Best Nootropics for Vitality and Aging

Nootropic Supplements for Vitality, Health, and Aging

Aging is a normal part of life, and for most people it’s a natural process that reflects the quality and choices of their life.  Some people choose to consume substances which have detrimental effects on their health.  Other people choose to consume foods and supplements which have a positive effect on their vitality and aging.  Nootropics are some of the Earth’s natural ways of biohacking the mind and body to produce greater vitality, stronger health, and better aging.

Top Nootropics for Vitality, Health, & Anti-Aging

These are the best herbs for any vitality or aging-related nootropic stack.

Cordyceps Mushroom

Cordyceps Mushroom

Cordyceps Mushroom has been one of the most popular nootropics in Chinese and Asian medicine for thousands of years (Sung et al., 2017). Most modern evidence of the vitality assets provided by Cordyceps revolves around its antioxidant properties (Paterson, 2008). Because of these powerful antioxidant properties, the fungus has been used to prevent and reverse age-related diseases.  It is said that the mushroom’s vitality-increasing properties stems from its powerful polysaccharides, which enhance the speed and duration of the immune response development (2008). There are other studies which have outlined the mushroom’s ability to combat aging changes in gene expression throughout the brain and muscle tissues (Wood & Mastaloudis, 2010).  This same study suggested the mushroom may have a positive effect on an overall healthy lifespan (2010).

Gotu Kola

Gotu Kola has been considered one of the most versatile nootropics available, being used throughout Asian and all Eastern cultures for thousands of years (Chevallier, 2016). The herb has a substantial reputation throughout India and Asia for its potent vitality-bolstering effects. It is even purportedly able to reduce the progression of aging. While these effects may be attributed largely to the herb’s ability to boost memory and brain function, it also improves libido and the body’s overall energy production.  It is even an adaptogen, removing a lot of the body’s toxic stresses and speeding up collagen formation [which offers many reparative properties as well] (2016).  In addition to these vitality-improving qualities, it also treats cellulite and vericose veins (Murray & Pizzorno, 1998).  Additionally, it alleviates headaches, migraines (Gohil et al., 2010), and has been used as a natural energy drink (Orr, 2014).

Panax Ginseng

Panax Ginseng has been around for thousands of years, being celebrated as such a lucrative crop there have been wars surrounding control over its growth (Chevallier, 2016). It is a popular dietary supplement, largely for its use as a general wellness herb (Beshara, 2019). It is considered one of the most famous and potent adaptive tonics used throughout Chinese medicine (Orr, 2014). As a life-enhancing tonic, it has been relied upon in both Eastern and Western cultures for its potent ability to stimulate circulation and regulate blood sugar fluctuations (Conkling & Wong, 2006).  It also has the power to moderate blood pressure (2006). Panax is frequently used for its ability to improve kidney function, cool fevers, and regulate digestion (Orr, 2014). It is also typically turned to for its awesome rejuvenation and detoxifying properties (Balch, 2010). While it is a powerful anti-oxidant and youth-preserving herb, it is also used to stimulate and strengthen the heart, and regulate the central nervous system (Walker & Brown, 1998).

Red Reishi Mushroom

Red Reishi

Red Reishi Mushroom is another popular Chinese and Asian tonic nootropic, regularly used throughout these cultures for thousands of years (Knechtges,1996).  Due to its incredible vitality-boosting properties, the fungus has even been called the “Mushroom of Immoratlity” (1996). It has been purportedly able to offer anti-disease properties, fighting and preventing most major diseases of modern times (Paterson, 2006). Red Reishi is a powerful antioxidant, contributing to its regular use as a general longevity herb (Cor et al., 2018).  It is said these vitality enhancing properties come from the mushroom’s proteins, lipids, phenols, sterols, and bioactive compounds, which offer incredibly therapeutic effects for the entire mind and body (2018).

Tongkat Ali

Tongkat Ali has been a powerful presence amongst folklore and throughout much of Indonesian culture as a versatile tonic, holistic medicine, and general health supplement (Rehman et al., 2016).  It has wonderful benefit on physical performance, making it popular in the athletic community and nootropic stacks alike (Khanijo & Jiraungkoorskul, 2016). Tongkat Ali has been used to treat diarrhea, constipation and indigestion, aches, and even osteoporosis (Rehman et al., 2016). It can be used to treat syphilis, glandular swelling, and even certain cancer ailments.  Many cultures now use the herb for its purported anti-aging properties (2016).

Last Notes On Using Vitality and Anti-Aging Nootropic Supplements

While there may be no secret to getting older, there are most certainly secrets to aging more gracefully. The clinical trials which back these nootropic supplements also prove that it is possible to improve fluid intelligence, increase natural vitality, and improve the overall health of an individual during the aging process. The nootropics on this list offer some of the most profound benefits in terms of improving vitality, and they are excellent choices for any nootropic stack.  It is even feasible (and encouraged) to combine these nootropics to form more complete vitality-bolstering compounds!

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

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

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

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

Conkling, W. and Wong, D. (2006). The Complete Guide to Vitamins and Supplements: The Holistic Path to Good Health. Avon Health Publishing. New York, NY. ISBN: 978-0-06-076066-3.

Cör, D., Knez, Ž., and Knez Hrnčič, M. (2018). Antitumour, Antimicrobial, Antioxidant and Antiacetylcholinesterase Effect of Ganoderma Lucidum Terpenoids and Polysaccharides: A Review. Molecules (Basel, Switzerland). Vol. 23(3). Pp. 649. DOI: https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules23030649

Gohil, K., Patel, J., & Gajjar, A. (2010). Pharmacological Review on Centella asiatica: A Potential Herbal Cure-all. Indian journal of pharmaceutical sciences. Vol. 72(5). Pp. 546–556. DOI: https://doi.org/10.4103/0250-474X.78519

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

Knechtges, D. (1996). Wen Xuan or Selections of Refined Literature. 3. Princeton University Press. Pp. 201-211. ISBN 9780691021263.

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

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

Paterson, R. (2008). Cordyceps: a traditional Chinese medicine and another fungal therapeutic biofactory?. Phytochemistry. Vol. 69(7). Pp. 1469–1495. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.phytochem.2008.01.027

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

Sung, G., Hywel-Jones, N., Sung, J., Luangsa-ard, J., Shrestha, B., and Spatafora, J. (2007). Phylogenetic classification of Cordyceps and the clavicipitaceous fungi. Stud Mycol. Vol. 57(1). Pp. 5–59. DOI:10.3114/sim.2007.57.01

Walker, L., and Brown, E. (1998). The Alternative Pharmacy. Prentice Hall Press. Paramus, New Jersey.  ISBN 0-7352-0021-1 Wood, S. & Mastaloudis, A. (2010). New Studies Show Significant Anti-Aging Benefits of Cordyceps: Chinese Mushroom Improves Youthful Genetic Expression. Cision PR Newswire. Nu Skin Enterprises. PROVO, Utah. Retrieved from: multivu.prnewswire.com/mnr/nuskin/46586/

The Nootropics Library: Curcumin (Turmeric)

Everything You Need to Know About Curcumin (Turmeric)

General Information

Scientific Name: Curcuma longa (of the Zingiberaceae family)

Any Other Names: Longvida Curcumin, Longvida Optimized Curcumin, Turmeric Curcumin, Haldi (Hindi), Jiang Huang (Chinese)

Primary Constituents: Curcumin, Curcuminoids (Demethoxycurcumin and Bidesmethoxycurcumin), Resin, Bitter Principles, Volatile Oils (Zingiberen and Turmerone)

Country or Region of Origin: Native to India and Southeast Asia, Cultivated in Regions Around 75 Degrees Fahrenheit with Heavy Rainfall

Known Uses: Cognitive Function, Memory, Mood, Anti-Fatigue, Anti-inflammation, Dye, Culinary Ingredient, and More

General History & Introduction

Turmeric is a bright yellow plant native to India and Southern Asia.  It is also found in many tropical regions, though it does require a humid climate and well-drained soil (Chevallier, 2016).  It has a long history of being used in Ancient Ayurvedic and Chinese medicines. It has been used to treat some short-term ailments, as well as more chronic health problems.  A lot of the research and empirical data currently being collected on the herb and its primary constituent, Curcumin, have been confirming the traditional uses of the plant (2016).

Turmeric has been a part of intercontinental trade since the early 1400s, becoming very popular in Europe as a result (Chevallier, 2016).  The Europeans believed that herbs like Curcumin allowed for greater longevity and healthier lives (2016).  This fad would catch on in North America in modern years with Turmeric becoming popular for cooking and its use as a dietary supplement.

Curcumin is an excellent, natural way to get a genuine boost to cognitive performance and memory (Kuszewski et al., 2018). It is a wonderful mood stabilizer, improving calmness and thwarting depression (Ramaholimihaso et al., 2020). The herb has been used to reduce fatigue and inflammation and has proven its worth in a variety of other ways (Chevallier, 2016).  It is reasonable to suggest Turmeric and Curcumin deserve more attention and research, so that the nootropics world can more fully understand the potential benefits.

Nootropic Benefits of Curcumin (Turmeric)

Cognitive Function and Memory

One study analyzed the long-term effects of Curcumin in healthy adults to find to significantly increased memory in study participants (Cox et al., 2015). This same study also outlined a recorded benefit in cognitive function. Specifically, the empirical data highlighted an improved state of attention and working memory tasks. This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial also supported the claim that Curcumin can improve memory (2015). Recent studies have shown the herb’s positive effects on dementia and traumatic brain injury (Mishra & Palanivelu, 2008).  This same research outlined its additional benefit as an antioxidant, and as having the ability to improve cognitive function in Alzheimer’s patients (2008).

MEDICAL-JOURNAL

Many modern studies have begun to reveal curcumin’s true positive effects on cognitive function and working memory (Kuszewski et al., 2018). A recent, long-term double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of curcumin published in a popular psychiatry journal has uncovered more significant cognitive benefits stemming from its anti-amyloid brain effects (Small et al., 2018).  The study measured significant benefits which included improved memory and attention-span, and decreased plaque accumulation in the brain regions which modulate memory (2018).

Mood

A recent study showcased the nootropic’s ability to significantly improve mood (Cox et al., 2015). These studies report participants as experiencing a ‘state of calmness’ (2015). Another noteworthy study called Curcumin a generally “health-promoting” agent (Stohs et al., 2020).  Turmeric has been proven to offer mood enhancing effects which specifically treat depression (Ramaholimihaso et al., 2020). Not only can the herb help reduce symptoms of depression, but it has been proposed as a potential alternative treatment for managing Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) as well as reducing oxidative stress (2020). Some more recent research has outlined the results of a FDDNP-PET scan post Curcumin-treatment to reveal a decrease in plaque and tangle accumulation in the brain region which modulates mood (Small et al., 2018).

Anti-Fatigue

TIRED

Turmeric has been a traditional remedy for chronic fatigue throughout many Eastern cultures. In modern times, there have been studies which do prove Curcumin’s ability to reduce fatigue and fatigue-induced stress (Cox et al., 2015). One study showcased the supplement’s potential wide spectrum bioactivities which could be responsible for improving exercise performance, reducing fatigue, and promoting overall health (Huang et al., 2015). Curcumin has also been suggested to have the ability to reduce symptoms of chronic fatigue syndrome (Campen & Visser, 2019).

Anti-inflammation

One study outlines the nootropic’s ability to reduce inflammation, even pointing out the herb could ultimately alleviate symptoms in patients suffering from certain forms of arthritis (Gupte et al., 2019).  And although Turmeric is not directly used for pain relief, the anti-inflammation properties can make it a useful long-term treatment for arthritis, as it leads to reduced pain (Chevallier, 2016). It is also commonly used to treat allergies, asthma, and eczema for the same reason. These anti-inflammatory properties and the herb’s other effects make it an excellent choice for treating circulatory disorders. It has even been suggested to have the ability to reduce the risk of stroke and heart attack (2016).

Other Uses

Turmeric was well-known in Ayurvedic medicine as well, traditionally being used as a treatment for jaundice (Chevallier, 2016).  It would also become a part of many other herbal remedies as a bitter and for its various medicinal properties. Some of these benefits include antimicrobial properties, anti-platelet properties (thins the blood), and its ability to lower cholesterol levels. It can be used to treat athlete’s foot, and even motion sickness (2016).

While there is not currently enough information or research, Turmeric is being investigated for its potential to prevent certain types of cancers (Chevallier, 2016). It has been used to treat some skin conditions, including fungal infections and psoriasis. It is also used to treat and reduce nausea. And although unproven, it has been suggested to have the ability to prevent some autoimmune diseases (2016).

Dosing and Usage Information

Turmeric extract supplements usually offer 500 to 2000 mg daily servings, depending upon the extract ratio.  Generally only the rhizome, or roots, of the plant are used for culinary or medicinal purposes (Chevallier, 2016).  The roots are normally unearthed and broken into pieces, then boiled and dried before being further produced and manufactured.  Some preparations might include decoctions, powders, poultice (pastes), and herbal teas (2016).

Side Effects

Turmeric is generally accepted as safe when consumed as a dietary supplement within established daily values. Non-extracted products which offer up to 8 grams of curcumin in a daily serving are common. The rare side effects which can occur include diarrhea, dizziness, headache, and nausea (Hewlings & Kalman, 2017).

Conclusion

Although it is clear through the collection of many studies and clinical trials that Curcumin offers health benefits of various kinds (Stohs et al., 2020), more research will determine the full extent of these benefits. Still, enough research does exist to determine some baseline supplement benefits.  Curcumin is great for cognitive function, memory, and mood; and it is especially more useful with age (Cox et al., 2015).  In other words, while the supplement can help a young person in many ways, it will help older people with even greater effects. It can even purportedly prevent some aspects of mental decline altogether! And depending upon the goal of a nootropic stack, it is reasonable to find curcumin in many daily regimens.

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:

Campen, L., & Visser, F. (2019). The Effect of Curcumin in Patients with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome/Myalgic Encephalomyelitis Disparate Responses in Different Disease Severities. Pharmacovigilance and Pharmacoepidemiology. Edelweiss Publications. Vol. 2(1). Pp. 22-27. ISSN: 2638-8235

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

Cox, K., Pipingas, A., and Scholey, A. (2015). Investigation of the effects of solid lipid curcumin on cognition and mood in a healthy older population. J Psychopharmacol. Vol. 29(5). Pp. 642-51. DOI: 10.1177/0269881114552744

Gupte, P., Giramkar, S., Harke, S., Kulkarni, S., Deshmukh, A., Hingorani, L., Mahajan, M., and Bhalerao, S. (2019). Evaluation of the efficacy and safety of Capsule Longvida® Optimized Curcumin (solid lipid curcumin particles) in knee osteoarthritis: a pilot clinical study. Journal of inflammation research. Vol. 12. Pp. 145–152. DOI: https://doi.org/10.2147/JIR.S205390

Hewlings, S. and Kalman, D. (2017). Curcumin: A Review of Its Effects on Human Health. Foods (Basel, Switzerland). Vol. 6(10). Pp. 92. DOI: https://doi.org/10.3390/foods6100092

Huang, W., Chiu, W., Chuang, H., Tang, D., Lee, Z., Wei, L., Chen, F., and Huang, C. (2015). Effect of curcumin supplementation on physiological fatigue and physical performance in mice. Nutrients. Vol. 7(2). Pp. 905–921. DOI: https://doi.org/10.3390/nu7020905

Kuszewski, J., Wong, R., and Howe, P. (2018). Can Curcumin Counteract Cognitive Decline? Clinical Trial Evidence and Rationale for Combining ω-3 Fatty Acids with Curcumin. Advances in Nutrition. Vol. 9(2). Pp. 105–113, DOI: https://doi.org/10.1093/advances/nmx013

Mishra, S., & Palanivelu, K. (2008). The effect of curcumin (turmeric) on Alzheimer’s disease: An overview. Annals of Indian Academy of Neurology. Vol. 11(1). Pp. 13–19. DOI: https://doi.org/10.4103/0972-2327.40220

Ramaholimihaso, T., Bouazzaoui, F., and Kaladjian, A. (2020). Curcumin in Depression: Potential Mechanisms of Action and Current Evidence-A Narrative Review. Frontiers in psychiatry. Vol. 11. PMID: 33329109 DOI: https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyt.2020.572533

Small, G., Siddarth, P., Li, Z., Miller, K., Ercoli, L., Emerson, N., Martinez, J., Wong, K., Liu, J., Merrill, D., Chen, S., Henning, S., Satyamurthy, N., Huang, S., Heber, D., and Barrio, J. (2018).Memory and Brain Amyloid and Tau Effects of a Bioavailable Form of Curcumin in Non-Demented Adults: A Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled 18-Month Trial. The American Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry. Vol. 26(3). Pp. 266-277. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jagp.2017.10.010

Stohs, S., Chen, O., Ray, S., Ji, J., Bucci, L., and Preuss, H. (2020). Highly Bioavailable Forms of Curcumin and Promising Avenues for Curcumin-Based Research and Application: A Review. Molecules (Basel, Switzerland). Vol. 25(6). Pp. 1397. DOI: https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules25061397