The Best Nootropics For Cognitive Performance

Imagine yourself working through the most complex tasks with ease, your memory effortlessly recalling information, and your creativity flowing when you need it most. This is not some pipe dream; this is what nootropic supplements promise.

The term "nootropic" was first coined in 1972 by Romanian psychologist and chemist Dr. Corneliu Giurgea. Dr. Giurgea was looking to classify substances that could improve learning and memory, protect the human brain from injury and cognitive decline, and exhibit low toxicity.

But with so many nootropic supplements available, how do you know which are the right ones for you?

Let's take a quick look at some of the best nootropics on the market today. These are food supplements with ingredients that will support cognitive function and help your mind operate at its peak.

5 of the Best Nootropic Supplements: Our Top Geeky Formulas

1. Lion's Mane Focus+

Lion's Mane is a medicinal mushroom praised for its cognitive-enhancing properties. Our geeky formula, Lion's Mane Focus+, is the perfect supplement for improving brain function, including memory retention and mental clarity.

What's in this Nootropic?

A 28-day study on 41 healthy adults aged 18-45 revealed that a single dose of Lion's Mane could improve cognitive performance and reduce subjective stress. This study by Docherty et al. (2023) in the journal Nutrients further noted that at the end of the 28-day study, participants performed better on cognitive tests and reported lower levels of perceived stress.

Benefits of Lion's Mane Focus+:

• Improves Cognitive Function: Lion's Mane and the added Thiamine (Vitamin B1) support mental performance, resulting in improved focus as well as better memory and cognitive processing.
  
• Supports the Nervous System: Vitamin B1 supports normal function in the nervous system.
  

Why This Is One of the Best Nootropic Supplements Available:

• We use high-strength lion's mane extract, where each serving is equivalent to 4000mg of Lion's Mane mushroom.
  
• Our formula contains 50% polysaccharides, which are naturally occurring compounds in Lion's Mane mushrooms. This means that our polysaccharide content is 8-12x higher than the raw Lion's Mane mushroom.
  
• Our formula provides 4.4mg of vitamin B1, an essential mineral that supports the body’s normal energy-yielding metabolism and the healthy function of the heart.
  
• We include black pepper extract (equivalent to 200mg black pepper powder) to support the bioavailability of our lion’s mane extract and vitamin B1, increasing their uptake in your body.
  

How to Take It: Take 2 tablets daily with a glass of water, preferably with food for better absorption.

2. Creatine Monohydrate Pure Powder

While creatine is often associated with physical performance, it also has significant cognitive benefits. Our Pure Creatine Monohydrate Powder is a high-quality, micronised creatine supplement that supports performance in the brain and muscles.

What's In this Nootropic?

Creatine is one of the most researched and effective nootropics available. A study by Candow et al. (2023), in the journal Sports Medicine, investigated the effects of creatine supplementation on brain function. First, they noted that creatine supplementation increases brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) expression and brain creatine stores.

Secondly, these researchers found improvements in memory recall and cognitive performance in both younger and elderly patients with increased brain creatine stores. Creatine particularly improved memory function and cognitive performance during states of mental fatigue.

Benefits of Creatine:

• Reduces Brain Fog: Creatine supplementation can improve working memory and help protect against cognitive decline in ageing adults.
  
• Increases Energy: Creatine increases the availability of adenosine triphosphate (ATP) in the brain. ATP is an absolutely vital element for energy and improved brain function. ATP also supports the hippocampus, which is critical for spatial memory and navigation.
  
• Improves Physical Performance: Increased ATP production boosts energy and supercharges physical performance and cognitive abilities.
  

Why This is One of the Best Nootropic Supplements Available:

• Micronised for easier absorption and no gritty texture.
  
• Supports both physical and brain energy.
  
• Improves memory, focus, mental performance, and clarity.
  
• Combines unbeatable value along with purity, with no added fillers or artificial additives.
  

How to Take It: Mix 1 flat or 3.5g, teaspoon of creatine powder into your favourite drink, be it water, juice, or a protein shake. Take it daily for optimal results.

3. Ashwagandha Calm+

Ashwagandha is an adaptogenic herb known for its stress and anxiety-reducing effects. Our Ashwagandha Calm+ uses KSM-66, a high-concentration, full-spectrum extract of the Ashwagandha root.

What's In this Nootropic:

Research reveals that ashwagandha is a super-effective nootropic supplement. In a study by Gopukumar et al. (2021), 130 adult participants received one capsule of ashwagandha or a placebo daily for 90 days. 

Clinical evidence indicated significant improvement in recall memory, lower stress levels, and better psychological well-being and sleep quality among participants who received the ashwagandha supplement.

Benefits of Ashwagandha Calm+:

• Improves Cognitive Function: Ashwagandha improves attention and focus, while vitamin B6 is important for brain health and hormone balance.
  
• Reduces Stress and Anxiety: Ashwagandha KSM-66 is the most beneficial form of this herb, known for its ability to improve resilience to stress. It lowers the stress hormone cortisol and is well-tolerated.
  
• Improves Sleep: L-tryptophan is an amino acid that helps to relax the mind and improve sleep quality.
  
• Helps You Look and Feel Healthier: Our Ashwagandha Calm+ formula includes ingredients clinically proven to improve overall immune system health, muscle strength, and endurance.
  

Why This Is One of the Best Nootropic Supplements Available:

• Contains a powerful nootropic stack of KSM-66, vitamin B6, and L-Tryptophan.
  
• Decreases cortisol levels, which in turn may reduce stress and anxiety.
  
• Improves sleep quality, making falling asleep and staying asleep easier.
  
• Improves focus and concentration, particularly in high-stress environments.
  
• KSM-66 Ashwagandha is the highest quality, most clinically studied extract available.
  

How to Take It: Take 1 capsule daily, preferably 1 hr before bedtime, to support restful sleep and stress management.

4. Iron Energy+

Iron combats fatigue and facilitates natural energy production. Our Iron Energy+ supplement contains a blend of vitamins that support healthy cerebral blood flow and cognitive function. If you're struggling with mental fatigue or sleep deprivation, this supplement will naturally restore your energy levels and improve brain function.

What's in this Nootropic?

A narrative review of different clinical studies by Fekete et al. (2023) found that iron supplementation has been shown to positively improve intelligence quotient (IQ) scores. The researchers noted that iron deficiency in the elderly is associated with an increased risk of anemia and Alzheimer’s disease. These findings suggest that iron supplementation is crucial for maintaining optimal cognitive function.

Benefits of Iron Energy+:

• Supports Oxygen Flow: Iron helps produce haemoglobin, which carries oxygen throughout your body, including the brain, thus supporting cognitive function.
  
• Reduces Fatigue: Iron Energy+ helps alleviate fatigue, improving overall energy levels and stamina throughout the day.
  
• Enhances Cognitive Performance: The added vitamin B12 and folic acid in Iron Energy+ work together to improve memory, reasoning, and overall cognitive sharpness.
  

Why This Is One of the Best Nootropic Supplements Available:

• Combats mental fatigue and supports sustained energy levels.
  
• Promotes optimal cognitive function and memory retention.
  
• Strengthens the immune system with essential vitamins and minerals.
  
• Vitamin C supports iron absorption.
  
• Gentle on the stomach, unlike many other iron supplements.
  

How to Take It: Take 1 tablet daily with a full glass of water and a meal for best results.

5. Vitamin B12 Dual Power

Vitamin B12 is important for maintaining energy levels, brain function, and overall well-being. Our Vitamin B12 Dual Power offers two active forms of B12 to ensure maximum effectiveness in supporting cognitive health and reducing fatigue.

What's in this Nootropic?

This formula combines Methylcobalamin and Adenosylcobalamin, two highly bioavailable forms of Vitamin B12, to support brain function, energy production, and overall vitality.

In Annals of Neurology, researchers from the Quadram Institute state that vitamin B12 is important in maintaining brain health. This 2025 study, on 231 volunteers, found that low levels of B12 are associated with cognitive impairment and decline. 

Benefits of Vitamin B12 Dual Power:

• Supports Brain Function: B12 is vital for mental clarity. It supplements other medications targeting mild cognitive impairment. It also improves memory and cognitive performance as individuals age.
  
• Reduces Fatigue: B vitamins help to maintain optimal energy levels, reducing fatigue and lethargy.
  
• Enhances Nervous System Health: Both forms of B12 are essential for a healthy central nervous system, promoting overall well-being.
  
• Supports Heart Health: Aids in the reduction of homocysteine levels in the blood and decreases the risk of heart disease.
  

Why This Is One of the Best Nootropic Supplements Available:

• Convenient, easy-to-swallow tablets.
  
• Great value with a whole year's supply of 365 tablets.
  
• Enhances mental clarity and cognitive function.
  
• Reduces fatigue, allowing you to sustain your energy levels.
  
• Supports nervous system health and red blood cell production.
  
• Combines two active forms of Vitamin B12 for maximum bioavailability.
  

How to Take It: Take 1 tablet a day with a full glass of water for optimal support of the brain and body.

At Nutrition Geeks, we formulate all our supplements in the UK, in-house, from sourcing raw ingredients to packaging the final product. Our geeky formulas are science-backed and evidence-based. We use tried-and-tested ingredients to help you keep your brain sharp and in top shape.

Explore our diverse selection of nootropic supplements for cognitive function and rediscover what it feels like to stay calm, focused, and in control, no matter what life throws your way.

A Little About Nootropic Supplements

Nootropics, often referred to as "smart drugs" or "cognitive enhancers," are substances that improve brain performance. These include both natural and synthetic compounds that support mental processes such as focus, memory, alertness, and clarity, and help address age-related cognitive decline.

Some prescription nootropic supplements increase blood flow to the brain, for instance, iron and ginkgo biloba, while others influence the production of key neurotransmitters, which are chemicals responsible for communication between brain cells.

There are other nootropics that regulate brain chemicals such as dopamine, gamma aminobutyric acid (GABA), and serotonin for improved mood, motivation, and mental function.

What to Consider When Looking for the Best Nootropic Supplements: Red Flags & Quality Indicators

Before buying any nootropics or brain pills, it's crucial to learn how to select quality supplements for effective cognitive enhancement. These tips will help you avoid products that might not serve your interests.

1. Transparency and Dosage

• What to Look For: Always look for a full list of active ingredients and their exact dosages. Clear, precise information ensures that you’re getting effective dosages backed by scientific research. If you're not sure whether the ingredient is active, do a quick search.
  
• The Red Flag: Avoid proprietary blends that don't disclose individual ingredient amounts. "Pixie dusting" is a common practice, where supplements include tiny, ineffective doses of key ingredients. If there are no clear quantities on labels, think twice. Some manufacturers use "pixie dust" to make products appear potent when they're not providing any real benefits.

2. Ingredient Quality and Standardisation

• What to Look For: Start by establishing natural nootropics. Look for nootropic supplements with standardised and high-quality forms of ingredients, for instance:
  
  • Methylcobalamin for Vitamin B12, which is more bioavailable
    
  • KSM-66 for Ashwagandha, which is its most potent and bioavailable form
    
  • Curcumin with Piperine or Liposomal for Turmeric
    
  • N-Acetyl-L-Tyrosine (NALT) for L-Tyrosine
    
  • Magnesium L-Threonate (or Magnesium Glycinate) for Magnesium
    
  • Triglyceride-form (rTG) or Phospholipid-form for Omega-3 (DHA/EPA)
    
  • Micronised Creatine Monohydrate for Creatine
• The Red Flag: Vague ingredient labels like "Ashwagandha Root Powder" or “Proprietary Mushroom Blend” without details on standardisation can mean you’re not getting consistent or potent doses. Also, low-quality, ineffective forms of nutrients (for instance, Choline Bitartrate instead of Citicoline) won’t provide the desired cognitive benefits.

3. Manufacturing and Testing

• What to Look For: Ensure that the product has been third-party tested for purity and potency. Look for certifications, including GMP, for Good Manufacturing Practice, or NSF for National Sanitation Foundation, which guarantee that the product is made from the highest standards.
  
• The Red Flag: Brands offering no proof of third-party testing or purity checks should raise an alarm. Companies can easily provide biased results through in-house testing. Without independent confirmation, you cannot tell for certain whether the product is effective or even safe. At Nutrition Geeks, we eliminate this guesswork through PhD-led formulations and independent third-party lab verification. We ensure every batch of supplements meets strict safety and potency standards before it ever reaches you. 
  

4. Marketing and Claims

• What to Look For: Trust products that make realistic claims backed by scientific evidence. They should provide scientific studies or clinical trials to support their promises and offer a money-back guarantee, showing confidence in their product's effectiveness.
  
• The Red Flag: Watch out for exaggerated claims like "Unlock 100% of your brain power" or "Instant IQ boost," which are usually not supported by real science. Be wary of high-pressure sales tactics like "limited time offers," as these are often used to rush you into a purchase without time to properly evaluate the product.

How to Choose the Best Nootropic Supplement Stack for You

A nootropic supplement stack is a smartly picked combination of supplements that work with each other to improve cognitive functions and overall mental health. It's like making a recipe, finding the perfect mix of ingredients that complement each other, and amplifying your brain's innate abilities.

Now, you might be wondering, how do you begin building a nootropic supplement stack? Let's break it down.

Choosing the right nootropic stack is not about throwing together a collection of supplements at random. You need to follow an efficient methodology to build a stack that aligns with your specific cognitive goals.

Building a Nootropic Stack For Brain Health

Step one is to identify your main cognitive challenge or the improvement you want to see. This will help you create a stack that’s targeted and avoids unnecessary or conflicting ingredients. When you focus on a goal, you can ensure your stack works synergistically to achieve the best results.

For Example:

• Stress Reduction or Focusing Under Pressure: Go for adaptogens and cortisol regulators, such as Ashwagandha, Rhodiola Rosea, or L-Tyrosine.
  
• Enhancing Memory and Learning: Emphasise Choline sources and memory enhancers such as Citicoline (CDP-Choline), Bacopa Monnieri extract, or Lion's Mane.
  
• Improving Alertness and Working Memory: Choose stimulants plus energy supporters, such as Caffeine combined with L-Theanine or Creatine Monohydrate, for improved focus and mental alertness.
  
• Long-term Brain Health & Maintenance: Focus on neuro-structural and essential nutrients like Lion's Mane, Omega-3s (DHA), and B-Complex Vitamins for improving cognitive health.
  

This will ensure that your stack is in line with your core goal and that you're not adding supplements that can dilute the results.

Lay the Foundation Stack (The "Non-Negotiables")

Think of your brain as building a house. Now, at the bottom of the stack, is your foundation. If that foundation is weak, installing a new smart system won't make the house stable. It's very important that you build a strong foundation for your brain health.

Key Ingredients to Include:

• Omega-3 Fatty Acids (DHA/EPA): Important for brain structure, cell membrane fluidity, and synaptic functionality. These are essential for any nootropic supplement stack since they support general brain health.
  
• B-Complex Vitamins – especially B12: Very important for nerve functioning and energy metabolism. Doctors highly recommend B12 supplementation for vegetarians, vegans, and people over 50 years old. This is because B vitamins provide vital neuroprotective effects for the ageing brain.
  
• Magnesium L-Threonate: A highly bioavailable form of magnesium that crosses the blood-brain barrier, supporting synaptic density (the connections between your brain cells), thus providing a strong foundational element for cognitive health.
  

These nutrients should form the base of your nootropic supplement stack.

Test, Track, and Tweak (The Iterative Process)

Because nootropic supplements are highly individual, tracking your progress and self-adjusting is key. What works for one person may not necessarily work for another, so patience and monitoring are important.

• Steps to Follow: Start with one supplement or stack and maintain it consistently for 2-4 weeks to assess the impact it will have on your focus, energy, and overall cognitive performance.
  
• Track Key Variables: Keep a log of sleep quality, mood, focus, energy level, and performance on tasks requiring cognitive effort, such as memory recall or speed of work.
  
• Adjust Accordingly: If a supplement isn't yielding the results you're hoping for after 2-3 months, take it out or substitute it. Should you feel any adverse reactions, stop altogether. Following this iterative approach, you can refine your nootropic supplement stack and tailor it to your unique biochemistry for optimal results.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Are Illegal Nootropic Supplements?

Illegal nootropics are those that some countries or their respective regulatory agencies ban due to safety concerns. Always check the legal status of a nootropic before use. For instance, the racetam family of synthetic compounds is a prescription-only drug in the UK, but illegal for sale in the US because it's unapproved.

Are Nootropic Supplements Really Worth It?

Yes, many nootropic supplements enhance cognitive function, sharpen mental clarity, and reduce stress. However, results may vary from person to person. Always choose high-quality, science-backed products for efficacy.

Which Tablet is the Best for Brain Memory?

Nootropic supplements such as Lion's Mane Mushroom, Bacopa Monnieri extract, or Ashwagandha are very effective in improving memory and cognitive function.

Which is the Most Powerful Herb for Memory?

According to the research by Docherty et al. (2023), Lion's Mane mushroom, which has shown potential in stimulating the Nerve Growth Factor in anim§al studies, is one of the most potent nootropic supplements. It improves memory and brain performance. It increases mental processing speed, memory retention, and brain power with consistent use over time.

Conclusion

If you're looking to improve focus and mental clarity, nootropics can provide valuable support. Select the best nootropic supplement based on your individual needs to improve your cognitive performance and overall brain health.

Ensure you choose high-quality, science-backed products, and consult with a healthcare professional if you have any concerns. Browse through our selection of nootropic supplements today and begin your journey to better cognitive health.

References

• Beaudry-Richard, A. (2025). Vitamin B12 Levels Association with Functional and Structural Biomarkers of Central Nervous System Injury in Older Adults. Annals of Neurology.
  
• Candow, D. G., Forbes, S. C., Ostojic, S. M., Prokopidis, K., Stock, M. S., Harmon, K. K., & Faulkner, P. (2023). “Heads up” for creatine supplementation and its potential applications for brain health and function. Sports Medicine, 53(Suppl 1), 49-65.
  
• Docherty, S., Doughty, F. L., & Smith, E. F. (2023). The acute and chronic effects of lion’s mane mushroom supplementation on cognitive function, stress, and mood in young adults: A double-blind, parallel groups, pilot study. Nutrients, 15(22), 4842.
  
• Fekete, M., Lehoczki, A., Tarantini, S., Fazekas-Pongor, V., Csípő, T., Csizmadia, Z., & Varga, J. T. (2023). Improving cognitive function with nutritional supplements in aging: a comprehensive narrative review of clinical studies investigating the effects of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and other dietary supplements. Nutrients, 15(24), 5116.
  
• Gopukumar, K., Thanawala, S., Somepalli, V., Rao, T. S., Thamatam, V. B., & Chauhan, S. (2021). Efficacy and safety of ashwagandha root extract on cognitive functions in healthy, stressed adults: a randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled study. Evidence‐Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 2021(1), 8254344.