancers. Optimizing your brain's energy capacity boosts your mental stamina.

In a nutshell, nootropic supplements can:

• Enhance memory, reduce brain fog, and promote mental clarity.
• Improve focus, drive, and calmness.
• Improve mental health and cognitive performance.

Of course, benefits will vary based on the particular nootropic you've chosen, your genetics, the dosage that you're taking, and your overall health.

How Nootropics Enhance Cognitive Performance

The top nootropic supplements for focus will emphasize nutrients that support brain health and brain chemistry by:

• Encouraging blood flow to the brain for oxygenation and nutrient delivery.
• Altering and supporting the brain's neurotransmitter levels that support cognitive functions such as attention, focus, and memory.
• Optimizing the brain's mitochondria -- the energy powerhouses of the cells -- while reducing cognitive fatigue and promoting focus.
• Interacting with neurotransmitters like dopamine and norepinephrine.
• Reducing stress and anxiety, which negatively impacts brain energy and cognitive function.
• Supporting the brain's working memory in its ability to process information. This is linked to task-related focus.

12 Best Nootropics for Focus and Mental Clarity

Almost everyone uses a nootropic, whether they realize it or not. Caffeine.

While it can have health risks when used in excess, the caffeine found in coffee, tea, and chocolate has been shown to improve focus and thinking. Caffeine is an adenosine receptor agonist -- it blocks the brain receptors that make you feel sleepy.

In addition, caffeine enhances brain neurotransmitters including acetylcholine, which aids short-term memory and learning. [1] Don't take caffeine in pill or powder form, as it can be toxic. Just one teaspoon of pure caffeine powder can contain as much caffeine as you'd get in 28 cups of coffee!

But let's not limit ourselves to drinking coffee filled with caffeine. There are numerous dietary supplements that are worthwhile nootropics for focus and mental clarity. And many of the best nootropics for focus could also be named as the best nootropics for energy -- and the best nootropics for memory... since those functions tend to reinforce each other. Let's take a look at these 12 brain boosters.

1. Citicoline (Cognizin®)

Citicoline is also called CDP-choline, and it might be the smartest of the "smart drugs." One of the key functions of citicoline is to enhance production of the vital neurotransmitter acetylcholine -- which is a signaling neuron critical for memory, learning, mental clarity, and cognition.

In addition, citicoline:

• Recharges and energizes your brain. Enhances mitochondrial function which increases ATP production, the primary energy center of the cells.
• Improves blood flow to the brain. Critical for delivering oxygen and nutrients to brain cells, which supports cognitive performance and overall brain health. Helps you think more clearly, speeds up mental processing, and reduces risk of cognitive decline.
• Reduces memory mistakes, enhances problem solving. Good acetylcholine production sharpens your mental focus and clarity.
• Enhances mental performance by up to 600%, so you feel more inspired, more in control, with an enhanced ability to learn new things, retain knowledge, and keep essential focus.

Citicoline is available in various forms. One of the most powerful is a patented extract called Cognizin® in our Green Valley Natural's Brain Vitality Plus.

2. Lion's Mane

Lion's mane is a medicinal mushroom renowned for its cognitive benefits. It stimulates the production of nerve growth factor (NGF), which aids the regeneration and function of nerve cells. Lion's mane is especially known for enhancing focus and memory.

Lion's mane also reduces anxiety, promotes a positive outlook, and boosts overall mental clarity and sharpness. Studies have shown that Lion’s Mane extract significantly improves cognitive function, especially in areas of memory and focus. Research shows that it can fight brain shrinkage and enhance brain size and function starting in just 30 minutes.

You can enjoy the cognitive enhancement of Lion's mane in Green Valley Natural's Maximum Memory Support. It contains Lion's mane, B vitamins, and other nutraceuticals that improve mental speed, recall and focus.

3. Bacopa monnieri

Bacopa monnieri is a traditional herb in Ayurvedic medicine known for its cognitive enhancing properties. [7] It is effective in improving memory, focus, and reducing anxiety. It works by increasing certain brain chemicals involved in thinking, learning, and memory which helps in storing and retrieving information and making it easier to remember details.

For example, bacopa can amplify acetylcholine - the memory and learning superstar. It also shields brain cells against oxidative stress that leads to cognitive decline and helps grow and repair brain cell connections. Last but not least, when inflammation flares up in your brain, Bacopa is a fire hose. By dousing these inflammatory flames, it helps keep your cognitive functions running smoothly.

One of the most powerful forms of bacopa monnieri is Bacomind®, a standardized extract shown in clinical studies to:

• Improve memory retention and recall.
• Reduce anxiety and stress. Bacopa monnieri is an adaptogen, which aids your stress response, reduces cortisol levels, and enhances serotonin, to promote a sense of calm and wellbeing which is crucial for mental clarity and focus.
• Enhance focus, attention, and mental clarity.
• Improve learning ability and problem solving.
• Enhance the brain's capacity to absorb and retain new information, making it easier to learn complex topics and solve challenging problems.

Bacopa monnieri is widely avaiable, but Bacomind® is available in Green Valley Natural's Brain Vitality Plus supplement, along with fish oil and other key brain ingredients scientifically formulated to support overall cognition.

4. Phosphatidylserine

Phosphatidylserine (PS for short) is a phospholipid that plays a crucial role in cell membrane integrity and function. It is vital for proper cell signaling and transmission of electrical impulses between brain cells. As such, it promotes memory, learning, concentration, and overall cognitive function.

Studies have shown that PS supplementation can significantly improve cognitive functions, including memory, attention, and mental clarity. It has also been used to reduce symptoms of cognitive decline in older people, and improve learning and memory in younger people. PS also reduces stress and improves mood by regulating cortisol, a stress hormone.

PS is worthy of being part of your daily brain health regimen, and you can add it in combination with other key brain nootropics when you take our Green Valley Natural's Maximum Memory Support.

5. Fish Oil (Omega-3 Fatty Acids)

The omega-3 fatty acids in fish oil, especially DHA and EPA, have been shown in numerous studies to play a key role in maintaining your brain cells. [4]

Eicosapentaenoic Acid (EPA) is a potent omega-3 fatty acid ester that's important for brain health. It helps maintain cognitive function and is derived from fish oil. Its "cousin" Docosahexaenoic Acid (DHA) is a major structural component of the brain, making up a significant portion of gray matter.

DHA is crucial for maintaining the fluidity and integrity of cell membranes, which is essential for efficient communication between brain cells (neurons). Meanwhile, EPA is a powerful anti-inflammatory.

Omega-3s help improve blood flow in the brain by reducing the levels of triglycerides and promoting the flexibility of blood vessels. Enhanced blood flow ensures that the brain receives sufficient oxygen and nutrients, which are necessary for maintaining cognitive function.

Omega-3 fatty acids also influence the production and function of neurotransmitters, such as serotonin and dopamine, which are critical for mood regulation and cognitive processes.

Take all of these benefits together and it's no wonder that fish oil combats brain fog, a common issue that diminishes mental clarity and sharpness.

Regular users of fish oil can enjoy dramatic improvements in mental sharpness, so you can feel more in control of your life, maintain your independence, and stay mentally sharp well into your senior years. Fish oil protects from inflammation and oxidative damage, and supports brain health by supporting neurogenesis and enhancing blood flow.

Whether for academic, professional, or personal reasons, fish oil provides cognitive support you need to excel in life. Get a clinically documented dose of fish oil plus other brain essentials in Green Valley Natural's Brain Vitality Plus.

6. Coffee Fruit Extract (Neurofactor)

Coffee is a well-known focus booster as we mentioned earlier. [6] You might be one of the millions who jumpstarts your day with a cup of joe. Coffee provides caffeine but not coffee fruit. Coffee Fruit Extract, branded as Neurofactor™, is a potent ingredient derived from the outer hull of the coffee berry. Known for its remarkable ability to enhance brain health through its nutrient stores, Neurofactor™ contains nutritious compounds including procyanidins and polyphenols that offer a myriad of cognitive benefits:

• Boosts levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) -- a crucial protein that supports your brain's neurons. It promotes neurogenesis -- the growth of new brain cells -- essential for maintaining cognitive function and brain plasticity.
• Supports memory, learning, and problem-solving. By increasing BDNF, it improves neural connections, promoting faster information processing and better recall.
• Reduces risk of cognitive decline by supporting the health and growth of neurons. Helps you maintain mental sharpness as you age. Studies show that individuals with higher BDNF levels have slower rates of cognitive decline, making Neurofactor™ a valuable ingredient for long-term brain health.
• Protects the brain from oxidative stress, which can trigger memory problems.
• Enhances mental energy and clarity, alertness and focus, promoting productivity.
• Promotes mood and emotional wellbeing. Higher BDNF levels are linked with improved mood.

Neurofactor's™ comprehensive benefits make it an essential ingredient for anyone looking to maintain and improve their brain's health and function, whatever your driving motivation. Experience Neurofactor™ along with other essential brain boosters in Brain Vitality Plus.

7. L-Theanine

L-Theanine is the natural relaxing agent in green tea, and it's a hugely popular nootropic amino acid that relaxes the mind without causing drowsiness. But while green tea is a good source of L-Theanine, if you don't drink something like ten cups of green tea per day, you'll never get enough L-theanine via tea. That's not realistic or comfortable. A supplement is essential to obtain these benefits.

How does it work?

Research suggests that L-theanine works by promoting alpha brain wave frequencies, which affects the brain with calm, creative thinking. Alpha brain waves create a mental state similar to meditative free-flow thinking -- a mental state sometimes described as "wakeful relaxation" because it so aptly blends focus and relaxation. [9]

In terms of focus, L-theanine may promote focus throughout difficult, time-consuming cognitive tasks, as well as improve the sleep disorders that undermine daytime focus and attentiveness.

8. Maritime Pine Bark Extract

Maritime Pine Bark Extract is an exciting nootropic supplement supplying a rich complex of active proanthocyanidins. Its antioxidant capacity is 20 times greater than vitamin E and 50 times greater than vitamin C-- that's a powerful antioxidant!

With this incredible antioxidant status, maritime pine bark extract is linked with many brain promoting activities, especially focus, attention, and mental processing. Maritime pine bark extract also promotes brain blood flow which leads to improved focus and mental performance.

One placebo-controlled, double-blind human study found that four weeks of maritime pine bark extract were associated with cognitive benefits including attention, visual-motor coordination, and reduction of hyperactivity. Maritime Pine Bark Extract is also used in sports nutrition, especially as a pre-workout supplement to improve focus and muscle blood flow.

9. Mulberry Fruit Extract 4:1

Mulberry is included in Green Valley Natural's Maximum Memory Support for its neuroplasticity benefits -- that is its ability to form new neural connections. Better neuroplasticity is linked with better cognitive performance, including improved memory, learning, and overall brain health.

Mulberry fruit extract stimulates the production of those critical memory compounds NGF and BDNF, which are essential for neuronal wellbeing, and for the formation of new synaptic connections between neurons.

Mulberry also supports acetylcholine levels needed for memory and learning. Mulberry's bioactive compounds readily cross the blood-brain barrier so it works with ease.

10. Resveratrol

Resveratrol is a natural polyphenol found in grapes and berries and celebrated for its antioxidant properties. As such, resveratrol may help protect brain cells from damage, and is being studied for improving brain function.[5]

Resveratrol helps your cognitive function because it:

• Acts as antioxidant-- it neutralizes harmful free radicals in the brain, and preserves the integrity of neurons. In other words, it protects brain cells from damage and inflammation.
• Supports better memory, sharper focus, and faster mental processing.
• Helps protect your brain as you age.
• Boosts blood flow to the brain, ensuring that the brain receives needed oxygen and nutrients.

Resveratrol is a key ingredient in Green Valley Natural's Advanced Brain Power supplement formula with an ability to protect and enhance your brain's cells.

11. MCT Oil

MCT oil is a nutritional supplement that contains naturally occurring fats called medium chain triglycerides, or MCTs.

Your brain can't store energy, so it needs a steady energy source, which is usually supplied by blood glucose. When needed, your liver can break down stored fat to make ketones, which readily cross the blood-brain barrier to energize the brain.

When MCT oil was given to adults with mild cognitive impairment, they experienced significant memory improvements within 90 minutes of taking their first dose.

MCTs can fight brain aging by promoting brain cell repair, and taking MCT has been found to increase brain energy by eight to nine percent. [2]

MCT oil can aid in intestinal flora optimization, which is undeniably important to brain health. All those "good gut" bacteria produce the neurotransmitters serotonin and dopamine for your brain and reduce brain inflammation linked with depression.

12. Rhodiola Rosea

Rhodiola is an adaptogen that helps the body respond to stress and may improve energy, balance mood, and enhance brain function. [8]

As we've already seen, stress can interfere with focus and cognition in a big way. So anything you can do to manage stress will correspondingly aid focus and cognition. But it's only the beginning. Studies show rhodiola also improves cell to cell communication in the brain by increasing levels of ATP, which provides energy for neurotransmitters. In addition, Rhodiola stimulates the production of BDNF, serotonin and dopamine, all of which are associated with a clear, sharp memory.

Essential Nutrients for Cognitive Functions

Other nutrients can be stacked on these 12 key nutrients to boost focus and brain health. B vitamins aid with focus and general cognition via various brain pathways. Lutein and Zeaxanthin help your brain support your eyes. There's also some amazing research into the brain health benefits of the popular anti-inflammatory curcumin.

When choosing the right nootropics for your needs, consider your specific cognitive goals, such as improving memory, boosting focus, or delaying cognitive decline. Research the ingredients involved to determine what fits your own needs. Consult with your healthcare professional before adding supplements or herbs to your wellness routine.

And always, buy products from reputable companies that adhere to Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) practices and are FDA-registered or certified. Short cuts and cheap products are not worth it.

Safety and Precautions

Although rare, nootropics can have side effects. This is especially true for prescription nootropics for ADHD. They've been linked to high blood pressure and insomnia in some people.

When to Consult a Doctor

In any event, if you're having problems concentrating or have memory problems, speak with a healthcare profession to see if there's an underlying medical condition. These professionals can help determine your best course of action and recommend safe and effective nootropics.

Consult a doctor before adding supplements or herbs to your wellness routine, particularly if you have a pre-existing medical condition.

Summary

The brain is not as "set in stone" as previously thought. It's dynamic and flexible. This means we can influence our brain health by the way we live our lives. Nootropics take advantage of this new reality.

Nootropics should be stacked with a highly-nutritional diet, physical exercise, supplements, mental stimulation, and more.

Since the brain is pliable, nootropics and lifestyle interventions can rewire the brain and change its brainwaves to improve focus, thinking, creativity, learning, reaction times, and memory. Why not get started today to optimize your brain function?

Frequently Asked Questions:

What are nootropics?

Nootropics are substances that improve memory and cognitive function, enhance focus, drive creative ability, and improve brain health. In other words, they boost mental performance and mental alertness.

At one time, nootropics were drugs, but in recent years that definition has broadened to include natural substances studied for enhancing brain function.

What is focus?

Focus is the ability to concentrate attention on a specific task or topic. A focused mind readily interprets audio and visual cues and separates key sensory information from unnecessary distractions.

What are the best nootropics for focus?

People often ask what are the best nootropics for memory or the best nootropics for energy and focus. Natural nootropics are supplements and herbs that promote brain function and energize your brain. The best nootropics for focus include citicoline (Cognizin™), Bacopa monnieri, Lion's mane, phosphatidylerine, fish oil, L-theanine, maritime pine bark extract, and resveratrol. Other good nootropics include coffee fruit extract, mulberry fruit extract, MCT oil, and rhodiola rosea.

Are nootropics safe?

Natural nootropic supplements are generally safe and well-tolerated. However, you should always discuss the addition of new supplements with your healthcare provider to be sure they aren't contraindicated for you.

Is lithium a nootropic?

Lithium is not traditionally classified as a nootropic. However, some people consider low-dose lithium, specifically in the form of lithium orotate, to have potential nootropic properties. That's because of its neuroprotective effects and its ability to support mood stability and cognitive function.