Nootropics is an inclusive term for substances that have the ability to boost your cognitive performance. This term ‘nootropics’ was coined by renowned Romanian psychologist Dr Corneliu E. Giurgea, who also invented the first synthetic nootropic known as Piracetam. Dr Giurgea also provided us with a clear set of criteria to recognise whether the substance can be categorised as nootropic. He explained some common functions of nootropics, like enhancing memory, learning abilities, and performance and, most importantly, having no severe side effects. These substances are also commonly referred to as cognitive enhancers or smart drugs.
Soon after discovering the first nootropic, many other compounds were discovered to improve cognitive health. This research to find natural remedies for protecting brain health and improving cognitive capabilities led to the discovery of natural nootropic compounds such as Ginkgo biloba, caffeine, reishi, and cordyceps, which exhibit cognitive enhancing and neuroprotective properties and are used as ingredients of supplements like Hyati, the best nootropics in the UK. With advancements in neuroscience and research, nootropics have seen a spike in popularity and use all over the world. So, generally, we divide nootropics into two subcategories: Natural Nootropics and Synthesised Nootropics. This raises some of the most critical questions: what is the difference between natural and synthesised nootropics? Which one is safer and more effective?
This blog discusses these two questions in detail by comparing the origins, functions, and safety of natural and synthesised nootropics and suggests the best nootropics in the UK to boost your memory, focus and creativity.
Why Do People Take Nootropics:
1. Natural Nootropics
• Origin:
Natural nootropics are extracted from plants, herbs, mushrooms, foods or other natural sources and packed with multiple essential nutrients and vitamins that support your mental and physical health. These natural nootropics are available in different forms, like supplement capsules or powders.
• Examples:
Some commonly used natural nootropics are:
Ginkgo biloba:
It is sourced from the leaves of the Ginkgo biloba tree and is known for its antioxidant properties. It is used to enhances cognitive function, memory and mental clarity.
Rhodiola rosea:
It is extracted from the roots of the Rhodiola rosea plant and has adaptogenic properties, which help with stress management, reducing fatigue and improving mood.
Caffeine:
Caffeine is found naturally in cocoa beans and is a stimulant that helps with alertness, focus, and mental acuity. It’s widely used to combat fatigue, enhance cognitive performance, and improve concentration.
Loin’s Mane:
Loin’s mane is a mushroom found in Asia, North America, and Europe. It also has neuroprotective and cognitive-enhancing properties, promoting the protection and growth of your brain cells.
Ashwagandha:
Ashwagandha is an adaptogenic herb that helps the body adapt to stress, reduce anxiety, and improve mood.
Due to their multiple health benefits and cognitive-enhancing properties, these natural nootropics are used in many nootropic supplements, including our Hyati supplements, which are considered one of the best in the UK.
• Properties
1. Synergistic Effect
Natural nootropics possess multiple health benefits, and all the minerals and vitamins in these natural compounds work synergistically to support and improve your overall health. This means one natural nootropic in any supplement or powder form can provide multiple health benefits.
2. Milder Side Effects
Natural nootropics have been used as traditional medicine for centuries and have proven their efficacy and safety. Natural compounds often have gentler effects on the body compared to synthetic alternatives, reducing the risk of adverse reactions and dependency.
3. Antioxidant Properties
Most natural nootropics have antioxidant properties which prevent oxidative stress, reduce inflammation in the brain and protect your brain from age-related decline, such as Ginkgo biloba, Rhodiola rosea, Cordyceps, Lion’s Mane, and Ashwagandha, which contain antioxidant compounds.
4. Neuroprotection
Natural nootropics also have neuroprotection properties that safeguard neurons from damage and degeneration, promoting brain health and longevity. Several natural nootropics, including Rhodiola rosea, Cordyceps, Lion’s Mane, and Ashwagandha, exhibit neuroprotective effects which protect neurons from damage and support cognitive function.
5. Minimise Risk of Neurological Disorders
Adaptogens found in natural nootropics can soothe your nervous system while providing neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory benefits. This can help slow down the neurodegenerative processes linked to neurological disorders like Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s. Alzheimer’s disease is known to cause a decline in cholinergic function, which ultimately leads to memory impairment. However, natural nootropics such as Bacopa Monnieri are able to regulate cholinergic transmission, thereby improving cognitive function and memory in Alzheimer’s patients.
2. Synthetic Nootropics
• Origin:
The first thing that differentiates natural nootropics from synthetic ones is their origin. Synthetic nootropics are formulated in labs and are prescribed by doctors to treat medical conditions like dementia, ADHD, etc.
• Examples:
Modafinil:
It is a synthetic nootropic which is prescribed for narcolepsy and sleep disorders due to its wakefulness-promoting effects.
Piracetam:
As one of the first synthesised nootropics, Piracetam is thought to enhance memory and cognitive function.
Adderall:
It contains amphetamines and is used to treat symptoms of ADHD.
• Properties:
1. Targeted Effect
Compared to natural nootropics, synthetic ones have a more targeted effect and are often engineered to target specific neurotransmitter systems or brain receptors, allowing for more precise modulation of cognitive function. That’s why their effect is more visible and noticeable in a short period of time as compared to natural nootropic supplements, which do not produce immediate results but instead have a long-term impact on health.
2. More Side Effects
Like other synthetic medicines, synthetic nootropics also have the potential risk of side effects; therefore, they should be taken strictly under a doctor’s care. Some common side effects include high blood pressure, palpitations, and insomnia, and can even result in addiction or impulsive behaviour in some cases. However, the efficacy and safety of these supplements may vary.
3. Extensive Scientific Research:
Many synthetic nootropics have undergone rigorous scientific study, providing data on their safety, efficacy, and mechanisms of action, offering a more evidence-based approach to cognitive improvement.
Consult your doctor before using natural or synthetic nootropics, as the choice depends on personal goals and health considerations.
Hyati Nootropics Supplements: The Best Nootropics in the UK
Hyati Nootropic Supplements are known as the best nootropics in the UK as these are made from 100% natural mushroom-based nootropics, which promote your mental and physical health. What makes our supplements the best nootropics in the UK is their composition; we have selected ingredients based on their unique properties that can work synergistically to produce the best results. We have a range of supplements, including Hyati Digestion, Hyati Immune, Hyati Stimulate, Hyati Calming and Hyati Energy. Order yours now and start your experience of the difference in your health, performance and energy.