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As the hustle and bustle of modern-day life keep getting busier, we find that it's harder to stay focused on our productivity and getting things done. Whether it's distractions from our mobile devices or outside influences, from time to time we all experience the lack of focus and it affects our productivity without a doubt.

With many countries beginning to legalize hemp and marijuana (both hemp and marijuana are different varieties of the cannabis plant), we can find much research on CBD (Cannabidiol) across the globe for its contribution in treating various ailments and boosting the overall health in humans. Before we delve deeper into CBD and its derivative CBD oil, it is essential to know about the differences between CBD and its equally popular cousin, THC, as well as the legal status of CBD! How Does CBD Differ From THC? CBD, also called cannabidiol, is a non-intoxicating compound extracted from either the hemp or the marijuana strains of Cannabis sativa, the main plant. While both contain CBD, it is found in abundance in hemp, which also has low levels of THC.  THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol) is also derived from marijuana and hemp, but it is a more potent and psychoactive agent that produces euphoric effects commonly signified as being “high.” While hemp can contain a maximum of 0.3% THC (calculated via dry weight), marijuana comprises up to 30% THC. [1] Unlike THC, CBD does not possess intoxicating properties. How Does CBD Affect The Body? CBD has positive effects on most of our body receptors such as: Glycine receptors – That control happiness, mood, anxiety, etc. related to the happy hormone serotonin. Opioid and Vanilloid receptors – That regulate the pain factor. Adenosine receptors – That control the quality of our sleep. CBD, through regulating the above and many more receptors, helps to treat many ailments from simple acne to significant illnesses like Parkinson’s. What is CBD Oil? CBD oil is a mixture of CBD (cannabidiol – a compound derived from the cannabis plant) and a carrier oil like hemp seed oil or coconut oil. CBD oil is legal in many states in the US, and many countries across the globe are also legalizing CBD oil (as long as they are obtained from hemp, and not marijuana). This is because the CBD oil derived from hemp either has no THC or a  minimal amount of THC (<0.3% which is acceptable).  While the research around the CBD compound is throwing up positive results in therapeutic uses, subjective reports from individuals across the globe prove that CBD oil does have some special powers indeed! Nora Volkow, Director National Institute of Drug Abuse, says that preclinical research has shown CBD oil to have various therapeutic uses in cases like anti-seizure, anti-inflammatory, anti-tumour, anti-anxiety, antipsychotic and more.[2] Benefits of CBD Oil For The Mind And Body Here’s how CBD oil can aid people in treating different ailments, and also building a healthy lifestyle. 1. A Happy Heart CBD oil can reduce hypertension and thereby minimize the risk of heart disease. Studies on nine healthy individuals who were administered with 600 mg of CBD were found to have low blood pressure prior and post-exposure to demanding situations like heavy exercise and extreme cold weathers.  Furthermore, the stroke volume was seen to be significantly reduced, meaning the heart was functioning efficiently. [3] These findings enhance the possibilities that CBD oil may be an efficient complementary therapy for individuals whose hypertension is augmented by anxiety and stress. However, there has been no evidence that CBD oil on its own can reduce hypertension.  2. A Positive Mindset One of the prominent effects reported by many people taking CBD oil is a better mindset through enhancement of a blissful and calm mood.[4] The shaping up of a positive mindset can be attributed to the CBD’s effects on the 5-HT1A receptors that regulate the release of vital neurotransmitters that control the anxiety and mood levels, particularly serotonin.[5] CBD oil has helped to enhance one’s lifestyle in the same way, as through meditation and self-realization. Many people, after consumption of quality CBD oil, have found themselves feeling a lot more relaxed, with a sense of calmness. They also experienced a shift in mindset that helps them see the world from a different perspective. CBD oils are popular among meditators as a means of gaining more profound knowledge and enhancing their awareness. [6] 3. Relief From Pain One of the crucial components of the human body is the endocannabinoid system (ECS) that regulates various functions like appetite, sleep, pain and various other immune response systems. [7]  Studies have shown that CBD, through its analgesic effects, can help to minimize chronic pain by impacting the endocannabinoid receptors and reducing the inflammation and its associated pain. [8] Certain animal studies have shown that CBD injections have helped to reduce the surgical incision pain response system, while yet another animal study showed that oral treatment with CBD reduced the sciatic nerve-related pain and helped to minimize inflammation. 4. Helps Deal With Depression and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder [9] CBD oil is known to be safe and effective in treating anxiety and insomnia in children suffering from post-traumatic stress disorders. Several animal studies have also shown its anti-depressant properties as well. [10], [11] According to the 2017 World Health Organization report, depression has been the sole significant contributor leading to disability across the globe, while anxiety-related disorders were ranked sixth. [12]   Thus, consuming CBD oil on a regular basis may help people suffering from anxiety and depression without the side effects associated with many anti-depressant medications. 5. Reduces Seizures Certain studies have found CBD to be a promising treatment for seizures. According to a study, when people with severe forms of epilepsy were administered CBD oil of 0.9 to 2.3 grams per pound of body weight, there was a significant reduction in their seizures of a median of 36.5%. [13]  CBD oil has also shown to reduce seizures amongst children suffering from a complex epilepsy childhood disorder called Dravet Syndrome. [14] 6. Reduces Inflammation CBD oil that contains CBD extracts from the cannabis plant can be an effective form of treatment for chronic inflammation and related pain in arthritis. [15], [16] Various animal studies have also proven the same. [17] Studies have also shown CBD oil’s efficacy in treating pain related to fibromyalgia. [18] Hence, the application of CBD oil can help alleviate symptoms of pain and inflammation in arthritis patients, as well as easing the pain factors in other medical cases. 7. Makes Skin Soft and Supple When applied topically, the antioxidants in CBD oil helps to protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals like UV rays and other pollutants.  Various topical cannabis-based products are being developed that help to treat skin issues from acne to psoriasis and also foster a quick restoration of damaged skin.   8. Increases Bone Strength CBD helps augment the process of formation of new bone cells and thereby promote faster healing of broken bones. Bones treated with CBD oil in subjects have shown to be 35% to 50% stronger than those that are not treated. [19] CBD oil has been researched for its prospective role in treating common health issues, including but not limited to depression, anxiety, cardiovascular health, acne, inflammation and so on. With continuous ongoing research on the potential benefits of CBD oil, many new remedies using this miracle oil are sure to be revealed. Article Courtesy - PRIMESELF

The nootropics industry continues to prove itself as one of the most exciting and fastest-growing industries.  We decided to have a look at some of the best selling and most sought after nootropics of 2019, so far. 1. Prime Mind by Prime Self Prime Mind has proven itself to be one serious contender in the nootropic space. Consisting of an all-natural nootropic stack formulation designed for complete brain optimization.  It contains various components targetting an array of neural pathways to boost cognitive functions. Aimed at supporting memory, mental clarity, mental performance, mood and general brain health. The nootropic stack, or formulation, consists of Lion's Mane Mushroom, Alpha GPC (Choline Source), Bacopin® (Patented Bacopa Monnieri), Huperzia Serrata, Phosphatidylserine and more. Prime Mind is perfect for those looking for a non-stimulating nootropic product perfect for daily use and can be seen as a highly potent nootropic based 'brain vitamin'. Highly recommended!  2. Elevate  Elevate is one of the most powerful and cutting-edge nootropic formulations to hit the South African Market. Comprising of an advanced, research-based, nootropic formulation. This nootropic formulation is definitely one of the more potent nootropic offerings, best suited for the more advanced users or those looking for an all-rounder solution. Combining compounds such as Adrafinil, Coluracetam, Noopept, Sulbutiamine and more. Elevate is an advanced combination of active and functional ingredients to provide the body & mind with an "elevated" state. Achieved via the enhancement of cognition, performance, and mood.  Specifically designed for individuals with intensive workloads and those in need of superior performance, both in and out of the workplace.  Intense Focus & Energy  Memory & Clarity  Mood & Motivation 3. Adrafinil Adrafinil, a prodrug to Modafinil or otherwise known as Provigil, is a eugeroic or wakefulness-promoting nootropic agent, which when metabolized, converts to active Modafinil in the body.  Adrafinil was designed to increase energy, boost productivity, prevent fatigue and stimulate the mind and body, all without causing anxiety and hyperactivity generally associated with other common amphetamine-based and other stimulants. It has also been suggested that Adrafinil may have positive effects on mood, focus, and learning ability and may even assist in keeping your brain health due to neuroprotective properties.  Originally developed as a treatment for sleep disorders such as narcolepsy, It quickly gained popularity amongst university students, shift workers or professionals pushing long gruelling hours in the office due to its effectiveness as a stimulant and its proven nootropic benefits, increasing mental alertness and cognitive performance. 4. Lion’s Mane Mushroom Still one of the top dogs in the nootropic world and arguably the king of the nootropic jungle. Lion’s Mane Mushroom, otherwise referred to as Yamabushitake, is a true natural nootropic. This Natural super-herb is one of the most powerful natural nootropics available for cognitive enhancement and neuroprotection, with studies indicating that Lion's Mane might have a permanent effect on cognitive enhancement. Beyond its cognitive benefits, Lion's Mane also contributes to nerve growth and neuroprotection. Lion's Mane Mushroom is also an edible mushroom used in Asian cuisine as well as traditional medicine as a treatment for an array of ailments. Lion's Mane Mushroom has shown the ability to greatly increase and promote Nerve Growth Factor (NGF) production crucial for the survival and function of nerves cells throughout the mind and body. Increase NGF levels in the brain can result in improved cognition by promoting neural growth, reducing inflammation and optimizing brain health.  5. Coluracetam Coluracetam is one of the lesser-known nootropics that belong to the class of "racetams". This fat-soluble nootropic improves the brain’s choline conversion to acetylcholine through high-affinity choline uptake (HACU) process. Coluracetam has been shown to beneficial to memory, eyesight, manic depression and anxiety. Coluracetam tends to act similar to that of the ampakine nootropics, which is where its stimulant-like properties are suspected to arise from.  Coluracetam is part of the racetam family. The mechanism of the racetam compounds is connected to a process called high-affinity choline uptake or HACU. In the process, neurons draw in choline to synthesize a neurotransmitter named acetylcholine. For cognitive enhancement, an increase in the activity of neurons is needed which is gained through a higher HACU rate. The HACU process clarifies why the nootropic impacts alertness, attention, and memory. Coluracetam is a choline up-taker, i.e. it improves the intake of choline through the HACU system. Furthermore, it converts a substantial amount of choline to acetylcholine, the neurotransmitter considered to be extremely necessary for memory formation, learning capacity, and focus. The study that supports the finding was conducted on AF64A-treated rats. It evidenced that: Interventions in rats support the usage of Coluracetam at very low oral doses to preserve HACU. Another study that explains how Coluracetam operates signifies that the agent restores the uptake of choline even when nerve cells have been damaged.

‘Get a good night’s sleep!’ You hear this line before a big corporate meeting, an important test, and even a marathon. Why? Because it is an established fact that sleep can affect our performance.

Ask anybody for one piece of advice they swear by, and most of them will tell you, “always trust your gut”! Though the gut refers to the stomach or belly in medical terms, it is often linked with a feeling, emotional, or intuitive response rather than a well-researched thought, hinting at its connection with many organs in the body. Hippocrates, who is considered to be the father of modern medicine, stated 2000 years back that all diseases begin in the gut. Though in principle, all conditions may not originate from the gut, research has indicated that many chronic metabolic diseases do. Gut bacteria, known as gut microbiota or gut microbes (microorganisms like bacteria, virus, and fungi that are found in the large intestine) together with the gut lining strongly affect one’s health. An improper, leaky gut may lead to obesity.[1] Specific undesirable endotoxins may leak through the gut and enter the bloodstream. The immune system recognizes them as foreign molecules and starts attacking them, leading to chronic inflammation. [2] There are numerous ways in which gut microbes can affect the functions of the body and influence overall health. Researchers increasingly recognize the importance of gut health, and how poor gut health can affect major organs in the body like the brain and the immune system, and also play an essential role in body weight.  How The Gut And Brain Are Connected…  The link between the gut and the brain is called the gut-brain axis. [3], [4], [5] There are around 500 million neurons located in the gut, and these are all connected to the brain through various nerves in the nervous system. [6] Of these, the vagus nerve (that forms a part of the parasympathetic nervous system) is one of the most crucial nerves and the biggest nerve that connects the gut and the brain by working in a bi-directional way. [7], [8] When a person is stressed, the signals passing via the vagus nerve are cut, leading to gastrointestinal problems. [9]  Similarly, the brain and gut are also connected through neurotransmitters (chemicals produced in the brain) that control various emotions and feelings. For instance, the neurotransmitter serotonin helps in making a person happy. Fascinatingly, the gut produces a large proportion of serotonin. [10] The gut is also responsible for the production of another neurotransmitter known as gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA). The GABA neurotransmitter plays an essential role in regulating the feelings of fear and anxiety. [11] Animal studies have shown that certain probiotics help to augment the production of GABA and reduce anxiety and symptoms of depression. [12] Several studies have proved that people with mental disorders have different strains of bacteria in their guts, thereby demonstrating the importance of good gut health for proper brain functioning. [13], [14]  Do Gut Microbes Affect Weight? Weight gain and obesity result due to an imbalance between the two leading families of gut microbes (this imbalance is also known as gut dysbiosis).[15] There are two main families of gut bacteria, namely bacteroidetes and firmicutes that have a direct connection to one’s weight. [16], [17] Studies have shown that obese people tend to have more firmicutes and fewer bacteroidetes when compared to people with normal weight. [18] These suggest that gut health tends to play a major role in the regulation of body weight. Further, the ratio of firmicutes to bacteroidetes is greatly influenced by diet. [19]  Fortunately for people suffering from poor gut health leading to obesity, probiotic supplements come to the rescue by inhibiting the absorption of dietary fat and increasing the amount of fat that is sent out of the body through feces. [20] Various strains of the Lactobacillus family function in the above fashion and help in reducing obesity. [21], [22] Exploring The Link Between The Gut And The Immune System There is ample connection between the gut bacteria and our immune system. The gut microbial composition shapes the immune response system in a healthy state as well as in the case of a disease. Studies show that gut flora have various roles in metabolic (fermentation of endogenous mucus), trophic (epithelial cell proliferation, etc.) and protective (against pathogens) functions. [23] Researchers at the John Hopkins University are figuring out how the composition of the gut gets modified with different diseases and how the immune system reacts with these gut microbes.  According to Dan Peterson, Assistant Prof. Pathology John Hopkins School of Medicine, "a major part of your immune system is actually in your GI tract."  Various cells lining the gut excrete significant chunks of antibodies into the gut. For instance, it was found that though TB infections affected the lungs, the differences also showed up in the gut. In another study, a shift in the gut bacteria was studied in mice that developed colitis and found that L. johnsonii almost doubled in mice with colitis.  Tips for a Healthy Gut  1. Have Lots Of Probiotics Probiotics help in releasing the GLP-1 appetite-reducing hormone, in burning fat [24], and also in increasing the levels of ANGPTL4 protein that leads to lower storage of fat. [25] They also help in controlling leaky gut syndrome and reduce symptoms of IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome). [26], [27] Probiotics also aid in brain health (these brain-boosting probiotics are known as psychobiotics) [28] and in improving symptoms of depression and anxiety. [29]  PRIMESELF’s Gut Complex with Digezyme and Lactospore acts as a good probiotic supplement. 2. Consume Polyphenol Rich Foods Foods like cocoa, green tea, coffee, etc. contain polyphenol. Polyphenols are plant-derived chemicals that can be easily digested by the gut.  Polyphenols help in increasing the healthy gut bacteria, that further help in boosting the gut-brain axis. [30] They also help boost cognition. [31] 3. Consume Foods Rich In Tryptophan Tryptophan is an amino acid that gets transformed into the antidepressant neurotransmitter serotonin. Foods like turkey and cheese are rich in Tryptophan. Consuming various supplements like PRIMESELF Zen Mode rich in Tryptophan can help in the brain-gut axis health.  4. Incorporate TRIPHALA supplements [31] Both Ayurvedic, as well as Western medicine, unanimously agree that both health, as well as disease, begin in the gut.  Triphala (a polyherbal medicine incorporating dried fruits of three plant species) has been used in Ayurveda as a famous therapeutic agent and as a panacea to cure many ills. The polyphenols found in Triphala help in regulating the gut microbiome and aid in the production of good gut bacteria Bifidobacteria and Lactobacillus while at the same time inhibiting the growth of the undesired gut microbes like E.coli.  Triphala-derived polyphenols like chebulinic acid are modified into metabolites like urolithins by the gut bacteria in our body, and these metabolites are quite efficient in preventing oxidative damage. Animal studies have proved the efficacy of Triphala in weight loss and reduction of body fat. Another exciting research on Triphala is its ability to promote longevity. Various animal studies have proved this. [32] This concept of longevity using Triphala has been in practice since ancient times in Ayurveda. Further, Triphala has also been shown to reduce total cholesterol, triglycerides as well as the low-density lipoprotein. In a human trial, subjects treated with Triphala lost 5 kg in 12 weeks. Further, the mean fasting blood sugar and serum insulin levels were also reduced. Authentic supplements like PRIMESELF Gut Complex have an enormous content of Triphala (comprising 500 mg per serving). Make sure you include these supplements in your diet and boost your gut health!  

Phosphatidylserine (PS) is a phospholipid and an amino acid derivative that the body produces naturally. PS is necessary for the healthy functioning of nerve cells and helps boost cognitive function by keeping the brain cell membranes healthy. [1] While PS is found in all cell membranes, it is predominantly concentrated in high levels in the brain cell membranes.[2] It acts as a coating on the neurons and keeps the brain cell membranes permeable, which is a prerequisite for long-term brain health. [3] How does Phosphatidylserine [PS] Help the Brain? Here are some ways in which PS is useful to the brain…  PS helps in brain detoxification by acting as an early tracer of apoptosis (a natural process of programmed cell death that is required for growth) [4] and thereby helps in the production of various neurotransmitters of the brain. [5]By sending a transmitting a chemical signal to the brain, it helps the brain to dispose of degraded cells before they turn toxic. [6] PS helps to enhance the brain glucose metabolism that is required for boosting cognition and mental performance. [7] PS diminishes the spikes in the stress-related hormone and thereby helps to counter the over-activation of the HPA (Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal) Axis. [8] [9]  How is Phosphatidylserine Sourced? Though our body can produce Phosphatidylserine (PS) naturally, it still gets most of the PS from food. Some of the food items rich in PS include: Tuna Atlantic mackerel and Atlantic herring Pig’s spleen and kidney Chicken leg with skin (without bone) Chicken liver Beef Pork Turkey breast Carrots Potatoes Unpolished rice … and so on, to name a few.  The Major Problem: Age-Related Decline of PS Like all other phospholipids, Phosphatidylserine (PS) undergoes a constant age-related natural decline. [11] Low PS levels due to aging may give rise to brain degeneration, and the brain cells may become abnormal and not work as intended. [12] The Good News: PS Supplements come to the Rescue The good news here is that one can restore the PS levels in the brain by consuming authentic PS Supplements. Phosphatidylserine (PS) supplements were conventionally a derivative of the bovine cortex (BC-PS); however, the possibility of transmitting certain infectious diseases like mad cow’s disease led to the sourcing of other alternative derivatives like soy.  Though there are a few other derivatives like sunflower lecithin or cabbage, the PS derived from soy (S-PS) has been well established as a safe alternative. [13] Furthermore, for vegetarians, only a small amount of Phosphatidylserine is obtained from dairy products and vegetables with the exception being soy lecithin, which has the right amount of PS. Hence with soy-derived PS being established as a safer alternative, it makes more sense (more so if one is a vegetarian) to go in for soy lecithin-derived Phosphatidylserine supplements like that PRIME MIND (soy lecithin derived Phosphatidylserine of 150 mg per serving), along with the benefit of Lion's Mane Mushroom. Benefits of Phosphatidylserine as a Nootropic Supplement Phosphatidylserine (PS) supplements provide a host of benefits to the human body, both mental and physical. 1. Reduces Mental Stress  PS and moods are interlinked due to the relationship of PS with cortisol. Cortisol, the stress hormone, plays a vital role in the body's response to stress. PS plays a vital role in reducing cortisol, thereby positively optimizing the mood and stress levels.  A study on the influence of PS on mental stress and heart rate when solving a complicated arithmetic problem established that taking a 300mg PS supplement per day made the subjects less stressed and encouraged a better mood. [14] 2. Promotes Exercise Endurance and Muscle Soreness Recovery Not only does PS help to cope with mental stress, but it also aids in managing physical stress. Studies have shown that taking Phosphatidylserine when undergoing vigorous training may help alleviate muscle soreness post-exercise. During the initial training stages, the overtrained muscles become sore. This is coupled with the increase in resting heart rate and fall in testosterone levels. While the body usually aligns after a few days of rest, continuous training results in an imbalanced anabolic-catabolic ratio and leads to a decrease in performance, injury, depression, and lower immunity. [15]  Oral supplementation of soy-derived PS (S-PS) has been shown to enhance recovery by preventing soreness of the muscle and promoting overall well-being by accentuating the circulating cortisol concentrations.  A short term supplementation of 750 mg of S-PS for ten days has established an increased capacity for high-intensity exercises like that of high-intensity cycling, [16] training with weights and intermittent endurance running. [17]  PS not only diminishes the cortisol response level to exercise-induced stress but also increases the testosterone-cortisol ratio. [18]  Studies have suggested that PS partly neutralizes the stress-induced stimulation of the HPA Axis (hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis, which is our body’s central stress response system). [19] These factors make Phosphatidylserine (PS) an effective supplement for tackling stress related to exercise in addition to preventing muscle soreness and promoting endurance, thereby making PS a favorite supplement among athletes.  3. Improves Cognitive Functions in Alzheimer’s PS has been proven to enhance the memory as well as cognitive function among Alzheimer’s patients (AD) and is hence being viewed as a potential treatment for the disorder. [20]  Studies have proven that the BC-PS that is purified from the bovine brain can positively influence AD-related factors like changes in the cellular membrane and dendritic spine loss that is common in the AD brain. [21]  Hence, PS is being considered as an effective therapy for early stages of Alzheimer's. [22]  4. Enhances Athletic Performances in Golf Studies have shown that consumption of Phosphatidylserine for six weeks before playing golf has improved as to how a golfer tees off. [23] A randomized study to evaluate the benefits of PS supplementation on golf performance was performed on healthy young golfers with handicaps of 15-40. The study showed that six weeks of PS supplementation significantly increased the number of good ball flights during tee off that can lead to better golf scores. [24] Certain studies have also shown that PS supplementation, when combined with caffeine and other vitamins, helps to enhance the mood and alleviate fatigue post-exercise. However, there is no substantial evidence to prove the same.  5. Helps to tackle Attention Deficit-Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) Studies have shown that plant-derived PS supplements containing omega-3 fatty acids have helped to better the ADHD symptoms like impulse control disorder, and hyperactivity among children and teens. [25], [26]  6. Enhances Cognition among Elderly in cases of Age-Related Brain Fog As far as the role of PS in Memory is concerned, PS improves the production of Acetylcholine and thereby helps to boost memory. This, in turn, aids better learning. A study conducted on 149 individuals in the age group of 50-75 years with age-associated cognitive impairment showed that a daily PS supplementation with 100 mg enabled the subjects to perform better on cognitive testing linked to learning and memory. [27] A study conducted among elderly Japanese patients with memory complaints showed that soybean-derived Phosphatidylserine helped to enhance memory. [28] Yet another research shows that consumption of plant-derived PS enriched with DHA fatty acid supports to attention and memory in older women suffering from memory loss. [29] Combination of Phosphatidylserine with Other Supplements Phosphatidylserine helps to enhance the efficacy of other brain-boosting supplements like Curcumin. Curcumin is an extract from Turmeric and aids in increasing the blood flow to the brain, in addition to enhancing the production of Serotonin and Dopamine. However, Curcumin is difficult to be absorbed by the body. [30] Taking PS supplement increases the bioavailability of Curcumin (meaning the body absorbs more of it). [31]  PS also works well when combined with other nutrients like fish oil and Ginkgo biloba. [32]  Given the active role of PS in the regeneration of brain cells and brain plasticity, and its ability to stack with other nootropics, PS can very well be said to be the fundamental element of any brain nutrition nootropic that not only enhances mental health but boosts physical endurance as well.

STRESS is a challenging six-letter word. No matter how easygoing a person is, stress finds its way into his/her life, thanks to the rigours of an over-competitive world! It leads to a chain of complications like depression, chronic gastritis, high blood pressure, insomnia, heart diseases, and so on.  It has been observed that stressed people tend to first lookout for various OTC drugs from pharmaceuticals that help to tone down the anxiety and stress levels. However, these medicines could have adverse side-effects. Furthermore, they do not address the cause of underlying stress but rather work to suppress it temporarily.  The truth of the matter is that there is no cure for stress. Thankfully, natural remedies and herbal supplements can have a powerful impact on our hormones and help our body shield itself from the harmful effects of stress. The human body has the incredible capacity to heal itself when provided with the right gears. One such aid that enables the body to combat stress by healing itself is an 'Adaptogen’, the latest trend in the natural health and wellness space. Various companies are investigating into these chic herbs for combating stress as well as other chronic conditions. What Are Adaptogens? Adaptogens are non-toxic plants that have been used for healing for centuries, in Chinese and Ayurvedic medicines. They were first developed during World War II to increase the efficiency of pilots to fly better and faster for more extended periods.  Adaptogens, as the term indicates, help the body adapt to stress and function in the usual fashion. They are essentially herbal pharmaceuticals that work by counteracting the physical and mental pressures of the body.  Stress causes various physical changes in the body, damaging the endocrine, neurological, and immune systems. The stimulant properties in adaptogens help to counteract these harmful effects of stress. How Do Adaptogens Work? Adaptogens work by fine-tuning the hormones at the molecular level and by creating a balance in the various hypothalamic, adrenal and pituitary glands. These glands are a part of our body’s stress response system. [1] A study has found out that adaptogens help in promoting health and wellbeing and thereby combat stress when used as a supplement with other traditional medicines. [2] The Link Between Adaptogens, Adrenal Dysfunction, and Stress [3] Adrenal Dysfunction or adrenal fatigue arises from many factors like stress, insomnia, imbalances in the blood sugar, and so on, with the primary factor being stress. Adrenal fatigue occurs due to  HPA Axis fatigue. (HPA Axis regulates stress hormones). During periods of high stress (say rescuing a person from a fall), the body responds to unexpected challenges through the ‘fight or flight’ response by producing enough cortisol to combat stress. The Sympathetic Nervous System (SNS) prepares the body to be armed for combating stress by mobilizing additional energy.  This is done by rapid heart rate and respiration to enable more blood to be rushed to the limbs (or any other stressed part) from the remaining parts of the body. Hence, the other parts of the body get just a minimal supply of blood for basic functioning.  Once the body combats stress, the Parasympathetic Nervous System (PNS), prepares to relax the body and eventually recover. During stress, the functioning of the other systems like the digestive and immune systems are compromised to supply enough blood to the part where it is required.  While this may be an efficient system by the body to tackle itself against occasional stress, the fact is that the stress we face today may not be short-term. Instead, we all live in an age of constant chronic stress. During such constantly stressful periods, large amounts of cortisol are released into the body, and the adrenals find it difficult to keep pace with the demand for substantial stress hormones. Their ability to produce normal hormones for maintaining the body's health gets reduced, leading to adrenal fatigue, which in turn leads to a host of other medical conditions. Continually being in the fight or flight mode creates abnormal blood circulation to various organs and weakens them. Adaptogens come to the rescue, enabling the body to face the challenges of chronic stress by helping the adrenals to be better prepared to combat stress. Here are some popular adaptogenic natural remedies and supplements that help to combat stress. Each herb or mushroom detailed below helps the body to fight various stress levels ranging from mild, moderate, acute to chronic. Adaptogens Herb Supplements for Combating Stress: [4]  Holy Basil – (Ocimum sanctum, O. gratissimum) Plant Family: Lamiaceae  Portion used: Leaves and Flowers Holy Basil has been in use in India since ages and forms an essential component in Ayurvedic medicine. It helps to reduce anxiety and balance the cortisol hormones. It is also neuroprotective and enhances cerebral circulation. Ashwagandha -  (Withania somnifera) Plant family: Solanaceae Portion used: Root This is an adaptogenic herb that is commonly used in Ayurveda and helps to improve focus and reduce irritability and enhance overall vitality. The term Ashwagandha is said to be derived from the Hindi term 'Asgahdh" meaning the smell of a horse. True to this, the herb gives the strength of a stallion. Ashwagandha is known for its energizing effects on the body. Many animal-based studies have proven the efficacy of Ashwagandha for its adaptogenic benefits.  Further specific research suggests that Ashwagandha may be as effective as popular medicines used in reducing anxiety levels. [5], [6]  Reishi Mushroom -  (Ganoderma lucidum ) Mushroom family: Ganodermataceae Portion used: The fruiting body, mycelium, and in some cases, the spores. Certain mushrooms like Reishi are quite popular in combating stress as they help to alter moods and improve the immune system. Reishi mushrooms are popularly found in Asia, and this fungus has been an integral part of Eastern medicine for many years. [7] Several molecules in this mushroom, like polysaccharides, triterpenoids, and peptidoglycans, provide numerous health benefits, including reduction of hypertension that is responsible for stress. [8] Reishi mushroom also helps to combat fatigue and depression. A study on 132 patients with neurasthenia (condition with headaches, pain, irritability, etc.) showed reduced fatigue and irritability post eight weeks of consumption of reishi supplements. [9] Check out the best Reishi Mushroom supplement here…  Lemon Balm -  (Melissa officinalis) Plant Family: Lamiaceae Portion used: Leaves Lemon balm belongs to the mint family and is said to have sedative properties. [10]. Various studies have shown its efficacy against anxiety. [11].  Lemon balm also tags well with Valerian root (another herb for treating anxiety and sleep disorders). [12] L- tryptophan  L- tryptophan is an amino acid, and it plays a vital role in the well being of a person. Factors like stress and unhealthy diet negatively impact L-tryptophan and thereby lead to irritable mood. L-tryptophan is responsible for the secretion of the happiness hormone "serotonin" and hence is a perfect mood enhancer. [13] Check out the serotonin enhancer adaptogen here…  Further, L- tryptophan also helps against insomnia and stress. Hence, the lesser the availability of this amino acid, the lower the happiness quotient and wellbeing. L-tryptophan is considered to be an essential amino acid as the body does not produce it. It must be acquired through food sources. L-tryptophan is found in abundance in plant and animal proteins. Once the body absorbs L-tryptophan, it gets converted primarily into 5-HTP and then into serotonin (mood enhancer), melatonin (vital for sleep) and nicotinamide (B6 Vitamin required for energy).  Some of the food sources with high tryptophan content include: Dairy products Bananas Fish Eggs Walnuts Tomatoes Rhodiola Rosea - (lignum rhodium)  Plant Family: Crassulaceae Portion used: Root. Leaves and shoots are also used in a few cases and consumed raw. Also known as golden root, this herb is commonly found in the wild Arctic regions and parts of Asia and North America as well. This herb is used in traditional medical practice for treating symptoms of anxiety and depression.[14]  Russians and Scandinavians have used Rhodiola to treat various conditions of depression and anxiety for many centuries. This herb helps in the treatment of mild depressive symptoms [14] and also boosts mental performance. [15] One study has found out that Rhodiola extract of 400 mg per day when given to 101 participants suffering from work-related stress led to a significant improvement in stress symptoms like fatigue, anxiety, etc.in just three days. [16] Furthermore, Rhodiola also helps to alleviate the symptoms of burnout that occurs with chronic stress. A study on 118 individuals with stress-related exhaustion showed that this herb helped to improve may symptoms related to depression and stress. [17] So if you are suffering from chronic or work-related stress and lifestyle changes and relaxation techniques do not seem to suffice, then do try going in for authentic adaptogenic supplements. Authentic adaptogenic supplements take into account the synergy between various herbs in tackling multiple body issues. Hence, one can have a combination of various adaptogens, replacing each with the other at regular intervals so that one does not become resistant to a particular adaptogen. 

And that’s why he invented nootropics, the ‘smart drugs’ that improve cognitive functioning. Racetams belong to a group of synthetic nootropics. The oldest known racetam is Piracetam that was discovered by Dr Giurgea in 1964. Currently, there are various racetams available in the market.  However, the basic chemical structure of all these racetams is more or less the same because each new racetam variant was developed by giving a little tweak to the original structure. The difference between the racetams lies in their functionality, dosage, half-life (duration of drug action in the plasma) and strength of each racetam. Let’s take a look at some of the features of these incredible cognitive enhancers…  Features of Racetams Racetams are cognitive enhancers and take time to act on the body, and hence, one may begin to see the benefit only after a few days or weeks after starting them. Racetams have reverse tolerance, meaning they give the same benefits even after the reduction in dosage. Further, this reverse tolerance feature applies across the entire racetam family, meaning if one has swapped a particular variety of racetam for another, then one need not wait for the new drug to pick up, as it will continue to act on the body from the place where the earlier racetam left off. Hence additional time is not required for experiencing the benefit of new racetam. Racetams are available in liquid, capsule or powder forms. Racetams are fat-soluble and hence can be combined with fatty food sources, and they tend to get absorbed better in the body when so combined. A word of caution, though… Racetams act as blood thinners and are eliminated by the kidneys. Hence the risks of blood thinners and using other medications that load the kidneys apply to racetams. A Sneak Peek into the Popular Racetams in the Market 1. Piracetam – The Beginner’s Nootropic Piracetam is an excellent nootropic for beginners as it is supposed to have very mild side effects. Piracetam was developed to enhance the cognitive function among the elderly. Piracetam also promotes the cellular membrane fluidity required for memory enhancement, thereby promoting better learning. Piracetam prevents blood clotting on the lines of aspirin, and hence, it is used in patients post cardiovascular trauma. [1] Mechanism of Action Piracetam is the cyclical derivative of the inhibitory GABA neurotransmitter (GABA promotes a calming and relaxing effect in mind due to its inhibitory nature. Piracetam does not occur naturally in any plant or food source, nor does the body produce it.  [1] Characteristics It is water-soluble, and  the safest among all known racetams due to its mild side effects that include short-term anxiety, insomnia, nervousness, etc.  [2] Dosage For adults, the recommended dosage is 1,200-4,800 mg per day. [3] Half-life  Half-life is approximately 5 hours. [4] Stacking Piracetam can be stacked (combined) with other racetams like Aniracetam as well as with other nootropics like choline for improved benefits like enhanced memory. [5] Benefits Piracetam is neuroprotective and prevents age-related decline in cognition. [6] Hence, it is used in certain European countries for Dementia and Alzheimer’s. Its neuroprotective properties have been successful in treating patients suffering from stroke,[7] as well as those facing cerebrovascular trauma [8]  Piracetam helps to sustain mitochondria (powerhouses of energy for the body cells) by assisting the destruction of damaged mitochondria cells (that releases free radicals causing oxidation and cell damage) and helps to start the growth of new mitochondria cells. [9] Piracetam also helps in verbal learning in dyslexic children. [10] 2. Aniracetam – Creative Thinking and Mental Health (2-5 times potent than Piracetam) Aniracetam that was developed in the 1970s is two to five times more potent than Piracetam. It helps in boosting creativity by acting on the right brain hemisphere. Mechanism of Action Aniracetam stimulates the AMPA and glutamate receptors, thereby improving memory storage and enhancing neuroplasticity. [11]  Aniracetam reduces stress as it works with neurotransmitters like choline, serotonin, and dopamine that enhance brain health. Aniracetam, through its potent anxiolytic effect, helps to reduce anxiety levels. [12] The presence of pyrrolidone nucleus (an anxiotropic agent)  in Aniracetam helps to lower anxiety and boost lateral thinking, thereby paving the way for better creativity. [13] Characteristics Aniracetam gets metabolized in the liver and is quickly transported throughout the body. Users can feel the effects of this nootropic as soon as 30 minutes after ingestion. [14] Aniracetam is a fat-soluble compound.  Aniracetam regulates several neurotransmitters located in the brain like acetylcholine, glutamate, serotonin, and dopamine. These neurotransmitters are responsible for cognition, mood, and memory aspects.  [15] Few side effects include vertigo, nausea, and headaches.  Dosage  The recommended dosage is 750-1500 mg per day. [16] Half-life  About 1-3 hours. [18]  Stacking It can be stacked well with Choline, Noopept, or go for the PAO (Piracetam, Aniracetam, and Oxiracetam) stack. [19] Benefits Decreases Anxiety: Aniracetam helps to reduce stress. A trial on dementia patients showed that those patients Aniracetam experienced less anxiety. [20] Works as an Antidepressant. [21] Helps in treating Dementia. [22] Reverses Memory Impairment: Aniracetam has not only the capacity to boost memory, but it can also reverse impairment of memory as well. [23]  3. Oxiracetam  - Logical Thinking, Good for Studies Oxiracetam is a synthetic derivative of Piracetam bearing the same chemical structure and mode of operation. However, this nootropic is more potent than Piracetam. [24] Mechanism of Action Oxiracetam modulates the release of cholinergic and glutamatergic neurotransmitters, acetylcholine and glutamate. Oxiracetam also enhances neuronal communication by acting on the hippocampus part of the brain responsible for memory and emotion by stimulating the release of D-aspartic acid. [25], [26]   Characteristics Oxiracetam being an ampakine (stimulants that act with the AMPA glutamatergic receptors and do not have side effects associated with other known stimulants) acts as a mild central nervous system stimulator. [27] Oxiracetam is excreted through the renal system. Few side effects include brain fog, over-excitability, and headaches. Dosage  The recommended dosage in adults is 400mg to 2400mg. Half-life   The half-life is 8 hours. Stacking Stacking with choline helps to eliminate the headaches associated with racetams. When Oxiracetam is stacked with Pramiracetam, it doubles the cognitive enhancement and promotes alertness. When coupled with Aniracetam, it enables a gentle stimulant effect and also better cognitive enhancement. Benefits Research among dementia patients‍ proved that Oxiracetam could enhance learning by augmenting memory recall. [28] Supplementation with Oxiracetam on elderly patients with multi-infarct dementia helped to improve verbal fluency as well as verbal learning. [29] Oxiracetam is a powerful memory booster, and hence, it aids logical reasoning, thereby making it an essential kit for students taking up mathematics or other logical exams. [30] Oxiracetam is said to help and protect the brain from altitude sickness, as proved by a study by a Military Medical University in China. [31] 4. Pramiracetam – The Strongest of Racetams Pramiracetam was discovered during the late 1970s by Parke-Davis and is supposed to be the strongest among all members of the racetam family. It is helpful in the treatment of memory loss associated with Alzheimer's as it is also an excellent potential nootropic to treat various disorders of the central nervous system. [32],[33] Mechanism of Action Pramiracetam increases the choline uptake in the hippocampus part of the brain (indirectly sparking the neurotransmitter acetylcholine that aids cognition and learning). Further, it also increases the blood flow to the brain and thereby reduces the mind chatter or monkey mind experienced by people when dealing with multiple tasks and focusing on too many projects in hand. Characteristics Sharper focus and long-term memory. Hence it is useful for people working on big long-term projects. It is fat-soluble. Minor side effects include headache,  gastrointestinal pain, and nervousness. [37] Dosage The typical dosage in adults is 400-600 mg. Half-life  The half-life is 4.5 to 6.5 hours.  Stacking Pramiracetam stacks well with Adrafinil, Oxiracetam, CDP Choline, and Aniracetam. Benefits Pramiracetam acts as an anti-amnesic and helps to reduce forgetfulness. [34] Studies on patients with degenerative amnesia have shown that Pramiracetam has been effective in reversing amnesia and enhancing recall. [35]  Many users of Pramiracetam have reported that it helps to reduce social anxiety and thereby enhance social fluency. However, there is no documented evidence on the same. Various hypothesis claimed by researchers states that Pramiracetam acts on the external sites (located outside the brain) that depend on the adrenal glands, thereby increasing the scope of other modes of actions as well. [36]  5. Coluracetam - The Ultra-HD Vision  Japan's Mitsubishi Tanabe Pharma Corporation initially developed Coluracetam for treatment of Alzheimer's disease in 2005. However, as the trials were not successful, it was licensed to Brain Cells Inc, a US biotechnology company. This company successfully tested the usage of Coluracetam for treating Anxiety and Depression, thereby revealing a promising market for Major Depressive Disorder (MDD). However, the development was not taken to the next level, and BrainCells shut down its operations in 2014.  Mechanism of Action Coluracetam is a unique brain enhancer as it works by improving the choline uptake into the nerve cells through the high-affinity choline uptake mechanism, (HACU). HACU regulates the rate of choline that is taken into the neurons for getting converted into acetylcholine. Thus choline uptake enhances acetylcholine in the brain. Colucetram also helps to restore the choline uptake system post nerve cell damage.[39],[40],[41],[42] Coluracetam safeguards the NMDA receptors from glutamate toxicity. Usually, certain diseases like Alzheimer’s, stroke, or any trauma to the brain post-injury, etc.may damage these NMDA receptors. Coluracetam also protects the NMDA receptors from the toxicity of the excitotoxin glutamate. Damage to these receptors occurs during a stroke, Alzheimer's, traumatic brain injury, and other brain diseases. [43] Characteristics Coluracetam is a choline uptake enhancer and helps to increase the levels of the acetylcholine neurotransmitter. The production of acetylcholine depends on choline. Acetylcholine is linked to memory and cognitive function, as a result of which Coluracetam helps in enhancing memory. Coluracetam is very potent, and hence, a small dose will suffice. It is also fast-acting, as high levels in plasma are reached in less than half an hour upon ingestion; however, it also tends to drop down quickly within three hours. [44] There are no documented side effects. Some Coluracetam users have reported nausea and sleepiness during the day, both of which have reduced upon a decrease in dosage. Another common side effect is a headache as with all racetams. Dosage  The typical dosage for normal adults is 5mg to 35 mg. Half-life The half-life of Coluracetam is 3 hours.  Stacking Coluracetam stacks well with Alpha GPC for better memory. Benefits Coluracetam helps to promote nerve growth in diseases linked to degeneration of the retina. [45] Many users have confirmed that Coluracetam helps to make things look sharp, bright, and colourful, giving that Ultra-HD look, which is perfect for certain professions like that of an artist. [46]  Coluracetam also helps with Schizophrenia by making the enzyme acetylcholine, that is often found at a reduced level in Schizophrenia patients. [47] Animal studies have proved Coluracetam has helped to increase the activity acetylcholine enzyme in nerve cell damage. [48] Coluracetam also helps in neurogenesis (promoting nerve cell growth) when dosed continuously for a few weeks. This might probably be due to the increase in hippocampal acetylcholine contributed by this racetam. [49] 6. Fasoracetam -  The Latest Racetam Kid Fasoracetam was first created during the early 1990s in Japan for the treatment of vascular dementia. The drug, however, failed to move past phase 3 clinical trials and was hence abandoned. Later Fasoracetam was revived by another company in 2013 and currently phase 2 clinical trials are underway for its possible treatment in people with ADHD (Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder), Anxiety and Autism.  [50], [51] Mechanism of Action The modality of action is not fully documented yet. However, studies have shown that Fasoracetam works by modulating the release of three important neurotransmitters of the brain, namely GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid), glutamate and acetylcholine. Fasoracetam has been proven to increase the number of receptors in the cortex for GABA and also regulate the activity of GABA-B receptors. [52],[53] It also enhances the discharge of acetylcholine from the cerebral cortex and activates particular glutamate receptors called metabotropic glutamate receptors – mGluRs that improve memory and learning. [54] Characteristics Fasoracetam works as a cholinergic (increases uptake of choline in the hippocampus part of the brain). [55] Side effects include fatigue and headache. Large dosages (more than 1000 mg per day) have said to cause bradycardia (low heart rate). [56] Dosage   The suggested dosage is 20mg to 100 mg. However, there are no definite, documented guidelines. In the clinical trials involving ADHD patients, Fasoracetam dosages of 100, 200 as well as 400 mg was used twice daily. [57] However, some users have reported low doses of 20 mg taken twice daily to be very useful.  Half-life The estimated half-life is 1.5 hours. Stacking Stacks better with Alpha GPC, CDP Choline. Benefits Various animal studies have shown to reduce the effects of GABA-B activation, which is responsible for memory problems. Fasoracetam has also helped to increase acetylcholine. This combined impact has helped to reduce amnesia. [58]  7. Noopept - ‘The Climate Acclimatizer Hero Noopept is another synthetic nootropic molecule and a potential cognitive enhancer. Though there is a limited study of Noopept on humans, it is said that the effects of Noopept are significantly better than that of Piracetam in issues like emotional sensitivity, post vascular, or traumatic brain injuries. Mechanism of Action Though the exact modality of action of this racetam is not known clearly, animal studies on the single as well as long–term treatment with this drug have shown that Noopept has helped to enhance the nerve growth factor (NGF) as well as the BDNF (brain-derived neurotrophic factor) factor in the hippocampus and hypothalamus of rats. [59a], [59b] Noopept primarily works by enhancing the activity of HIF1A, which is a DNA transcription factor. [60] Characteristics Noopept is approximately 1000 times stronger than Piracetam. While Piracetam helps in the early stage memory process, Noopept also aids in the consolidation and retrieval of memory as well. Further Noopept also has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective effects. [61]   Side effects of Noopept include fatigue, headaches, giddiness, etc. These side effects occur as a result of high blood pressure building up in the arteries as a result of intake of this racetam. [62], [63] Dosage  The recommended dosage is 10-20 mg. Though many claimed to have extended up to 30 mg per day, there is evidence of a clinical trial using a 20 mg dosage. [64] Half-life The half-life of Noopept is 30-60 minutes. [65] Stacking Noopept stacks well with Alpha GPC, Aniracetam, CDP Choline, and Piracetam. [66] Benefits In a clinical trial on 53 patients suffering from emotional trauma post vascular and traumatic brain injury, Noopept (10 mg twice a day) performed considerably superior to Piracetam that was administered at 400mg three times a day. [67] Noopept is shown to improve headache, nervousness, irritation, and disturbed sleep within the first week of intake. It is also shown to prevent drowsiness during the day and enhance the mood. [68] Animal studies have proved that Noopept improves memory and averts amnesia. [69]  In test tube-based clinical studies, Noopept was found to have neuroprotective properties by preventing the death of cells due to amyloid toxicity, which is the main symptom in case of diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. [70] Another experiment found that Noopept also prevents oxidative cell damage as well as mitochondrial cell death, both of which are important for combating Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases.  [71], [72] Another exciting benefit of Noopept is that it helps in acclimatization to hot or cold climates. Studies conducted on 127 healthy volunteers, showed that Noopept improved their adaptation to extremities in climate, namely hot or cold environments and also increased their endurance to carry on physical work in hot climatic conditions. [73]  Conclusion  So, are you ready to try racetams in your next nootropic stack? Well then, we have various options you can choose from to find the one that best fits your goals.

The world is getting more competitive by the second. Everyone wants to be smarter and faster to be able to cope with the pace. If you’ve watched the movie ‘Limitless’, you’ll probably want a pill similar to the drug that makes Bradley Cooper invincible!  While the pill in the movie doesn’t really exist, there’s something that comes pretty close to it - nootropics. Nootropics are smart drugs that come in numerous variants, each offering a plethora of benefits like improved cognitive function, better memory, higher energy levels, enhancing concentration, and so on. Some of the main categories of nootropics include: Anxiolytics, meaning they prevent anxiety Eugeroics where they help a person to stay awake for longer periods. Examples include Hydrafinil, Flmodafinil, and Adrafinil Mood Lifters Attentiveness Boosters Antioxidants Stimulants (Energy Boosters) Understanding ‘Eugeroics’: The Wakefulness Enhancers Eugeroics help a person stay awake for longer periods - preventing the side effects of sleep deprivation. They work differently from other known stimulants. Stimulants cause focus and alertness, while eugeroics essentially cause ‘wakefulness’ and a feeling of being ‘well-rested’. Let’s take a look at some of the popular eugeroics…  1. Adrafinil Adrafinil, which was developed in France, is a biologically inactive compound and a prodrug, which means that it needs to interact with the body’s metabolic processes to start providing benefits.  [1] Prodrugs may take a longer time to become active, but their effects last longer too. Hence, prodrug analgesics are usually preferred, as they relieve pain for extended periods. Some prodrugs used in pain relievers are aspirin (converted into salicylic acid), prednisone (converted into prednisolone) and codeine (converted into morphine).  Adrafinil is metabolized in the liver and transforms into its active metabolite, modafinil. Medical Benefits of Adrafinil 1. Wakefulness Without Side Effects   Adrafinil induces a balanced state of focus and wakefulness. It does not have the common side effects like anxiety, hyperactivity or other stereotypical behavioral patterns experienced on taking stimulants. [2]  Various animal studies have proved the efficacy of adrafinil in inducing alertness, without escalating the motor activity and causing other side effects that are atypical among general stimulants. [3], [4]  A US Army test demonstrated that aviators on modafinil for 40 hours, performed demanding tasks well and were more alert. [5] 2. Enhancement of Cognitive Ability Adrafinil, through its active metabolite modafinil, helps to enhance cognitive abilities and facilitates clarity of mind.[6]  It is beneficial for people with neuropsychiatric disorders as well.[7]  Adrafinil is also helpful in reversing age-related mental degeneration. In a study conducted among aged canines (they were segregated into two categories, namely older vs. younger dogs), the older dogs that were on adrafinil were able to perform better in terms of learning new tasks faster as compared to the younger dogs who were not on adrafinil. [8]  3. Memory Booster Drug Adrafinil is an excellent ‘study drug’. It is a cerebral stimulant that leads to increasing the level of functioning of hypocretin neurons (neurons responsible for wakefulness) in the brain, thereby initiating a spike in neurotransmitters, namely dopamine, histamine, and norepinephrine. [9]  This leads to more alertness and better focus, thereby boosting the mental abilities. 4. Acts as an Antidepressant A two-month study that involved 70 patients suffering from depression showed that adrafinil treated depressive symptoms, as effectively as other known antidepressants. [10]  5. Helps in Narcolepsy Adrafinil is often prescribed for patients with narcolepsy (a neurological disorder that causes chronic sleepiness due to reduced levels of hypocretin neurons in the brain). Adrafinil helps in keeping such patients awake for longer periods. [11], [12] 6. Augments Nocturnal Behaviour Adrafinil helps augment nocturnal behavior (being active at night) by delaying the feelings of sleepiness and boosting energy levels. The use of adrafinil on monkeys revealed an improvement in their behavioral patterns at night by doubling their nocturnal activity.  The primates generally acted as they would perform during the day, thereby promoting the fact that adrafinil delays sleepiness. [13] 7. Neuroprotector Adrafinil’s active form acts as a powerful neuroprotectant, by slowing the degeneration of cells associated with Parkinson's disease and keeps the brain healthy. [14] It also helps neutralize the neuroinflammation caused by the use of methamphetamines.‍[15]  This neuroprotection factor associated with the active form of adrafinil plays a vital role in the management of multiple sclerosis as well. [16] How does Adrafinil Work?  A. Concentrates only on two sections of the brain…  Adrafinil, post its metabolism in the liver, acts on two main sections of the brain, namely: The hypothalamus - (an area of the brain that controls hormones, sleep cycles, blood pressure, heart rate, body fluid balancing, digestive juices and more) and The amygdala -  (a section of the brain located on either side of the brain responsible for emotions, survival instinct factors, and memory). This differentiates it from other psychostimulants that promote wakefulness by widespread activation of all the neurons in the brain as opposed to selective neuronal activation done by adrafinil. This factor explains the ability of adrafinil to stimulate wakefulness without any side effects associated with other such stimulants.[17] B. Adrafinil processes its job via a two-fold action…  First, it helps to augment the production of the neurotransmitter called hypocretin (the main chemical produced by the hypothalamus section of the brain that helps to sustain alertness and prevent sleep from occurring at the wrong times). Hypocretin helps in promoting alertness. Higher doses will also help reduce fatigue. Second, it increases the release of glutamate, the most abundant ‘excitatory neurotransmitter’ in our body. This helps in increasing cognitive performance and improving memory. Disadvantages of Adrafinil Adrafinil being a prodrug, needs to be processed by the liver. During this metabolism, the liver transforms adrafinil into two compounds, namely modafinil and modafinilic acid with a metabolic rate of 50% each.  Of the two, the latter is not of much use and circulates in the bloodstream for a few hours before being eliminated from the body resulting in wastage of half of the adrafinil dose. This requires an intake of more adrafinil to achieve the desired results. [18] Also, adrafinil takes longer to be absorbed by the body - say around 45 minutes to an hour as against modafinil that requires just 25 to 40 minutes. Not only does adrafinil have a longer absorption time, but it also stays in the body for a longer time. While one may think this is beneficial… It actually is not. This is because the half-life of adrafinil is very long, at 60. By half-life of 60, we mean it takes around 60 minutes for half of the adrafinil to be processed into its active metabolite modafinil and enter the bloodstream and then a couple or more hours for it to produce enough modafinil to start giving results. This results in wastage of a substantial portion of the day to attain the benefits. This, in turn, creates another cascading problem mentioned next below. Adrafinil takes a long time to break down (as it has to get converted into modafinil and modafinilic acid before working on the body), and hence it tends to stretch into the early hours at night leading to a common side effect of a severe form of insomnia.  Therefore it is ideal to take it early in the morning to have the optimal effect during your work hours.  Adrafinil and the liver To process adrafinil, the liver has to secrete more enzymes. This can be problematic when one is consuming high doses of adrafinil, or is taking the drug for an extended period of time. Hence it is best to take adrafinil for a shorter duration and in recommended doses. Also, people on other medications that require some processing by the liver and people with liver problems are advised to use this drug with care, as it will put an additional burden on the liver. Adrafinil and hormonal contraception Use of  Adrafinil may interfere with the efficacy of birth control by decreasing the effectiveness of contraceptives. [19] Usage of adrafinil (active modafinil) stimulates the production of certain liver enzymes that are required to break down adrafinil, and these are the same enzymes that break down the birth control hormones. [20]  Adrafinil and Orofacial Dyskinesia Certain studies [21] have proved that adrafinil may lead to orofacial dyskinesia (a disorder that leads to repetitive movements in the body like sticking out the tongue, smacking lips, etc.) 2. Flmodafinil / Lauflumide Flmodafinil is a derivative of modafinil. A first derivative means that a compound must be derived from the parent compound with some adaption to make it better. Flmodafinil is derived from modafinil and is very similar to modafinil, but it has two fluoro-groups attached to it. [21] The addition of two fluoro-groups paves the way for enhanced bioavailability, which means that a higher percentage of the drug gets absorbed in the digestive tract, thereby permitting intake of smaller doses. This gives it an edge over adrafinil. Medical Benefits Of Flmodafinil 1. Acts as a Dopamine Reuptake Inhibitor A dopamine reuptake inhibitor helps in alleviating certain physical and mental disorders through the brain’s neurotransmitter chemical dopamine. Flmodafinil works with the brain's dopamine system (that part of the brain responsible for feelings of motivation, pleasure, etc.) by making full use of the chemical dopamine and thereby improving mental disorders like depression, narcolepsy, and ADHD.  Further, it also helps get rid of certain addictions like cigarettes, drugs, binge eating and the like. [22] 2. Acts as an Antidepressant and Anti-aggressive Medication: The decrease in dopamine levels on account of lesser dopamine receptors may cause depression and anxiety. [23] Flmodafinil, by acting as a dopamine reuptake inhibitor, helps to make use of dopamine to the fullest extent possible and thereby offset depressive symptoms and anxiety levels and also makes a person less aggressive.  However, the drug is still in the clinical trial phase, and hence, there has been no conclusive evidence on its efficacy over modafinil. Hydrafinil / Fluorenol Hydrafinil, also known as fluorenol, is a next generation cognitive stimulant. It is less addictive compared to modafinil while at the same time being 40% more effective than modafinil. [24]  Also, it does not last long in the body, thereby aiding a good night's sleep. It is more potent than modafinil. Fluorenol is a 5-HT6 antagonist, in that it helps to increase dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain’s hippocampus section leading to a mild boost in cognition and mood due to its serotonergic effects.  Increased serotonin levels, coupled with increased dopamine and norepinephrine levels, help to alleviate depressive symptoms and gives a modest boost to the mood. [25] However, this drug is unregulated in the market. [a] https://www.phcoker.com/crl40940-flmodafinil-vs-modafinil/ [a1] https://modafinil.org/modafinil-vs-flmodafinil/ [b] https://nootropicsandglitches.wordpress.com/2015/03/11/fluorenol-going-beyond-caffeine-and-modafinil/ [b1] https://mentalhealthdaily.com/2015/12/23/hydrafinil-fluorenol-a-modafinil-analogue-with-questionable-safety/ [c] https://healthtrends.com/adrafinil/ [c1] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Modafinil It is important to note that adrafinil, and its active metabolite, were added to the list of prohibited substances for athletic competitions by the World Anti-Doping Agency in 2004. Eugeroics can be extremely useful, when consumed in moderation, to help you achieve a state of wakefulness that helps you get through the day and perform with a lot more alertness than usual. Whichever eugeroic you choose, make sure you do so only after consulting a doctor.  To know more about, and purchase nootropics, head here!

The Chinese have for long used mushrooms in health foods, as well as in their Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) to treat various ailments. They are revered as ‘spirit plants’ that promote longevity and good health.

Berberine is a chemical found in plants such as Goldenseal, Goldthread, and Phellodendron, that has been used extensively in traditional Ayurvedic and Chinese medicine.  It is known to control blood sugar in people with diabetes. When taken in the right dosage, Berberine can be as effective as metformin or other drugs commonly used to treat the disease. In addition to diabetes, Berberine is also considered to be a possible remedy for a host of other health problems. Let’s take a look at some of them. What Makes Berberine HCL An Effective Nootropic 1. Helps Treat Metabolic Syndrome: Metabolic Syndrome is what is now termed as a ‘civilization disease’. It is a combination of conditions that occur simultaneously, increasing the risk of heart disease, stroke, and diabetes.  According to research, Berberine can help reduce BMI (Body Mass Index) that contributes to obesity, one of the major causes of heart-related ailments. Additionally, it helps reduce systolic blood pressure, the level of triglycerides, along with blood sugar levels - effectively contributing to your overall metabolic health. [1] 2. Normalizes Blood Sugar: Berberine has been found to reverse insulin resistance and restore the body’s ability to regulate blood sugar. Berberine works a little differently when compared to supplements that cause the secretion of insulin. According to some investigations, Berberine’s ability to control blood sugar is linked to ‘its inhibition of the electron transport chain in the mitochondria of the cell’. [2]  Essentially, the intake of Berberince perturbs the cell’s uptake of glucose and doesn’t let insulin resistance occur at all. 3. Helps Women Suffering From PCOS: PCOS (Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome) is a hormonal disorder that can cause infertility and increase the chances of being afflicted with other health problems like high blood pressure and diabetes.  Berberine helps counter the consequences of PCOS, by improving fertility, aiding weight loss, and also lowering the risk of metabolic ailments like high cholesterol and type 2 diabetes.  4. Improves Learning and Memory: Berberine works as an anti-oxidant and is an acetylcholinesterase inhibitor.[3] Acetylcholinesterase inhibitors are a bunch of medicines that block the breakdown of acetylcholine, which plays an important role in learning and memory.  Berberine may also help prevent Alzheimer’s disease as well as long-term dementia. It may also provide anti-aging benefits by extending the life of telomeres, which essentially protect DNA from any damage. 5. Helps in Weight-Loss: Berberine increases adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK), an enzyme that can be called the master metabolic switch in each of your cells. It is found in the cells of various organs, like the muscles, heart, kidney, brain and liver.  An increase in AMPK levels boosts energy, regulates blood glucose, improves insulin sensitivity, and reduces the level of triglycerides. Berberine supplements along with regular exercise and a healthy diet can help support weight loss amongst individuals.  In one of the studies undertaken on obese individuals for 12 weeks [4], 500 mg of Berberine taken 3 times per day lead to weight loss by around 5 pounds on average. The participants also lost 3.6% of their body fat. 5. Acts As An Antidepressant: According to a number of studies, Berberine is extremely useful against anxiety and depression. Berberine inhibits an enzyme called monoamine oxidase, which breaks down serotonin, noradrenaline and dopamine in your brain, all of which play an important role in regulating moods and have been implicated in depression.  One of the studies in 2008 [5] confirmed that Berberine has antidepressant effects, reversing ‘behavioural despair’ in stressed rats. Berberine also benefits brain health and psychological well-being by increasing key neurotransmitters. 6. Lowers Cholesterol and Risk of Heart Diseases: Heart disease is one of the most common diseases in the world today, often resulting in premature death. Research has found many factors in the blood associated with an increased risk of heart disease. Berberine improves many of these factors. It helps lower cholesterol levels in the body.  In addition to these, with sufficient research to support its benefits, Berberine may also be used to treat other disorders, like glaucoma, stomach ulcers, trachoma, injuries caused by radiation during cancer treatments, and osteoporosis.  Ideal Dosage Of Berberine HCL Berberine has a short half-life (time taken for the concentration of the drug in the plasma or the total amount in the body to be reduced to 50%), so it is important to take it several times per day to achieve stable blood levels. It is necessary to take 500 mg, three times per day, before meals, making the dosage a total of 1500 mg per day. It is ideal to take a doctor’s advice before consuming Berberine, if already on medication for any disorder. Berberine may interact unfavourably with these medicines, and give rise to complications. One important rule is to avoid Berberine during pregnancy as it can harm the fetus. It is also strictly prohibited while breastfeeding an infant.  Berberine is an excellent nootropic supplement with varied health benefits. Consuming the right dose, after having consulted a doctor, can help you live a long and healthy life.      

To be able to reach one’s full potential, it is essential to have proper coordination between body and mind. Agmatine Sulfate is one such nootropic supplement that helps boost one’s overall state of being and help achieve better coordination.  A derivative of the L-Arginine amino acid, Agmatine Sulfate is also a biogenic amine.  Discovered in 1910 by a German biochemist, it took almost 100 years to discover the complete benefits and uses of Agmatine Sulfate as an element. It is one of the important players in improving the functions of the nervous system by working both as a neurotransmitter and neuromodulator.  Apart from being naturally present in the brain and spinal cord, Agmatine is also present in food sources like fermented foods, beer, coffee and wine. Dubbed by many as the “Super Arginine”, this powerful nootropic can also be consumed in powder or capsule form as well. Agmatine Sulfate is extremely beneficial in its nootropic benefits as it helps promote mental clarity and reduce stress levels. It also helps recover from a spectrum of complex diseases like diabetes, Alzheimer’s disease, drug addiction, mood disorders and cancer.  Let’s understand in detail why including Agmatine Sulfate as a part of your everyday intake may prove to be a great idea for anyone, healthwise. A Few Benefits of Agmatine Sulfate 1. Helps Fight Depression: Agmatine has shown antidepressant effects along with promoting an upliftment in the mood. It reduces anxiety and promotes a sense of well-being. It negates depressive behaviour by protecting brain cells from high levels of stress hormone cortisol. Agmatine reduces the levels of monoamines in the brain, which are often associated with depression.  A pilot study done on three patients suffering from depression revealed complete disappearance of depression with the intake of Agmatine supplement. 2. Reduces Pain Sensitivity: Agmatine is an effective supplement for pain relief. Especially in the case of a condition called thermal hyperalgesia, where the body becomes hypersensitive to heat or cold. In fact, it appears to be a promising supplement in terms of neuropathic pain, drug addiction, stroke protection and even general cognitive health.  It works in synergy with painkillers like morphine and fentanyl. 3. Helps Maximize Performance: Agmatine is consumed by athletes and bodybuilders to maximize their performance. An essential supplement in sports medicine, Agmatine functions to enhance strength and energy before, during and after a workout.  Agmatine is used by many body-builders to achieve more stamina, improve muscle growth, and minimize pain during workouts. Intake of Agmatine helps increase endorphin levels which in turn may help the pancreas to produce insulin.  More insulin can lead to more glucose being absorbed by the muscles, thereby providing the body with further fuel for exercise and enhancing muscle repair. 4. Helps Relieve Stress: Agmatine Sulfate is noted to positively influence the production of nitric oxide, increasing levels in your bloodstream, which ultimately improves the delivery of oxygen and other nutrients to your muscles. It is highly valued as a nootropic as it helps promote better cognitive performance and mental function.  It helps fight the effects of stress and minimize anxiety levels through regulating cortisol in one’s body. It is also helpful in improving one’s mood and fight depression, as mentioned above. 5. Helps Lose Weight & Gain Weight: People who struggle to gain weight can benefit from Agmatine supplements. In some studies, subjects showed signs of increased food consumption rates by 44% to 54% in 24 hours. In certain other studies,  Agmatine shows an increase in fat burning, a decrease in fat composition and an increase in muscle mass. 6. Supports Muscle Growth: Agmatine helps stimulate the production of luteinizing hormone, increase in which also leads to an increase in testosterone levels. By increasing testosterone levels, Agmatine contributes to an optimal hormonal environment for muscle growth, enhances athletic performance and fastens recovery.  Agmatine also causes a rise in insulin sensitivity and the uptake of glucose into the muscle. Increasing insulin sensitivity leads to improved movement of glucose as well as amino acids into the tissues for growth and repair. 7. Helps Erectile Dysfunction and Infertility: L-arginine supports cell replication and enhances blood circulation, thereby improving both sperm production and motility. Low levels of Nitric Oxide in the blood leads to erectile dysfunction and other fertility problems. This is because an erection requires the relaxation of smooth muscles, and Nitric Oxide helps achieve this. A large number of cases of male infertility, almost as high as 92% are treatable with the help of L-arginine supplements. Research shows that stress lowers L-arginine levels in the sperm production pathway. Therefore, taking L-arginine supplements can help men suffering from chronic stress. 8. Helps With Alzheimer’s Disease: Some very evident signs of Alzheimer’s disease are an increase of amyloid plaques and neurofibrillary tangles in the brain, which are caused by insulin resistance. Agmatine helps during Alzheimer’s disease by preventing cognitive decline by rescuing insulin signalling and avoiding the potential accumulation of those tangles. 9. Acts as a Neuroprotectant: Agmatine works as an anti-oxidant and is still being tested for its anti-ageing properties. It exhibits neuroprotective effects against oxidative damage and injuries to the Central Nervous System. Because of the various mechanisms through which Agmatine reacts with our body, it helps protect our brain against any damage from stroke. Agmatine Sulfate is a very effective nootropic supplement that is essential for individuals looking to maximize their performance, especially involved in heavy physical training and for those who want to have a well-functioning mind and body.

Uridine plays a very important role as one of the building blocks of RNA, which your brain needs to store memories. RNA is important for various biological roles in the body such as coding and decoding genes and even the regulation and expression thereof.

Simply put, Nootropics are supplements, compounds, foods and nutrients with the main function and aim of improving brain health and cognition. Nootropic's aim, in general, is to enhance an individuals attention, mental acuity, short and long term memory and even aspects of right and left brain thinking.

It is a modern-day epidemic. Whether the stress is a constant, nagging pain in the gut or a barely-there feeling, it wrecks your body. For some, it’s fistfuls of hair falling out; for others, it’s the entire immune system going haywire.

Aniracetam has a fat-soluble compound and is absorbed by the bloodstream in a brief time. Hence, its effects become visible rapidly, even with a small dosage.

No wonder, attaining this elevated consciousness has been the secret sauce of dozens of artists, daredevils and successful people. Now through nootropics and physical activity, you can readily achieve the state of flow to be more productive and inventive in your work!

Choline helps your brain, muscles, liver, nervous system and overall metabolism function. It is critical for day-to-day functioning of the brain, particularly in the areas of movement, learning and memory and sleep quality.

Our immune system helps us stand tall and fight against the bacterias or viruses that try to enter our bodies. So, it’s natural if we would want to boost our immune system and make it stronger than ever.

As humankind continues to push the boundaries of medical convention, the quest to become mentally better (and quicker) is one that has always led to newer discoveries. And this is truer for endeavours aimed towards the discovery of brain enhancers, and boosters of mental cognition.