Nootropic Solutions

Best Nootropics for Libido

28 Oct 2021 By PirateBotanicals

Libido-Boosting Nootropics That Work

Natural libido boosting nootropics have been around for thousands of years. They are reliable, potent, and plentiful in both Eastern and Western cultures alike. Some nootropics are more powerful libido boosters, providing stimulation for both men and women. Other nootropics are better oriented for a particular gender. Choosing the right nootropic for sex drive means understanding each nootropic’s benefits fully, and how they benefit a nootropic stack.

Top 6 Nootropics for Libido and Sex Drive

Of the many nootropics which can help boost libido, these are the top six nootropic supplements for increasing sex drive.

Ashwagandha

Besides Ashwagandha’s ability to improve semen count and quality in men (Chevallier, 2016), the herb has been proven to provide aid for those suffering from erectile dysfunction (Weil, 2004). The plant also helps with stress reduction, which is wildly beneficial when it comes to the libido-boosting facets of the nootropic (Balch, 2010). Ultimately, the herb’s libido benefits can be traced to Ashwagandha’s improvement to blood circulation (Ambiye et al., 2013). While the herb offers many other benefits as well, it is obvious that it has proven itself as a strong, natural, libido booster.

Bacopa Monnieri

As an adaptogen, Bacopa is one of the best herbs for relieving stress and lowering anxiety (Aguiar & Borowski, 2013). This makes the herb excellent for improving sexual activity and sex drive, as stress is often a huge contributing factor to decreased libido. It is well known for its ability to improve erectile dysfunction and give men a boost in the bedroom (Chevallier, 2016). It can be used to treat infertility iwomen, while also offering improvements to overall female libido (2016). It’s important to note, however, that while the herb can help improve libido in both genders, it may stunt sperm production in men (Mishra et al., 2018). Still, it is considered one of the most powerful, natural aphrodisiacs around (2018).

Codyceps Mushroom

Cordyceps Mushroom is one of the most potent nootropics for improving energy and reducing fatigue (Hirsch et al., 2017). Improving energy and reducing fatigue helps improve the bedroom experience and libido alike. In fact, the fungi has been proven to offer powerful benefits to all aerobic and anaerobic exercises (2017). There are many studies which outline izts capabilities in terms of improving endurance and athletic power (Kumar et al., 2011). As if enhancing libido for both genders weren’t enough, the herb is also well-known to treat infertility in men (Panda & Swain, 2011). In fact, it is even purportedly able to boost testosterone, increase and extend erectile capacity, and resolve erectile dysfunction in men (2011).

Gotu Kola

Gotu Kola has a long history as a general aid to vitality and energy, being used throughout all traditional Asian and Indian medicines (Chevallier, 2016). The herb can energize the body, reduce stress, and promote many health benefits. In addition to these benefits, it is well-known for its use as a natural aphrodisiac and general mood-boosting libido supplement (2016). Part of its improvements to the sex drive comes from its ability to increase blood flow, even allowing the plant the opportunity to favorably impact erectile dysfunction (Qinna et al., 2009). It may improve testosterone in men (Sodhi, 2006). It can also decrease fatigue and improve overall sex drive in both genders (2006). Gotu Kola could perhaps be called one of the most powerful nootropics for libido.

Panax Ginseng

Panax ginseng has been a long part of traditional Eastern medicines, however, it has become a recent Western staple for many holistic benefits as well. The herb provides massive benefits to athletic performance, stamina, and the body’s ability to combat fatigue (Chevallier, 2016). It’s overall boost to energy is wildly useful in terms of libido and performance in the bedroom for both men and women (2016). It reduces anxiety, allowing the mind and body to better focus (Orr, 2014). And it has been used for thousands of years for its natural aphrodisiac and libido boosting properties in both men and women (Chevallier, 2016). One recent study even revealed the herb to have a positive effect on sex glands (Balch, 2010).

Tongkat Ali

Tongkat Ali is a potent energy and stamina booster, having a long history of use as a natural aid to sex drive (Rehman et al., 2016). It is well-known for its ability to boost athletic performance and reduce fatigue (Khanijo and Jiraungkoorskul, 2016). It is used throughout much of Asia as an herbal viagra, helping combat erectile dysfunction (Tambi & Imran, 2010). It reduces stress, improves relaxation, and works as a stable libido booster, even improving male fertility (2010). It could improve testosterone, and is often used to improve overall sexual performance (Ang et al., 2000). The herb is such a common libido booster that it even maintains the nick name “Ali’s Walking Stick” in reference to its aphrodisiac benefits (Rehman et al., 2016).

Some Last Words of Wisdom When Using Nootropics for Libido

Finding the right nootropic for libido may take a bit of trial and error, as each nootropic works differently from metabolism to metabolism. These nootropics also work differently between genders, with some only working for one gender or the other. Many times, individuals will choose a selection of more than one nootropic supplements to boost libido or help with fertility. Regardless, the nootropics on this list are the most potent in terms of improving sex drive and overall libido.

A Note From NooFiles

This article is intended to be used for information only. We want to remind you that consulting your physician is recommended before adding any dietary supplement of any kind to your daily regimen.

Sources

Aguiar, S., & Borowski, T. (2013). Neuropharmacological review of the nootropic herb Bacopa monnieri. Rejuvenation research. Vol. 16(4). Pp. 313–326. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1089/rej.2013.1431

Ambiye, V., Langade, D., Dongre, S., Aptikar, P., Kulkarni, M., and Dongre, A. (2013). Clinical Evaluation of the Spermatogenic Activity of the Root Extract of Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) in Oligospermic Males: A Pilot Study. Evidence-based complementary and alternative medicine. PMID: 571420. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1155/2013/571420

Ang, H., Cheang, H., and Yusof, A. (2000). Effects of Eurycoma longifolia Jack (Tongkat Ali) on the initiation of sexual performance of inexperienced castrated male rats. Exp Anim. Vol. 49(1). Pp. 35-8. DOI: 10.1538/expanim.49.35

Balch, P. (2010). Prescription for Nutritional Healing. Fifth Edition. Avery Publishing. New York, New York. ISBN 978-1-58333-400-3

Chevallier, A. (2016). Encyclopedia of Herbal Medicine. Third Edition. DK Publishing. New York, New York. ISBN 978-1-4654-4981-8

Hirsch, K. R., Smith-Ryan, A. E., Roelofs, E. J., Trexler, E. T., & Mock, M. G. (2017). Cordyceps militaris Improves Tolerance to High-Intensity Exercise After Acute and Chronic Supplementation. Journal of dietary supplements. Vol. 14(1). Pp. 42–53. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1080/19390211.2016.1203386

Khanijo, T., and Jiraungkoorskul, W. (2016). Review Ergogenic Effect of Long Jack, Eurycoma Longifolia. Pharmacognosy reviews, Vol. 10(20). Pp. 139–142. DOI: https://doi.org/10.4103/0973-7847.194041

Kumar, R., Negi, P., Singh, B., Ilavazhagan, G., Bhargava, K., Sethy, N., (2011). Cordyceps sinensis promotes exercise endurance capacity of rats by activating skeletal muscle metabolic regulators. Journal of Ethnopharmacology. Vol. 136(1). Pp. 260-266. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jep.2011.04.040.

Mishra, R. K., Singh, S., & Singh, S. K. (2018). Natural products in regulation of male fertility. The Indian journal of medical research. Vol. 148(Suppl). Pp. S107–S114. DOI: https://doi.org/10.4103/ijmr.IJMR_1968_17

Orr, S. (2014). The New American Herbal. Clarkson Potter Publishers. New York, New York. ISBN 978-0-449-81993-7

Panda, A. K., & Swain, K. C. (2011). Traditional uses and medicinal potential of Cordyceps sinensis of Sikkim. Journal of Ayurveda and integrative medicine, 2(1), 9–13. https://doi.org/10.4103/0975-9476.78183

Qinna, N., Taha, H., Matalka, K., and Badwan, A. (2009). A new herbal combination, Etana, for enhancing erectile function: an efficacy and safety study in animals. Int J Impot Res. Vol. 21(5). Pp.315-20. DOI: 10.1038/ijir.2009.18

Rehman, S. U., Choe, K., and Yoo, H. H. (2016). Review on a Traditional Herbal Medicine, Eurycoma longifolia Jack (Tongkat Ali): Its Traditional Uses, Chemistry, Evidence-Based Pharmacology and Toxicology. Molecules (Basel, Switzerland), Vol. 21(3). Pp. 331. DOI: https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules21030331

Sodhi, V. (2006). Male Sexual Health: An Ayurvedic Perspective. Naturopathic Doctor News & Review. Retrieved from: https://ndnr.com/mens-health/male-sexual-health-an-ayurvedic-perspective/

Tambi, M. I., & Imran, M. K. (2010). Eurycoma longifolia Jack in managing idiopathic male infertility. Asian journal of andrology, 12(3), 376–380. https://doi.org/10.1038/aja.2010.7 Weil, A. (2004). Natural Health, Natural Medicine. Houghton Mifflin Publishing. New York, New York. ISBN 978-0-618-47903-0

Nootropic Solutions

Best Nootropics for Fertility

28 Oct 2021 By PirateBotanicals

Using Nootropics for Fertility, Pregnancy, and Conception

Of the many benefits nootropics can offer, some provide excellent boosts to fertility and libido. And while improving fertility is a sensitive topic and all nootropics are different, these herbs are classified as such for their ability to offer improvements that are still generally considered safe for consumption when free of contaminants and interactions with other drugs (Bent, 2008). Still, it is important to remember fertility (and the creation of life) is such a sensitive topic that it is imperative to consult a physician before adding any vitamin, nootropic, or supplement to a daily regimen. The nootropics on this list have been isolated as some of the safest, most widely utilized herbs for fertility.

Top Nootropics for Fertility

Out of the many nootropics for fertility, a handful stand out as clear winners. They are both generally regarded as safe for human consumption, have a lot of history in terms of use, and are easily accessible as a dietary supplement.

Ashwagandha

Ashwagandha is one of the most powerful, natural fertility boosters for men, with the purported ability to improve semen content and quality (Chevallier, 2016). The herb has been proven to help with erectile dysfunction (Weil, 2004). Several studies and clinical trials exist which highlight the plant’s ability to improve male infertility, increase serum testosterone, and increase luteinizing hormones (Murray & Pizzorno, 1998). Generally, the herb achieves its improved fertility (in both men and women) by increasing blood circulation throughout the body (Ambiye et al., 2013). For these reasons it is also one of the best natural aphrodisiacs (2013).

Bacopa Monnieri

Bacopa Monnieri is a strong herb in the treatment of inferility and libido in women (Chevallier, 2016). Still, the plant has been used for thousands of years to treat sex-related ailments in men, including impotence, premature ejaculation, infertility, and general libido (2016). While the herb may offer these benefits, however, it is important to note it could come at the cost of sperm production count and quality (Mishra et al., 2018). For this reason, it is more commonly used for its ability to promote libido and sexual function in females (2018).

Honorable Mentions

Although there are many nootropics which can help with fertility, conception, erectile dysfunction, infertility, and libido, a couple others shine under the spotlight. Tongkat Ali is a well-known aphrodisiac, boosting libido and promoting healthy sexual activity (Tambi & Imran, 2010). The herb is able to reduce stress and stabilize sex drive (2010). It has also been suggested to improve testosterone and overall sexual performance in men (Ang et al., 2000). It even bears the traditional nickname “Ali’s Walking Stick,” playing on its purported aphrodisiac properties (Rehman et al., 2016).

Another honorable mention goes out to the Cordyceps Mushroom. This mushroom is also well known for its ability to improve fertility in both men and women alike (Panda & Swain, 2011). It has been purportedly able to increase sperm count, improve erectile dysfunction, and extend erectile capacity. Cordyceps is even suggested to have the ability to increase physical endurance during sex. Many studies have outlined its potential as a general aphrodisiac, and it has been called a powerful female aphrodisiac, even delaying muscle fatigue (2011).

Closing Notes on Using Nootropics for Fertility

Finding the right nootropic for any stack can mean a lot of trial and error, however, the nootropics on this list have proven themselves to stand out from the rest when it comes to fertility and conception. Specific nootropics obviously provide varying effects from individual to individual, but depending upon the desired outcome, usually the choice is rather obvious. For instance, a male is more likely to use Ashwagandha for its purported abilities to improve erectile dysfunction, while a female is more likely to use Bacopa Monnieri for its purported abilities to improve libido and treat infertility. For these reasons, it is worth reading up on all the nootropics on this list before deciding upon the perfect choice for any nootropic stack.

A Note From NooFiles

This article is intended to be used for information only. We want to remind you that consulting your physician is recommended before adding any dietary supplement of any kind to your daily regimen.

Sources

Bent S. (2008). Herbal medicine in the United States: review of efficacy, safety, and regulation: grand rounds at University of California, San Francisco Medical Center. Journal of general internal medicine, 23(6), 854–859. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11606-008-0632-y

Chevallier, A. (2016). Encyclopedia of Herbal Medicine. Third Edition. DK Publishing. New York, New York. ISBN 978-1-4654-4981-8

Murray, M., and Pizzorno, J. (1998). The Encyclopedia of Natural Medicine. Third Edition. Atria Paperback. ISBN 978-1-4516-6300-6

Nootropics Library

The Nootropics Library: Bacopa Monnieri

04 Aug 2021 By PirateBotanicals

Everything You Need To Know About Bacopa Monnieri

General Information

Scientific Name: Bacopa monnieri (Scrophulariaceae)

Any Other Names: Brahmi (Hindi), Indian Pennywort, Water Hyssop, Waterhyssop, Herpestis monniera

Primary Constituents: Triterpenoid Saponins (includes bacosides)

Country or Region of Origin: Southern and Eastern India, Tropical Climates and Warmer Temperate Regions (especially in Asia)

Known Uses: Cognitive Enhancer, Memory, Stress, Anxiety, Adaptogen, Fertility, Nervous Disorders, Indigestion, Ulcers, Gas, Constipation, Asthma, Bronchitis, Rheumatic Conditions, Diuretic, and Arthritic Pain Relief

General History & Introduction

Bacopa monnieri is one of the most studied, ancient medicinal herbs on Earth (Beshara et al., 2019). It is a member of the Scrophulariaceae family. It is a creeping perennial which can grow up to 50 cm tall. The leaves are green and tear-shaped, paving the way for blue-white flowers. Although the plant is native to India’s region, it has been known to thrive and be cultivated in many other areas around the world. Some of these regions include Africa, Australia, Europe, and the Americas. The plant does very well in swamp and marshland. It can be found growing prevalently throughout rice fields.

All aerial parts of the Bacopa plant are therapeutically, medicinally, or otherwise used (Chevallier, 2016). It is common to find recipes which utilize the plant’s parts to make a variety of herbal teas, tonics, oils, extracts, rubs, and juices. Most commonly, the herb is taken in capsule form as a dietary supplement. Unlike many other herbs which may provide some of the same benefits and treat some of the same ailments, Bacopa is known to nourish neurons, rather than deplete them (Aguiar & Borowski, 2013).

Nootropic Benefits of Bacopa Monnieri

Cognitive Enhancer and Memory

Bacopa monnieri is well-used as a cognitive enhancer, as the nootropic has suggested benefits in form of executive functioning, memory, concentration, learning, and overall cognitive function (Chevallier, 2016). The herb has even been proven to reduce learning time (2016). In Ayurvedic medicine, Bacopa is associated directly with the brain (Orr, 2014). In fact, the term is literally mapped in Hindi to the brain, although so were any other nutraceuticals which bolster mental acuity (Stough et al., 2001). The traditional Indian art of holistic healing also recognizes Bacopa monnieri for its incredible, natural memory-boosting ability (Walker & Brown, 1998). Bacopa even helps bolster the memory retrieval process (Stough, 2011).

One recent, double-blind, placebo-controlled study outlined empirical proof that the herb improved information processing speed, learning rate, and memory (Beshara et al., 2019). It is especially helpful with memory retention and short-term cognitive enhancements (2019). Some studies seem to reveal increased cerebral blood flow (Aguiar & Borowski, 2013). It has shown great clinical potential in alleviating and regressing dementia symptoms (2013). There are many other studies which outline the herb’s ability to remove neuro toxins, symptoms of amnesia, and immobilization stress (Stough et al., 2001).

Stress and Anxiety (Adaptogen)

An adaptogen helps stabilize the mind and body to relieve stress and tension (The Nootropics Zone, 2017). The Bacopa herb is one of the most powerful nootropic adaptogens. The herb’s ability to dramatically reduce anxiety is supported in numerous clinical trials and studies (2017). It’s natural relaxation properties are suggested to help with memory recall (Beshara et al., 2019). In fact, one recent study proved the herb offered a significant reduction in anxiety. It has been known to reduce nervousness, palpitations, insomnia, headaches, and concentration (2019). Bacopa also sports an ability to reduce oxidative stress and is purportedly one of the strongest nootropic antioxidants (Aguiar & Borowski, 2013).

Libido and Fertility

The Bacopa plant has a long traditional history of being used to treat infertility (Chevallier, 2016). It has been known to be used for a variety of libido and sex-related ailments in men. More specifically, it has been used to treat impotence, premature ejaculation, infertility, and general libido. Unfortunately, while Bacopa monnieri may be proven to enhance libido in men, the herb may possibly stunt the production and quality of sperm (Mishra et al., 2018). This study may suggest that while a small amount of Bacopa may produce aphrodisiac-like effects, too much of the herb may act as a form of male contraceptive (2018).

Nervous Disorders

Bacopa monnieri is well-known in Indian holistic medicine to treat a variety of nervous system disorders (Chevallier, 2016). Some of these disorders include epilepsy, mental illness, and neuralgia (2016). It’s ability to provide adaptogenic benefits and antioxidant benefits make it a wonderful addition to any daily regimen for a dementia or Alzheimer’s patient. It is also proven to offer neuroprotective benefits and can pass the blood-brain barrier, which is very helpful with most nervous disorders (Manap et al., 2019). The participants in a variety of clinical trials and studies on Bacopa’s effects on Alzheimer’s have even called the herb “therapeutic” (2019).

Other Uses

Bacopa monnieri is considered a multipurpose herb, making itself useful across a wide spectrum of ailments. Some of these disorders and ailments which the herb can help with, not previously mentioned, include indigestion, ulcers, gas, and constipation (Chevallier, 2016). The herb has also been known to help with asthma, bronchitis, and rheumatic conditions. It can be used as a laxative, diuretic, or a purgative. Traditionally, Bacopa has also been applied as a rub to help alleviate mild arthritic pain (2016). It has been helpful in the treatment of dementia and Parkinson’s disease (Aguiar & Borowski, 2013). It could be said that Bacopa also offers excellent mood enhancing properties, as it can improve both anxiety and depression (Calabrese et al., 2008).

Dosing and Usage Information

Many clinical trials and empirical studies support the use of Bacopa monnieri to treat a variety of ailments and conditions (Calabrese et al., 2008). Many double-blind, placebo-controlled studies have outlined the herb’s ability to enhance cognitive function with a mere dose of 300 mg daily in healthy adults (2008). This does has also been proven in empirical data to improve learning and memory (Stough et al., 2001). It is especially effective for elderly, dementia patients, and enhancing memory retention. The same study which highlighted these benefits also proved the herb’s favorable impact on anxiety, tension, and depression (2008).

Side Effects

Most of the clinical trials and studies which dive into the use of Bacopa and its benefits have outlined very few side effects, if any. It is commonly considered safe for short-term use by most medical professionals for most people (Beshara et al., 2019). The few side effects reported in some studies include stomach cramps, mild nausea, and increased bowel movements (2019). Still, it remains one of the most researched nootropics used in modern holistic healing.

Other Important Information

The nick name given to Bacopa, Brahmi, was chosen in honor of the great Hindu creator God Brahma (Stough et al., 2015). It has been greatly revered throughout all of ancient, Ayurvedic medicine as a mind medicine. At the start of its extensive history, it was first mentioned in an ancient, Sanskrit text, the Caraka Samhita, amongst others (2015). The herb was categorized as a memory and intelligence herb (Nemetchek et al., 2017). It literally fit into the Indian category Medhya Rasayana, which translates into intellect and rejuvenation (Stough et al., 2015). It is noteworthy that bacopa monnieri may have an ability to moderate brain serotonin levels (Stough et al., 2001).

Bacopa monnieri has a strong presence in many Hindu religious rituals, consecration routines, and new-born baby celebrations (Stough et al., 2015). Traditionally, it was believed that Bacopa monnieri could open the gateways to great knowledge (2015). Modern-day classification of the herb names it a nootropic, or“smart drug.” This is because it is regularly used for its ability to improve learning, memory retention, and overall concentration (Beshara et al., 2019). The herb is especially helpful with memory consolidation, verbal and visual processing of information, and environment-based learning (Stough et al., 2001).

Conclusion

The verdict may still be out on the correct dosages and applications of the herb, but Bacopa monnieri’s ability to offer medicinal effects of some kind are no longer in question. The plant’s ability to improve memory, learning, and cognitive function is world-renown. The tonic, positive effects Bacopa has on the brain are well documented throughout Chinese and Ayurvedic medicines (Chevallier, 2016). 300 mg of Bacopa extract has been supported in many studies and clinical trials as a reasonably effective daily dose (Stough et al., 2001). Its ability to relax the brain, destress the body, and improve learning and focus makes it a wonderful suggestion to alleviate ADHD symptoms (Beshara et al., 2019).

A Note from NooFiles

This article is intended to be used for information only. We want to remind you that consulting your physician is recommended before adding any dietary supplement of any kind to your daily regimen.

Sources:

Aguiar, S., & Borowski, T. (2013). Neuropharmacological review of the nootropic herb Bacopa monnieri. Rejuvenation research. Vol. 16(4). Pp. 313–326. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1089/rej.2013.1431

Beshara, J., Engle, D., and Haynes, K. (2019). Beyond Coffee. Monocle Publishing. ISBN 9781544505459

Calabrese, C., Gregory, W. L., Leo, M., Kraemer, D., Bone, K., & Oken, B. (2008). Effects of a standardized Bacopa monnieri extract on cognitive performance, anxiety, and depression in the elderly: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. Journal of alternative and complementary medicine (New York, N.Y.). Vol. 14(6). Pp. 707–713. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1089/acm.2008.0018

Chevallier, A. (2016). Encyclopedia of Herbal Medicine. Third Edition. DK Publishing. New York, New York. ISBN 978-1-4654-4981-8

Manap, A., Vijayabalan, A., Madhavan, S., Chia, P., Arya, Y., Wong, A., Rizwan, E., Bindal, F., & Koshy, U. (2019). Bacopa monnieri, a Neuroprotective Lead in Alzheimer Disease: A Review on Its Properties, Mechanisms of Action, and Preclinical and Clinical Studies. Drug Target Insights. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1177/1177392819866412

Nemetchek, M. D., Stierle, A. A., Stierle, D. B., & Lurie, D. I. (2017). The Ayurvedic plant Bacopa monnieri inhibits inflammatory pathways in the brain. Journal of ethnopharmacology. Vol. 197. Pp. 92–100. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jep.2016.07.073

Orr, S. (2014). The New American Herbal. Clarkson Potter Publishers. New York, New York. ISBN 978-0-449-81993-7

Stough, (2011). Neurocognitive effects of herbal extracts. Lifetime Nutritional Influences on Cognition: Behaviour and Psychiatric Illness. Woodhead Publishing. ISBN 978-1-84569-752-5

Stough, C., Lloyd, J., Clarke, J., Downey, L., Hutchison, C., Rodgers, T., and Nathan, P. (2001). The chronic effects of an extract of Bacopa monniera (Brahmi) on cognitive function in healthy human subjects. Rapid Communication. Psychopharmacology. Vol. 156. Pp. 481-484. DOI: 10.1007/s002130100815

Stough, C., Singh, H., & Zangara, A. (2015). Mechanisms, Efficacy, and Safety of Bacopa monnieri (Brahmi) for Cognitive and Brain Enhancement. Evidence-based complementary and alternative medicine. 717605. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1155/2015/717605

The Nootropics Zone (2017). Nootropics: Unlocking Your True Potential With Smart Drugs. ISBN 9781520552729

Walker, L., and Brown, E. (1998). The Alternative Pharmacy. Prentice Hall Press. Paramus, New Jersey. ISBN 0-7352-0021-1