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Sheridan is a writer from Hamilton, Ontario. She has a passion for writing about what she loves and learning new things along the way. Her topics of expertise include skincare and beauty, home decor, and DIYing.

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About Thesis Nootropics

Hands up if you guzzle five coffees a day to stay awake, have tried all the supplements in the book desperate to improve your headspace, and aren’t interested in prescribed medications. Designed to increase focus , Thesis nootropics might be for you.

Thesis offers a customized blend of ingredients designed to optimize your cognitive function , with personalized details that tackle your specific needs. Nootropics boost brain performance in the same way a stimulant would, without the common negative effects.

A study published in the Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease found that nootropics may help improve cognitive function in people with Alzheimer’s disease.

Interested in finding out more about the brand and how it works? Leaf through our Thesis Nootropics review. We’ll be your guide through the company and the process, as well as details on the treatments, highlights from customer reviews, answers to important FAQs, and more, to help you decide if it’s worth the try.

Pros and Cons

Multiple cognitive benefits: Thesis Nootropics offers a variety of blends that cater to multiple aspects of cognitive function.
Long-term effects: On top of short term benefits for daily life, Thesis nootropics ingredients are designed to impact the brain in the long-term.
Personalized recommendations: Thesis Nootropics makes personalized recommendations based on your goals and unique brain chemistry.
Potential side effects: The most common side effects to watch out for when you start taking Thesis Nootropics include heartburn, headaches, confusion, dizziness, loss of appetite, and digestive issues.
Need to stop taking if issues arise: If you experience a headache or an upset stomach that won’t go away while taking their nootropics, Thesis recommends that you stop taking them.

What is Thesis Nootropics?

Nootropics are nutrient compounds and substances that are known to improve brain performance , such as caffeine and creatine. They help with issues that affect motivation, creativity, mood, memory, focus, and cognitive processing.

Nootropics are the ideal addition to an already healthy lifestyle that consists of exercise, proper nutrition, and enjoyable activities. Thesis nootropics are carefully formulated to target specific needs, ranging from energy to creativity. The brand focuses on safety, ensuring that all supplements adhere to FDA guidelines and go through multiple clinical trials.

How Thesis Nootropics Works

With all that being said, you may be wondering how Thesis provides users with an option that is specific to their needs. Fortunately, the process is simple and hassle free. Here’s how it works:

Take the Thesis nootropics quiz
Answer questions about your basic information
Receive personalized recommendations
Get your starter kit for $120 , or $79 monthly when you subscribe

After that, you’ll select one formula to take each week, taking one day off in between each different option. You’ll also track your results in the daily journal over the month to see how they affect your daily life.

From there, it operates as a subscription service. Users will be able to optimize their next shipment by telling the brand which formulas worked best.

If you don’t like any of the blends in your box, let the company know and they’ll switch it for something that’s a better fit for your lifestyle, genetics, and goals.

Thesis Nootropics Ingredients

Thesis Nootropics is a brand that offers personalized nootropics designed to enhance cognitive function and overall brain health. Their blends contain a variety of ingredients that are carefully chosen for their cognitive-boosting properties. Here are some of the key ingredients in Thesis Nootropics:

Cognizin (Citicoline) : Cognizin is a type of choline that is known for its ability to enhance cognitive function, including memory and focus.
L-Theanine : L-Theanine is an amino acid that is found in green tea, and is known for its ability to promote relaxation and reduce stress and anxiety.
Lion’s Mane Mushroom : Lion’s Mane Mushroom is a type of medicinal mushroom that is believed to have cognitive-boosting properties, including improved memory and focus.
Rhodiola Rosea : Rhodiola Rosea is an adaptogenic herb that is known for its ability to reduce stress and fatigue, and improve mental clarity and cognitive function.
Ashwagandha : Ashwagandha is an adaptogenic herb that is known for its ability to reduce stress and anxiety, and improve memory and cognitive function.
Phosphatidylserine : Phosphatidylserine is a type of phospholipid that is found in high concentrations in the brain, and is believed to support cognitive function, including memory and focus³
Alpha-GPC : Alpha-GPC is a type of choline that is known for its ability to enhance cognitive function, including memory and focus.
TAU (uridine): TAU is a blend of uridine, choline, and DHA, which is believed to support brain health and cognitive function.
Artichoke extract : Artichoke extract is believed to enhance cognitive function by increasing levels of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter that is important for memory and learning.
Dynamine : Dynamine is a type of alkaloid that is believed to enhance cognitive function by increasing levels of dopamine, a neurotransmitter that is important for mood and motivation.

Overall, the ingredients in Thesis Nootropics are carefully chosen for their cognitive-boosting properties, and are designed to work together to enhance overall brain health and cognitive function.

Thesis Nootropics Health Benefits

Thesis Nootropics is a brand that offers personalized nootropics designed to enhance cognitive function and overall brain health. Their blends contain a variety of ingredients that are carefully chosen for their cognitive-boosting properties, and offer numerous health benefits. Here are some of the health benefits of Thesis Nootropics:

Increased cognitive energy : One of the key benefits of Thesis Nootropics is increased cognitive energy, which can help improve productivity, mental alertness, and motivation, as it contains cognizin .
Enhanced mental clarity : Another benefit of Thesis Nootropics is enhanced mental clarity,given from Lion’s Mane Mushroom which can help reduce brain fog and improve focus.
Improved memory and learning abilities : Thesis Nootropics contains ingredients that are believed to improve memory and learning abilities, like Phosphatidylserine , which can help users retain information more effectively.
Elevated mood : Thesis Nootropics may help elevate mood and reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression, thanks to ingredients like L-Theanine and Ashwagandha .
Lowered stress levels : The adaptogenic herbs in Thesis Nootropics, such as Rhodiola Rosea and Ashwagandha , are known for their ability to lower stress levels and promote relaxation.
Boosted focus : Thesis Nootropics contains ingredients like Alpha-GPC and Artichoke extract , which are believed to boost focus and concentration.

While Thesis Nootropics offers numerous health benefits, it’s important to note that the long-term effects of nootropics are not yet fully understood and more research is needed.

3 Thesis Nootropics Bestsellers

Thesis energy review.

If you’re constantly struggling to keep up with the demands of your busy life, it might be time to try a natural energy booster like Thesis Energy. This powerful nootropic blend is specifically designed to increase energy, overcome fatigue, and build mental stamina.

Thesis Energy is caffeine-free, making it a great option for those who are sensitive to caffeine or looking for a natural alternative to traditional energy drinks. The Energy formulation is designed to help improve focus and mental clarity, increase cognitive energy, and reduce fatigue. Whether you’re facing a busy day at work, recovering after a night of poor sleep, or gearing up for an intense workout, Thesis Energy can help you power through.

Each ingredient in Thesis Energy is carefully chosen for its energy-boosting properties. The specific ingredients can vary depending on your needs, but they work together to help increase energy, improve mental clarity, and reduce fatigue.

To get the most out of Thesis Energy, take it every morning on an empty stomach. You can also take it again after lunch if you need an extra boost. It’s designed to help you tackle busy, hectic days, recover from poor sleep, and power through intense workouts.

If you’re tired of relying on coffee and energy drinks to get through the day, it might be time to give Thesis Energy a try. Check availability and start boosting your energy naturally today!

Thesis Creativity

If you’re someone who struggles with creativity or finds yourself feeling stuck in your creative endeavors, Thesis Creativity may be worth considering. This nootropic supplement is designed to help spark inspiration, enhance verbal fluency, and boost confidence in your own great ideas.

So what’s in Thesis Creativity? The ingredients may vary depending on your specific needs, but these ingredients work together to support stress management, memory function, mood regulation, and energy production.

By supporting stress management, memory function, and mood regulation, Thesis Creativity can help free up mental space for more creative thinking. Additionally, the caffeine and L-theanine combo can provide a boost of energy and focus without the jitters and crash that can come with caffeine alone.

To get the most out of Thesis Creativity, it is recommended to take it every morning on an empty stomach and again after lunch if you need an extra boost. This nootropic blend is particularly helpful for brainstorming and creative thinking, writing and creative projects, and public speaking and social situations.

As with any nootropic supplement, it’s important to note that the long-term effects of Thesis Creativity are not yet fully understood and more research is needed. It’s always a good idea to speak with a healthcare professional before adding any new supplements to your routine.

In summary, if you’re looking for a little extra help in the creativity department, Thesis Creativity may be a valuable addition to your nootropic lineup. Its unique blend of ingredients can help support mental clarity, mood regulation, and energy production, making it a valuable tool for any creative individual.

Thesis Logic

If you’ve been having trouble with your memory lately, such as forgetting what you had for lunch yesterday or struggling to recall common words, then Thesis Logic may be just what you need. This formula is designed to help enhance your processing speed, boost your memory, and deepen your thinking.

Thesis Logic is caffeine-free, making it a great option for those who are sensitive to caffeine. The formula is ideal for use during deep, focused work, complex problem-solving, research projects, and completing tedious tasks.

Taking Thesis Logic is easy – simply take it every morning on an empty stomach, and take it again after lunch if you need an extra boost. By incorporating Thesis Logic into your daily routine, you may notice improvements in your cognitive function and overall mental performance.

Who Is Thesis Nootropics For?

Thesis nootropics are designed for a number of different specific needs, including anyone who wants to focus better, have more energy, and maintain mental clarity. All in all, the products are specifically formulated to improve day to day life and target your specific needs .

Thesis Nootropics Side Effects

While Thesis nootropics are designed to enhance cognitive performance and provide a range of benefits, it’s important to be aware of the potential side effects that can occur. As with any supplement, individual reactions can vary, and some people may experience side effects while others may not.

Some of the potential side effects of Thesis nootropics include:

Insomnia : Some nootropics contain caffeine or other stimulants that can disrupt sleep patterns and lead to difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep.
Blurry vision : Certain nootropics, such as those containing alpha GPC, have been linked to temporary blurry vision.
High blood pressure : Stimulant-based nootropics can increase blood pressure, which can be dangerous for people with hypertension or other heart conditions.
Fast heart rate : Similarly, stimulants can also increase heart rate, leading to palpitations or a rapid pulse.
Circulation problem s: Certain nootropics, such as vinpocetine, can affect blood flow and circulation, leading to issues like dizziness, nausea, or headaches.
Addiction : Some nootropics, such as those containing racetams, have been associated with the potential for addiction or dependence if used long-term.

It’s important to remember that not all nootropics will produce these side effects, and the severity of any reactions will depend on individual factors such as dosage, duration of use, and underlying health conditions. However, it’s always wise to discuss any potential risks with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen.

Additionally, it’s important to follow dosage instructions carefully and not to exceed recommended amounts, as this can increase the risk of side effects. By being mindful of potential risks and using nootropics responsibly, users can reap the benefits of these supplements without experiencing adverse effects.

Thesis Nootropics Reviews: What Do Customers Think?

At this point in our Thesis nootropics review, it’s time to turn to what customers are saying. So, we sourced testimonials from the brand’s website, Reddit, and ZenMasterWellness. And spoiler alert, the Thesis nootropics reviews we came across have nothing but good things to say.

On takethesis.com , the brand earns 4.4/5 stars out of 7,956 reviews. One patron describes their particular blend as the perfect alternative to prescription meds :

“ I have been off stimulants for months now and these formulas are far superior. My husband and daughter both noticed the change and said I have been more productive, focused, less anxious, and more “thinking outside the box”. I have tried for years to get off stims and nothing would work .”

On Reddit, many reviewers share similar sentiments about how effective the products are. One buyer shares that they tried tons of different nootropics on the market, and Thesis stands out amongst the crowd .

On ZenMasterWellness, one reviewer states that their blend provided the exact results they were looking for :

“ They offer notable improvements to how well I’m able to focus, stay on task, and grind when it’s time to grind. In practice, this usually looks like a clearer mind and an improved ability to just… chill. With the Clarity and Creativity blends, in particular, I just feel leveled out .”

Backed by clinical trials and real customer experiences, Thesis stands out in the world of nootropics and supplements. The personalized selections prove effective, while the quality ingredients live up to expectations.

Is Thesis Nootropics Legit?

If you’re wondering if this brand offers products that are too good to be true, this Thesis nootropics review is here to say that it is the real deal .

The brand is backed by numerous clinical trials, which highlight how 86% of customers reported improvements in a wide range of cognitive challenges, while 89% noticed an improvement in their ability to reduce stress and maintain energy.

Is Thesis Nootropics Worth It?

Thesis is an appealing choice in the world of nootropics because it provides a completely customized selection based on your needs and goals. Plus, the ingredients are potent and ensure the best effects—and you only end up paying for the benefits you actually need.

With that in mind, this Thesis nootropics review deems the brand worth the try.

Alternatives

Here are some alternatives to Thesis Nootropics that you might find interesting:

Mind Lab Pro – This nootropic supplement is designed to improve cognitive function and mental performance. It contains 11 ingredients that work together to enhance memory, focus, and overall brain health.
Thorne Supplements : If you’re looking for high-quality, science-based supplements, Thorne is a great choice. Their products are designed with the latest research in mind and are rigorously tested for quality and purity. Some of their popular offerings include multivitamins, protein powders, and omega-3 supplements.
WeAreFeel Supplements : WeAreFeel is a supplement brand that offers a variety of products designed to support different aspects of your health. Their supplements are vegan-friendly and free from artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives. Some of their popular offerings include multivitamins, probiotics, and omega-3 supplements.
Neuro Gum : If you’re looking for a quick and easy way to boost your focus and energy levels, Neuro Gum is a great option. This gum is infused with caffeine and other natural ingredients that can help improve mental clarity and alertness. Plus, it’s sugar-free and comes in a variety of delicious flavors.
Neuriva Plus : Neuriva Plus is a brain supplement that’s designed to improve memory, focus, and cognitive performance. It contains a blend of natural ingredients, including coffee fruit extract and phosphatidylserine, that have been shown to support brain health. If you’re looking for a natural way to boost your cognitive function, Neuriva Plus is worth considering.

Thesis Nootropics Promotions & Discounts

There aren’t currently any Thesis promos or discounts available. That being said, if you subscribe for recurring shipments of your recommended products, you’ll save $40 monthly .

Where to Buy Thesis Nootropics

At the time of this Thesis nootropics review, the products are exclusively available on the brand’s website, takethesis.com .

Is Thesis Nootropics vegan?

Thesis nootropics are made with only vegan ingredients . That being said, while the brand has taken precautions to protect against cross contamination, the products are not certified vegan.

Is Thesis Nootropics gluten-free?

On top of being vegan, Thesis products are made without gluten, eggs, or nuts . Again, while the brand strives to protect users against cross contamination, the products are not certified gluten free.

What is Thesis Nootropics’ Shipping Policy?

If you’re anxiously awaiting your order from this Thesis nootropics review, you’ll be happy to hear that the company offers speedy shipping, sending orders out within 1 business day. After that, packages should arrive within only 1-3 business days . Costs are calculated at checkout.

At this time, Thesis is not able to offer international shipping. This Thesis nootropics review recommends following the brand on social media and signing up for the newsletter to stay up to date with shipping policies.

What is Thesis Nootropics’ Return Policy?

If you find that your Thesis formula isn’t working out, the company requests that you contact them to make changes and adjustments to ensure you are able to receive the proper help.

If you would still like to make a return, follow these simple steps for a refund:

Submit your refund request
Ship the items back within 30 days of the original delivery
Send an email with your tracking number to the brand
Return any remaining product in their original packaging to:

Thesis Returns 902 Broadway

6th Floor New York, NY

Once your return has been received, a refund will be processed and email confirmation will be sent. It’s also important to note that the brand can only refund one month’s supply per customer and return shipping is the customer’s responsibility.

How to Contact Thesis Nootropics

We hope you enjoyed this Thesis nootropics review! If you have any further questions about the brand or its products, you can contact them using the following methods:

Call 1 (646) 647-3599
Email [email protected]

902 Broadway Floor 6 New York, NY 10010

If you’re looking for other ways to boost your productivity via supplements, check out these other brands we’ve reviewed:

Thorne Supplements Review

WeAreFeel Supplements Review

Neuro Gum Review

Neuriva Plus Review

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I Tried Thesis Nootropics—Here’s My Honest Review

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I Tried Thesis Nootropics—Here’s My Honest Review

Our verdict, thesis nootropics at a glance, how does thesis nootropics work, how much does thesis nootropics cost, the product, my thesis nootropics experience, what experts say about thesis nootropics.

Thesis nootropic blends, which are nutritional compounds often used to boost brain function , are designed to enhance mood and cognitive performance based on your individual needs and goals. The Starter Kit allows users to sample four of Thesis’ nootropics blends to determine which is most effective for them.

While the supplements are pricey, I found the increased productivity and enhanced focus I experienced worth the cost.

Supports memory, focus, and mental speed
Helps optimize cognitive function
Caffeine-free and gluten-free formula
Sold over 10 million bottles
Subscribe and you’ll save up to 35% off

Key Features

Thesis nootropics are designed to enhance cognitive function and optimize brain performance by supporting mood, memory, focus, cognitive processing, creativity and motivation, according to the company.
Ingredients and blends are third-party tested for quality and potency by an independent lab, according to the company.
Products are backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee (with a maximum return limit of a one-month supply).

Dan Freed founded Thesis in 2017 after finding inspiration from his personal journey with nootropics. With company headquarters in New York, Thesis offers customized nootropics to support cognitive function and boost productivity.

PROS	CONS

Thesis nootropics are sourced from vegan ingredients like saffron, ginkgo biloba, mango leaf and lion’s mane mushrooms that have been studied for their impact on mood and cognitive function.
A Thesis Starter Kit costs $119; monthly subscriptions are available for $79.
With the Thesis Starter Kit, you can try four of the six available blends—Motivation, Clarity, Creativity, Energy, Logic and Confidence—for six days each to determine which blend works best for your brain chemistry.

Thesis nootropics are designed to enhance specific elements of brain health, from focus to energy. To get started with Thesis, you can take an online survey or choose your own blends.

If you choose to complete the online quiz (the option recommended by Thesis), you’ll answer questions about the following:

Your age, weight and identifying gender
Areas you’d like to focus on, such as energy, motivation or mood
How much caffeine you drink and how it affects you
How often you exercise
Whether you consume excess alcohol (five or more drinks per day)
Whether you smoke or vape
How much sleep you get nightly
How often you forget things

You’ll also rate your energy, sleep quality, productivity, focus, mood and anxiety levels. Once you finish the quiz, suggested blends based on your specific needs and goals are populated for purchase on the website. You can choose to purchase a one-time or monthly package.

Each Thesis Starter Kit contains four boxes of nootropic blends, each containing six sachets of capsules. Users can try four recommended blends from the six available through Thesis. Capsules are taken first thing in the morning (on an empty stomach) for six consecutive days, followed by a one-day break to gauge each blend’s results. You’re encouraged to write down how you feel, including any benefits and side effects you notice.

Customers have free and unlimited virtual access to wellness coaches. Sessions are 15 minutes each and must be scheduled in advance. During your first session, your coach guides you through each customized blend, goes over the instructions and answers any questions you may have. If there’s a blend that’s not working for you, Thesis coaches can help you make adjustments to your plan.

Monthly subscriptions can be managed in your online profile, so you can choose which blends you’d like to receive after the initial period.

Contains 1000mg of Organic Lion's Mane in every serving
Formulated with organic reishi, lion’s mane, and Cordyceps sinensis
Packed with bioactive constituents that promote overall health and longevity
Informed Choice Certified for dosage, purity, and safety from banned substances

The Thesis Starter Kit is available on the company’s website for $119. Customers can also sign up for a monthly subscription plan for $79 (a discount of $40). Shipping is free.

My curated sampler kit, based on my survey results, contained the following blends.

This blend contains four capsules and is formulated to promote energy, fight fatigue and increase mental stamina. The key ingredient theacrine, which is a naturally-occurring compound found in plants, has been shown to improve energy levels, motivation and concentration, the company notes. It also contains N-acetyl cysteine (NAC), which research suggests possesses promise as a supplement for cognitive function. However, clinical trials studying the effects of these two particular ingredients are inconclusive, and more research is needed.

That said, a large body of research supports the combination of caffeine and L-theanine (also contained in the Energy blend) for increased energy and attention, says Umo Callins, a board-certified sports dietitian and fitness coach at Well Rooted Health and Nutrition in Oklahoma City.

Active ingredients of the Energy blend include:

Citicoline: 300 milligrams
Mango leaf extract: 300 milligrams
Indian trumpet leaf extract: 100 milligrams
Theacrine: 100 milligrams
N-acetyl L-tyrosine: 300 milligrams
N-acetyl cysteine: 500 milligrams
Caffeine: 100 milligrams
L-theanine: 200 milligrams

This four-capsule blend is designed to spark imagination, maintain confidence and support verbal fluency, according to the company. The focus ingredient, ashwagandha, has been shown to reduce stress and anxiety in clinical trials. The blend also contains L-theanine, which may have relaxing effects, acting as a buffer for stress and anxiety.

Active ingredients of Creativity include:

Ashwagandha root: 300 milligrams
Panax ginseng: 200 milligrams
Sceletium tortuosum: 25 milligrams
Agmatine sulfate: 250 milligrams
Alpha GPC: 150 milligrams

This blend, containing three capsules, is designed to help maintain willpower, prevent procrastination and manage stress, notes the company. The featured ingredient, CDT (Dynamine)—which is a patented, standardized form of methylliberine, a compound found in plants—may assist with cognitive control and improve reaction time during mentally challenging tasks, the company claims, but supporting research is limited.

Because the blend also contains caffeine and L-theanine, Callins says it will likely help with productivity, especially in a stressed or anxious state.

Active ingredients of Motivation include:

Artichoke extract: 450 milligrams
Vitamin B12 : 1,000 micrograms
L-phenylalanine: 500 milligrams
CDT (Dynamine): 100 milligrams
Forskolin: 250 milligrams

Thesis claims that this three-capsule blend is designed to maintain focus, support attention and help individuals enter a flow state. According to the company, the featured ingredient, alpha-GPC, a compound found in the brain and in trace amounts in food sources like egg yolks and organ meats, supports healthy cognitive function and physical performance, but supporting research is limited. The blend also contains caffeine and L-theanine, which can help boost focus and attention, says Callins.

Active ingredients of Clarity include:

Alpha-GPC: 500 milligrams
Lion’s mane mushroom: 500 milligrams
Camellia sinensis tea leaf: 278 milligrams
Dihydroxyflavone: 30 milligrams

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Boost your brainpower and seize every moment with Alpha BRAIN your key to enhanced cognitive performance and focus.

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The customized blends I received from Thesis were Energy, Clarity, Creativity and Motivation. For each blend, I followed the instructions as indicated, taking the supplements in the morning on an empty stomach (with a glass of water). I took each blend for six consecutive days, followed by a one-day break.

I didn’t notice much of a difference from my baseline mood or energy from the Creativity blend, and the Motivation blend gave me heartburn, so I stopped using it after a few days. According to Thesis, experiencing negative side effects is a sign the specific blend is not a fit, and you should move on to the next one. When I took the Energy blend before my morning workout, I experienced a mild boost to my mental and physical stamina.

Hands down, my favorite blend was Clarity. I was amazed by how big of an impact this nootropic blend had on my focus, attention and productivity. As someone with inattentive ADHD (a type of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder that manifests as distractibility and forgetfulness), tasks requiring sustained attention can be challenging. Clarity’s effects were noticeable immediately (within 30 minutes), and I had an incredible level of focus that lasted. I don’t take ADHD medication because it interferes with my sleep, so this was an exciting find.

I was pleasantly surprised by the effectiveness of Thesis nootropics. For me, Clarity was the most effective blend, but I enjoyed experimenting with different formulas. While it’s pricey, I’ll definitely use Thesis again, thanks to the huge improvement in focus and attention I experienced.

Nootropics, also referred to as cognitive enhancers or “smart drugs,” are natural or pharmaceutical substances used to boost brain activity and cognitive function, explains Callins. Potential benefits include improved memory, focus, thinking, learning and mood management, she says.

Although many nootropics are generally considered safe, Callins says consuming more than the recommended dose can result in mild side effects like dizziness, nausea and headaches. And while some of the ingredients in Thesis products may have cognitive benefits supported by research, she points out that more data on their long-term effects and safety is needed.

The bottom line? “Always consult with your doctor or primary health care practitioner before taking any supplement,” advises Callins, adding that some nootropics are contraindicated with certain medical conditions and medications.

Kuhman DJ, Joyner KJ, Bloomer RJ. Cognitive Performance and Mood Following Ingestion of a Theacrine-Containing Dietary Supplement, Caffeine, or Placebo by Young Men and Women. Nutrients. 2015;7(11):9618-32.
Skvarc DR, Dean OM, et al. The effect of N-acetylcysteine (NAC) on human cognition - A systematic review. Neurosci Biobehav Rev. 2017;78:44-56.
Anas Sohail A, Ortiz F, et al. The Cognitive-Enhancing Outcomes of Caffeine and L-theanine: A Systematic Review. Cureus. 2021;13(12):e20828.
Ashwagandha: Is it helpful for stress, anxiety, or sleep?. National Institutes of Health. Accessed 2/28/23.
Wang L, Brennan M. How does the tea L-theanine buffer stress and anxiety. ? Food Science and Human Wellness. 2022;11(3):467-475.
La Monica MB, Raub B, et al. Methylliberine Ingestion Improves Various Indices of Affect but Not Cognitive Function in Healthy Men and Women. Nutrients. 2023;15(21):4509.
Parker AG, Byars A, et al. The effects of alpha-glycerylphosphorylcholine, caffeine or placebo on markers of mood, cognitive function, power, speed, and agility. J Int Soc Sports Nutr. 2015;12(Suppl 1):P41.
Tamura Y, Takata K, et al. Alpha-Glycerylphosphorylcholine Increases Motivation in Healthy Volunteers: A Single-Blind, Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Human Study. Nutrients. 2021;13(6):2091.
Malík M, Tlustoš P. Nootropics as Cognitive Enhancers: Types, Dosage and Side Effects of Smart Drugs. Nutrients. 2022;14(16):3367.
Epstein JN, Loren RE. Changes in the Definition of ADHD in DSM-5: Subtle but Important. Neuropsychiatry (London). 2013;3(5):455-458.
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What Is Thesis?

How does it work, thesis nootropics benefits, thesis blend breakdown, thesis energy benefits, clarity benefits, motivation benefits, logic benefits, creativity benefits, side effects, who should take it, who shouldn't take it, where can you buy it, other user reviews, how does thesis compare to other supplements, our verdict on thesis nootropics.

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ThesIs Nootropics Review

Thesis Nootropics Review (2024) Is It Worth The Hype?

As a fitness coach, I've seen the impact of high-quality nootropic supplements on motivation and concentration during workouts.

Teaming up with my dietitian and 12 clients, we documented the significant cognitive benefits and general effects of Thesis over a period of four weeks.

Does it genuinely fulfill its promise of enhancing your mental performance and focus?

Before trying out the supplement, keep reading and find out if it's right for your mental wellness needs.

Close up shot of thesis nootropics products

Thesis is a stack of supplements that aims to improve cognitive function, mental stamina, mood, and overall mental energy levels.

Thesis nootropics' energy formula claims to boost energy levels while catering to individuals following a certified gluten-free diet, promoting positive habits and supporting nerve health.

What's particularly interesting about purchasing this stack is the Thesis algorithm.

It’s a set of questions that assess your personal needs to create a bespoke starter kit.

Key Ingredients:

Choline: According to PubMed, this mineral may boost memory function and verbal fluency [ 1 ].
L-Theanine: A controlled trial posted in Nutritional Neurosciences suggests that this amino acid can work well with caffeine to increase alertness without causing jitters [ 2 ].
Caffeine: This stimulant can boost alertness, but you can get this from a morning coffee, so I’m not overly impressed that it’s added here [ 3 ].

Thesis Clarity is another product that aims to improve neural communication and allow you to think more clearly and effectively.

Thesis Nootropics' clarity formula provides an extra boost of cognitive performance, targeting stress response reduction and improving sleep quality, all while delivering a healthy dose for enhanced mental clarity and improved ability.

We did note in our testing review that there seems to be an improvement in mental function for several hours after taking it.

But this also seemed to happen more with those testers who took the clarity and energy formula.

7,8-DHF: Studies have shown that Dihydroxyflavone can cross the blood-brain barrier and act as a neuroprotective ingredient [ 4 ].
Alpha GPC: This is an ingredient that has been shown to protect against neurological decline [ 5 ].
Lion’s Mane: This mushroom is common in nootropics and has been shown to improve mental performance and creativity [ 6 ].

A large part of improving mental health comes down to how focused and motivated you are with daily tasks. Our clients who tested the Thesis Motivation noted that it seemed to help them remain more motivated during workouts.

But this doesn’t seem to happen if you take it in the morning and go to the gym later in the day. So you’d need to get your timing right.

L-Phenylalanine: Research has shown that this ingredient can help with signs of depression and improve overall mood [ 7 ].
Dynamine: Also known as Methylliberine, studies have highlighted that it can impact your mental well-being when combined with caffeine [ 8 ].
Forskolin: The interesting thing about this herbal ingredient is that it can improve blood flow to the brain for better focus and motivation [ 9 ].

For this product, we looked at what our clients noted in their journals when they were at work or studying. While they did find a boost in focus, none of them noted that it helped improve verbal fluency or problem-solving skills.

Ginkgo Biloba: This is a common ingredient in traditional medicine, but modern clinical trials have shown that it can help brain health through improved blood flow and anti-inflammatory properties [ 10 ].
Ashwagandha: This herb can have a direct impact on stress and memory, allowing you to think clearly and effectively [ 11 ].
Saffron: It’s the most expensive herb in the world, and studies have linked it to improved stress, mood, and cognitive capacity [ 12 ].

A few of our clients tried the creativity blends, but this is one of the products where most of them didn’t report any significant improvements.

Combinations with other products above did positively impact mood and stress, but we couldn’t find any comments where our clients highlighted that they felt more creative in their work or any other creatively demanding context.

Agmatine: This amino acid doesn’t just boost cognitive performance but may also help to protect brain cells against oxidative stress [ 13 ].
Zembrin: Research has shown that this herb can impact both stress and anxiety, but there’s no specific evidence that it can help with creativity [ 14 ].
Ginseng: This is a common ingredient in diet supplements as it can improve blood sugar levels, but that wouldn’t directly influence creativity [ 15 ].

We also asked all of our clients to provide any feedback they had on side effects related to the nootropic blends.

Overall, the majority of people found that it didn't cause any major issues.

We only noted that one person had a bit of a rash, which could have been a result of an allergic reaction to one of the ingredients.

We also found that it’s best not to take these capsules on an empty stomach. Ideally, take them within 20 minutes of eating a meal to avoid stomach upset.

Based on my personal experience, people who want to achieve a moderate boost in brain function may want to take nootropic supplements.

You would need to experiment with the timing as these capsules don’t provide effects for the entire day. But after about a week, you should be in a position to spread out the capsules for maximum effect.

You can also contact a coach directly for advice on timing. It's especially important when you have no prior experience in taking these supplements. However, a good starting point is to take the minimum and adjust from there.

A doctor checking up on a patient in a clinic

Based on our own experience, people with high blood pressure or neurological diseases shouldn’t take Thesis natural nootropics to enhance cognitive function.

In such cases, it’s best to have a doctor review your detailed medical history and the nootropic ingredients for any potential side effects.

Our testing team didn’t note any improvements whatsoever, and when we specifically asked them after the trial, none of them said they saw a noticeable difference.

You can buy Thesis Nootropics directly from the company website.

We generally recommend avoiding third-party retailers to ensure that you always get the real product, so this is a positive highlight.

We placed two orders, and the package arrived within four days, which is about average for nootropic supplement companies.

One thing to point out on the Thesis supplements shipping policy is that currently, the company doesn’t offer international shipping.

A person looking at papers inside a kitchen

We also had a look for other nootropic reviews online to see what users were saying.

“It gave me more energy. I have struggled with low energy and I felt like my old self again. I could get up & get things done.” - Laurie C., taketheseis.com

“After 1 month of using Energy, Creativity, Clarity and Logic pack, I do not note any difference in mindset. I opted for the non-caffeinated blends as I am not a big caffeine person to begin with so a caffeinated blend might show some improvement.” - Beefnug, Reddit

“I have been continuously nauseated every day using thesis packets. I have given it a week and a half and cannot handle the negative side effects. Disappointed.” - AdGroundbreaking5162, Reddit

Our Thesis scientific research suggests that it doesn’t compare well to our testing of three other products for improving cognitive function.

First of all, we looked at the results we have for Mind Lab Pro .

The one thing that stands out the most is that it seems to be effective for many more hours than Thesis, so the timing doesn’t become an issue.

The second one we compared is Onnit Alpha Brain . This nootropic supplement seems to provide a lot more focus and motivation, especially while you’re at the gym.

Compared to Gorilla Mind Smooth , Thesis doesn’t have the same effect on boosting energy and reducing stress.

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Is It Safe To Take Thesis Nootropics Every Day?

Yes, it is safe to take Thesis Nootropics every day. We found Thesis to be generally easy to process, but you need to look out for allergies to any of the ingredients. A good way to do this is to ask your physician for advice since they will know whether these ingredients are good for your health.

Does Thesis Nootropics Contain Banned Ingredients?

No, Thesis Nootropics doesn’t contain any banned ingredients. All of the ingredients are based on minerals, amino acids, and herbs that won’t cause a positive drug test result.

Based on our feedback from a nutritionist and the test results with 12 clients, we don't recommend Thesis.

Not only do its effects wear off after a few hours, which makes timing your intake a problem, but it also burns a hole in your pocket for just a stack of three or four products.

Instead, I highly recommend one of the best nootropic brands we have tested so far: Mind Lab Pro .

Our results show that its effects last for most of the day and provide great clarity, energy, focus, and concentration, making it a favorite among clients of all age groups.

We Recommend This Instead

Mind Lab Pro

Great combination of herbs and amino acids that work as a cognitive enhancer
Added B vitamins to support red blood cell production and boosted energy levels
Great feedback from users that it can help with relieving anxiety
Get the BEST PRICE until the end of September
The capsules are not the smallest ones to swallow

About The Author

James Cunningham is an author and dietary supplement connoisseur with a solid academic foundation, holding a BSc in Sport & Exercise Science from the University of Hertfordshire. Specializing in Performance Psychology, his expertise is backed by both rigorous study and practical experience.

As an author, James is committed to guiding his readers towards optimal health and performance, providing actionable insights and strategies through his writings.

Thesis Nootropics Review

Thesis has a range of targeted nootropics you can combine to optimize your results. our team will help you decide which ones are right for you..

Daniel is a senior editor and writer at Innerbody Research. After receiving his bachelor’s degree in writing, he attended post-graduate studies at George Mason University and pursued a career in nutritional science.

Dr. Segar is a cardiologist at the Texas Heart Institute and a member of Innerbody Research's Medical Review Board.

In this Review

Nootropics in general offer the potential to improve cognitive abilities and regulate mood without the need for a prescription. And while more research is necessary, current data suggests that they consist of ingredients that are generally safe and effective for healthy adults. 35 However, Thesis isn’t the only provider of high-quality nootropics, nor do they offer especially low prices. In this review, we'll compare and contrast Thesis’ six formulas and see how they stack up against a growing field of competitors.

Our Findings

You can feel most results within an hour
Products are third-party-tested for purity
All options available without stimulants
Outstanding phone support
Subscriptions include complimentary wellness coaching
Free shipping on all orders
Use code INNERBODY for 10% off your first order
Somewhat more expensive than competitors
Up to four large pills per dose

Despite the somewhat high price, we recommend Thesis to anyone looking for a nootropic subscription that can be tailored to their specific needs. The formulas from Thesis provide tangible benefits with minimal ingredients, and each formula is available with or without caffeine. Thesis also offers stellar customer service and delivers their product in individually packed doses you can take just about anywhere.

Special Offer: Take 10% OFF with code INNERBODY

Why you should trust us

Over the past two decades, Innerbody Research has helped tens of millions of readers make more informed decisions about staying healthy and living healthier lifestyles. As nootropics have become more important players in the supplements landscape, we’ve taken a serious look at the key players to see which ones are worthwhile.

Thesis exists in a class of nootropics that combines multiple nootropic ingredients to achieve specific goals. We’ve spent hundreds of hours researching and testing various nootropics, including both individual ingredients and combinations like Thesis offers. In researching Thesis and their competitors, our team has read more than 100 clinical studies examining the efficacy and safety of nootropic ingredients, and we’ve combined all of that knowledge with our experiences to create this review.

If you're curious about our team's experience using Thesis nootropics and wondering how the products will arrive at your door, we made this handy, 5-minute video summarizing those details:

Additionally, like all health-related content on this website, this review was thoroughly vetted by one or more members of our Medical Review Board for accuracy.

How we evaluated Thesis

To evaluate Thesis, we examined the extensive research available on each ingredient the company uses and compared them to a growing marketplace of nootropics, many of which our testing team has tried over the past few years. Specifically, we assessed how effectively Thesis' formulas work, as well as their safety, cost, and the convenience of acquiring and taking them.

Ultimately, we found Thesis to be one of the more reliable companies in terms of product quality and customer care, even if they are among the more expensive nootropic brands. For any nootropic, you’re looking to create a noticeable effect in brain performance, and altering anything to do with that sensitive chemistry likely warrants a fair investment. The bargain bin is not typically where you want to shop for mind-enhancing substances.

We’ll get into a more direct comparison between Thesis and their competitors a little later, and you’ll see that the balance between their price and overall value is quite reasonable. For now, let’s look at each criterion in more detail.

Effectiveness

Nootropic companies have a plethora of ingredients at their fingertips when they formulate their products. Some companies take a modern approach, focusing on the latest research into established Western medicines. Others look to the past, where ancient Chinese and Ayurvedic practices employed various botanicals to achieve cognitive effects. The best companies combine these approaches, using potentially beneficial ingredients that science supports.

Thesis takes this combined approach, employing just under three dozen ingredients from amino acids to ancient herbs across their six products. The company scores highly in effectiveness thanks to the ingredients they choose and the doses they offer for each, making it likely that you can notice their combined effects.

Individual results will vary due to everything from sleep patterns to diet, but most people should find benefits in at least one of Thesis' six formulas. Caffeinated formulas generally have more pronounced effects than stimulant-free versions, but the value of Thesis offering every formula with or without stimulants cannot be overstated.

One minor knock against Thesis is that, unlike some of their competitors, Thesis does not have a nootropic blend designed for improved sleep. Better sleep supports cognition and mood, so some companies offer formulas designed specifically for sleep promotion with ingredients like melatonin. That said, some of Thesis’ formulas contain lion’s mane or Zembrin (a branded form of Sceletium tortuosum that’s been shown to reduce anxiety and promote sleep). 2 3 And the amount of Zembrin used in Thesis’ Creativity and Confidence blends is the exact same amount used in these successful studies — 25mg.

Good nootropics are, unfortunately, a bit expensive. You can find less expensive options than Thesis, but their $79 monthly rate is right in the middle of what the market demands. You could also argue that the ingredient quality, customization options, and overall efficacy Thesis offers make it a superior value to many less expensive alternatives. Still, the price remains a sticking point for some.

Let's compare the monthly and per-dose costs with some of Thesis' closest competition. The prices below reflect subscription savings where available.

Monthly cost	Servings per month	Cost per dose	Shipping
$79	24	$3.29	Free
$139	15	$9.27	Free
$90	30	$3.00	$8.95
$119	30	$3.97	Free
$22.49	30	$0.75	$6.95
$69	30	$2.30	$9.95
$76.46	30	$2.55	Free
$65	30	$2.17	Free

Three of the seven competitors included in the chart above are more expensive than Thesis, and another three are no more than $15 less expensive, revealing their generally average cost. Focus Factor — consistently our top budget pick among nootropics — costs much less than others in the field and includes many ingredients with associated clinical research. The downside is that increasing the number of ingredients (even when they seem to work) increases the odds of an adverse reaction.

TruBrain is the only company that truly compares to Thesis from a quality and variety standpoint. Other companies offer only one or two formulas, whereas Thesis and TruBrain each offer several more targeted products. TruBrain allows you to spend just $69 on your first jar when you subscribe — $10 less than Thesis — but that price shoots up to $119 every month after that, making Thesis the superior value.

When we consider the safety of any supplement, we look at available research into individual ingredients and compare those dosages with what the supplement offers. Whenever possible, we also test the product ourselves to observe its effects on us. Additionally, we look for safety standards in manufacturing that can provide added peace of mind, like third-party testing and compliance with the FDA’s Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP).

Thesis manufactures their products in GMP-compliant facilities and has third-party testing performed to assess the purity of each ingredient and formula. And the clinical research involving the lion's share of their ingredients reveals minimal risk profiles with few to no adverse effects reported. That said, ashwagandha isn’t safe for pregnant or breastfeeding individuals, and it can stimulate thyroid activity, so anyone with thyroid concerns (hyper- or hypothyroidism) or on medication to regulate thyroid function should be careful. 36 37

Thesis also limits their formulas to a handful of ingredients, which reduces the likelihood that any one of them would cause an adverse reaction. This is pretty typical of nootropics in Thesis’ class, but less expensive nootropics might try to convince you of their value by stuffing a single blend with several dozen components. That might increase the chances you feel some positive effect, but the side effect risk goes up by the same token.

Convenience

Our convenience rating considers various aspects of a user's experience. It usually starts with the quality of a product's website design and whether or not its pages are easy to navigate. We also consider the presence of subscription systems that make reordering easier and money-back guarantees that protect your investment. A company's customer service is another vital aspect of convenience, especially if you need questions answered. The quality of an FAQ section, the availability of representatives via chat or phone call, and the responsiveness to email inquiries all play a part here.

Our convenience rating is also informed by the steps required to actually take the product. Nootropics often consist of large capsules, and doses can contain anywhere from 1-7 capsules, which is awful for anyone with difficulty taking pills. Smaller capsules, fewer capsules per dose, and simple dosing schedules are ideal. Thesis’ capsule count varies per formula, ranging from 2-4 mid-size capsules you can take 30 minutes before you might want or need their effects.

To summarize some important aspects of nootropic company convenience, let's look at which companies have large capsule counts, good money-back guarantees, and subscription systems.

	Capsules per dose	Money-back guarantee	Subscription option
	2-4	30 days
	7	100 days
	6	None
	3	None
	4	None
	2-4	30 days
	3	60 days
	2	60 days

Thesis also provides a service that few other companies offer: free consultations with in-house nootropic coaches. These experts can help you figure out the best time to take specific Thesis formulas and guide your experience so you can tell whether or not they're working for you. Follow-up consultations are also free as long as you subscribe to the product.

What are nootropics?

Nootropic is a term most people use to refer to any non-prescription supplement that can boost brainpower. 4 The technical definition is a little more nuanced — encompassing prescription medications like Ritalin and Adderall — but the supplement industry has largely co-opted it to categorize the new class of non-prescription products. The word loosely translates from its Greek origins to mean mind-changing, and the majority of ingredients in a given nootropic seek to alter the brain’s cognitive abilities, as well as its governance of mood and energy.

Most nootropic supplements contain botanical ingredients, vitamins, minerals, and amino acids that boast at least some clinical research connecting them with improvements in any of the following:

Compared to their prescription cousins, nootropic supplements aren't particularly strong. Still, limited clinical research indicates a tangible benefit to taking them.

What is Thesis?

Thesis is a supplement company with a focus on nootropics. Their founders each had experiences growing up with what would today be considered learning disabilities, and they credit nootropics for changing their lives. They make six distinct nootropic formulas, each with a specific ingredient profile.

Thesis differentiates themselves from their competitors in several critical ways:

They offer a starter kit containing a personalized combination of four blends.
You have the option to remove caffeine by request from any formula.
They provide some of the best phone support we've ever experienced.
Their targeted formulas conform to changing needs.

By providing you with a mix of formulas, Thesis gives you the ability to enhance the aspects of your cognitive and emotional life that need it the most on any given day. Maybe you know you have low energy levels on Mondays and Wednesdays, so you can take the Energy formula on those days. Maybe you want to devote your weekends to artistic pursuits. You can use the Creativity blend for that. Or you might find that one of their six blends works well for you in any situation. In that case, you can adjust your order to receive only that formula.

Thesis' customer service — particularly over the phone — is outstanding. While many customers might find chat support more convenient, our testers rarely waited more than a minute to speak to someone, and Thesis employs phone operators who are extraordinarily knowledgeable about the product and nootropics in general. Their email support is fine, and their chat support often redirects to an email inquiry. But that phone support is some of the best our testing team has experienced.

Is Thesis safe?

Most of the ingredients that Thesis uses in their nootropics exhibit minimal side effects in clinical research, so there’s a good chance that Thesis' various formulas will be safe for most people. But Thesis has nearly three dozen ingredients in their catalog, and not all of them will be safe for all users, including those who are pregnant or breastfeeding. Of course, the most important thing you can do is talk to your doctor before taking Thesis.

The most common side effects to watch out for when you start taking Thesis nootropics include:

Loss of appetite
Digestive issues

Thesis advises discontinuing their nootropics if you experience persistent headaches or an upset stomach.

Some Thesis products may present contraindications with certain prescription medicines. For example, ashwagandha has been shown to normalize thyroid hormone levels in people with hypothyroidism. 5 This has led some to believe that it could conversely cause thyrotoxicity in people with hyperthyroidism, though it’s worth noting that the study in question employed double the highest ashwagandha dose you’ll find in Thesis nootropics — the study used 600mg, and the ashwagandha dose in Thesis’ Creativity is 300mg.

Still, this should make abundantly clear the case for speaking with your doctor prior to taking Thesis. This is especially true considering the lack of research into the specific ingredient combinations you’ll find in Thesis products. There is also very little research looking into the risks of combining nootropic supplements with prescription stimulants such as Ritalin, Adderall, or Vyvanse.

Some side effects, such as jitteriness, can be attributed to the caffeine in Thesis formulas. The fact that you can elect to remove caffeine from any formula expands the company’s reach to anyone with caffeine sensitivities and those who really don’t want to give up their morning cup of coffee. If you want caffeine in your Thesis formula, we recommend trying it without having had any coffee first, so you can see how it affects you.

Insider Tip: If you’re not sure whether to get your formula with or without caffeine, we recommend getting it with caffeine. Thesis isolates the included caffeine in a single capsule separate from other ingredients. Caffeinated formulas cost the same as uncaffeinated ones, and you can always elect not to take the caffeine capsule (the smallest capsule in any formula, containing a white powder).

What are the ingredients in Thesis?

Thesis uses an impressive set of ingredients, many of which have been part of respectable clinical research. Not all of the effects they hope these ingredients provide have been proven with sufficient statistical significance or over multiple studies in different populations, but what we do know strongly suggests efficacy.

Here's a look at several Thesis ingredients that have encouraging research behind them:

Several studies on mice show that dihydrohonokiol-B (DHH-B) has potent anxiolytic effects. 6 That means it may be able to help combat anxiety. However, we can’t say this for sure since there haven’t been any studies conducted on humans yet, so any potential benefits are speculative at this time. 25 Converting the successful dose used in mice (1mg) to the equivalent human amount (4.86 mg) is about half the amount used in Thesis’ Confidence (10mg). 6

In numerous studies, ashwagandha has been shown to reduce stress and anxiety. 32 Thesis uses a branded KSM-66 ashwagandha, which has a high standardized count of withanolides — the component of ashwagandha responsible for its positive effects. 33 This ensures both efficacy and consistency from doses that align with those used in successful studies.

While every formula is different, you'll notice that each contains caffeine and L-theanine. The nootropic properties of caffeine are well established. 19 L-theanine — a non-stimulant derived from green tea — has been shown to smooth out the jittery effects of caffeine. You can easily have caffeine removed from any Thesis formula for no extra cost, which is unique in the nootropic market. The L-theanine will remain, as it has its own set of cognitive benefits in addition to its ability to tame caffeine. 20

Saffron offers multiple benefits, including increased levels of dopamine and glutamate, that are dose-dependent. Human studies have also shown positive effects on depression symptoms. Thesis’ Confidence uses 28mg, which is 2mg less than what was used in many of the studies on saffron’s antidepressant effects. However, one study did find success with as little as 15mg. 7

A review of more than 120 scientific articles looking into the cognitive effects of phosphatidylserine concluded that it “safely slows, halts, or reverses biochemical alterations and structural deterioration in nerve cells.” The study goes on to say that it “supports human cognitive functions, including the formation of short-term memory, the consolidation of long-term memory, the ability to create new memories, the ability to retrieve memories, the ability to learn and recall information, the ability to focus attention and concentrate, the ability to reason and solve problems, language skills, and the ability to communicate.” 34

Derived from a South African plant, Zembrin appears to provide cognitive and anti-anxiety effects as demonstrated in clinical studies on human participants that used the same 25mg dose found in Thesis Creativity and Confidence. 8

Synapsa is a patented form of Bacopa extract, a traditional Ayurvedic memory enhancer. Studies on humans resulted in statistically significant improvements in cognitive tests. The study used 150mg twice daily (300mg total), which is only 20mg less than the 320mg used in Thesis’ Logic. 9

7,8 DHF is a small molecular TrkB agonist that can easily cross the blood-brain barrier. It can increase brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), a protein that improves neuroplasticity, learning, and memory. BDNF deficiencies are connected to numerous cognitive ailments as well. However, no human studies have been conducted. 26 In mice, 7,8 DHF appears to enhance spatial memory. When converting the effective dose for mice to humans, Thesis’ Clarity offers roughly 6mg more (about 24mg compared to Thesis’ 30mg). 27

Choline is a precursor to acetylcholine, a powerful neurotransmitter in the peripheral, autonomic, and enteric nervous systems. 10 One study on older adult human participants found that taking 187-399mg per day of choline reduced the risk of low cognitive functioning by nearly 50% compared to an intake under 187mg per day. 28 The CDP choline content in Thesis’ Energy is 300mg.

A 2010 clinical study on 485 older adult (over 55 years old) subjects found that 900mg per day of DHA improved memory and learning in those with age-related cognitive decline. 11 And another study in healthy adults 18-90 years old found that 580mg per day helped improve memory. 29 Unfortunately, the amounts used in many studies to improve cognitive function are quite a bit more than the 200mg (which is DHA and L-lysine combined) found in Thesis’ Logic.

Like choline, Alpha-GPC acts as an effective acetylcholine precursor. Studies also show that supplementation with Alpha-GPC can stave off exercise-induced reductions in choline levels. The effective amount used in the mentioned study is 200mg, which is less than half of what you’ll find in Thesis’ Clarity (500mg). 12

In addition to being an effective treatment for neuropathic pain, agmatine appears to have potent effects as an antidepressant. A five-year safety case report study concluded that there are no long-term side effect risks. Thesis’ Creativity only contains 250mg, which is well below the amount tolerated by study participants (2.67g per day). 13

Research into epicatechin indicates that it can enhance cerebral blood flow, delivering more oxygen to the brain to ensure it operates at its highest efficiency. The most effective dose for cognitive benefits appears to be over 50mg per day, and Thesis’ Clarity contains 278mg. 14

Lion's mane has been shown to increase nerve growth factor and promote neurite outgrowth of specific neural cells. It's a safe and reliable neurotrophic, but studies have debunked claims of neuroprotective properties. 15 A very small study of only 41 participants found that 1.8g of Lion’s mane may reduce stress and improve cognitive performance. 30 Thesis’ Clarity contains 500mg of Lion’s mane.

Hyperphenylalaninemia, a severe deficiency in phenylalanine, results in reduced dopamine, serotonin, and noradrenaline levels in the brain. 16 It can also alter cerebral myelin and protein synthesis. Supplementing with phenylalanine may provide neuroprotective benefits.

In a 2020 study, phenylalanine was a large component in a mix of seven amino acids that appeared to improve cognitive, psychological, and social functioning in middle-aged and older adults. Effective doses ranged from 0.85g to 1.7g of phenylalanine. A serving of Thesis’ Motivation contains 500mg, a bit under half of the average amount. 31

Examining the six formulas

Thesis has six nootropic formulas in their lineup (even though you can only choose up to four of them per box). Several other nootropic companies like TruBrain and BrainMD boast targeted lineups, as well, but Thesis is the Goldilocks of the bunch. Where BrainMD’s hyper-specific formulas rely on perhaps too few ingredients to make them worthwhile, many of TruBrain’s complex blends lack real specificity. With Thesis, you get targeted effects from numerous ingredients in moderately complex and reasonably priced combinations.

Each Thesis formula has a blend of ingredients that addresses specific needs. Their names give you a pretty big clue as to what the company intends each to do, but a closer look at their ingredients will help you understand how they achieve this.

Their formulas are:

Interestingly, the company thinks of its formulas as working well in pairs. You don't have to utilize them as such, but it's helpful to know how they view their most effective combinations. The following list details their purported combined benefits.

Enhances focus, eliminates brain fog, and lets thoughts flow naturally

Gets you going, keeps you going, and never crashes

Sparks new ideas, inspires extroversion, and revels in openness

You'll usually only take one formula at a time, but these pairs may act synergistically for specific personality types or cognitive needs.

Note that your first shipment of Thesis will contain six individually packed doses for four of these six formulas. Thesis chooses these formulas for you based on the results of an intake questionnaire, but you can make adjustments to that shipment on the customer dashboard before the shipment leaves their warehouse.

Let's take a closer look at each formula as they would appear with caffeine included.

Thesis Clarity

Thesis Clarity relies on 7,8 DHF (dihydroxyflavone), Alpha GPC (glycerylphosphorylcholine), epicatechin, and lion's mane to increase blood flow to the brain and stimulate the production of acetylcholine, a powerful neurotransmitter associated with learning, memory, and attention. It's particularly adept at cutting through brain fog.

Here's a look at Clarity's full ingredients list:

Alpha GPC: 500mg
Lion's Mane Mushroom: 500mg
Camellia sinensis tea leaf: 278mg
Dihydroxyflavone: 30mg
Caffeine: 100mg
L-Theanine: 200mg

One dose of Clarity consists of four capsules for the caffeinated formula and three capsules for the stimulant-free formula.

Thesis Logic

Thesis Logic contains triacetyluridine (TAU), which caters to the health of the entire central nervous system. It also uses phosphatidylserine to help facilitate communication between and protection of brain cells. 17

This is Logic’s complete ingredients list:

Ginkgo Biloba: 160mg
Theobromine: 100mg
Phosphatidylserine: 400mg
High DHA Algae: 200mg
Triacetyluridine: 30mg
Bacopa Monnieri: 320mg

One dose of Logic consists of four capsules for the caffeinated formula and three capsules for the stimulant-free formula.

Thesis Energy

Thesis Energy uses cysteine and tyrosine alongside caffeine to deliver a steady energy supply. It also includes TeaCrine, a branded form of theacrine, which partners with caffeine to affect adenosine signaling and prevent fatigue.

Here’s a full list of Energy’s ingredients:

Citicoline: 300mg
Mango leaf: 300mg
Theacrine: 100mg
N-Acetyl cysteine: 500mg
Indian trumpet tree: 100mg
N-Acetyl L-tyrosine: 300mg

One dose of Energy consists of three capsules for the caffeinated formula and two capsules for the stimulant-free formula.

Thesis Motivation

Blood flow and cellular function are at the core of Thesis Motivation . It employs artichoke extract, forskolin, and B12 to achieve these goals, with a healthy dose of phenylalanine for added focus and motivation.

Here's Motivation's full ingredients list:

L-Phenylalanine: 500mg
Methylliberine: 100mg
Vitamin B12: 1000mcg
Forskolin: 250mg
Artichoke: 450mg

One dose of Motivation consists of three capsules for the caffeinated formula and two capsules for the stimulant-free formula.

Thesis Creativity

Thesis Creativity aims to realign you with your inspiration by removing barriers caused by stress, anxiety, and depression. It contains ingredients with powerful anxiolytic properties and 5-HT reuptake inhibition.

Here's a look at Creativity’s ingredients list:

Alpha GPC: 150mg
Agmatine sulfate: 250mg
Panax ginseng: 200mg
Ashwagandha root: 300mg
Sceletium tortuosum : 25mg

One dose of Creativity consists of three capsules for the caffeinated formula and two capsules for the stimulant-free formula.

Thesis Confidence

Confidence is designed to work hand-in-hand with Creativity, using saffron and DHH-B from magnolia bark to increase dopamine levels and decrease anxiety. One fascinating ingredient in this formula is sage extract, which one 2021 study showed can help with various memory tasks, including name and face recognition. 18 It’s worth noting, though, that this study employed a 600mg dose compared to Thesis’ 333mg dose.

Here is Confidence's complete ingredients list:

Saffron: 28mg
Magnesium bisglycinate: 500mg
Sage: 333mg
Magnolia Bark: 10mg
Ashwagandha leaf & root: 120mg

One dose of Confidence consists of three capsules for the caffeinated formula and two capsules for the stimulant-free formula.

Our Thesis testing results

Our testing team has tried every Thesis formula (with and without caffeine) to determine their short- and long-term efficacy, at least at an anecdotal level. Here’s a quick summary of our experiences:

Clarity provided our testers with a combined sense of focus and mental ease, though we mostly found that it worked best from its second day forward. The very first dose is mildly effective, but it served us better as a loading dose. We had no crash from either caffeinated or uncaffeinated formulas.

Our testers found that Logic provided a similar experience as Clarity, increasing focus and mental acuity, but the caffeinated formula caused a crash in two of our testers. By excluding the caffeine, that crash can be avoided, though that comes at the expense of some efficacy.

We were very curious about how this formula would perform without the caffeine. Our testers had a noticeable increase in energy without jitteriness about one hour after taking Energy. The caffeinated version caused the worst crash of all the formulas, but we were pleased to find that the formula without caffeine still provided noticeable energy increases without a crash.

Our testers are generally a pretty motivated bunch, so we might not have been the best group to evaluate this particular formula. The testers who felt an uptick in a sense of motivation described it more like a feeling of being able to follow through on tasks with less distraction and completion anxiety.

Creativity, like Clarity, seemed to work better for our testers on its second and third days than on its first. Testers generally described a sensation similar to Motivation but without the feeling of being “on rails,” as one tester put it. It seems to allow for more curiosity and exploration, though not necessarily as much follow-through.

This is Thesis’ newest formula, so fewer of our testers have tried it. Among those who have, one tester with a mild case of social anxiety described feeling a bit more relaxed among groups of people. Testers preferred this formula without caffeine.

Thesis pricing, shipping, and returns

Thesis keeps their price structure decidedly simple. This is refreshing, considering the range of nootropics they offer. You don't have to worry about one formula costing you more than another. However, Thesis doesn't make a non-subscription approach economically feasible.

Every Thesis shipment — including the starter pack — consists of four small boxes, each containing six doses of a single formula. That’s 24 doses/month.

Here's how it works:

Any one-time purchase of a one-month supply, including the starter kit, costs $119.
When you subscribe, that monthly cost is only $79.
You can take an extra 10% off your first order with the coupon code INNERBODY

Subscriptions require an account with Thesis, which gives you access to a well-designed customer dashboard. This is where you can easily make formula adjustments, alter your shipping schedule, or cancel your subscription entirely.

Shipping from Thesis is free in the U.S., and the company offers a 30-day money-back guarantee. In our testing experience, we attempted a return on a second shipment into the subscription. While it isn’t the company’s policy to do so, they refunded our money and let us keep the product. This is similar to some other “Keep it” guarantees we’ve seen from competitors, and we appreciated it.

Getting started with Thesis Nootropics

Thesis' website is easy to navigate, but it is inconvenient that you must complete the signup questionnaire before accessing formula-specific pages. There are ways around this — like direct searching or just knowing the formula URLs — but we think reviewing formulas should be a little easier when you first get to the site. And you won’t be able to place an order for anything until you complete the questionnaire.

The user interface for managing your subscription is exceptionally intuitive. You can quickly adjust your formula combinations, specifying whether or not you want specific formulas to contain caffeine.

Setting up a subscription with Thesis is a straightforward process. Here are the basic steps:

Take the Thesis quiz . This will create a starter kit specific to your results. (You can also build a box from scratch if you know which formulas you want to try.)
Order your starter kit. We recommend going with the kit Thesis creates after your quiz, but if you change your mind, you can use the customer portal after placing your order to make any changes to the formula combination before it ships.
Set up a coaching consultation. This is an optional step, but we recommend it and encourage you to have your first consultation before your kit arrives.
Take your nootropics as needed. Most people can experience some of Thesis nootropics' benefits within a few hours of ingestion. Some ingredients and formulas may take a few days to produce results.
Refine your order. As you near the end of your first month, you can head over to the Thesis website and customize your next order to include the formula or formulas you like most.
Set up follow-up consultations as needed. These will help you refine your future orders and maximize your results.

When you subscribe to the starter kit, you will continue receiving that kit every month until you customize your order. Thesis divides their boxes into four six-dose supplies, and you can mix and match those supplies to suit your needs. For example, you could boost energy on the weekdays and creativity on the weekends by getting a one-month supply with 18 servings of Energy in three packages and six servings of Creativity in a single package.

Personalized insights and coaching

When you take the quiz on the Thesis website, you'll get personalized insights comparing your results to other quiz-takers and a data set developed from nearly 500 scientific studies. The parameters in your results cover don’t completely line up with their formulas, but they include:

These results inform the system to make recommendations for your starter kit. After you order, you can set up a consultation with a Thesis coach. These consultations are free, and you can have as many follow-up sessions as you like. Other companies have apps or online resources like blogs or courses to help you on your nootropic journey, but Thesis’ personalized coaching offers a unique approach and execution.

Consultation calls last around 15 minutes, though some of our testers had their sessions go longer as their coaches' schedules allowed. We received best practices information about taking nootropics that covered dose timing, formula application, and more. Some of our testers also received diet and exercise advice that coincided with their formulas.

Alternatives to Thesis

There are generally two tiers of products in the nootropics landscape. The lower tier consists of products that cost between $20 and $40. Many of these nootropics contain proprietary blends that obscure the exact quantities of ingredients, presumably so companies can use more of the least expensive components. Some companies in this tier disclose their ingredient quantities but may not source them from the highest quality suppliers or perform third-party testing of any kind.

Top brands in this tier include:

Onnit Alpha BRAIN
Moon Juice Brain Dust
Focus Factor

The second tier — where you'll find Thesis — consists of more expensive nootropics that spell their contents out clearly, use high-quality ingredients, and often perform third-party testing to ensure safety and potency. Top brands in this tier include:

Qualia Mind

Hunter Focus

We have a comprehensive breakdown of our top nootropics , but here's a concise breakdown of Thesis' most comparable competition.

TruBrain offers one of the widest varieties of nootropics of any company — one of the few catalogs that rivals the variety Thesis offers. They also have some novel and beneficial delivery methods for their nootropic ingredients. Those include energy bars and liquid shots that are outstanding for anyone with difficulty swallowing pills.

TruBrain offers their nootropics in a targeted fashion, not unlike what you get from Thesis. They formerly offered their targeted blends in shot form only, but now you can get any of these targeted blends in capsule or liquid shot form. The shots come in small 1oz pouches that make them easy to take anywhere.

TruBrain's targeted blends include:

This is TruBrain's original blend. It contains seven nootropics, including Noopept, a branded form of N-phenylacetyl-L-prolylglycine ethyl ester. This blend is caffeine-free.

The Strong blend is identical to the Medium formulation in contents and doses, but it also contains 100mg of caffeine.

The Extra Strong formula builds on the Strong blend by adding 150mg of adrafinil (2-(diphenylmethyl)sulfinyl-N-hydroxyacetamide). 21 This wakefulness-promoting substance may also help with weight loss and athletic performance.

TruBrain's Sleep formula contains just four nootropic ingredients: GABA, melatonin, 5-HTP, and a blend that TruBrain calls "functional oils."

Mellow is identical to the medium strength formula, but it adds the functional oil combination used in Sleep.

This formula contains Lion's mane, a mushroom that may promote neural growth , though human studies are necessary to determine if this is true. 22 Its other nootropic ingredients are rhodiola, guayusa, and rosehips.

A 30-day supply of TruBrain nootropic shots costs $89. That's $10 more than the subscription cost for a one-month supply of Thesis. Some of their shots contain caffeine, and others don't. If it already contains caffeine, there's no way to alter a TruBrain formula to be stimulant-free.

The first month of TruBrain capsules costs a bit less, coming in at $69. After your first month, however, the price goes up to $119. That makes Thesis the better value, but if you want the best possible nootropics for sleep support, it might be worth the extra money to check out TruBrain.

Qualia Mind is a brand under the Neurohacker Collective, a company that offers several products to address things like sleep quality, skin health, and vision. They have three nootropics available:

Qualia Mind Caffeine-Free
Qualia Mind Focus

Their original blend is comprehensive, consisting of nearly 30 ingredients in high doses. That means it's liable to provide you with noticeable effects. It also means you might not know which of those effects are coming from which ingredients, and some of the less beneficial components in your body may also have side effects you'd rather avoid.

The caffeine-free version is identical to the original formula but leaves the caffeine out. Qualia Focus is a more streamlined offering with only seven nootropic ingredients, including caffeine, L-theanine, and L-ornithine. 23

Initial shipments from Qualia Mind are significantly discounted, but after the first month, the price makes theirs one of the most expensive nootropics we've tested. For example, the first month of a subscription to Qualia Mind costs just $39. After that, it costs $139/month. And a one-time purchase is $159.

One inconvenient aspect of Qualia Mind is that a single dose consists of seven capsules, which can get tiresome even for people who don't have trouble swallowing pills. On the bright side, Qualia's 100-day money-back guarantee allows you to try it for a little over three months to determine if you can handle that kind of daily dosing.

Hunter Focus is one of three supplements in the Hunter stack alongside the company's Test and Burn supplements. The stack is intended for male use — Test is a testosterone supplement — but Focus and Burn are suitable for men and women.

Like Qualia Mind, Focus has a long list of ingredients in generous doses. In fact, one serving of Hunter Focus is like taking all six of Thesis' formulas at once. That said, the serving itself is difficult to swallow, as it consists of six large pills.

Another knock on Hunter is that they don't offer a subscription system. That means you can't get an extra discount, and you must remember to reorder when you're running low (theoretically, a nootropic like this should boost your memory). There's also no money-back guarantee to speak of, only a return policy with a relatively short window that only applies to unopened products.

One bottle of Hunter Focus costs $90, and shipping is $8.95 unless you buy more than one bottle at a time. The company will throw a fourth in for free if you buy three bottles at once. That's the only way to get any savings through Hunter.

Individual nootropic components

Many companies offer combinations of nootropic ingredients to perform specific brain-related tasks or even provide globally positive cognitive benefits. However, the scientific research behind most of these ingredients almost always includes just one rather than a combination. Some people prefer to try one at a time to minimize the potential for side effects and determine if one particular ingredient works for them. A few companies offer single-ingredient nootropic supplements for this specific purpose.

Our favorite company dealing in individual nootropic components is Nootropics Depot. They offer a wide variety of single-ingredient supplements and a few targeted blends. The prices are generally fair, with an average range running from $16-$70. A 30-day money-back guarantee covers every purchase, and you get free shipping on orders over $50.

Nootropics FAQ

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Specific nootropics affect different parts of the brain in their own ways. Some — like caffeine — reduce fatigue by blocking adenosine receptors, while others act to protect neural connections that are already present while possibly contributing to new neural growth. 24 Some also mitigate depression and anxiety, which frees up the brain to perform at its best.

Are nootropics safe?

The safety of a nootropic depends on the specific ingredients involved. Many are perfectly safe in the doses commonly employed by nootropic companies, but some can cause reactions like increased heart rate, gastrointestinal discomfort, headache, and even tremors. The smartest thing to do is to talk to your doctor before introducing any new supplement to your regimen.

Do nootropics really work?

Many nootropic supplements are noticeably effective — caffeine is a great example. Efficacy varies depending on the specific component or combination. Fortunately, a lot of companies offer money-back guarantees, so you can try their products to see if they work for you without much financial risk.

Will nootropics make me smarter?

Nootropics won't necessarily make you smarter, but many can increase your alertness, improve short-term recall, and promote neural growth and protection. That creates a great environment for learning if you apply yourself while using nootropics, and many ingredients can help you with the motivation it takes to do so.

How do you pronounce nootropics?

The 'noo' in nootropics comes from the Greek nous , which philosophers use to mean mind or intelligence. The 'tropic' in nootropic comes from the Greek tropikos , which relates to turning or changing. So, nootropic roughly translates to mind-changing. You pronounce the 'noo' like 'new' and the 'tropic' with a long O sound, like 'toe pick.'

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Curious About Brain Optimization? Thesis Nootropics May Be Your In

Pills for creativity, energy, confidence, and more.

By Will Price and Rebekah Harding

Medically Reviewed by Sydney Greene, M.S., R.D.

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Our product picks are editor-tested, expert-approved. We may earn a commission through links on our site.

Ever feel like you have the ability but not the willpower or inspiration to excel at your job? Or maybe you’re stuck in a creative rut and are struggling to get yourself out. Thesis , a nootropics company, wants you to stop being so hard on yourself.

Nootropics are the buzzy brain-boosting substances of the moment, and Thesis attempts to match people to different nootropic blends designed for certain needs—creativity, confidence, energy, clarity, logic, and so on. But can you really summon the powers of creativity on demand from a pill? Myself, and fellow Edge writer Rebekah Harding, tried Thesis for three months to find out. Here’s what you need to know.

Why You Should Trust Us

Hone Health is a team of health-obsessed journalists, editors, fitness junkies, medical reviewers, and product testers. The two authors of this review, Rebekah Harding and Will Price, spent months taking Thesis’ nootropics blends and logging how we felt. We’ve reported on the ingredients Thesis incorporates in its nootropic blends extensively, such as ashwagandha , Alpha-GPC , Lion’s mane , and more.

For this review, we opted to review the product and service independently, as nootropics do not all affect people in the same way. Here’s what we found.

Thesis Nootropics

Personalized recommendations.

High quality ingredients, third-party tested

Excellent customer service

Not for everybody, what is thesis.

Thesis’s thesis (sorry, I had to) is that you are capable of more. But as co-founder and CEO Dan Freed says on the back of the box the pills come in, “…people thought I was lazy, stupid, or unmotivated. I knew there was more in me.” Freed and his brand propose that the solution to this conundrum many of us face may be nootropics, which are substances that aim to improve cognitive performance.

New users are funneled through a quiz that determines the best nootropic blends for them—each named for the feeling they’re meant to evoke, e.g. confidence, clarity, creativity. Boxes come with four blends, each of which should last one week, with auto-renewing deliveries shipping at $79 a month. (Note: you can buy Thesis for just one month, but it will cost $119).

You’re meant to take notes on how each blend makes you feel and, after you’ve completed your first box, adjust which blends you receive going forward.

What are nootropics?

Nootropics are medicinal substances (some pharmaceutical, some natural) that take aim at improving brain performance—memory, creativity, motivation, mood, as well as anxiety reduction and sleep improvement.

While most have heard of popular nootropics like caffeine , creatine , or nicotine , most over-the-counter nootropic supplements—like Thesis—are formulated largely with herbs, vitamins, minerals, and other natural compounds that are known to benefit the brain.

Thesis ingredients

Each Thesis blend contains different ingredients, many of which are supported by solid research. Here are a handful.

Lion’s mane: Mushrooms that contain hericenones and erinacines, which can stimulate nerve growth and may offer potential cognitive benefits ( 1 ). In addition to thinking capacity, these mushrooms may lower the risk of age-related brain diseases, like Alzheimer’s disease ( 2 ).

Alpha-GPC: May increase your levels of a neurotransmitter called acetylcholine, which facilitates memory and learning, and plays an important role in cognitive function ( 3 ).

L-Theanine: An amino acid that can positively affect mood. Studies have found L-theanine may be a beneficial nootropic for mood and mental health. It may also help ease anxiety and stress levels ( 4 ).

Ashwagandha: An ancient herb taken for thousands of years, ashwagandha is an adaptogen that has been found to reduce cortisol —stress—levels in humans, which can have a number of powerful knock-on effects on the brain ( 5 ).

DHA (Omega-3): This omega-3 fatty acid plays a role in supporting cognitive function and promoting growth and maintenance of brain cells . Research suggests that DHA may improve memory, learning, and overall cognitive performance ( 6 ).

Synapsa: This patented extract of Water Hyssop boasts nootropic benefits such as enhanced memory and cognitive function ( 7 ). Research shows that taking Synapsa regularly may improve your information processing speed, increase your attention span and enhance your memory ( 8 ).

Ginkgo Biloba: Ginkgo Biloba has antioxidant properties, which are associated with cerebral blood flow and neuroprotection ( 9 ). Studies suggest that this nootropic may boost memory, mental clarity, and overall cognitive function ( 10 ).

Theacrine: This natural plant compound acts as a mild stimulant, without the tolerance build-up and jitters associated with caffeine ( 11 ). Theacrine may boost energy, mental clarity, and focus.

What’s Good About Thesis Nootropics?

There are a lot of folks interested in nootropics. Google reports something like 100,000 monthly searches for the term each month. The issue many have is simple: nootropics aren’t easy.

It’s not easy to know what companies are selling legitimate products and which are pushing low-grade stuff. It’s not easy to get a handle on what the many, many different nootropics are meant to do. Sometimes it’s not easy to know if the good week you just had was thanks to a nootropic you just took, or the absence of some stressor you forgot about. Then there’s dosage, doctors, and the way in which these substances play off each other to worry about.

Getting your foot in the door with nootropics is a challenging task. Thesis’s approach is designed to simplify this, and it largely works.

The personalization is somewhat limited, in that the blends themselves cannot be changed, but the blends you receive can. Interested customers are prompted to complete a simple questionnaire that asks about physical traits as well as your goals in taking nootropics. You’re then given a “Starter Kit” that includes four different blends suited to what you’re after.

High-quality ingredients

The more you delve into nootropics, the more you realize there are, broadly, two classes of company: the legit class and the not-so-legit class. Thesis, by our account, is the former. The company’s products are products in FDA-approved cGMP facilities, which ensures the manufacturing of the product is sound. More importantly, though, and this will sound humorous if you’ve never shopped for nootropics, Thesis actually tells you what’s in its blends.

Thesis is not the only company selling nootropic blends as a shortcut for people not interested in doing months of research. There are a great many companies that don’t specify ingredients (“focus blend”) or, more commonly, aren’t clear on dosage of each individual nootropic.

Thesis’s nutrition label is crystal clear on what’s inside each serving of its nootropic blend.

When launching oneself into a health category one doesn’t know much about, having a friend can be helpful and reassuring. Thesis’s customer support service—available via email or phone—is the weird science friend you need.

I pestered them numerous times and each issue was responded to and resolved within 24 hours every time. The first time I called. Is there a way to remove the caffeine from the blends (there’s 100mg, or a cup of coffee’s worth in each pack)? You can request non-caffeinated blends on your next order, but for the time being simply don’t take the white pill in the daily dose packet. My email questions were answered with similar speed as well.

There’s also Thesis’s coaching feature, which is effectively customer service for questions about your specific blends, how the blends make you feel, and so on. When I called into it I mentioned that some of the blends made me slightly antsy, some made me feel great, and others seemed to have no effect at all. Not only is this common, it’s expected: these substances do not affect us all in the same way, so there is a necessary trial period to get through.

Having a source of reassurance when trying something new to improve our health makes the process more comfortable.

MENTAL WORKOUT

What’s Not Good About Thesis Nootropics?

As previously mentioned, not all blends will work for you. Several reviews online suggest there are people for which none of them will work. My fellow reviewer and I each found one or two blends that worked especially well, some blends that didn’t seem to have any effect at all, and others that caused some minor anxiety.

This is sort of the rub with nootropics. Different people will be hit different by different nootropics ; and even then there is the matter of dosage and duration, as most research suggests there is bedding-in period associated with nootropic effectiveness ( 12 ).

So is this a con for Thesis or for nootropic supplementation more generally? It’s a little of both, but more so a hurdle with the wider world of nootropics.

If you’re already waist deep in nootropics as a hobby or interest area, you can likely build your own nootropic stacks for cheaper than what Thesis offers.

Thesis costs $79 a month, or $3.29 per serving, once you’ve set up your account for automatic renewal. This is, unsurprisingly, on the middle-higher end of the nootropic blend market.

Budget brands like Focus Factor come in at less than a dollar per serving. Mind Lab Pro , a brand closer to Thesis’s efficacy and quality, goes for about $2.10 per serving. The popular NooCube blend is also about $2.15 per serving.

It should be said that I’m obviously comparing apples to oranges here. Each of these blends are made of up different stuff. Each of these companies is selling to a different customer. It could be argued that Thesis’s hyper responsive customer service and task-focused personalization model makes the $79 a month bill a fair deal. That said, the price doesn’t pull you in quite like the promise the rest of the product provides.

What It’s Like to Take Thesis Nootropics

Tester #1 info : Female, 23 years old Reason for taking : diagnosed ADHD, brain fog, difficulty concentrating, anxiety Blends taken : Confidence, Motivation, Energy, Clarity

When I was diagnosed with ADHD in 2016, everything clicked. I’ve struggled with brain fog, task paralysis, and extreme difficulty concentrating for as long as I can remember. But all I have to show for my diagnosis is a raging caffeine addiction, two failed tries at taking prescription stimulant medication, and an ever-changing-never-working supplement stack.

As a neurodivergent person, the idea of nootropics—supplements that may improve cognitive performance—is intriguing to me. The idea of spending hours researching different blends and stand alone supplements, however, is not. That’s where Thesis comes in.

To order your four-blend starter kit, Thesis kicks things off with a quick 25-question quiz. The questions were quick and multiple choice, and didn’t take more than a couple of minutes. (As a company that markets to ADHD-ers, I have to say they know their audience.) The quiz covers questions like how much sleep you clock in each night, your typical mood, and your procrastination habits—and a memory test at the end that I won’t spoil. At the end, you plug in an email and receive a customized recommendation based on your goals and struggles.

I’m ultra-productive, but I have extreme anxiety and frequent brain fog depending on the state of my hormones. Thesis recommended four blends—Confidence, Motivation, Energy, and Clarity—to boost my mental health, promote relaxation, and fight off brain fog.

I took each blend for six days each—as directed—with one day in between to reset.

Week one I opted for Confidence—a blend that includes saffron, ashwagandha, sage, and magnesium—which oddly produced the opposite of its intended effect. Two days in, I ditched the separate, white caffeine pill in the packet, but that only alleviated my anxiety slightly. Week two, I took Motivation—which contains artichoke extract, vitamin B12, methylliberine, and L-theanine. I enjoyed this blend the most, and felt like my mood and concentration got a decent boost. Weeks 3 and 4 I took Energy (mango leaf extract, theacrine, citicoline, and more) and Clarity (Lion’s Mane, L-theanine, and more) respectively. I noticed no changes these weeks.

Overall, I think Thesis is worth a shot for the nootropic-curious. Especially if you don’t have the time or patience to research these trendy supplements. However, I don’t think I’ll be stocking up on any of their blends any time soon.

BRAIN GAMES

Tester #2 info : Male, 30 years old Reason for taking : brain fog, unfocused, spark creativity Blends taken : Clarity, Logic, Creativity, Energy

I’ve not been evaluated for or diagnosed with any neurological or neurodevelopmental matters, but I have struggled to train my mind’s gaze on one thing for long periods of time for as long as I can remember. Call it brain fog or something else, it’s been a persistent issue of mine going back to my high school and college years, where I’d substitute just about any distraction available to me instead of something that would require real attention.

A Thesis ad on Instagram suggested this issue may not be my own failing (a source of great personal anxiety), but perhaps something that could be fixed with nootropics. I’m willing to believe most anything that suggests my failings are not my failings, so I ordered my personalized starter kit.

My kit came with the Clarity, Logic, Creativity, and Energy blends. I quickly eliminated Clarity and Logic from the rotation, and both seemed to trigger a mix of uncomfortable headaches and anxiety (a quick browse of the internet suggests this isn’t an uncommon reaction to these specific blends). Energy, while effective, wasn’t the most useful to me, someone who doesn’t struggle as much with alertness.

Creativity was different, though. During the second month of testing, once I’d taken Creativity for a few weeks straight (remember there is a bedding-in period!), things started to click. I started to feel the gears turning a bit more in brainstorm meetings at work, and I could think more deeply about how I could build a workout plan for a friend.

That’s how I would describe the feeling: a noticeable but slight improvement in my ability to untangle a problem of some kind. It wasn’t as though the shackles of my brand were removed and I launched a Fortune 500 company which, thankfully, Thesis does not suggest in any of its marketing materials.

I’ve taken the Creativity tablets for a few months now and find them to be good value for the money, for me. For those curious about nootropics, I think of Thesis as the ideal first stop. Once you figure out what works for your brain and needs, you might seek out other solutions.

The Bottom Line

Thesis nootropics are probably the best way to get into nootropics without having to do loads of research. The brand isn’t the cheapest out there, but the product is quality and the customer service is excellent.

Lai, Puei-Lene et al (2013) https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24266378/

Skubel Tomasz et al (2022) https://www.researchgate.net/publication/363300485_Therapeutic_potential_of_Lion

Ham, Juhee et al (2018) https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5645066/

Williams, Jackson L. et al (2019) https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31758301/

Lopresti, Adrian L. et al (2019) https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6750292/

Yurko-Mauro, Karin et al (2015) https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4364972/

Downey, Luke A. et al (2012) https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23281132/

Kumar, Navneet et al (2016) https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5075615/

Mashayekhu, Ameneh et al (2012) https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3163160/

Ge, Wei et al (2021) https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8014356/

Bello, Marissa L. et al (2019) https://jissn.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12970-019-0287-6

Malik, Matej et al (2022) https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9415189/

About the author

Will Price is Hone Health’s Senior Lifestyle Editor. Before Hone he was Gear Patrol’s home and drinks editor.

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Thesis Nootropics Helped Me Ditch My 3-Coffee-A-Day Habit

Here's what to know about the personalized supplement brand.

An honest review of Thesis nootropics supplements, which helped me ditch my 3-coffee-a-day habit.

As someone who pours herself a tall glass of iced coffee three times a day — and sometimes even more, oops — I figured it wouldn’t hurt to look into other ways to boost my energy and focus. Of course, I also try to get enough sleep, water, and exercise, too. But I was also down to try a few supplements from Thesis, a nootropics company that aims to make you feel more productive with its plant-based blends.

If you’re not familiar, nootropics are similar to adaptogens in that they’re a class of functional plants that are buzzy in the wellness world. But nootropics — which include ingredients like ashwagandha , L-theanine , choline , and functional mushrooms — are more focused on activating different parts of your brain to support motivation, mood, memory, and cognitive processing . That’s why they’re sometimes called smart drugs or cognitive enhancers — and thus have a different role to play than everyday vitamins.

At Thesis, you’re hooked up with a kit of personalized vitamins , adaptogens , and nootropics that are meant to help support you in accomplishing your goals and feeling more energized and productive. I tried them out for a month and I have some thoughts. Here’s what it was like to try Thesis, in case you’re also a coffee fiend who could use a little more focus and energy.

Price: $79/monthly subscription
Best for: Energy, focus
My rating: 4/5
What we like: Personalized supplements, supportive coaches
What we don't like: Can seem pricey, you have to be ready for some trial and error

What Is Thesis?

To get started, you’ll first take a quiz on the Thesis website that asks you about how you feel on a day-to-day basis, how much coffee you drink, what your energy levels are like, and how much you sleep (among other lifestyle questions) so that it can determine the best supplements for you. It’ll then send you a starter kit with six different supplement blends targeted for each issue you might be experiencing. From there, it’s up to you to decide which ones you want to continue using. It works like a process of elimination — you experiment by taking each supplement for six days to see whether or not it feels effective.

The Thesis line features eight different supplement blends: Creativity, Focus, Motivation, Clarity, Energy, Motivation, Confidence, and Logic. Though the brand notes it would love to formulate one pill that works for everyone, brain chemistry is so complex, so it decided it’s better to take the long route and have customers try multiple supplements in order to find the best fit for their noggin. That’s why Thesis also puts you in contact with a wellness coach, so you can chat and ask questions with an expert along the way.

How Do Nootropics Work?

Nootropics are meant to allow your brain to do its thing, only faster and with more efficiency. So, instead of slogging away at your desk with brain fog , you might notice that you feel perkier, extra organized, and more on-point than you normally do as you continue taking the supplements.

Some of the blends contain the nootropic acetylcholine , which is a neurotransmitter from the essential nutrient choline known for memory, learning, and healthy brain function . There are also plenty of amino acids, vitamins, and plant-based adaptogens in each packet to fight off fatigue and stress while protecting your brain from toxins so it’s easier to take in info — and actually remember what you learned. Other staple nootropics include ginkgo biloba , certain kinds of mushrooms, and caffeine, each of which plays a unique function in your cognitive function.

My Experience

What it was like to take Thesis supplements.

When I took the Thesis quiz , I said that I wanted to improve my energy, focus, and mood. A few days later, I received my starter kit, which contained Clarity , Confidence , Motivation , and Logic all laid out in cute little boxes. You’re supposed to pick one — each box contains six sachets full of pills — and take a packet a day for six days. I was immediately drawn to Clarity, a supplement combo that’s supposed to help with high-pressure situations, concentration, and tasks that require focus and attention. It has Lion’s Mane extract (a mushroom), caffeine, L-theanine , and a few other ingredients meant to support a calm, focused flow. The idea is to take the supplements in the morning so they kick in before you start your day, and most of the effects are said to last from four to six hours.

I’d been taking Clarity for a few days when I had a phone call with Cindy Yan , a Thesis wellness coach and nootropics expert. We chatted about my usual routine, how I’d been feeling, and any questions I had about the process. When I said I felt a slight uptick in focus, but nothing too dramatic, Yan told me the first couple days are called the “loading phase” which is when the nutrients work their way into your body. If you don’t feel anything after that point, it’s a sign the supplement isn’t necessary or right for your neurochemistry. If you do like how you feel, it’s a keeper.

As we chatted about my routine, Yan realized I’d benefit from Creativity, an ashwagandha-based supplement meant for brainstorming and public speaking, so that I could feel like a rockstar at work. I also told her that I tend to crave a nap around 3 p.m., so she suggested the Energy supplement made with choline and mango leaf extract , which you can take every day or on extra-busy days, before a workout , or whenever you want to feel alert.

Talking to a coach as I tested the supplements was a true perk. While the quiz got me started with some great options, having access to Yan helped me hone in on what I truly needed.

Yan suggested I log how I felt every day as I took each supplement so I could keep track of any noticeable differences. A week in, I looked at the scribbles in my notebook and noticed that I did seem more productive during the six days I took Clarity. I wasn’t launching rockets to the moon, but I was getting through my emails and typing away like a woman on fire.

The next supplement on my agenda was Energy, a blend meant for busy days, intense workouts, and staying alert thanks to its mango leaf, theacrine , caffeine, and n-acetyl cysteine — and this is the one that gave me the most benefit. Yan was right on the money. She said I could take it in the morning and/or right after lunch to nip my afternoon slump in the bud, and it truly worked — no fourth mid-day coffee for me.

The more I took Energy, the less I felt like I needed to unhinge my jaw and dump as much cold brew into my face as possible. I found myself drinking a sensible cup or two in the morning, and that was that. Thesis says you can feel the effects of the supplements in as little as 30 minutes or it can take up to five days for all the benefits to sink in as your body and brain adjust. For me, though, Energy kicked in pretty quickly.

The Bottom Line

Typically, Thesis users land on two or three supplements for their regimen. After the month-long trial phase, you can order just the ones you want and forget about the rest. Personally, I’m sold on Energy and can see myself hanging onto Clarity, too.

Thesis seems to have figured things out in the nootropic supplement realm. While the boxes seem pricey, it isn’t so bad when you think about buying each supplement on your own individually — and the fact that you get a wellness coach, too.

TL;DR: I’d recommend it for anyone who feels fatigued, unproductive, or unfocused, or for folks who rely on caffeine to get through the day, like me. You might just find that there’s a better way.

Studies referenced:

Baba, Y. (2021). Effects of l-Theanine on Cognitive Function in Middle-Aged and Older Subjects: A Randomized Placebo-Controlled Study. J Med Food. doi: 10.1089/jmf.2020.4803. Epub 2021 Mar 22.

Coqueiro, AY. (2019). Glutamine as an Anti-Fatigue Amino Acid in Sports Nutrition. Nutrients. doi: 10.3390/nu11040863.

Gelabert-Rebato, M. (2019). A Single Dose of The Mango Leaf Extract Zynamite ® in Combination with Quercetin Enhances Peak Power Output During Repeated Sprint Exercise in Men and Women. Nutrients. 2019 Oct 28;11(11):2592. doi: 10.3390/nu11112592.

Lai, PL. (2013). Neurotrophic properties of the Lion's mane medicinal mushroom, Hericium erinaceus (Higher Basidiomycetes) from Malaysia. Int J Med Mushrooms. doi: 10.1615/intjmedmushr.v15.i6.30.

Malík, M, Tlustoš P. Nootropics as Cognitive Enhancers: Types, Dosage and Side Effects of Smart Drugs. Nutrients. 2022 Aug 17;14(16):3367. doi: 10.3390/nu14163367. PMID: 36014874; PMCID: PMC9415189.

Mokhtari, V. (2017). A Review on Various Uses of N-Acetyl Cysteine. Cell J. doi: 10.22074/cellj.2016.4872.

Penry, JT. (2008). Choline: an important micronutrient for maximal endurance-exercise performance? Int J Sport Nutr Exerc Metab. doi: 10.1123/ijsnem.18.2.191.

Sam, C. (2022). Physiology, Acetylcholine. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2022 Jan–. PMID: 32491757.

Silberstein, R. B. (2010). Examining Brain-Cognition Effects of Ginkgo Biloba Extract: Brain Activation in the Left Temporal and Left Prefrontal Cortex in an Object Working Memory Task. Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine : ECAM , 2011 . https://doi.org/10.1155/2011/164139

Suliman, NA. (2016). Establishing Natural Nootropics: Recent Molecular Enhancement Influenced by Natural Nootropic. Evid Based Complement Alternat Med. doi: 10.1155/2016/4391375.

Todorova, V. (2021). Plant Adaptogens-History and Future Perspectives. Nutrients. doi: 10.3390/nu13082861.

Wiedeman, AM. (2018). Dietary Choline Intake: Current State of Knowledge Across the Life Cycle. Nutrients. doi: 10.3390/nu10101513.

Thesis Nootropics Review: Personalized, Nootropic Brain Support

Published: June 12, 2023

Holistic Wellness Magazine is reader supported. By purchasing through our links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Table of contents, about thesis.

You’ve likely felt that inner frustration throughout your workday when you feel as though your brain is moving through molasses—your processing speed of taking in information from your outside world, absorbing that, interpreting it within the crevices of your brain matter , and formulating a response (whether it be a movement, vocalized statement, or merely an inner thought), feels like a herculean task.

That strange sensation where you knew you forgot something, but all that your brain can recall is not what that something was but merely that it was something. It can be frustrating to say the least. While I have firm faith that, erase societal pressures and stressors, our fellow human brethren are some pretty intelligent souls, even I find myself questioning my intellectual couth some days.

So where is this intellectual, groggy deficit coming from? While it is not just a few identifiable causes, we live in a society filled with a glorification of severe routine, a practice of consuming and using synthetic chemicals, not inadvertently, but subtly, and the current social and economic stressors can be all too much—disrupting sleep, neuronal regeneration and thus, overall brain health.

But this is not all gloom and doom! Mother Nature has gifted us with some pretty potent brain protection: nootropics! Nootropics, called “ smart drugs ”, act on the brain to improve memory, cognitive function, and neuronal regeneration by improving the flow of blood, and thus essential nutrients, to the brain. (2) You may be thinking: this sounds incredibly expensive .

Not to worry because once brave soul decided to create an extensive line of nootropic blends to meet all your brain health qualms. Welcome, Thesis! With 86 winning formulations of nootropic blends to improve Creativity, Clarity, Motivation, Energy, and Logic, this review will focus on the effectiveness and composition of these purportedly stellar nootropic formulations.

Overview of Thesis

Founder and CEO, Dan Freed, found himself struggling in school as a child. He recalls rereading the same paragraph repeatedly, unable to understand the content despite functioning just fine in all other areas of life. Exhausted from the struggle and lack of support, he withdrew from school at the age of 16 and went to work in the restaurant industry.

But it clearly was not a learning deficiency as Dan eventually earned a Master’s Degree at Yale and went on to create the first-ever nootropic support with over 550,000 recommendations made by the scientific community and 127 tested ingredients to ensure maximum efficacy and bioavailability. Thesis offers five unique formulation to meet the common, daily need: Creativity, Clarity, Motivation, Energy, and Logic.

All of Thesis’s ingredients are noted to be purely sourced locally within the United States that bring you quality adaptogenic mushrooms , vitamins, minerals, and choline sources. Is Thesis the answer to a revived brain? Dan’s motto is, “Lazy doesn’t exist.” Let us find out if our brains need a total “reset” or merely some supportive, nootropic love.

Thesis believes in personalizing your experience to meet your needs in the most accurate form possible with their extensive questionnaire that queries your daily activities, energy levels, sleep cycle, caffeine intake, and more.

Quick and simple with effective results. Click here to begin your personalized journey to find your starter kit or, skip the quiz and build your own box here !

Thesis Products Review

Thesis offers 5 unique formulations to meet your daily mental support needs. Each crafted by a team set on ensuring maximum efficacy of each dosage of ingredient integrated, to give an idea of how prepared the Thesis team was in their first month of formulation , over 86% of each proposed formulation was approved—and praised—for its novel nootropic agencies.

With 96% purported customer satisfaction, perhaps Thesis’s reliance on the data speaks volumes to not only the integrity of products, but perhaps the communal effort in creating brain wellness. $119 each with retail price, or save $40 in the Thesis Subscribe & Save program , let’s take a dive into these pure and locally sourced, caffeine-free ingredients to find out more:

Thesis Creativity Review

Thesis’s Creativity blend is endorsed to increase that “spark” of inspiration, get your thought processes flowing into an easeful state of being, and improve your confidence in the process with four potent ingredients:

Alpha GPC (150mg): Alpha-glycerylphosphorylcholine (αGPC) is the precursor molecule to acetylcholine, an essential neurotransmitter that plays a role in cognition and mood by increasing serotonin in the cerebral portions of the brain and dopamine in the frontal lobe. (3)

Agmatine (250mg): A molecule that is thought to be produced by the gut microbiome, agmatine is an amine molecule that is believed to alleviate depressive-like symptoms and even support metabolic syndromes like diabetes and obesity; albeit the mechanism of such is unclear. (4)

Ginseng (200mg): A centuries-old remedy originating from East Asia, ginseng is known to be a preventative measure for neurodegeneration disorder, Alzheimer’s, as well as remediate depressive symptoms in numerous clinical studies. (5)

Ashwagandha (300mg): Ashwagandha, Withania somnifera , is an Ayurvedic wonder that is known for its natural adaptogenic (ability to handle stress in a methodical, sequential manner) properties, as well as its anxiolytic ( anxiety-reducing ) characteristics. Plus, in numerous clinical studies, there is statistically significant indication of ashwagandha’s antioxidant properties; helping to reduce free radicals that cause cellular damage and early signs of aging throughout numerous organ systems. (6,7)

Zembrin® (25mg): A proprietary blend containing selectium or also known as kanna, Mesembryanthemum tortuosum , Zembrin is known for its anti-anxiety properties that holds no sedative qualities but offers an elevate, peaceful state of being. (8)

Thesis Clarity Review

Thesis’s Clarity is endorsed to get you in—and improve—your flow state. With a heightened sense of focus and analytical processing, let’s see if the ingredients really live up to its name:

Alpha GPC (500mg): (see benefits in Creativity ingredient list above)

Lion’s Mane (500mg): Lion’s mane, Hericium erinaceus , has been studies in numerous scientific studies examining the effect of lion’s mane in reducing depressive episodes among patient with mild to severe depression by reducing an inflammation pathway that has been linked to worsening depression and possessing a chemical structure like dopamine and serotonin—the “happy” chemicals of the brain. Happy chemicals, clearer intention. (9)

Epicatechin (278mg): A potent flavanol found in apples, berries, cacao, and tea, within large scale studies, these molecules have been found to improve cerebral (brain) blood flow; improving flow of nutrients to neurons, aiding in repair and regeneration. (10)

7,8-DHF (30mg): 7,8 DHF, short for 7,8-dihydroxyflavone, is a humble, yet mighty molecule that is known to act on a vital pathway in the brain’s regenerative properties (acting similar to brain-derived neurotrophic factor). Why should we care and why with Thesis place this essential ingredient into their Clarity formulation? Studies suggest that because of 7,8 DHF’s ability to act on this pathway, we now have a way to consume on a daily basis a molecule that protects neurons from free radical damage and encourage neuronal growth. It seems the Thesis team has really placed the science and biology at the forefront of their formulations. (11)

Thesis Motivation Review

Take 30 minutes prior your daily tasks and settle into a routine of dedicated, goal-driven mindset to get you through any task you need to accomplish in the day ahead. How does Thesis make an impossible feat possible with its Motivation formulation? Let’s look:

Artichoke Extract: Although the scientific community is still seeking true influence of artichoke extract on brain protection, current studies have suggested that artichoke extract, rich in flavonoid, has an anticholinesterase blocking property. Why should we care? In certain neurodegenerative diseases (i.e., Alzheimer’s), blocking this anticholinesterase enzyme has been shown to improve the long-term outcomes of such diseases. With the added benefits of neuroprotection, we get why Thesis include artichoke extract in the Motivation ingredient line-up. (12)

Forskolin: A pure molecule extracted by the East Asian plant, Coleus forskohlii , known by the scientific community to increase cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) levels, this is vital for optimum cognition and, like the artichoke extract, acts as a neuroprotectant. (13)

L-Phenylalanine: One of the 26 amino acids, has been suggested to have a direct correlation between levels of l-phenylalanine and dopamine, the reward chemical . With dopamine, humans quite literally lose motivation for even the most primal of needs (i.e., eating, procreating, sleeping, etc.). Important to stay motivated? We think so, too. (12)

Vitamin B12: Also known as cobalamin, vitamin B12 is vital for cognitive function in both the central (brain and spinal cord) as well as peripheral nervous system ; albeit the exact daily dose to provide this benefit is still debated amongst the medical community. (13)

Thesis Energy Review

It’s likely universally agreed that we could all use more of this currency (in addition to time!). But what makes Thesis’s Energy a true remedy for energy deficiency? Let’s peek:

Choline (300mg): According to Numerous clinical studies, choline, a nutrient present in eggs and liver, increases dopamine levels and assist in memory loss. Wonder if dopamine plays a role in energy? Absolutely it does! Our limbic reward system is directly ties to excitement and perceivable elevation of energy. (14)

Zynamite® (300mg): Known also as mangiferin ( Mangifera indica ), studies have suggested to have a synergistic effect during states of exercise by increasing the rates of oxygenation in the brain; supporting neurons with nutrient-dense electrolytes and glucose. Why did Thesis include this? More glucose to the brain means more sustained energy. (15)

TeaCrine® (100mg): Originating from the tree, Camellia kucha, TeaCrine has been known to support cognitive functioning as well as sustain energy throughout the day; especially when taken in conjunction with natural forms of caffeine (i.e., green tea extract). (16)

NAC (500mg): Although the mechanism as to whether NAC, N-acetyl cysteine, affects and promotes sustained energy levels throughout the day, researchers have noted potent antioxidant properties; suggesting there is some form of neurological protection as many neurodegenerative disorders are initiated by an inflammatory insult from free radicals. (17)

Sabroxy® (100mg): A study by Lopresti et al (2021) found that daily use of Oroxylum indicum extract (Sabroxy) had notable improvement in speed of processing thoughts when acquiring or approaching a new task in their subject groups. Important to sustain that energy by higher processing speeds? Absolutely. (18)

NALT (300mg): Known as N-acetyl tyrosine, NALT has been suggested to improve energy levels throughout the day as well as having evidence for improvement of dismantling longer term memory loss. (19)

Thesis Logic Review

So you have the energy, the motivation, the clarity, and creativity, but what is that all goof for if you quite literally have no logical sense of the actions you are performing? Thesis agrees. That is why they’ve included Logic in their mind wellness lineup. Although they have their handy quiz to help support you in your specific cognitive needs, we like to think we saved the one of the most important for last to review this powerful ingredient roster:

Ginkgo Biloba (160mg): Gingko biloba extract, coming from Ginkgo biloba, has a multitude of properties that all act in favor of your nervous system. Gingko biloba has been suggested to improve your innate levels of serotonin and dopamine, as well as improve long term cognition of hippocampal function and act as a free radial scavenger, protecting the prefrontal lobe where executive functioning takes place (i.e., the logical portion of your brain!). (20)

Theobromine (100mg): Extracted from the cacao tree, theobromine is believed to act on a series of pathways whereby improved working memory (your current memory that, for example, recalled the name of the company in which this article is written about). Important for logic? Without a doubt. Well done, Thesis team! (21)

Phosphatidylserine (400mg): Phosphatidylserine is known for its neuroprotective properties; supporting the myelin sheath (the protective layer around each neuron that improve its efficacy of neuronal transmission). (22)

DHA (200mg): Abbreviated DHA for docosahexaenoic acid, this is the most abundant omega-3 in the brain. This molecule integrates into the cellular integrity of brain cells to ensure structural integrity. Think of this as the “grease” that ensures the brain is functioning with optimum logic. (23)

TAU (30mg): Tau is a protein found within the brain that, when it becomes misfolded during its production from DNA into protein, it can become a conglomerate of protein mass that causes the ever-so-known neurodegenerative disease, Alzheimer’s . Logic is severely limited in these cases that is why Thesis utilizes a tau-target remedy as a proactive measure; keeping your logic in-tact for decades to come? Perhaps so. (24)

Synapsa® (320mg): Although unable to find from scientific articles, Thesis endorses on their site that Synpasa® comes from the extract of Bacopa Monnieri that is suggested “to improve cognitive function as well as overall neurological health.” (25)

Thesis Reviews – Customer Testimonies

What are customers saying about the efficacy of Thesis’s lineup of memory-enhancing, brain-protecting, logic-boosting formulations?

George L., a verified customer shares:

“I absolutely love this stuff, seriously. I’ve tried just about every nootropic in addition to making formulas for myself, but nothing comes close to Thesis. I’m actually shocked at how well it works. I work anywhere from 10-14 hours seven days a week and I can feel myself and being more motivated, even after 14 hours, I’ll be a customer for life and I recommend your products to my people.”

It’s always great to see a former skeptic take a complete 180-degree turn and find so much benefit in a product that they intend to keep it as a daily regiment for life. Quality speaks for itself.

Debbie M writes her experience with Thesis Creativity:

“I have been off stimulants for months now and these formulas are far superior. My husband and daughter both noticed the change and said I have been more productive, focused, less anxious, and more “thinking outside the box”. I have tried for years to get off stims and nothing would work. Thank you for making such an amazing product.”

A happy mom is a happy household. Plus, to hear your fellow humanity share that they are “thinking outside of the box” in a world that is seemingly placing everyone with a “label” what an incredible breakthrough! The power of nootropics and adaptogens at its finest!

Kyle B. shares a heartfelt response on his experience with Thesis products and the team:

“You guys have been a lifesaver for me. I’m not sure how I could have done this past year without some help and you really were there for me. Great experiences and awesome customer service!”

Amazing, integrity inside and out—well done, Thesis.

Most recently, Elliott S. shares his initial skepticism with taking Thesis for the first time:

“I’m going to be honest with you, I was skeptical but I started a new job so I thought maybe it could help. Within a half hour of the first time taking it I saw immediate results. I’m more alert and focused than I’ve been in years. I’m so happy I found Thesis as it has been life changing for me so far.”

Skepticism is good—it means you think before you jump on the latest and greatest health fad. Amazingly, it seems Thesis has erased all wavering on efficacy for Elliott. Thesis products seemingly prove time and again.

Frequently Asked Questions

All of Thesis product are regulated by the current Good Manufacturing Practices (cGMP) a manufacturing and processing standard that is regulated by the Food & Drug Administration (FDA). All ingredients used by Thesis are third party tested, pass all phrase three clinical trials and the FDA deems all of Thesis’s ingredients as Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS).

Daily! Thankfully, Mother Nature never intentionally harms us and with plenty of scientific studies conducted, nootropics can be taken daily. With all of Thesis’s products, you can take up to two packets per day (one in the morning and next around lunchtime).

Every single body is so unique, so the loading phase (the amount needed during a duration of time to deem notable effects) is also unique. However, some users have found notable difference as soon as 30 minutes upon consumption.

No worries! Thesis isn’t hardcore strict. They believe the personalized formula should be just that: personalized for you. Contact Thesis at 646-647-3599 or send an email to [email protected] to swap out a line that is more appropriate for you.

All orders are sent within same day or next-day upon processing. Packages usually arrive within 3-7 formal business days.

Thesis will do their best to meet your needs, swap out any product you are not satisfied with or refund entirely. Contact Thesis at 646-647-3599 or send an email to [email protected] .

Check out Thesis’s full Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) section here !

Subscribe & Refer A Friend Program

Join Thesis’s Subscribe Program to receive $40 off every order you spend. Cancel or modify without any additional fee. Get your nootropics for a fraction of the cost !

For every friend you refer to Thesis, your friend will receive $25 off their next order and a $25 credit will be applied to your account upon your next purchase! Share the nootropic goodness!

Community Mission

The team at Thesis believes in supporting not just their customers, but their community in the form of sending a part of their proceeds to The Covenant House , a homeless shelter for runaway and at-risk youth. CEO, Dan Freed, knows firsthand what it is like to be at the mercy of an unforgiving system. What better way than to give back? Much respect, team Thesis.

Where Can I Find Thesis?

Thesis can be found on their main site at Thesis and on their Instagram page, @takethesis .

Final Takeaway

Functional mushrooms to meet your daily cognitive needs? Thesis has created an extensive, yet poignant, lineup of Creativity, Energy, Motivation, Logic, and Clarity. With potent nootropics like lion’s mane, choline, alpha GPC, and ayurvedic powerhouses including ashwagandha and gingko biloba, Thesis has seemingly integrated a handful of pure ingredients into each formulation that is cGMP certified and locally sourced within the United States.

With community outreach to help serve organizations that service homeless children, Thesis was based on a mission beyond their consumer wellness . CEO, Dan Freed, wanted humanity to know that they are not alone. The mental fogginess, the inability to concentrate for longer sets of time, inability to foster an ounce of creativity, Dan knew this wasn’t a human deficiency but a nutrient deficiency.

Tired of wondering if your mental strain could be remedied by daily consumption of a personalized nootropic lineup? Thesis might just offer the personalized support you’ve been seeking.

Embark on a holistic health and well-being exploration with these popular brands:

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Article Sources

(1) Thesis. AboutUs. Takethesis.com. Updated 2023. Accessed January 29, 2023. https://takethesis.com/

(2) Malík M, Tlustoš P. Nootropics as Cognitive Enhancers: Types, Dosage and Side Effects of Smart Drugs. Nutrients. 2022;14(16):3367. Published 2022 Aug 17. doi:10.3390/nu14163367 (19) Wachtel-Galor, S., Yuen, J., Buswell, J., & Benzie, F. Herbal Medicine: Biomolecular and Clinical Aspects . 2 nd edition; 2011. Accessed January 25, 2023. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK92757/

(3) Tamura Y, Takata K, Matsubara K, Kataoka Y. Alpha-Glycerylphosphorylcholine Increases Motivation in Healthy Volunteers: A Single-Blind, Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Human Study. Nutrients. 2021;13(6):2091. Published 2021 Jun 18. doi:10.3390/nu13062091

(4) Valverde AP, Camargo A, Rodrigues ALS. Agmatine as a novel candidate for rapid-onset antidepressant response. World J Psychiatry. 2021;11(11):981-996. Published 2021 Nov 19. doi:10.5498/wjp.v11.i11.981

(5) Lee S, Rhee DK. Effects of ginseng on stress-related depression, anxiety, and the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis. J Ginseng Res. 2017;41(4):589-594. doi:10.1016/j.jgr.2017.01.010

(6) Salve J, Pate S, Debnath K, Langade D. Adaptogenic and Anxiolytic Effects of Ashwagandha Root Extract in Healthy Adults: A Double-blind, Randomized, Placebo-controlled Clinical Study. Cureus. 2019;11(12):e6466. Published 2019 Dec 25. doi:10.7759/cureus.6466

(7) Panossian A, Wikman G. Effects of Adaptogens on the Central Nervous System and the Molecular Mechanisms Associated with Their Stress-Protective Activity. Pharmaceuticals (Basel). 2010;3(1):188-224. Published 2010 Jan 19. doi:10.3390/ph3010188

(8) Brendler T, Brinckmann JA, Feiter U, et al. Sceletium for Managing Anxiety, Depression and Cognitive Impairment: A Traditional Herbal Medicine in Modern-Day Regulatory Systems. Curr Neuropharmacol. 2021;19(9):1384-1400. doi:10.2174/1570159X19666210215124737

(9) Chong PS, Fung ML, Wong KH, Lim LW. Therapeutic Potential of Hericium erinaceus for Depressive Disorder. Int J Mol Sci. 2019;21(1):163. Published 2019 Dec 25. doi:10.3390/ijms21010163

(10) Haskell-Ramsay CF, Schmitt J, Actis-Goretta L. The Impact of Epicatechin on Human Cognition: The Role of Cerebral Blood Flow. Nutrients. 2018;10(8):986. Published 2018 Jul 27. doi:10.3390/nu10080986

(10) Liu C, Chan CB, Ye K. 7,8-dihydroxyflavone, a small molecular TrkB agonist, is useful for treating various BDNF-implicated human disorders. Transl Neurodegener. 2016;5:2. Published 2016 Jan 6. doi:10.1186/s40035-015-0048-7

(11) El-Nashar HAS, Abbas H, Zewail M, et al. Neuroprotective Effect of Artichoke-Based Nanoformulation in Sporadic Alzheimer’s Disease Mouse Model: Focus on Antioxidant, Anti-Inflammatory, and Amyloidogenic Pathways. Pharmaceuticals (Basel). 2022;15(10):1202. Published 2022 Sep 28. doi:10.3390/ph15101202

(12) Lou HC. Dopamine precursors and brain function in phenylalanine hydroxylase deficiency. Acta Paediatr Suppl. 1994;407:86-88. doi:10.1111/j.1651-2227.1994.tb13461.x

(13) Health Quality Ontario. Vitamin B12 and cognitive function: an evidence-based analysis. Ont Health Technol Assess Ser. 2013;13(23):1-45. Published 2013 Nov 1.

(14) Institute of Medicine (US) Committee on Nutrition, Trauma, and the Brain. Nutrition and Traumatic Brain Injury: Improving Acute and Subacute Health Outcomes in Military Personnel . National Academies Press. 2011. Accessed January 29, 2023. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK209327/#:~:text=CHOLINE%20AND%20THE%20BRAIN,and%20can%20ameliorate%20memory%20impairment .

(15) Gelabert-Rebato M, Wiebe JC, Martin-Rincon M, et al. Mangifera indica L. Leaf Extract in Combination With Luteolin or Quercetin Enhances VO2peak and Peak Power Output, and Preserves Skeletal Muscle Function During Ischemia-Reperfusion in Humans. Front Physiol. 2018;9:740. Published 2018 Jun 8. doi:10.3389/fphys.2018.00740

(16) Sheng YY, Xiang J, Wang ZS, et al. Theacrine From Camellia kucha and Its Health Beneficial Effects. Front Nutr. 2020;7:596823. Published 2020 Dec 17. doi:10.3389/fnut.2020.596823

(17) Mokhtari V, Afsharian P, Shahhoseini M, Kalantar SM, Moini A. A Review on Various Uses of N-Acetyl Cysteine. Cell J. 2017;19(1):11-17. doi:10.22074/cellj.2016.4872

(18) Lopresti AL, Smith SJ, Majeed M, Drummond PD. Effects of an Oroxylum indicum Extract (Sabroxy®) on Cognitive Function in Adults With Self-reported Mild Cognitive Impairment: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Study. Front Aging Neurosci. 2021;13:728360. Published 2021 Aug 31. doi:10.3389/fnagi.2021.728360

(19) https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/tyrosine

(20) Nguyen, T., & Alzahrani, T. Gingko biloba. StatPearls Publishing . Last updated July 4, 2022. Accessed January 29, 2023. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK541024/#:~:text=A%20multicenter%20double%2Dblinded%20randomized,%25%20in%20the%20placebo%20group ).

(21) Islam R, Matsuzaki K, Sumiyoshi E, et al. Theobromine Improves Working Memory by Activating the CaMKII/CREB/BDNF Pathway in Rats. Nutrients. 2019;11(4):888. Published 2019 Apr 20. doi:10.3390/nu11040888

(22) Glade MJ, Smith K. Phosphatidylserine and the human brain. Nutrition. 2015;31(6):781-786. doi:10.1016/j.nut.2014.10.014

(23) Weiser MJ, Butt CM, Mohajeri MH. Docosahexaenoic Acid and Cognition throughout the Lifespan. Nutrients. 2016;8(2):99. Published 2016 Feb 17. doi:10.3390/nu8020099

(24) Gómez-Pinilla F. Brain foods: the effects of nutrients on brain function. Nat Rev Neurosci. 2008;9(7):568-578. doi:10.1038/nrn2421

(25) Thesis. Logic. Takethesis.com. Updated 2023. Accessed January 29, 2023 https://takethesis.com/pages/logic

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Grace morse.

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Thesis Nootropics Review 2024: Honest Thoughts + Am I Still Buying?

Last updated: August 28, 2024

About Dr. Steve Kim, MD

Physician Advisor

After using Thesis nootropics for more than a year, for me, the higher price point is definitely worth it for the cognitive benefits I’ve experienced. Specifically, I’ve noticed that I am not feeling overwhelmed as often as I was prior, and I am able to focus and complete tasks with more ease.

Thesis Overview

Price: $119 for one-time purchase or $79 with subscription
Helps With: Cognitive function, including motivation, memory, focus, and more
Side Effects: Headache, stomachache, and more
Safety: Made with ingredients that are Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) by the FDA or have passed Phase III clinical trials
Dietary Information: Vegan, and made without gluten, eggs, and nuts

Thesis offers a variety of nootropics, also called “smart drugs,” which are medicinal substances that improve cognitive function, specifically memory, thinking, and learning. While some prescription nootropics are FDA-approved, Thesis is not regulated by the FDA and is available over-the-counter (OTC). However, their ingredients are third-party tested and they only use ingredients that are either Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) by the FDA or have passed through Phase III clinical trials.

I’ve been taking Thesis for over a year now, about six times a week, and I’ve noticed some significant improvements in terms of how often I feel overwhelmed, as well as my ability to focus and stay on task. While I know Thesis won’t work well for everyone, these nootropics agree well with me and I’ll continue using them to help boost my productivity, focus, and more.

In this article, I’ll delve into my experience using Thesis nootropics, as well as discuss their potential benefits, side effects, and more.

Custom blends
Personal coaching / support by nootropic experts
No proprietary blends (AKA no hidden ingredients!)
Caffeinated or noncaffeinated formulas
Effective ingredients
No free trials
Relatively high monthly cost

My Experience Taking Thesis Nootropics

I’ve been loving Thesis since I started using their products, specifically the Clarity, Creativity, Logic, and Energy blends, over a year ago. While there’s no nootropic that’ll offer you the same potency you’d get from Adderall, or other prescription stimulant medications, I’ve found Thesis to work surprisingly well for my needs.

When using them 6 times a week, they have offered notable improvements in how well I’m able to focus and stay on task. In practice, this usually looks like a clearer mind and an improved ability to maintain a relaxed state of mind while completing various tasks. As someone who feels overwhelmed fairly often, this is a welcomed change of pace.

With their Clarity and Creativity blends, in particular, I just feel leveled out. I’m able to sit down and work, without feeling like I’m just hopped up on too much caffeine, a feeling that really makes me uncomfortable.

In the world of nootropics, where certain products don’t seem noticeable whatsoever, it cannot be overstated just how awesome my experience with Thesis has been.

Benefits of Thesis

As a customer, you’ll have the opportunity to speak with their coaches at any time. I have reached out on a few occasions, just to talk about the fascinating world of nootropics. In particular, I have had amazing conversations with one of their neurologists, Cindy. It truly is nice to speak with other individuals who are as fascinated with the science behind nootropics as I am.

Another aspect of Thesis that I really respect is that they clearly publish not only which ingredients they include, but also the exact amounts of each ingredient. This matters because it allows consumers to actually cross-check the research behind the ingredients/dosages, an unfortunate rarity in the supplement space.

6 custom blends, each with unique effects that may work well for many individuals
Personal coaching/support from nootropic experts
No proprietary blends (hidden ingredients)
Caffeinated or non-caffeinated formulas
Effective ingredients that are backed by science and are third-party tested
Available OTC
Not FDA-approved
Relatively high monthly price, which may not work for everyone

How Does Thesis Work?

You’ll start by filling out a questionnaire on their website, which should only take a few minutes. Once you’re done with the survey, Thesis’ algorithm will run through its millions of data points to predict which of their blends may work best for you.

Once you place your order, either as a one-time purchase or as a subscription, you’ll be shipped your blends.

Per the instructions, you’ll begin taking your blends and note how you feel in the included daily journal. This will help your track whether your blends are the right fit for your needs or if they need to be adjusted. You’ll also be able to speak with one of their coaches at any time for additional support.

Related reading: Stasis Supplement Review – Our Research, Testing, and Impressions

Thesis vs. Alternatives

We’ve created this comparison table to pit Thesis up against Onnit and Mind Lab Pro , two other popular nootropic brands.


Starting Price	$119	$80	$69
Subscription Price	$79	$68	n/a
Price per day (full dosage)	$3.29	$1.51	$2.30
Coupon code	ZENMASTER for 10% off	❌	❌
Customized formulas	✔	❌	❌
Access to coaching	✔	❌	❌
Sample packs available?	❌		❌
Refund policy?	30 days	90 days	30 days
Caffeine Free?	✔ (optional)	✔	✔
List ingredients and ?	✔	❌	✔
Research-backed ingredients?	✔	✔ (but they're unclear about )	✔

Thesis Nootropics Side Effects

The ingredients in Thesis may lead to side effects in some individuals, including:

Stomachache
Signs of an allergic reaction

If you experience any prolonged discomfort, stop taking Thesis and reach out to your healthcare provider. Seek urgent medical care if you experience serious symptoms of an allergic reaction.

The Verdict: Are Thesis Nootropics Worth It?

Thesis offers a complete toolkit of nootropics that are tailored to your needs, in addition to ongoing expert support. Unlike other nootropics, which may include unnecessary or hidden ingredients, Thesis only offers what you need with their six unique blends that focus on supporting logic, energy, creativity, clarity, motivation, and confidence. Once you find the blend or blends that work for you, you can opt into a subscription and save on costs.

While the monthly cost may be on the higher side, the ability to select only the blends you need, instead of opting for a nootropic that may include ingredients that are unnecessary for your particular needs, is definitely a major benefit of opting for this provider over others.

Keep in mind that Thesis will not feel as potent as prescription stimulant medication and that certain blends may lead to side effects, like gastrointestinal problems or headaches, in some. It’s always best to speak with your healthcare provider prior to trying Thesis to ensure that it is safe for you to do so.

Thesis will not be as potent as Adderall, a prescription medication. However, Thesis , a type of nootropic or “smart drug,” may work well for some individuals in boosting cognitive function, focus, and more.

Some nootropics can be used every day. However, it’s best to follow the specific’s products instructions, as well as speak to your healthcare provider about safe use.

Thesis may be safe for some individuals to use. According to the company, they only use ingredients that are either classified as Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) by the FDA or that havve passed through Phase III clinical trials. However, it’s always best to speak with your healthcare provider prior to trying Thesis to ensure that it is safe for you to use.

Thesis does not offer free samples, however, they do offer a no-questions-asked refund.

Thesis offer caffeinated and caffeine-free formulas.

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Thesis Review | I Tested this Nootropic for 4 Weeks, Did It Work?

In this Thesis review, we’ll take a long look to this nootropic company that offers combinations of various nootropic blends that are tailored to best suit your individual needs.

Those brain supplements comprise of the following blends.

If you have been struggling with anxiety, stress, productivity or energy, you might have certainly looked at brain supplements. These are usually generic blends of natural herbs and mushrooms with positive effects in various areas and processes in your brain.

Table of Contents

Thesis Review at a Glance

	US
	US only
/	$5
	Very Positive
	6
	Yes

Approach to This Thesis Nootropics Review

As I alluded to, Thesis presents a questionnaire so to individualize your box. It takes around five minutes to complete, and asks questions that are quantifiable, yes/no or degree based. Everything from your weight, age and sleep quality to how often you exercise, which unhealthy habits you indulge in and how much you procrastinate will all be on the table.

I’ll be taking four of the six blends for six day intervals and documenting my results. So by the time you’re reading this, I’ll have tried Thesis for the better part of the last month.

Thesis Nootropic Ingredients

The combined effects of caffeine and l-theanine in a 1:2 ratio have been proven to be optimal for cognitive performance and mood; which means that Thesis has a good base.

Ingredient	Dosage
CITICOLINE	300mg
MANGO LEAF	300mg
THEACRINE	100mg
	500mg
INDIAN TRUMPET TREE	100mg
N-ACETYL L-TYROSINE	300mg

Ingredient	Dosage
ALPHA GPC	500mg
LION’S MANE MUSHROOM	500mg
CAMELLIA SINENSIS TEA LEAF	278mg
DIHYDROXYFLAVONE	30mg

Ingredient	Dosage
GINKO BILOBA	160mg
THEOBROMINE	100mg
PHOSPHATIDYLSERINE	400mg
HIGH DHA ALGAE	200mg
TRIACETYLURIDINE	30mg
BACOPA MONNIERI	320mg

Ingredient	Dosage
L-PHENYLALANINE	500mg
METHYLLIBERINE	100mg
VITAMIN B12	1000mcg
FORSKOLIN	250mg
ARTICHOKE	450mg

Ingredient	Dosage
ALPHA GPC	150mg
AGMATINE SULFATE	250mg
PANAX GINSENG	200mg
ASHWAGANDHA ROOT	300mg
SCELETIUM TORTUOSUM	25mg

Ingredient	Dosage
SAFFRON	28mg
MAGNESIUM BISGLYCINATE	500mg
SAGE	333mg
SCELETIUM TORTUOSUM	25mg
MAGNOLIA BARK	10mg
ASHWAGANDHA LEAF & ROOT	120mg

30-Day Thesis Nootropic Test and Results

As pictured above, I have the starter kit.

A quick bit about me: large male, mostly sedentary with some high activity days, no chemical vices, mostly liquid diet as of late.

I’ll be taking each dose with food as recommended, likely with one our recommended meal replacement shakes such as Soylent, Huel , Ka’Chava or Rootana .

Week 1 – Thesis Clarity Review

Early on, the effects were pretty noticeable . I did feel more energized when performing physical activity. Also, I did feel more “locked in” when I had to focus, in particular with games that require high execution and fast reactions.

On the flipside, days when I didn’t have much going, I didn’t notice much of a difference. I didn’t feel need to do more, and without something to intently focus on, they may as well be water pills.

Week 2 – Thesis Motivation Review

Only three pills in this blend, so a bit easier to take.

Motivation is designed for task completion and focuses on reducing procrastination and stress. I did manage to stay focused on my current diet, though I feel that would have happened with or without these pills.

Week 3 – Thesis Creativity Review

Back to four pills with this one. The highlights of this blend focus on learning, memory and cognition.

At times I felt scattered, like I had to be doing something, which can be detrimental if you need to focus on a set of tasks. But I can see if I needed to innovate something, how this can help, being able to cycle through thoughts and ideas quickly.

Week 4 – Thesis Confidence Review

Three pills, with two of them dark. Reminds me of hamster pellets. Moving on….

Of all the blends, I felt the effects of this one the fastest, usually within about 30 minutes, as opposed to an hour or so like the others.

It worth noting that this could also be to the accrual effect of having taking nootropics for the past 30 days. Most of the best nootropics take a while to showcase all their positive effects, as there’s a build up period.

Who Wrote the Thesis

“As long as I can remember, people thought I was stupid, lazy, or unmotivated. I started to believe it. In school, I would read the same page over and over again, without absorbing anything. At 16, I dropped out of high school and went to work at a sandwich shop. Fast-forward ten years — I scored in the 99th percentile on the GMAT and earned Master’s degrees from Yale and INSEAD. Nootropics turned everything around for me and helped me form the positive habits that I built my success on. Once I balanced my brain chemistry, I could perform like never before. Dan Freed

Price and Shipping

Thesis supplement can be purchased as a single box, or part of an ongoing subscription. You choose which blends you prefer and they are shipped to you monthly.

Shipping is only within the US, and is free via USPS First Class Mail.

Are Thesis Personalized Nootropics Worth It?

Regarding the price, Thesis offers a very competitive offering when compared to the best Nootropics like Hunter Focus .

Thesis makes this easier, which is already a big plus, and you could see bigger benefits than with other competitors.

Taken that into consideration, I believe that Thesis nootropics are worth it for those considering regular use to improve cognitive function and long-term mental health.

Customer Thesis Nootropics Reviews

That said, reviews on their site are overwhelmingly positive. Not all products seem as effective, as discussed in our tests, and Creativity and Clarity seem to be the least liked. On the other hand users liked Motivation and Confidence the most, unlike me.

I’m going to be honest with you, I was skeptical but I started a new job so I thought maybe it could help.Within a half hour of the first time taking it I saw immediate results.I’m more alert and focused than I’ve been in years.I’m so happy I found Thesis as it has been life changing for me so far. Elliot S, 5-star

I have been off stimulants for months now and these formulas are far superior. My husband and daughter both noticed the change and said I have been more productive, focused, less anxious, and more “thinking outside the box”. I have tried for years to get off stims and nothing would work. Thank you for making such an amazing product. Debbie M, 5-star

If you’re new to nootropics, we can guide you to the blends we believe will work best for you based on your lifestyle and goals. You can make adjustments to these blends based on what works best for you.

Our Starter Kit is designed so that you can try multiple formulations to identify which nootropics work best with your unique brain chemistry. Each week you will sample one of your recommended blends, and record how you respond. Things to note would include increased productivity, decreased procrastination, enhanced focus and any changes in your routine At the end of the first month, you should have a good idea as to which blends work most effectively for you. These will be the blends you will continue with in your next month.

We offer the most advanced nootropic system available, to find the exact compliment for your specific brain chemistry and desired areas of focus. Our innovative Starter Kit allows you to experience multiple formulations, and determine what works best. Our process is complex because we’ve found that it yields the best results in the shortest amount of time. If we could formulate one pill that would work for everyone, we would! Because the human brain is deeply complex, that is just not possible.

Depending on your genetics and experience with nootropics, the effects can be felt in as little as 30 minutes after taking each blend. Nootropics have the most impact when taken on an empty stomach, just after waking from a normal night of rest. Some people may need a few days of consecutive use to feel the effects of the nutrients.

Verdict: Thesis Nootropic Review – 4 Weeks with Noticeable Effects

I find the approach that Thesis is taking to be a sound one. While some may be annoyed or turned off by the initial quiz, it’s certainly a necessary step in the overall process of finding which blends work for you, and which you should avoid. Also, without it, it would be a one size fits all product, and there are plenty of those already on the market.

Personally, I thought that Clarity and Creativity did the most for me . They each had noticeable effects that were largely in line with what was expected. Motivation and Confidence I wouldn’t have again, as Motivation seemed to to correspond with poor sleep and Confidence just didn’t provide enough of a benefit for me.

Bottom Line – If serious about adding nootropics to your routine, Thesis offers a great way to find what’s best for you.

Thesis Nootropics

Ingredients

Effectiveness, nootropic blend.

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Attention and Focus Energy Memory Mood

Thesis: The Personalized, Just for You Nootropics Experience

Wondering if Thesis is right for you? Let’s take a deep dive into the Thesis process and formulas so you can decide for yourself whether Thesis is the nootropics solution for you.

From the minute you take the short quiz that generates a personalized formula to the moment you receive the starter pack of nootropic goodies, Thesis provides you a custom experience unlike any nootropic or supplement you’ve ever tried before.

What makes Thesis unique is that they do all the legwork for you. With coaching support, they’ll narrow down what will likely work best for you, then you have the opportunity to experiment with over thirty high-quality ingredients in a systematic way that yields real results.

Thesis will help you find a blend that’s tailored to your goals, lifestyle, and genetics — for a custom, made just for you nootropic experience.

How Thesis Works

Whether you’re a seasoned fan of Thesis nootropics or just wondering how Thesis personalized formulas can fire up your brainpower, here are all the details you need.

Take the quick and easy quiz to find the right formula for you. You’ll just have to answer a few simple questions about your lifestyle and goals…and then swoosh the system generates a shiny new set of nootropic recommendations just for you. How is Thesis able to determine exactly what’s likely to help you the most? Well, their formulas are rooted in cutting-edge science and then melded with data collected from over 30K customers.

The result is spot-on, ridiculously accurate recommendations every time.

Thesis will send you a four-week starter pack. This is where the fun begins. You’ll experience the magic of nootropics. Feel the difference as your neurotransmitters begin to fire differently. And get to know how your formula makes you feel.

Step Three:

Now, it’s time to tweak. Maybe once your brain fog clears, you realize you need a little more energy in the mornings. Or you thought your mood was your main concern but turns out you really need a bit of a boost in the focus and memory department, too. The best part? You d

on’t have to figure all of this out on your own. Thesis’ expert coaches will help you figure out how to best maximize your supplements and find your brain bliss.

What To Expect From Thesis

Thesis formulas are designed to help you accomplish your goals. Thesis is crafted from the highest-quality, U.S.-sourced ingredients and their formulas are manufactured in FDA-certified facilities. They’re also third-party verified for purity and quality. In short, you can trust every one of their ingredients to bring you the brain boost you want and the peace of mind you need — you can rest easy knowing Thesis products are safely created and sourced.

Receiving Your First Shipment

If you were to explore this process on your own, it would cost over $800, take six months to complete, and would likely not provide the same results.

When you get your first shipment of Thesis, it’s kind of like the first day of the rest of your life. After you do a happy dance and open your package, you’ll find all of the details and instructions you need to make sure you get the most of your specific formula.

As a general rule, it’s recommended to:

Take your Thesis early in the day (or about thirty minutes before an important task)
Take your Thesis on an empty stomach
Keep a log of your Thesis journey. Taking notes regarding your mood, focus, and energy levels can help you realize how far you’ve come…and figure out what else you need to feel your absolute best
When in doubt, reach out. You can book a consult with a nootropics expert at any time on the Thesis website, or reach out via email, phone, or text.

How Thesis Makes You Feel

Don’t be surprised if you feel something pretty quickly. Thesis formulas are designed to give you totally crash-free improvements in mood, focus, and energy right off the bat.

You’ll also notice that your results compound over time. You’ll be able to tell after a month or so that your brain is stronger than it was before.

But everyone’s brain is different, and nootropics are not a one-size-fits-all solution.

Which is why Thesis offers you the flexibility to tinker with your formula as much as you need to… to get to the other side of optimization. The other side is a pretty sweet place to be, too. It feels like banishing brain fog, finding your motivation , ditching procrastination, and generally getting unstuck from those pesky neurotransmitter imbalances that are holding you back from living your best life.

Some folks require a bit of an adjustment period, and it takes them a bit longer to feel the effects of their Thesis stack. If that’s you, don’t worry. If you stick with it and commit to finding your perfect blend, you’ll find the benefits you’re after.

Long Term Benefits Of Taking Thesis

One of the things we love about nootropics is that their benefits compound over time. Which means the longer you stick with your Thesis regimen, the better your brain will respond.

What Happens If You Don’t Love Your Nootropic Stack?

You don’t have to commit to a formula or an ingredient that you don’t love. With Thesis, you can adjust your stack infinitely until you find the one that works best for you.

Which Thesis Formula Should I Take?

Which Thesis formula you choose is based entirely on your goals, genetics, and lifestyle.

But if you have an idea of what you’d like to enhance in your brain, here’s an outline of the basic blends and some of the key ingredients they include.

This formula helps get those creative juices flowing. For those times where you feel stuck, frustrated, and unable to move past your blocks.

Our Clarity formula is kind of like a chill pill. It helps you become a calm, focused zen master — no matter how stressful your situation may be.

Motivation you can access at will, plus the self-discipline and focus to make things happen? That’s the kind of procrastination buster Motivation is.

If your energy’s low, it’s hard to accomplish much. Which is where our energy formula comes in. This crash-free formulation is our most stimulating, which means it gives you the get-up and go you need to get stuff done. It also means that you may no longer find the need for coffee in the morning.

Logic is the formula to turn to when you need to tackle a big project. It’s kind of like a real-life thinking cap.

Feel The Thesis Difference For Yourself

Pop on over and take the short quiz . It will only take a few minutes, promise! Within days, you’ll be able to check out your starter pack and be well on your way to optimizing your brainpower.

Click here to take the quiz and get started.

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Author Richa Madaan

Thesis Nootropics: Winner or Loser? A Deep-Dive Review Guide for 2024

Thesis nootropics: an overview, pros and cons of thesis nootropics, thesis nootropics ingredients: a postmortem of what goes into the famed supplement, does thesis nootropics really work, thesis nootropics side effects, thesis nootropics: decoding the differentiation (and dubious marketing approach), thesis formulas examined, thesis nootropics customer reviews.

Wrapping Up - Is Thesis Nootropics Worth It?

Wellness brands are growing apace.

Mckinsey estimates that spending on wellness products and services is nearly $450 billion in the United States, increasing by more than 5% annually. This boom can be attributed to one significant factor: unmet nutritional needs.

Today’s busy, fast-paced lifestyle hinders nutritious eating, and many individuals develop health issues before they know it.

With wellness brands like K3 Spark Mineral , Provitalize , and Emma Relief around, people find prioritizing and managing their well-being easier. These companies curate on-the-go-friendly, healthy products for quick consumption and help consumers bridge nutritious gaps hands-on.

Thesis is one of the wellness brands headquartered in New York City, the United States. It is best known for its tailor-made nootropics aimed at improving the mental processes and capabilities of the brain while boosting focus, alertness, and clarity of thought.

Thesis nootropics is magnetizing the market’s interest.

Sold under the promising benefit of improving cognitive function, nootropics by Thesis, as the brand claims, are personalized “based on your unique brain chemistry.”

The official Thesis’ website makes bold statements such as:

Potent active ingredients.
High bioavailability.
Clinically studied dosages.

This is where we’re piqued to pose the following questions.

To what extent do these claims have substance?
Are these supplements really brain-boosting?
Is the personalized approach the real deal or a slick marketing gimmick?
Why is the brand digging so deep into the users’ information?

In this Thesis Nootropics review, we bring you the entire scoop on the brand and help you decide if these supplements are worth your moolah.

Let’s dive right in.

Six formulas, each with unique effects.
Results are noticeable within an hour.
Products undergo third-party purity testing.
Options are available without stimulants.
Excellent phone support.
Subscriptions include free wellness coaching.
Free shipping on all orders.
30-day money-back guarantee.
Slightly higher cost compared to competitors.
The ‘Logic’ formula includes soy.
Up to four large pills per dose.

Is Thesis legit? Does Thesis work? Such questions are frequently raised, and we’re here to address them. We’ve decided to play detective and break down the list of ingredients in the supplements’ formulation.

So, let’s talk about the Thesis science—or lack thereof.

L-Phenylalanine: The Mood Maestro?

First up on the list is l-phenylalanine, an amino acid. Thesis backs its inclusion in the formulation, saying that l-phenylalanine significantly enhances mood, attention, and motivation. So, you can say it works effectively for those who need to keep their mental health stable .

However, it’s always wise to understand if it’s a fact or just smoke and mirrors. Our investigation found that most research on l-phenylalanine revolves around obesity, not exactly the motivation hotspot. In fact, a clinical trial suggested it might curb hunger, but here’s the kicker – only at a dose 20 times higher than what’s in Thesis nootropics.

Vitamin B12: Nootropic Enigma?

The inclusion of Vitamin B12 in Thesis nootropics is a head-scratcher. We strove to find evidence proving the role of Vitamin B12 in enhancing brain power. Alas, we didn’t find any. However, if you need to fulfill the need for any vitamin, you can consider First Day Vitamins .

Dynamine: Brewing Alertness or Just Hot Air?

Dynamine is a snazzy compound extracted from coffee beans and tea, and according to Thesis, it “supports alertness.”

However, a deep dive into data told us that no medical research proves so. The plot thickened when we discovered what Compound Solutions, the manufacturer of Dynamine, said on its website. It said that Dynamine is often used in combination with caffeine and TeaCrine. But does Thesis mention caffeine or TeaCrine on its ingredients’ label? Surprisingly, no!

Forskolin: Memory Hero or Mismatch?

We stumbled upon Forskolin, praised in an animal study for being instrumental in reducing memory loss. However, there was a catch. The dose used in the study was way beyond what Thesis nootropics carry. Furthermore, there’s little evidence from human trials that it’s the mainstay of nootropics’ health-giving value.

Artichoke Extract: A Winner or a Dud?

Lastly, we’ve got artichoke extract, and the brand conjectures that it supports blood flow and stress management. However, we have a foggy understanding of why it’s in a nootropic formulation.

In a discomforting situation, the Thesis leaves us in the dark about inactive ingredients used in the nootropic mix. This is the point where the consumer safety siren goes off. Buying Thesis nootropics would be like buying a mystery box—you never know what you’re getting.

In hindsight, we’d say Thesis might be banking more on buzzwords than solid medical data.

We couldn’t find one ingredient we’d bet our brain cells on and find it potent enough to deliver anticipated results. The doses seem more like a sprinkle than a power-packed punch, leaving us in a complete dilemma about Thesis’ brain-boosting advantages.

If you have a thing for nootropics, we’d say there are plenty of fish in the sea. Numerous brainy brands are giving their all to create nootropics that work wonders for your brain health. You can always cast the net wider to find the right one.

Nootropics from Thesis haven’t been under the radar of clinical trials. And so, it’s difficult to elaborate on their side effects and the overall impact on health. However, a closer look at the formulation suggests a promising safety profile.

Simply put, the active ingredients used by Thesis are relatively safe for consumption and pose no apparent threat to your well-being.

But what stirs the pot is the use of inactive ingredients. These ingredients, often overlooked, have the potential to cause side effects that remain undiscovered.

Thesis has generated a buzz around their nootropics by labeling them as ‘personalized’ and ‘tailor-made.’ The brand asserts that its hand-picked supplements can:

Fight fatigue.
Promote energy.
Build mental stamina.

But do these claims hold any value?

As you start buying Thesis nootropics, the first order of business is to fill out a survey and share some health-related information to help the brand build the supplement box customized to your needs.

After submitting the data, you’ll end up on the “ Starter Kit ,” and this is the point where skepticism sets in. In a plot twist, you’ll discover that Thesis is gathering sensitive health data under the pretext of “personalized supplements.”

A questionable, shady marketing approach. Period!

In the age where the uproar over user privacy is reaching a crescendo—and law enforcement agencies are tightening their grip on the defaulters—a top brand engaged in such questionable marketing dynamics is least anticipated.

Coming to personalization, we feel it makes no sense whatsoever. Let’s understand why.

If Thesis is to provide tailor-made nootropics, it’d be developing formulas for a multitude of health needs, which appears highly implausible concerning manufacturing and logistical requirements. Thesis, to put it simply, only recommends nootropics that may work for consumers based on their needs. The brand provides ‘personalized recommendations’ instead of ‘personalized nootropics’—which is no real deal.

We’d deem it highly insensitive and inconsiderate for Thesis to ask for health data solely for personalized recommendations.

Thesis Nootropics comes in six formulas. Every formula has its set of unique specifications, and we’ve scrutinized them to provide you with a clear understanding.

Thesis Clarity

Clarity has 7,8 DHF, Alpha GPC, epicatechin, and lion’s mane as its key ingredients whose collective power works to augment brain blood flow and enhance acetylcholine production, a crucial neurotransmitter linked to learning and memory.

Particularly effective against brain fog, Clarity’s full ingredient list includes:

7,8-DHF: 30mg
Alpha-GPC: 250mg
Epicatechin: 250mg
Lion’s mane: 500mg
Caffeine: 100mg
L-theanine: 200mg

Dosage consists of four capsules for the caffeinated formula and three capsules for the stimulant-free formula.

Thesis Logic

Logic, with triacetyluridine (TAU), improves the overall central nervous system health. It packs the punch of phosphatidylserine for communication and protection of brain cells. Here’s Logic’s ingredient list:

Phosphatidylserine: 200mg
Theobromine: 100mg
Ginkgo biloba: 160mg
Synapsa: 320mg

Dosage involves four capsules for the caffeinated formula and three capsules for the stimulant-free formula.

Thesis Motivation

Thesis Motivation targets blood flow and cellular function through a blend powered by artichoke extract, forskolin, B12, and phenylalanine. It helps increase focus with the backing of the following ingredients:

Artichoke Extract: 450mg
Dynamine: 100mg
Forskolin: 250mg
L-Phenylalanine: 500mg
B12: 1,000mcg

Motivation is taken in one dose, with three capsules for the caffeinated formula and two capsules for the stimulant-free version.

Thesis Creativity

Thesis Creativity turbocharges your creativity. With the potent benefits of anxiolytic compounds and 5-HT reuptake inhibitors, it sets your creative passion ablaze by addressing stress, anxiety, and depression barriers. So, you can also consider adding it to your goals for treating depression .

Thesis Creativity is an amalgam of the following ingredients:

Agmatine: 250mg
Alpha GPC: 150mg
Ginseng: 200mg
Ashwagandha: 300mg
Zembrin: 25mg

Creativity is taken in one dose, with three capsules for the caffeinated version and two capsules for the stimulant-free option.

Thesis Confidence

The formulation of Thesis Confidence banks on saffron and DHH-B to boost dopamine and reduce anxiety. Since it also has sage extract, the supplement is a friendly booster for memory tasks. Thesis Confidence has the following ingredients:

DHH-B: 10mg
Affron: 28mg
Ashwagandha: 120mg
Magnesium L-Threonate: 500mg
Sage Extract: 333mg
L-Theanine: 200mg

Confidence is taken in one dose, with three capsules for the caffeinated formula and two capsules for the stimulant-free version.

Thesis Energy

Thesis Energy leverages cysteine and tyrosine, working in tandem with caffeine to ensure a gush of energy round the clock. The formula also incorporates TeaCrine, a proprietary theacrine blend that collaborates with caffeine to influence adenosine signaling and combat fatigue.

Energy’s ingredient list includes:

Choline: 300mg
NALT: 300mg
Sabroxy: 100mg
TeaCrine: 100mg
Zynamite: 300mg

A single dose of Energy involves three capsules for the caffeinated version and two capsules for the stimulant-free alternative.

Sadly, Thesis has missed the memo and developed nootropics that don’t come up to scratch. Hence, we wouldn’t recommend these supplements as a cure for any health issue, let alone ADHD.

TikTok, the popular social media platform, has Thesis nootropics reviews testimonials, positive and negative. While some users can’t stop raving about transformative experiences, a certain community doesn’t take a liking to Thesis supplements and write them off.

@brigid_marietv ADHD med challenge with thesis nootropics has ended. #nootropics #adhd #executivedysfuntion ♬ How’s Your Day – aAp Vision

@badkitty7777 #thesisreview #thesis #adhd #anxiety #mentalhealth #scathingreview #trash ♬ original sound – BadKitty

A YouTube content creator “Lukas Yan” reviewed these supplements and shared his thoughts on: Does Thesis Nootropics work? Check out the video below:

Read Next: Kachava Review: Is The Meal Replacement Shake Really As Good As They Say?

Wrapping Up – Is Thesis Nootropics Worth It?

No, Thesis Nootropics is not worth its high price, as it is limited in its effectiveness. Thesis nootropics claim to have a magic potion for your health; however, the facts state otherwise. While the supplements measure up to safety standards, we’re particularly concerned about its formulation, which lacks robust ingredients in the right measure and falls short of meeting expectations. Nevertheless, some ingredients are effective enough for the benefit of cognitive function and improving memory, focus, and mental clarity as well.

If you’re wondering – is Thesis Nootropics worth it? Here’s the bottom line— you must use it for a while and then decide upon its effectiveness. Otherwise, the market is swamped with brands that may offer a higher quality.

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Thesis stands out in the wellness industry with its personalized nootropic supplements, designed to cater to the individual’s specific cognitive needs. Health and wellness celebrities have pushed it, causing a wave of popularity.

Do Thesis nootropics live up to the hype?

Variety Of Blends: Various nootropic blends based on individual brain chemistry, maximizing effectiveness for each user.
Strong Advocacy and Support: Gained endorsements from notable wellness advocates and public figures, like Andrew Huberman, enhancing credibility.
Limited Clinical Research: While the company plans clinical trials, the current scientific backing may be limited.
Price: The ongoing cost of customized nootropics may be higher than standard off-the-shelf supplements or medications.
Dependence on Self-Reporting: The effectiveness of blends relies partly on user feedback, which may not always be accurate or consistent.
Many Underdosed Ingredients: As you’ll read below, many ingredients are dosed below what was used in human clinical trials.

Quick Verdict

Thesis has a range of suitable nootropic blends to cater to many needs.

However, our #1 nootropic of choice is NooCube. It’s designed for long-term brain changes, not just short-term boosts in mental performance.

What Is Thesis Nootropics?

Thesis Nootropics is a company that specializes in customized cognitive performance products. Dan Freed founded it in 2017.

Freed’s personal challenges with focusing, which he faced from a young age, led him to discover nootropics.

This personal journey of transformation through nootropics inspired him to create Thesis, aiming to help others find the right combination of nootropic ingredients that work for them.

The company’s unique approach involves allowing customers to experiment with high-quality nootropic ingredients to maximize results systematically.

Thesis has gained popularity primarily through word-of-mouth and a strong focus on personalization.

The company has raised over $13.5 million in funding and is reportedly profitable with a robust growth trajectory.

Thesis has garnered support from health and wellness advocates like Dr. Andrew Huberman, Rich Roll, Kevin Love, and Kate Bock.

Thesis Nootropics

Customized Blends For Cognitive Enhancement

Take the quiz and see which blends are right for you.

Thesis Nootropic Ingredients

Thesis have six unique blends designed to target various aspects of cognitive function. What’s similar between them is the option to include or exclude caffeine and L-theanine. The caffeine and l-theanine combination is the most potent instant nootropic, making each blend effective.

The caffeine L-theanine stack benefits physical and cognitive function. Some advantages include faster reaction time, faster visual processing speed, better working memory, increased awareness, and less tiredness and mental fatigue [1] [2] .

The research employs a 2:1 L-theanine to caffeine ratio, which Thesis has followed. Since this stack is available in every blend, I won’t include it in the ingredients breakdown below.

Thesis Clarity Blend

Alpha gpc (speculative).

Alpha GPC, a choline-containing phospholipid, improves cognitive function in neurological conditions like dementia [3] .

Research indicates it enhances memory and attention and may support brain health. Clinical trials show it can improve cognitive performance, especially when combined with other treatments like donepezil [4] .

It’s generally well-tolerated and safe. Alpha GPC increases acetylcholine levels in the brain, which is essential for memory and learning [5] .

It’s used both as a medicine and a nutritional supplement. Studies suggest Alpha GPC effectively boosts cognitive functions, particularly in adult-onset dementia disorders [6] .

Thesis Clarity Blend contains 500 mg, which is more than any other nootropic available.

Lions Mane Mushroom (Speculative)

The Lion’s Mane mushroom (Hericium erinaceus) includes chemicals that stimulate nerve growth factor (NGF) synthesis, which is necessary for nerve cell proliferation and differentiation [7] .

According to research, Lion’s Mane improves cognitive abilities, particularly memory and brain cell regeneration [8] .

It is renowned for its neuroprotective qualities, which may be effective in treating illnesses such as Alzheimer’s disease and cognitive impairment [9] .

Brain functioning, memory, and mood improvements have been linked to regular ingestion [10] .

While the mushroom does not directly improve cognitive skills, it does increase NGF, which improves brain health [11] . The dosage varies but is generally well-tolerated and has few negative effects.

Thesis Clarity contains 500 mg of Lions Mane, which may give a long-term nootropic effect.

Mycelium is typically avoided since the active chemicals are found in the primary mushroom. Jeff Chilton, a long-time mushroom researcher, discusses this in the podcast below:

Camellia Sinensis Tea Leaf (Speculative)

Camellia Sinensis, commonly known as tea, exhibits varying neuropharmacological effects based on the part of the plant used.

Seed extracts tend to be more stimulating, enhancing motor functions and showing potential as an antidepressant without causing drowsiness.

Leaf extracts, on the other hand, tend to produce a calming effect on the mind and mood. Both seeds and leaves have shown positive results in various tests assessing motor function and behavior in animal models [12] .

The study suggests these parts of the Camellia Sinensis plant have potential as cognitive enhancers, warranting further research, especially on seed extracts for their mode of action and possible new beneficial compounds.

I couldn’t find any human studies for this ingredient, so I can’t give you an efficacious dose range. But Thesis Clarity contains 278 mg of Camellia Sinensis Tea Leaf.

Dihydroxyflavone

Dihydroxyflavone research is all performed in rodents, so extrapolating to humans is rather challenging. 7,8-Dihydroxyflavone (7,8-DHF) is a compound that acts as an agonist for the TrkB receptor, which is associated with brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF).

BDNF is crucial for neuronal survival and brain plasticity. Studies have shown that 7,8-DHF can improve memory and cognitive functions [13] .

It enhanced memory formation in healthy rats and improved spatial memory in Alzheimer’s disease mouse models [14] .

Further, 7,8-DHF has been shown to counteract aging-related cognitive impairments in rats, improving spatial memory and synaptic plasticity in the hippocampus [15] .

This suggests that 7,8-DHF is a potential therapeutic agent for memory impairment and dementia, at least in rodents.

Thesis Energy Blend Ingredients

Citicoline is commonly mentioned in relation to memory enhancement. Studies have shown that 500 mg daily may improve episodic memory or the ability to recall personal experiences and specific events [16] .

According to other research, taking at least 500 mg of this supplement daily may provide cognitive benefits to healthy persons [17] .

The formulation of Thesis Energy Blend contains 300 mg of Citicoline. This dose may not achieve the full potential seen in studies proposing a higher dose.

Mango leaf extract, rich in the polyphenolic compound mangiferin, shows promise in neuropharmacology due to its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antidiabetic properties.

Studies indicate its potential in treating central complications associated with metabolic disorders like type 2 diabetes, which are risk factors for Alzheimer’s disease and vascular dementia [18] .

In animal models, mango leaf extract has demonstrated effects on reducing brain inflammation and spontaneous bleeding and improving cognitive functions [19] .

These findings suggest its utility in addressing symptoms of neurodegenerative diseases and cognitive impairments [20] .

Thesis Energy contains 300 mg of mango leaf.

Theacrine is a purine alkaloid similar to caffeine. It is found in the Camellia kucha plant and is often included in dietary supplements.

Studies show that it can increase energy, focus, and cognitive performance, similar to caffeine, but without habituation [21] .

Theacrine’s impact on cognitive performance and physical endurance has been researched in athletes, indicating possible benefits in reaction time and endurance [22] .

It may enhance cognitive function and physical performance, either alone or in combination with caffeine [23] .

Theacrine appears to be a promising supplement for improving mental alertness and physical capacity. Theacrine manufacturers fund some of these studies.

Thesis Energy contains 100 mg of Theacrine, which tends to be less than the dose used in these studies, suggesting it may have a weaker effect.

N-Acetyl Cysteine

N-acetyl cysteine (NAC) is explored for its potential to improve cognitive functions in psychosis and bipolar disorder due to its antioxidant, neurogenesis, and anti-inflammatory properties.

Studies show N-acetyl cysteine can improve working memory in psychosis [24] . However, results in bipolar disorder didn’t show significant cognitive improvements [25] .

Research indicates potential benefits for Alzheimer’s disease by promoting cognitive health and countering oxidative stress [26] .

To confirm its benefits, the effectiveness of N-acetyl cysteine in various cognitive disorders still requires more targeted, larger studies [27] .

N-acetyl cysteine’s role is promising but not yet firmly established in cognitive enhancement.

In human trials, a 600 – 2000 mg dose seems needed for cognitive benefits. Thesis Energy contains 500 mg, which is potentially underdosed.

Indian Trumpet Tree

Indian Trumpet Tree is known as Oroxylum indicum. In a 12-week study, older adults with memory complaints took 500 mg of Oroxylum indicum extract twice daily [28] .

Compared to a placebo, this supplementation improved episodic memory and numeric working memory. It also accelerated learning in location tasks.

However, there were no significant changes in other cognitive tests or overall cognitive and memory skills.

The study suggests that Oroxylum indicum, while well-tolerated, may primarily enhance specific memory functions.

Its potential effects could be linked to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties and interactions with neurotransmitters like dopamine and GABA.

This is the only human study on the Indian Trumpet Tree, so more research is needed to fully understand its impact on cognitive health. Thesis Energy only contains 100 mg of this, making it potentially underdosed.

L-tyrosine, an amino acid, has been shown to increase dopamine levels in the brain. L-tyrosine supplementation has improved cognitive regulation, particularly in mentally demanding settings [29] .

It is especially helpful in improving cognitive flexibility, which is impacted by dopamine.

While L-Tyrosine’s promise for treating clinical problems and improving physical activity is limited, it is useful in stressful or cognitively taxing situations.

It has the greatest cognitive benefits when neurotransmitter activity is intact, but dopamine and norepinephrine levels are momentarily decreased [30] .

According to research, optimal doses for cognitive improvement begin at a minimum of 2 grams. That is more than six times the dose in Thesis Energy.

Thesis Creativity Blend Ingredients

Thesis Creativity contains 150 mg of Alpha GPC, yet their Clarity Blend contains 500 mg. I’m not sure why there is a large discrepancy, especially when 500 mg is likely a more efficacious dose.

Agmatine Sulfate

Currently, agmatine sulfate has only been tested in rodents. It is a central nervous system (CNS) neurotransmitter/neuromodulator that has been studied for its potential effects on stress-related conditions like depression, anxiety, and cognitive performance.

Research suggests that agmatine can have antidepressant and anxiolytic (anxiety-reducing) effects, possibly related to its influence on the nitric oxide pathway [31] .

It may reduce oxidative stress and corticosterone levels while increasing brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), which is beneficial for brain health.

In animal studies, agmatine sulfate has been shown to be safe and well-tolerated, with oral administration effectively increasing its levels in the brain [32] .

This indicates potential for therapeutic use in neurological disorders, though more research is needed to fully understand its effects and mechanisms.

Thesis Creativity contains 250 mg. In these studies, patients were administered 15-600 mg per kg, which is a much higher dose.

Panax Ginseng

Panax ginseng is available in two varieties: white ginseng and red ginseng. It has vasorelaxant and moderately hypotensive effects on nitric oxide generation in the body [33] .

It increases antioxidant enzyme activity and may prevent oxidative damage associated with aging in rats [34] .

Ginseng has shown promise in boosting memory, particularly in age-related cognitive decline, as well as in improving mental and physical resilience, reducing fatigue, and assisting the body in adapting to stress [35] .

Daily doses of 200 mg extract or 0.5 to 2 g dry root are recommended. It is not suggested for persons with acute asthma or hypertension because it may cause overstimulation and elevate blood pressure in excessive dosages.

Thesis Creativity has an effective dose of 200 mg, which may provide you with these mental performance benefits.

Ashwagandha Root

Ashwagandha is a traditional herbal remedy used to improve various health conditions. Animal studies have shown that it can increase blood cell counts, which might enhance aerobic capacity [36] .

It also demonstrates the potential to reduce oxidative stress and lipid peroxidation, which could be beneficial in treating disorders like tardive dyskinesia [37] .

Additionally, Ashwagandha has shown nootropic effects and might be useful in treating Alzheimer’s disease [38] . Recommended dosages range from 6 to 10 grams of ground roots or 100 to 1250 mg of extract daily [39] [40] .

It’s generally safe but should be used cautiously, especially in cases of hyperthyroidism or pregnancy. High doses can have sedative effects and may cause gastrointestinal issues.

Thesis Creativity contains 300 mg of Ashwagandha, which is within the recommended range for cognitive benefits.

Sceletium Tortuosum

Sceletium tortuosum, also known as Kanna, is traditionally used for its mood-enhancing properties. It’s been studied for its potential in treating cognitive and neurodegenerative disorders like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s [41] .

Research suggests its constituents could target enzymes and receptors relevant to these diseases, offering neuroprotective benefits like antioxidant activity [42] .

Additionally, Sceletium Tortuosum is known for its antidepressant and anxiolytic effects, promoting relaxation and well-being, which could be beneficial in managing stress, anxiety, and depression [43] .

The plant’s bioactive alkaloids are also being explored for commercial medicinal use.

The 25 mg dose in Thesis Creativity is the same as used within the human trials.

Thesis Motivation Blend Ingredients

L-phenylalanine.

L-phenylalanine is a vital amino acid and has been explored for its potential benefits in managing conditions like attention deficit disorder and depression.

Studies have shown that doses of up to 1200 mg show initial improvements in mood and attention in individuals with attention deficit disorder, but tolerance develops over 2-4 months [44] .

In another study involving depressed patients, a dosage range of 75–200 mg/day for 20 days led to significant improvements in 12 out of 20 patients [45] .

However, the effectiveness and safety of L-phenylalanine can vary, and it is used in the treatment of various conditions, including depression and arthritis, and even as part of addiction recovery [46] .

Thesis Motivation has a 500 mg dose, which may provide some of these benefits. Will it improve motivation? I’m not sure.

Methylliberine

Methylliberine is a purine alkaloid explored for its cognitive and mood-enhancing effects. Studies have shown it can improve concentration, motivation, and mood, especially when combined with caffeine.

Methylliberine also appears to positively affect energy levels and well-being without significantly impacting vital signs like heart rate and blood pressure [47] .

These findings suggest its potential as a nootropic supplement, particularly for enhancing cognitive function and mood in various contexts, such as gaming or in tactical scenarios [48] [49] .

However, it’s essential to consider the dosage and combination with other compounds like caffeine for optimal effects.

The 100 mg dose in Thesis Motivation aligns with the current research.

Vitamin B12 (Speculative)

Vitamin B12 is essential for cognitive health and may be linked to neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.

Low levels of B12 are associated with cognitive impairment, but supplementation is only shown to be effective in improving cognition in cases of existing B12 deficiency [50] .

There is limited evidence that increasing B12 levels benefits people without B12 deficiency [51] .

B12’s impact on cognitive health may involve multiple mechanisms, including brain volume and function [52] . However, more extensive research is needed to fully understand its effects and potential as a cognitive enhancer.

Thesis Motivation contains 1000mcg. The research states that it may have no effect if you’re not Vitamin B12 deficient.

Forskolin (Speculative)

Forskolin has only been studied in rodents regarding cognitive function. Forskolin is an herbal extract that shows the potential to improve memory and reduce Alzheimer’s disease symptoms.

Studies have shown that it restores nest-building and social behaviors in mice with Alzheimer’ s-like symptoms, reduces amyloid plaque deposition, and regulates brain inflammation [53] .

Forskolin also influences memory and tau protein phosphorylation in the brain, which is relevant in Alzheimer’s [54] .

Additionally, forskolin has shown protective effects against Huntington’s disease-like neurodegeneration in rats by improving learning and memory and reducing oxidative stress [55] .

These findings indicate forskolin’s potential as a neuroprotective agent for certain neurological conditions, at least in rodents.

I’m skeptical whether 250 mg of Forskolin in Thesis Motivation will help you “feel” more motivated.

Artichoke (Speculative)

Artichoke extract is known for its prebiotic properties and promotes probiotic bacteria growth in the gut, potentially benefiting cognitive functions in mice [56] .

In elderly individuals with mild cognitive impairment, combining artichoke extract and aerobic training improved cognitive status and reduced blood glucose and insulin resistance [57] .

Artichoke varieties Spinoso Sardo and Romanesco Siciliano demonstrated antioxidant properties and potential protective effects against cardiovascular and neurodegenerative disorders, with Romanesco Siciliano showing higher antioxidant power [58] .

The 450 mg dose is well under the dose used in these studies.

Thesis Confidence Blend Ingredients

Saffron (speculative).

Saffron is traditionally used in herbal medicine and shows promise in improving cognitive function in individuals with Alzheimer’s Disease (AD) and Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) [59] .

Research indicates that saffron’s effectiveness is comparable to common drugs used for these conditions without increasing side effects. It’s also well-tolerated in cognitively normal individuals [60] .

However, most current studies have a high risk of bias. More comprehensive, low-bias clinical trials are needed to confirm saffron’s potential as a treatment for cognitive impairments like AD and MCI.

All of the research used 30 mg of saffron daily. Thesis Confidence has 28 mg, and I’m unsure why they formulated it without the extra 2 mg.

Magnesium Bisglycinate

Magnesium is essential for brain functions and has been researched for its potential cognitive benefits. Magnesium is particularly effective in increasing brain magnesium levels and has shown promise in improving memory and cognition in healthy adults [61] .

However, its role in anxiety and mood disorders is less clear [62] .

Studies indicate magnesium may help reduce symptoms of depression, but results are not consistent across all mental health conditions [63] .

Further research is needed to conclusively establish magnesium’s effectiveness and appropriate use as a therapeutic supplement in various psychiatric and cognitive disorders [64] .

500 mg of magnesium may help if you’re deficient, but there’s no clear benefit to making you more confident.

Sage (Speculative)

Sage, also known as Salvia, has traditionally been known to enhance memory. A recent study supports this, showing that acute ingestion of sage oil can significantly improve immediate word recall in healthy young adults [65] .

This suggests that sage may positively influence cognitive functions like memory, potentially due to its acetylcholinesterase inhibition activity in the brain.

However, this has not been replicated.

While historically used for various mental disorders, such as depression and age-related memory loss, contemporary research is needed to fully understand its benefits and potential as a cognitive enhancer.

Regardless of the 333 mg dose, this is one of the more speculative ingredients in all Thesis blends.

Sceletium Tortuosum (Speculative)

As mentioned in the Creativity Blend, Sceletium Tortuosum is known for its mood-enhancing properties. The same 25 mg dose is used in human trials.

Magnolia Bark (Speculative)

Magnolia officinalis is commonly used in traditional medicine for mental disorders like anxiety and depression and shows potential as a nootropic supplement.

Studies have demonstrated that its ethanol extract can improve cognitive function and memory in stress-induced situations. It also exhibits anxiolytic properties, reducing anxiety-related behaviors in rats [66] .

The extract’s effectiveness is also evident in lowering stress-induced increases in corticosterone and tyrosine hydroxylase levels.

Moreover, Magnolia officinalis, especially its component honokiol, has neuroprotective effects and can regulate mood disorders by modulating GABA and CB1 receptors in rats [67] .

These are rodent studies, so they cannot be extrapolated to humans. Regardless, they are included based on the mechanistic data and the theory that the 10 mg dose does the same thing in humans.

Ashwagandha Leaf & Root

The 120 mg of root and leaf ashwagandha may be enough to have a nootropic effect as the extract dose is between 100-1200 mg, as stated in the Creativity Blend section. However, this is root and leaf, and the main benefits are derived from the root.

Thesis Logic Blend Ingredients

Ginko biloba.

Ginkgo biloba is extracted from the leaves and fruit to improve cognitive function. Its compounds include antioxidants, enhance blood flow, and have anti-inflammatory properties.

Ginkgo biloba extract has been shown in animal studies to help with chronic brain difficulties by modifying inflammatory mediators and the cholinergic system [68] .

Clinical trials have shown it to improve working memory and processing speed [69] . However, its usefulness in healthy people under the age of 60 is debatable [70] .

Typical daily doses vary from 120 to 300 mg. Although side effects are uncommon, they can include stomach irritation and headaches, which may cause blood to thin, affecting people on certain drugs.

Thesis Logic contains 160 mg of Ginkgo Biloba, which is within the recommended dosage range.

Theobromine

Theobromine is a compound found in chocolate and has been studied for its potential cognitive effects.

Research indicates that theobromine might have a lesser immediate nootropic effect compared to caffeine but could have neuroprotective benefits with long-term consumption, possibly reducing Alzheimer’s disease-related pathology [71] .

Further studies are needed to fully understand its impact on cognition.

Additionally, theobromine’s effects on mood and vigilance appear to be different from caffeine, with some studies suggesting it might not significantly influence these aspects in nutritionally relevant doses [72] .

However, combining theobromine with caffeine could modify its effects, potentially offering cognitive and mood benefits without significant blood pressure increases [73] .

More research is required to confirm theobromine’s cognitive and mood-related effects.

Thesis Logic contains 100 mg of theobromine, but it seems doses greater than 400 mg are needed to enhance cognition.

Phosphatidylserine

Phosphatidylserine is essential for proper brain function. Phosphatidylserine has been proven to be critical for maintaining nerve cell membranes and myelin, which is required for successful neurotransmission [74] .

Phosphatidylserine can help reverse cognitive loss as the brain ages by boosting cognitive activities such as memory formation, learning, concentration, and problem-solving [75] .

It is well absorbed in humans and crosses the blood-brain barrier.

Supplements containing phosphatidylserine have been shown to increase cognitive functions and are generally well-tolerated. Dosages ranging from 100 to 800 mg per day are advised for cognitive support [76] [77] .

Thesis Logic contains 400 mg of phosphatidylserine, which may provide you with these cognitive-enhancing effects.

High DHA Algae

DHA is a vital component of neuronal membranes and plays an important role in brain health and cognitive function.

DHA consumption improves adult cognitive abilities, especially when paired with eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) [78] .

This impact is most noticeable in older people who have mild memory problems. Higher DHA and EPA doses (above 1 g per day) have been associated with better episodic memory.

Observational studies also show a link between DHA/EPA intake and memory performance in the elderly. DHA, both alone and in combination with EPA, improves memory in the elderly.

Thesis Logic contains 200 mg of DHA, suggesting insufficient DHA to provide a benefit.

Triacetyluridine (Speculative)

Triacetyluridine is being explored as a potential treatment for bipolar depression. In a study involving eleven patients with bipolar depression, high doses of triacetyluridine (up to 18 g per day) were administered over 6 weeks [79] .

The study measured the effects on depression symptoms using the Montgomery-Asberg Depression Rating Scale (MADRS) and evaluated cellular bioenergetics using phosphorus magnetic resonance spectroscopic imaging (P-MRSI).

Results indicated significant early improvement in depression symptoms.

Additionally, triacetyluridine responders showed notable differences in pH changes from baseline, suggesting triacetyluridine may improve mitochondrial function and reduce symptoms of depression.

Thesis Logic has 30 mg of triacetyluridine, which is well below the dose used in this study.

Bacopa Monnieri

Bacopa monnieri is a traditional plant that has been shown to improve cognitive performance, particularly memory.

Studies have demonstrated that bacopa extract, specifically bacosides A and B, increases memory formation, recall, and cognitive function [80] .

It has neuroprotective properties and is used to treat cognitive dysfunctions such as Alzheimer’s disease.

Adults should take between 200 and 400 mg each day. Bacopa is generally well accepted, with only rare reports of mild drowsiness or stomach difficulties.

Clinical trials show that older people have better memory, attention, mood, and overall cognitive ability [81] [82] [83] . However, more research is needed to thoroughly grasp its usefulness across many cognitive domains.

Thesis Logic contains 320 mg of Bacopa, giving you the efficacious dose to feel these benefits.

Thesis Nootropics Price

Thesis has two options: one time purchase or a subscription. Here’s how the prices break down:

Subscription = $79
One Time Purchase = $119

This is regardless of whether you purchase a personalized starter kit or build your own box.

You can’t buy them individually, either. You must purchase four boxes. When building your own, you can choose whether you want four of the same blend or mix and match.

They want you to try each blend for a week as part of the starter kit (there’s only a week’s worth of each blend in each container) to see which you like best.

Thesis has positioned itself as the most expensive nootropic available by adding the personalized element.

Is Thesis Nootropics Really Personalized?

I went through the initial quiz to see how they “personalize” their nootropic stack.

Here is what they recommended me:

Look, I get the marketing angle. In no way is this a truly personalized nootropic product. It’d be nearly impossible to create custom formulations for every unique individual.

However, the fact they have multiple blends means people can experiment to find which works best for them.

I will say, though, that if you choose the caffeine options, every blend will work. Many of the ingredients used in these blends are speculative and only based on animal research, and many are underdosed.

Benefits Of Thesis Nootropics

Multiple blends for different purposes.

To be honest, this benefit is more of a marketing tactic. However, some people may find certain blends jive well with them over others, giving you options within the same brand.

Further, Thesis claims the ingredients in each formulation work synergistically. There’s no research to back that claim, but at least know there are no negative side effects from their interaction.

Options For Stimulants Or Not

You can choose whether or not to include stimulants in your Thesis Blends. If you add the caffeine and L-theanine nootropic stack, the most potent synergistic brain booster, every blend will provide similar benefits.

However, if you’re already a coffee addict or plan to take Thesis in the evening, having no stimulants is the better option.

My Experience With Thesis

Based on my quiz, I was recommended Thesis Clarity, Logic, Motivation, and Confidence Blends. I tried each for a week to see if one stood out. I took them without caffeine as they all work if you have the caffeine L-theanine stack.

I have to say the Confidence and Motivation Blends did absolutely nothing for me. I didn’t “feel” any brain-boosting effects or feel more confident or motivated.

The Logic and Clarity Blends had small positive effects on my concentration on mentally demanding tasks like writing, coaching, or podcasting.

If I were to continue taking Thesis, I’d opt for either of these two blends.

Who Is Thesis For?

Busy working professionals.

Thesis Nootropics are ideal for busy professionals facing demanding schedules and high-stress environments. These blends can help enhance focus, improve decision-making, and increase productivity.

They are designed to support sustained mental energy throughout the day, enabling professionals to manage their workload more effectively without the usual mental fatigue.

Creative Artists

For creative artists, Thesis offers blends that stimulate creativity and enhance divergent thinking. These nootropics can help break through creative blocks, foster innovative thinking, and maintain a heightened state of inspiration.

They are particularly beneficial for artists seeking longer periods of creative flow and those seeking fresh perspectives.

Students can significantly benefit from Thesis Nootropics, especially during intense studying or when facing challenging academic projects.

The blends are formulated to enhance memory retention, improve concentration, and boost learning capabilities. This makes them a valuable tool for students who need to absorb and retain large amounts of information and perform well in academic assessments.

Gamers find Thesis Nootropics beneficial for improving their gaming performance. The blends can enhance reaction times, increase focus, and improve strategic thinking skills.

They are particularly useful during long gaming sessions, helping gamers stay alert and responsive, which is crucial in competitive gaming scenarios.

Coffee Haters

Thesis Nootropics provides an excellent alternative for those who dislike coffee or want to avoid caffeine jitters.

These blends offer a way to boost mental energy and alertness without relying on caffeine. This makes them ideal for individuals sensitive to caffeine or those seeking to reduce caffeine intake while maintaining high cognitive function.

User Testimonials And Reviews

You can’t access the review database on the Thesis website, so I did some digging to find user reviews. Here’s a couple of positive reviews:

“I must admit that during the weeks that I consistently take them, I perform better & I generally feel better just knowing I’ve ingested something intended to positively alter my natural brain state. Minor tasks/chores no longer seem as daunting and I get this underlying kick to complete my work well.” – ParsnipExtreme2502 (Reddit)

“I didn’t find Weeks 1 and 4 to do anything for me, but Weeks 2 and 3 really helped avoid the post-lunch, post-work slumps I tend to get now that I’ve been working from home; Energy is especially useful for days when I haven’t gotten enough sleep the night before.” – leftylucy88 (Reddit)

I can’t find many negative reviews other than potential side effects like migraines, which can be caused by many different factors.

Thesis Side Effects

Side effects are rare from the ingredients in these blends. I personally didn’t have any adverse reactions to the four blends I tried. However, like any supplement, they may have potential side effects.

Consult with a healthcare provider before starting any nootropic regimen, especially if they have pre-existing health conditions, are pregnant or breastfeeding, or are taking other medications.

Thesis Alternatives

If Thesis Nootropics isn’t quite the right match for you or you’re just curious about other products, here are some alternatives I’ve tried and can provide an insider’s look into.

SAP Nutra nootropic Nooceptin improves memory, concentration, and cognitive performance without stimulants. It offers gradual brain health gains.

It improves memory and focus and provides a prolonged boost without a caffeine crash. Students, gamers, professionals, and seniors should use Nooceptin to boost cognition.

This brain supplement contains Lion’s Mane Extract, Citicoline, rhodiola rosea extract, L-theanine, Bacopa Monnieri, ginkgo biloba, and panax ginseng.

Some of these compounds have been shown to be useful, but others are experimental. Nooceptin, a non-stimulant method for long-term cognitive enhancement, usually works after 7-14 days.

Despite the risk of underdosed components and increased cost, Nooceptin may provide a stimulant-free cognitive boost.

Mind Lab Pro

Mind Lab Pro is a popular nootropic that has gained appeal as a result of its alleged cognitive benefits.

Pure substances are used in its formulation, which is intended to improve mental clarity and attention. It is stimulant-free, making it an excellent choice for anyone seeking a well-rounded routine.

Its unique combination of 11 research-backed components distinguishes it from competitors in the brain health supplement sector.

These compounds were carefully chosen to help cognitive processes like memory, focus, mental clarity, mood, and cognitive processing speed.

Despite some criticism about the quantity of specific substances and the need for more scientific data, Mind Lab Pro has earned worldwide recognition for its ability to improve cognitive performance in professionals, students, the elderly, and athletes.

Our Mind Lab Pro review goes into great detail.

Braini distinguishes itself by being stimulant-free, providing long-term results, and having a short ingredient list focusing on long-term cognitive gains. It does not, however, deliver the immediate euphoric boost that some users may expect from a brain supplement.

Peptylin, a silk protein peptide with neuroprotective effects and potential benefits for executive function; NeurXcel, which is rich in omega fatty acids; and Wild Canadian Blueberry extract, which is known for its antioxidant characteristics and cognitive support, are all key ingredients in Braini.

Braini is backed by clinical trials, a 60-day money-back guarantee, and a 30-day challenge to scientifically quantify changes in brain function.

Our Braini review contains an in-depth breakdown.

Vyvamind is a nootropic supplement containing caffeine and L-theanine. It helps users focus and improve cognitive performance. Users claim increased focus, vitality, and cognitive abilities without big crashes.

Vyvamind’s formulation, which contains less L-tyrosine and citicoline than some studies suggest, is intended to supplement the major nootropic duo of caffeine and L-theanine.

This combination is well-known for boosting concentration and cognitive function. The supplement is touted as a non-stimulant alternative, appealing to clients seeking a more natural and less intensive approach to cognitive growth.

Vyvamind is suitable for coffee-averse people, busy professionals who require a focus boost, and students during study sessions.

Our Vyvamind review goes into great detail.

Because of its purported fast cognitive effects, NooCube is a popular brain-boosting product. It contains ingredients such as Bacopa Monnieri, L-tyrosine, and L-theanine.

These are well-known for their mental health advantages. However, several compounds, such as Huterzine-a and Alpha GPC, remain speculative without additional investigation.

NooCube is intended to improve cognition and alertness without using stimulants, and the amounts of each ingredient are clearly labeled.

Because it gives different cognitive benefits without the jittery side effects associated with caffeine, NooCube is especially good for working professionals, students, elders, gamers, and combat athletes.

Our detailed analysis can be found in our NooCube review .

Frequently Asked Questions

What is thesis nootropic and what does it do.

Thesis Nootropic is a personalized supplement formulated to enhance cognitive functions. Depending on the blend chosen, users can expect improvements in focus, reduction in procrastination, stress management, and memory recall.

Does Thesis Work Like Adderall?

Thesis Nootropics and Adderall are used to enhance cognitive functions, but they are fundamentally different. Adderall is primarily prescribed for treating Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and narcolepsy.

Adderall is an amphetamine, classified as a controlled substance due to its strong stimulating effects and potential for abuse and dependency.

Thesis Nootropics are dietary supplements designed to enhance healthy individuals’ cognitive functions, such as memory, focus, and mental clarity. They are not intended to treat medical conditions like ADHD.

How Long Does It Take Thesis Nootropics To Work?

If you have the caffeine version, within 30 minutes. You may feel the non-stimulant blends kicking in just as quickly, but they won’t be as pronounced. Sometimes, they can take multiple weeks to feel them working.

I’ve explored the world of nootropics and shared my firsthand experience with Thesis Nootropic’s various blends. While personalization is nothing more than a marketing tactic, the different blends are a nice touch for those who want to experiment with different ingredients.

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The Best Nootropics Supplements Personalized to Your Brain?

Updated: 01/25/2024

Outliyr is is editorially independent. We may get a small commission if you buy through our links (at no cost to you). Thanks for your support!

TakeThesis Nootropics Honest Review (FindMyFormula 2.0)

Your brain is a primary difference between winning a Nobel prize and living a life of mediocrity.

How well it functions isn’t solely a matter of genetics.

Neuroscience research, and overwhelming anecdotal experience, show that we can dramatically upgrade our:

Mental clarity
Productivity
Access to the flow state
Information processing speed

Welcome to the world of “neurohacking”. Using special ingredients and lifestyle practices to optimize the brains and increase our overall quality of life.

But there’s one glaring issue…

Companies making the best brain-boosting supplements recognize this and customize their formulas to your unique lifestyle.

One such nootropic experience is a “newcomer” (you’ll learn why this isn’t exactly true) called Thesis. You take a short brain assessment, they send you a starter kit, and their complimentary coach helps you hone the perfect brain supplements — customized to you!

This post will thoroughly review of TakeThesis, how it compares to other nootropics companies, and whether this is the last brain supplement you’ll need.

In a hurry?

Use the exclusive Thesis code URBAN to save 10%

Quick & Dirty Intro to Nootropics

These are different from the off-label use of prescription pharmaceuticals like Adderall.

Essentially, nootropics are a special class of ingredients that satisfy ALL the following criteria:

Safe and non-toxic
Enhance learning and memory
Protect against injury
Boost natural cognitive ability (memory, logic, creativity, focus, etc)

There’s something that makes them even better…

Nootropics upgrade your baseline performance even after you stop taking them . They cause long-term changes to brain structure and function. Almost like training you how to operate at a higher level and forming positive habits.

At the same time, the good ones provide a quick and noticeable pick-me-up. You don’t wonder if they’re working.

The right formulas help you reach your full potential faster and more effectively.

What is Take Thesis Nootropics?

Thesis is the masterpiece of expert brain supplement formulators Dan Freed and Adam Greenfield. This duo began researching nootropics out of personal need. Both struggled with poor cognitive performance. They learned how to balance brain chemistry to maximize performance.

Now they’re sharing their discoveries with the world.

After great success with their original product, Find My Formula (which I reviewed here), they revamped their formulations and process.

While each of us has unique neurochemistries, after working with enough people, they began to spot patterns in which ingredients, the forms of those ingredients, and doses work best. Over the span of years, they’ve amassed a huge dataset:

30,000+ users
550,000 recommendations made
127 ingredients tested

Resulting in 86% of users reporting higher energy levels, better mood, more reliable memory, and greater motivation.

Unsurprisingly, Thesis has garnered a stellar 96% customer satisfaction.

The company also has soul. By donating a portion of each sale to both the Covenant House and The Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies (MAPS), they’re evolving the future of brain enhancement and also making it more accessible to the world.

Thesis Nootropics Ingredients

When evaluating any nootropic, you must consider how they source and test ingredients.

The sad truth is that most of the products on the market are WORSE than useless. Contaminated with heavy metals, mycotoxins, pathogens, even adulterated with banned (dangerous) substances.

Thesis puts each ingredient through a rigorous, multi-step ethical, medical, and legal evaluation. Before acquiring and testing the ingredients for safety and purity, every ingredient must be supported as safe and effective by clinical trials.

This team keeps up with the ever-changing regulations.

Since the days of Find My Formula, a lot has changed. Each of their blends has undergone a major overhaul.

One of the common gripes with naturals is that you don’t feel anything.

How Thesis Works

Thesis isn’t your run-of-the-mill supplement company.

They’ve streamlined a process resulting in 86 percent of users finding their neurochemically tuned formulations in less than one month.

This is how to best use Thesis:

Assess your unique brain
Establish your baseline
Begin your Starter Kit
Notice what works for you and what doesn’t
Tweak and optimize with complimentary coaching

Your Thesis journey begins with a short survey to understand your basic lifestyle, how your brain functions, and your goals for using nootropics. The entire “quiz” takes just a few minutes. When you finish, their AI finds your “digital twin” to determine which formulations are most likely to work for you.

A few days later, you’ll receive the Thesis Starter Kit in the mail, with the four separate blends best matched to your brain.

I suggest jotting down the way you feel, your challenges, and goals. That way you’ll have something to reference after several weeks of testing. Bonus points for including audio/video in your log.

You’ll follow the directions, testing each product for six days in a row. Then take a break over the weekend, allowing your body to reset. Though you don’t need two days off, I notice better effects when I give my body the extra rest day.

If you’re sensitive, I suggest taking these capsules first thing in the morning.

At any point, you can schedule a call with one of the resident Thesis Nootropics Experts. They’ll help coach you to ensuring the best possible experience and tweak your kit as necessary. Definitely take advantage of the experts, as they’re a key bonus of Thesis !

By the end of the month, you’ll have discovered your favorite blends and the ones that you don’t like. It’s perfectly normal to not like some of them, and your future orders will only include the products you love most.

The Thesis Nootropic Blends for Every Goal

TakeThesis Nootropics Blends Full Unbiased Review

Note that I’ve written about five blends below, but your Starter Kit will only contain four. Once you’ve gone through the Starter Kit, you’ve demoed the blends.

Hopefully, you’ve discovered the ones that work great for you.

For every subsequent order, you get four slots to customize however you prefer. My favorite combo is:

(2) Clarity

But if I really loved a particular blend, for example, I could just do:

(4) Creativity

You can request any of the formulations in either of two versions: caffeinated or caffeine-free.

Don’t pay much attention to the names of each. They’re merely general suggestions of the most often reported benefits. It’s entirely possible that you’ll get more clarity from Creativity, or better logical reasoning from Energy.

Let’s examine each of the different blends.

Thesis Energy

Thesis Nootropics Review: Energy Formula

I reach for Energy when I get less than 7 hours of sleep, or when I need extra energy to crush a workout and power through a long Monday. It’s also useful for travel days, or when I know I’ll wind up in energy-depleting situations. Others use it to reinforce new healthy habits.

Thesis Energy blend ingredients include:

Zynamite® – 300mg
TeaCrine® – 100mg
Sabroxy® – 100mg
CDP Choline – 300mg
N-Acetyl-L-Tyrosine – 300mg
N-Acetyl Cysteine – 500mg
Optional: Caffeine – 100mg
Optional: L-Theanine – 200mg

Sabroxy is an ancient Ayurvedic extract that comes from the bark of the Indian trumpet tree. Research suggests it enhances memory, focus, immunomodulation, mood, and even skin health.

From previous experience, I know that I respond well to Zynamite and TeaCrine. The former is an extract of mango leaf, and the latter is a molecular cousin of caffeine that comes from a tea plant, is non-habit forming, and with fewer side effects. Both noticeably increase energy, as expected. As a bonus, I find that these two also lift my mood.

Compared to the previous Energy formula, this iteration is smoother and more refined. Each sachet contains three capsules, and I start feeling effects 15 minutes after swallowing them.

I’ve been a big fan of all the Energy blends I’ve tested so far. It’s constantly ranked in my top 2 favorites due to the pronounced effects. It feels like a more full-body caffeine without the jitters or crash.

Thesis Clarity

Thesis Nootropics Review: Clarity Formula

As the package insert describes, Clarity supports a calm, focused flow and is great for optimal performance during high-stakes days. Good for presentations, content creation, and non-stimulating concentration.

I’ve found this description to be spot on. The formula has undergone a complete overhaul, featuring two ingredients I haven’t found in other nootropics.

Thesis Clarity blend ingredients include:

7,8 Dihydroxyflavone – 30mg
Camellia Sinesis Extract – 250mg
Alpha GPC – 250mg
Epicatechin – 250mg
Lion’s Mane 8:1 Extract – 500mg

7, 8 Dihydroxyflavone is a man-made flavonoid that can penetrate the blood-brain barrier and mimic the effects of BDNF (dubbed “MiracleGro for the brain”). Camellia Sinesis is the ingredient that earned tea’s reputation as a health drink. It’s a potent source of the relaxing compound l-Theanine. Epicatechin also comes from tea, and it promotes optimal blood flow, mood, and neuroprotection.

A dose of Clarity takes three capsules, and I couldn’t pinpoint the exact time I started feeling it. The effects became more pronounced after approximately one hour.

Don’t expect a huge boost in energy or racing thoughts from this one. Once I released that expectation, I noticed that I felt clear, calm yet alert, steady, and mentally sharp . All without overstimulation. I flowed through my work, easily focusing on each task through completion.

To my surprise, Clarity went from among my least favorite Find My Formula blends, to my Thesis top pick.

I’m confident that this is one of the only nootropics that I can take in the afternoon (or even evening) and still sleep great.

Thesis Creativity

Thesis Nootropics Review: Creativity Formula

Creativity helps you generate new ideas, think abstractly, and finally bring your dream projects to fruition. It works by quieting overthinking and helping integrate both hemispheres of the brain.

The stack of powerful adaptogenic herbs also makes it an excellent choice for stressful situations, or to relax in social events.

You can rest assured that it contains some of the most researched and scientifically proven herbs on the planet. Ashwagandha and Panax Ginseng are staples in Ayurvedic (Indian) and Traditional Chinese Medicine. Thousands of studies back their use.

Thesis Creativity blend ingredients include:

KSM-66 Ashwagandha – 300mg
GS15-4 Panax Ginseng – 200mg
Zembrin® – 25mg
Agmatine Sulfate – 250mg
Alpha GPC – 150mg

The Thesis formulators did a great job here, handpicking the strongest, cleanest, and most bioavailable forms of each ingredient.

Zembrin is one I hadn’t heard of, but am impressed by what I’ve learned. It’s a plant extract known to boost mood, improve workout focus, alleviate nervousness, and enhance complex problem-solving.

Approximately 45 minutes after my three-capsule dose, I noticed myself feeling slightly less reactive to urgent emails and other daily stressors. I could also more easily discern wisdom from my intuition. Each time I followed my instinct, I made the right choice.

I do already regularly take Ashwagandha and Ginseng in my own supplement regimen (which I stopped for this experiment), so it’s likely that my reaction is milder than most.

Thesis Logic

The name summarizes it well. Logic supports rational thinking. Making a popular choice among lawyers, bankers, programmers, scientists, academics, and those looking to boost their analytical abilities.

Though I didn’t get it selected for my Starter Kit, I reached out to their customer service to have it swapped in. As a Data Scientist, I knew that this would fit me well.

I was right. My first experience with the original Find My Formula Logic blend quickly took silver (only behind their original Energy). It hit the sweet spot between energetic stimulation and effortless focus. I went from spec sheet to finished product 35 percent faster than normal.

Thesis Logic blend ingredients include:

Triacetyluridine – 30mg
Vegan Omega-3 Lysine complex (EPA + DHA) – 200mg
Phosphatidylserine – 200mg
Theobromine – 100mg
Gingko Biloba – 160mg
Synapsa® (Bacopa monnieri extract) – 320mg

As its name suggests, Triacetyluridine is a more potent version of the nootropic uridine. It’s known to improve learning, memory, energy, mood, and reduce neuroinflammation.

Theobromine is a mild stimulant related to caffeine naturally occurring in cacao. It increases blood flow, and improves focus.

Those interested in memory enhancement may know Bacopa — one of the greatest ancient memory-enhancing herbs. Gingko is another notable natural herb, known to improve alertness, concentration, focus, and memory.

Phosphatidylserine comes from sunflowers. It gently alleviates stress without drowsiness, improves memory, and increases alertness.

Indeed, the Logic formulation improves working memory, offsets stress, and accelerates learning. On days I reluctantly approached tedious work, the two capsule dose of Logic took the edge off within about 20 minutes.

I’m still experimenting with the latest Logic blend, but so far it stacks up with the original. The new Logic feels slightly weaker, but I greatly prefer the new ingredients.

Thesis Motivation

Thesis Nootropics Review: Motivation Formula

Motivation comes in a lime-green sachet. It’s Thesis’ take on the classic and original CILTEP nootropic stack.

Motivation bills itself as best for:

Crushing your TODO list
Building healthy habits
Increasing discipline and drive

It’s one of the blends that’s most polarizing. You either love it, or you hate it.

I’ve tested this exact formulation produced by several different companies (including NaturalStacks and Find My Formula), and I’ve had bad experiences every single time.

The predominant effect I notice is a headache (which I never get). I also feel slightly spacey. This time I came prepared and used Semax to pull me out of my CILTEP fog.

But just as many people rave about their Motivation.

Thesis Motivation blend ingredients include:

Forskolin – 250mg
Methylcobalamin – 1000mcg
Dynamine – 100mg
L-Phenylalanine – 500mg
Artichoke Extract – 450mg

It’s safe to say that after two days of use, you’ll know which Motivation camp you fall into.

Thesis Confidence

TakeThesis Nootropics Confidence Formula Review

Confidence is a newer Thesis blend that came out in mid-2022 after heavy internal research and development. I’ve been using it for the last few weeks and it’s certainly one of my favorites. Perhaps my top non-stimulating Thesis Formula.

Typical use cases for Confidence include:

Important situations
Doing uncomfortable or new things
Times of leadership
Stopping overwhelm

My experience with Thesis Confidence has been overwhelmingly positive. Within about 30 minutes, I felt a smooth and definite mood boost. The day seemed to flow easily. I didn’t feel jitters or nervousness before overwise stressful no-agenda meetings.

This one is great for social situations. I’m noticing that I feel more comfortable and bold as a newbie Bachata dancer.

Although it’s not very stimulating, I noticed a slight rush kind of like the effect of finishing a good workout. Increased blood flow and slight flushing paired with relaxation (but certainly not any sedation).

Thesis Confidence blend ingredients include:

Saffron extract (affron®) – 28mg
Ashwagandha extract (Shoden®) – 120mg
Sage extract – 333mg
Magnesium threonate – 50mg
Magnolia bark extract (DHH-B) – 10mg

This is an excellent formula. I love the synergy between the ingredients. Plus, many of these (like Saffron) are expensive and commonly faked in supplements. By using the patented versions, we’re assuredly getting the real thing.

How to Use Thesis

When the shipment finally arrives in the mail, you might feel overwhelmed.

Here’s what to expect…

Inside the large box, you’ll find four smaller boxes. Each box contains five sachets. Monday through Saturday mornings, you take one full sachet (2-3 capsules).

I suggest you take notes beforehand on what you wish to get out of the experience. Some popular examples include:

Spending less time distracted on social media
Output at your main job
Progress toward hobbies, projects, or other work
Starting a new skill, language, or health habit
Finish work faster

Then, at the end of each day, spend 15-seconds jotting down notes in the provided instruction manual. Trust me, this makes a huge difference. After completing week four, you’ll probably forget which blends you loved, the effects they had, and which ones didn’t work for you.

Some of the ingredients last slightly longer in your system, so I take the entire weekend off to allow my neurochemistry to reset. This also ensures you get the most bang for your buck.

After repeating this process for all four boxes, you’ll have discovered your favorite blends. A Thesis coach can help you customize future orders so you’ll only receive the ones you want!

Tips to Get the Most Out of Thesis Nootropics

Free Nootropics Mini Email Course New e1722472217121

Nootropics aren’t cheap.

You can skip this entire section, but these tips will help ensure that you get the most out of your experience.

Caffeine-free . If you’re new to nootropics, start with the non-caffeinated versions. I drink coffee most days. Sometimes two cups. But I always get my nootropics caffeine-free. For several reasons. First, nootropics potentiate caffeine. One coffee can feel like 3. If you’re not used to the combo, going caff-free gives you more control. Caff-free also means that I can take nootropics later in the day. Also, the health benefits of coffee don’t come from caffeine but from the polyphenols, flavonoids, and other phytochemicals. Plus, I just like the taste of coffee.

If you like this kind of thing, join my FREE nootropics mini-course where you’ll learn:

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Thesis Nootropics Questions & Answers

Should i take thesis with caffeine.

I recommend taking Thesis without caffeine to start. Caffeine greatly increases the effects of certain nootropics. For some, this can be too much and lead to panic, headaches, and unease. You can always add coffee and more easily control your caffeine dosage later.

What’s the difference between Thesis and Find My Formula nootropics?

Thesis is the latest generation of Find My Formula nootropics. They’ve refined, upgraded, and revamped every single one of their formulas according to the latest neuroscience research. Find My Formula products are no longer available.

Which Thesis blend is best?

Your ideal Thesis stack depends on your neurochemistry, lifestyle, and goals. People either love or hate their Motivation blend. My favorites (in order) are Clarity, Energy, and then Logic.

How much do Thesis nootropics cost?

Thesis offers two different buying options: one-time, and subscription. One-time purchases cost $119.00 and subscriptions cost $79.00 per month. Use code URBAN and save an extra 15 percent! Thesis backs all purchases with a full 30-day no-questions-asked money-back guarantee.

Thesis Nootropics Review: Boosting Your Brain With Precision Formulas

Ignore those that say you’re stuck with a less-than-optimal brain.

According to the latest neuroscience (and countless personal examples), that’s demonstrably false.

That is if you use the right products.

The most popular nootropics today are:

I’m constantly trying the latest nootropic formulas.

I take most of them for a month and see little benefit.

Thesis is one exception, featuring an impressive array of the highest-quality forms of well-researched ingredients. Drawing from their millions of data points, they’ve come up with unique formulas that give you both a quick boost and long-term benefits .

So that one day, should you choose, you can completely stop supplementing and continue enjoying all the fruits of an upgraded brain.

I personally prefer their Clarity, Energy, and Logic. Each serves a role specific to the type of day I have ahead.

Since the original Find My Formula blends, I’m impressed with their improvements. They’ve moved away from some of the man-made ingredients and embraced natural (but effective) bioharmonizing compounds.

As of January 2022, Thesis has amassed a 4.5+ star rating on 7,411 ratings.

Try it yourself with the exclusive Outliyr discount:

Thesis nootropics code URBAN saves you 10%

To the long-term Formula users — what do you think of the update? Have you enjoyed the new Thesis blends?

Let’s have a discussion in the comments below!

Post Tags: Brain & Cognition , Lifestyle , Nootropics , Review , Supplements

12 thoughts on “The Best Nootropics Supplements Personalized to Your Brain?”

Unfortunately, I can not use any of the samples sent by Thesis. Each packet contained the caffeine equal to a cup of coffee.

What a bummer!

I’m not sure how you do with caffeine, but it also includes l-theanine which is a natural amino acid that really smoothes out the negative effects of caffeine (I won’t use any form of caffeine without it). You might want to reach out to their team about this, but last I heard, one of the pills in each sachet is exclusively caffeine/theanine. I’ve received a few caffeinated boxes, and just threw away the smallest white caffeine/theanine pill.

Or you can reach out to them and they will likely make it right.

Hey, I had the same issue. Fortunately, the caffeine portion comes in its own separate capsule (the white capsule in each packet), so you can choose to leave it out!

Correct. It’s the smaller white one if there are multiple white capsules.

I’ll be honest. I think this is a scam, like snake oil.

Hi Andrew. Not sure what you mean. Have you ever used nootropics? Or botanicals/herbals? What makes you think this is a scam?

This is my first time visiting the website although I’m no stranger to nootropics. I don’t remember where or how I discovered acetyl choline—AGP?—but it was a game changer for me. I’d been taking phosphatidylserine for memory enhancement for at least 2 decades, L-Tyrosine to boost dopamine, PEA, for the same reason. All on my own initiative, as a result of my own independent research. What disturbs me about Thesis is: 1). I suffer from a congenital disease for which there is no cure—Lipedema—and this is allegedly at the root of the fatigue which has blighted my entire life and which I have been attempting to overcome for most of it. The disease afflicts about 10% of women and as one doctor blithely informed me, “you;d be better off with cancer. At least there’s a chance you might recover.” As a result of the quiz I took, Thesis informed me I was in the bottom 4% of applicants and never investigated further. Well, Hello. 2). Quiz had questions about exercise but nothing about diet or meditation, Since I follow functional and integrative Medicine, these gaps disappointed me. I still haven’t made up my mind about becoming a member, but I am grateful to Andrew Huberman for drawing my attention to this range of products.

Hi Jacqueline, sorry about the super slow response here! Glad you’ve found things that work for you. That’s strange. When I took the quiz, they didn’t show percentiles. I agree, diet and meditation are essential. Impossible to overlook really, especially when we’re discussing nutraceuticals. I’ll let them know when I talk to them next.

Update on “the ingredients are not evenly distributed throughout the pills.” I spoke to a Thesis rep this week, and after a detailed conversation regarding the caffeine pills (the small white pill in each caffeine line of products), she clarified that the other pills (not the 100mg of caffeine + 200 mg of L-Theanine small white pill) have the remaining blend evenly distributed between the pills.

Loved your article, how you spelt it out, and agree strongly with the feelings on Clarity being “clear, calm yet alert, steady, and mentally sharp. All without overstimulation.”

Good correction! The caffeine/theanine pill is easy enough to spot.

Thanks for the feedback. Which are your favorite(s)?

Nick, this is an awesome intro to nootropics and Thesis, thank you for breaking this down! I was a Formula customer for years and my favorite blends were Clarity and Creativity. With the new Thesis formulations Energy has been added into my routine! I feel like I have tools at my disposal for any occasion… Creativity is great for social situations or other experiences that would otherwise leave me mentally fatigued, Clarity is great when I have a ton I want to accomplish without interruption, Energy is great when I haven’t had great sleep or need to do more physical stuff. I don’t use it every day, but it’s there when I need a lift. Great read, thanks for the knowledge!

Thanks! How often do you use Thesis? Do you combine it with anything else?

Who is Nick Urban

Every year I spend over 1,000 hours reading, discovering, testing, and analyzing strategies

Nick Urban is the Founder of Outliyr, an expert Biohacker of 10+ years, Data Scientist, Certified CHEK Practitioner, Host of the Mind Body Peak Performance Podcast , and a High-Performance Coach. Click here to read how Nick went from struggling pre-diabetic, to collegiate rugby national champion. If you want to send Nick a quick message, then visit his Contact Page .

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Feature Stories

What Are Nootropics?

Whether you're a college student hoping to ace your exams, a busy professional striving for a promotion, or an older adult concerned about dementia , the idea of popping a pill that boosts your brainpower might seem appealing. So perhaps it's not surprising that the use of nootropics -- aka cognitive enhancers or smart drugs -- is on the rise. But do they work? And are they safe?

The term "nootropics" first referred to chemicals that met very specific criteria. But now it's used to refer to any natural or synthetic substance that may have a positive impact on mental skills. In general, nootropics fall into three general categories: dietary supplements , synthetic compounds, and prescription drugs.

While health experts generally agree that taking a prescription nootropic for an FDA-approved purpose (such as a stimulant medication if you have ADHD or donepezil if you have Alzheimer’s) may be helpful, the use of any type of cognitive enhancer in healthy people is far more controversial.

What Researchers Say

Barry Gordon, MD, PhD, director of the cognitive neurology/neuropsychology division at Johns Hopkins Medicine, says there's "no strong evidence" that any of the supplements now being sold for their supposed memory-boosting powers are helpful. "It's not clear that they work and not clear that they're safe," he says. He’s also skeptical of the basic premise behind nootropics.

"The circuits that are involved in human cognition are very complicated and not fully understood," he says. "You can't just 'turn up the dial' that easily." He notes that people who believe their mental performance has increased thanks to nootropics are largely being influenced by a placebo effect. "If you're more confident and think you'll do better, you will do better."

Chris D'Adamo, PhD, director of research and education at the University of Maryland’s Center for Integrative Medicine, has a different take. Like Gordon, he doesn't think nootropics will give you superhuman mental abilities, but he does believe they have the potential to offer some people an edge.

"Most people seeking to optimize cognitive function would be better off focusing on getting enough sleep , eating a nutrient-dense diet , and managing their stress ," he says. But once you have those basics down, the right nootropics might serve as a bonus, helping you think more clearly and sharply or reduce your chances of cognitive decline as you age, he says.

Types of Nootropics

Almost everyone uses a nootropic, whether they know it or not, says D'Adamo. He's talking about caffeine , and while it can have health risks if you overdo it, this natural stimulant has been shown to improve thinking skills. It doesn't simply make you feel more alert, says D'Adamo: Caffeine also gives you more access to several chemicals (neurotransmitters) in your brain such as acetylcholine, which helps with short-term memory and learning.

But most people interested in nootropics aren't sticking to coffee or tea. They’re branching out to dietary supplements. Some, such as ginseng and gingko, have not held up to scientific scrutiny. Yet others -- including CDP-choline, L-theanine, creatine monohydrate, Bacopa monnieri , huperzine A, and vinpocetine -- may still hold promise.

Racetams, such as piracetam, are another type of nootropic. You can get these synthetic compounds over the counter in the U.S., but they’re considered prescription drugs in some other countries. D'Adamo says these chemicals, which act on neurotransmitters including acetylcholine, have been studied in older adults who have a decline in thinking skills. He doesn’t recommend them for most younger, healthy people.

Prescription nootropics largely consist of stimulants such as those in some ADHD medications . Although these work well for many people with ADHD , they are not recommended for others who simply want to improve their focus and attention. Many college students get these types of drugs illegally, and while they may seem to help in the short term, there are serious risks. Side effects may include insomnia , blurry vision , high blood pressure , a fast heart rate , circulation problems, and addiction .

Another type of prescription nootropic is modafinil ( Provigil ). It's FDA-approved to treat narcolepsy, sleep apnea , and shift work disorder, but some studies suggest that it may help with learning and memory in healthy people. Modafinil appears to be safer than other types of stimulants, but more research is needed.

Most Promising Options

If you're considering trying nootropic supplements, you should talk it over with your doctor first. As with all supplements, you’ll want your doctor to let you know about any health risks, like effects on any conditions you have or medications you take.

Keep in mind that although there are some studies on the topic, they tend to be small or limited to the impact on older adults. Also, everyone's brain chemistry is unique, so what works for one person might not for another, says D'Adamo. That said, these four types might have promise:

L-theanine: This supplement seems to enhance the mental effects of caffeine and counteract caffeine -induced jitteriness, D'Adamo says. Research has shown that combining caffeine and L-theanine may help you multitask better. The safest way to get this combo is by drinking pure green tea, which contains both caffeine and L-theanine, but it's also OK to combine your usual coffee or tea with an L-theanine supplement.

Don't take caffeine in pill or power form, as it's too easy to overdo it. Caffeine, in excess, can be toxic, causing a racing heartbeat and even leading to seizures or death. Just 1 teaspoon of pure caffeine powder could have as much caffeine as you’d get from 28 cups of coffee. The FDA, which has cracked down on makers of pure and highly concentrated caffeine products, notes that the difference between a safe amount and a toxic amount is very small.

CDP-choline: Often prescribed in Europe as a drug, CDP-choline has been shown to help memory -- at least in people who have dementia caused by vascular problems in the brain. There are no known side effects, so it's generally considered safe to try.

Creatine monohydrate: Frequently found in body-building supplements, creatine helps build muscle mass. But studies have also found that it may improve reasoning skills and short-term memory in healthy people. It increases levels of a molecule called ATP, which leads to more cellular energy, D'Adamo says. "I take it regularly just for energy. It's very safe." But talk to your doctor first if you have any kidney problems.

Bacopa monnieri : A traditional Indian (ayurvedic) herb, Bacopa monnieri -- also known as brahmi -- has been suggested by some to help the brain processes information faster. It causes the branches of nerve cells (dendrites) to grow, says D'Adamo. He says this process takes some time; expect to wait 4-6 weeks for results. Although it's generally well-tolerated, it may cause abdominal cramping, nausea, and diarrhea.

While combining several of these supplements might seem like a good idea -- and many formulas on the market that do just that -- D'Adamo doesn't recommend it because most of the combos haven't been well-studied. Instead, he suggests trying one or two for a few months, then taking a month off before going back on them or switching to others. His concern is that you can become tolerant to nootropics (including caffeine), which means you'll need more and more for them to work for you.

As with any dietary supplements, you should also keep in mind that the FDA doesn’t closely regulate nootropic supplements the way it does prescription drugs. Look for reputable brands and trust your body: If you notice any side effects or don't see an improvement in the expected timeframe, it's wise to stop.

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Nootropics as Cognitive Enhancers: Types, Dosage and Side Effects of Smart Drugs

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Nootropics, also known as “smart drugs” are a diverse group of medicinal substances whose action improves human thinking, learning, and memory, especially in cases where these functions are impaired. This review provides an up-to-date overview of the potential effectiveness and importance of nootropics. Based on their nature and their effects, this heterogeneous group of drugs has been divided into four subgroups: classical nootropic compounds, substances increasing brain metabolism, cholinergic, and plants and their extracts with nootropic effects. Each subgroup of nootropics contains several main representatives, and for each one, its uses, indications, experimental treatments, dosage, and possible side effects and contraindications are discussed. For the nootropic plant extracts, there is also a brief description of each plant representative, its occurrence, history, and chemical composition of the medicinal part. Lastly, specific recommendations regarding the use of nootropics by both ill and healthy individuals are summarized.

1. Introduction

At one time or another, everyone has dreamed of becoming more intelligent, learning more things in less time, thinking and reacting faster, and having a better memory. There are compounds currently available on the market that promise various combinations of the benefits mentioned above. This group of substances is known as the nootropics [ 1 ]. Although these substances are more effective in cases where cognitive functions are obviously impaired, they are of interest to healthy individuals because of their ability to increase intelligence and improve memory [ 2 ]. The vast majority of these substances are of natural origin [ 3 ], not subject to prescription, and can usually be easily obtained in the form of food supplements or herbal extracts. Their availability in synthetic form is somewhat limited and some preparations do require a valid prescription to obtain them. Nootropics tend to be well tolerated in patients with cognitive impairments; the incidence of side effects is low, and those that do occur are usually mild [ 4 , 5 , 6 ]. Most nootropics do not have an immediate effect after a single dose, and therefore long-term use is necessary to achieve the desired results [ 7 ]. However, their long-term effects on healthy individuals are still unknown [ 8 ].

This literature review provides an overview of the potential importance of nootropics, their types, use, dosage, and side effects. Original research articles, meta-analyses, and systematic reviews were included in our investigation and relevant animal studies were also considered. We did not limit our review to specific results, but focused on providing an up-to-date overview of readily available substances, primarily over-the-counter, either as food supplements or medications, that are also used by healthy people such as students. We tried to include all the currently popular “smart drugs.” Illegal drugs and drugs with a primarily non-nootropic function, such as stimulants, vitamins, etc., were not included. There have been few studies on healthy young individuals, so we tried to describe the effects of these substances also on individuals whose cognitive functions were impaired. Lastly, we summarized their potential effectiveness with recommendations for use.

2. What Are Nootropics?

Nootropics, also known as “smart drugs” in English language journals [ 2 ], are a heterogeneous group of compounds [ 9 ]. The term “nootropic” was first used by Cornelius E. Giurgea in 1972/1973 [ 10 , 11 ] to describe substances that primarily activate cognitive functions, such as memory and learning, especially in situations where these functions are impaired [ 1 ]. In a sense, they interfere with the metabolism of neuronal cells of the central nervous system (CNS) [ 12 , 13 , 14 ]. The name consists of two Greek words: nöos , which means thinking, and tropein , which means to guide [ 10 , 11 ]. There is no uniform approach to categorizing these compounds. Some authors distinguish between classical nootropics and substances that enhance brain metabolism, while others combine these two groups, or use the term cognitive effect rather than nootropic [ 15 ].

2.1. Mechanisms of Action

Nootropics do not act directly by releasing neurotransmitters or as receptor ligands [ 16 ], but improve the brain’s supply of glucose and oxygen, have antihypoxic effects, and protect brain tissue from neurotoxicity [ 9 , 17 ]. They also positively affect neuronal protein and nucleic acid synthesis and stimulate phospholipid metabolism in neurohormonal membranes [ 18 , 19 ]. Some nootropics have been found to affect the elimination of oxygen free radicals, possess an anti-aggregation effect, and improve erythrocyte plasticity. This improves the rheological properties of the blood and improves blood flow to the brain [ 3 , 20 , 21 ]. These substances are metabolically active, but most nootropics show no immediate effects after a single dose, requiring an extended period of use to produce results. They need to be able to penetrate the blood–brain barrier to improve brain metabolism and long-term use is necessary to achieve stable changes [ 7 ].

2.2. Indications

Nootropics are used in acute or subacute conditions for treating memory, consciousness, and learning disorders [ 22 ]. They are recommended for incipient brain damage, which manifests with memory loss, mental retardation, and qualitative changes in consciousness. This condition is referred to as acute psychoorganic syndrome (POS). It is usually reversible, but it can progress to dementia in some cases. Acute POS can be caused by brain trauma, infection, stroke, or intoxication (alcohol, drugs with central anticholinergic effect, or carbon monoxide). Delirium tremens also belong to the POS group [ 23 ].

Other indications may include chronic disorders of cognitive functions such as mental retardation or memory impairment [ 22 ]. Nootropics are given relatively often in these cases, but their benefit, especially in more severe dementia, is questionable. They seem to be more effective in patients with mild cognitive disorders or the so-called benign senescent forgetting when there is only a slowing down of brain function without the development of dementia [ 24 , 25 ]. Nootropics are sometimes used for attention and memory disorders due to fatigue and exhaustion [ 26 , 27 ]. They are also used by children with minimal brain dysfunction syndrome [ 28 , 29 ] and patients with encephalopathy [ 30 ], and their effect on myalgic encephalomyelitis (chronic fatigue syndrome) has also been tested [ 31 ]. As cognitive enhancers, nootropics are administered to patients who have Alzheimer’s disease [ 3 , 32 ], schizophrenia [ 33 ], hyperkinetic disorder [ 34 , 35 ], or senile dementia [ 15 , 24 , 25 ].

2.3. Nootropic Treatment

Nootropics are usually very well tolerated. Their efficacy depends on the size of the dose, and in practice, administering too low a dose is a common mistake. Treatment should be continued for at least 2–3 weeks after the disturbance of consciousness has disappeared [ 10 ]. A clinical scale has been developed to assess the depth and duration of impaired consciousness. Three aspects of behavior, such as motor response, verbal performance, and eye-opening, are measured independently. These are recorded and consistently evaluated according to the chart [ 36 ]. Side effects of nootropics are uncommon and are rarely serious. In addition to individual intolerance, an increase in activity in the undesired direction, a sleep disorder, or an increase in libido may occasionally occur [ 1 , 4 , 5 , 6 ]. Nootropics are contraindicated in hypersensitivity, pregnancy, and lactation [ 6 ].

2.4. Use by Students

Nootropics, thanks to their alleged ability to increase intelligence and improve memory and cognitive functions, attract the attention of university students in particular. They are known among them as ‘smart drugs’ [ 8 , 37 ]. Because most nootropics are of natural origin, students can obtain them as food supplements or as drugs that do not require a prescription [ 3 ], and, like many other substances and drugs, nootropics are increasingly available on the Internet. However, the use of nootropics by healthy individuals is of great concern due to the lack of clinical evidence regarding their efficacy, safety, and social consequences, especially in long-term use [ 2 , 8 ].

2.5. Advantages and Disadvantages of Natural vs. Synthetic Nootropics

The indisputable advantage of natural origin drugs from several plant organs (flower, leaf, root, etc.), is that they can have a greater variety of potentially beneficial pharmaceutical effects. This is due to the diverse composition of substances in a herbal drug that can have synergistic or additive effects [ 38 ]. Natural nootropics also usually have lower toxicity, which reduces the possibility of harm from an overdose. However, some compounds can reduce the pharmaceutical activity of other compounds [ 39 ]. Higher doses of such a herbal drug are needed to achieve the desired effect, which is why plant extracts are often used. There is also a problem in the case of storage or possible falsification and verification of the authenticity [ 40 , 41 ]. The advantages of synthetic compounds are their pharmaceutical purity, specificity of action, and a possible increase in their effect by modification of the chemical structure [ 42 ]. They usually are active at lower dosages, but this entails a greater risk of overdose [ 43 ].

3. Classical Nootropic Compounds

3.1. deanol (dmae).

The chemical name is 2-(dimethylamino)ethan-1-ol and the chemical structure is shown in Figure 1 [ 44 ]. The compound is physiologically present in the human brain. Deanol is commonly marketed as a natural dietary supplement. Many nutritional supplements contain DMAE in the form of the salt of tartaric acid (bitartrate salt). Small amounts can also be obtained from eating fish, especially salmon and shellfish. Deanol is a choline precursor that allows the brain to optimize the production of acetylcholine, the primary neurotransmitter involved in learning and memory [ 45 ].

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Chemical structure of deanol.

Dimethylaminoethanol pyroglutamate increased choline and acetylcholine extracellular levels in the brain’s prefrontal cortex in vivo in rat experiments. It further improved spatial memory and reduced scopolamine-induced memory deficits [ 46 ]. Dimethylaminoethanol cyclohexyl carboxylate fumarate significantly enhanced working memory performance in rats in the radial arm maze [ 47 ].

According to an electroencephalogram (EEG) analysis, supplements combining vitamins and minerals with compounds containing DMAE in humans for three months showed increased alertness, attention, and overall mood improvement [ 48 ]. DMAE also improved sleep quality and was able to induce lucid dreams [ 49 ]. Its administration has been tested in child hyperkinetic syndrome [ 50 ] and minimal brain dysfunction syndrome [ 51 ].

The daily dosage should be 500–2000 mg in the form of DMAE bitartrate [ 52 , 53 ]. It is contraindicated during pregnancy, lactation, and in patients with schizophrenia [ 50 ].

3.2. Meclofenoxate

The meclofenoxate molecule consists of two parts ( Figure 2 ). The first part is a synthetic auxin, a 4-chlorophenoxyacetic acid similar to the natural auxin indoleacetic acid found in plant cells and which acts to exchange carbohydrates. The second part of the molecule consists of the already mentioned 2-(dimethylamino)ethan-1-ol or deanol [ 44 ].

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Chemical structure of meclofenoxate.

Meclofenoxate is well absorbed when administered parenterally. It dramatically increased CNS choline levels in vivo (in rats). In the hippocampus, this increase in choline was also accompanied by an increased level of acetylcholine. Thus, its effects on choline and acetylcholine levels in the brain are similar to those of deanol but appear to be about twice as effective [ 54 ]. Oral administration of meclofenoxate to rats (100 mg/kg, daily for 37 days) significantly improved memory impairment, and reduced neuronal damage, proinflammatory mediator levels, and oxidative stress to normal levels. The ability to alleviate memory deficits and neuronal damage may benefit cerebrovascular dementia [ 55 ]. The RNA-Seq study of brain tissues of Nothobranchius guentheri, which received meclofenoxate for almost a lifetime, concluded that while meclofenoxate compensated for age-dependent downregulation of neuronal activity genes, its effect on the aging brain transcriptome still could not be considered unequivocally positive [ 56 ].

In a double-blind study, meclofenoxate also increased mental alertness and consolidation of new information into long-term memory in elderly people [ 57 ]. It may be a useful therapeutic tool for potentiating depressed cholinergic neurons and treating neuroleptic-induced dyskinesias [ 58 ]. Meclofenoxate improves the status of qualitatively altered consciousness, has an antihypoxic effect, and is used to mitigate the overall slowdown in speech, thinking, and mental activity caused by CNS intoxication and injury. It has also been tested for treating Alzheimer’s disease and vascular dementia [ 59 ].

The daily dose should be 500–2000 mg [ 58 ]. Meclofenoxate is deemed to be safe and tolerable. Possible side effects are often caused by overdose, including dizziness, restlessness, nausea, and headache [ 58 , 60 ].

3.3. Nicergoline

Nicergoline is an ergot alkaloid, also known as nicergoline ( Figure 3 ) that has been clinically used since 1970. Nicergoline was initially developed as a vasodilator prescribed for cerebrovascular disorders. It is currently used clinically to treat syndromes of vascular or degenerative origin characterized by cognitive impairment with decreased intellect, and affective, behavioral, and somatic disorders. Specifically, it is used for memory loss, reduced alertness, concentration ability, mood swings, dizziness, fatigue, and vestibular and cochlear disorders [ 61 , 62 ].

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Chemical structure of nicergoline.

Nicergoline has a wide range of effects. It protected cultured neurons from β-amyloid toxicity in vitro [ 63 ]. Nicergoline has been shown to be an effective drug for preventing neuronal vulnerability due to experimentally induced nerve growth factor deprivation and improved the function of cholinergic and catecholaminergic neurotransmitters in rats in vivo [ 64 ]. It acted as an antagonist of α 1 -adrenoceptors [ 65 ], increased arterial blood circulation [ 66 ], inhibited platelet aggregation, supported metabolic activity (resulting in increased oxygen and glucose utilization), and had neurotrophic and antioxidant properties in rats in vivo [ 67 ]. Nicergoline also showed an improving effect on cognitive function in mouse models of Alzheimer’s disease [ 68 ].

Nicergoline induced vasodilation and increased cerebral blood flow [ 69 ]. Its efficacy has also been demonstrated in patients with vascular dementia [ 70 ]. Nicergoline showed a comprehensive positive effect on different levels of cerebral, systemic, and cardiac hemodynamics in ischemic stroke patients [ 71 ]. According to an electroencephalogram/event-related potential (EEG/ERP) mapping study, in patients with multi-infarct dementia and Alzheimer’s disease, nicergoline improved alertness and information processing at the neurophysiological level, which led to clinical improvement at the behavioral level in both degenerative and vascular dementia [ 72 ].

The daily dose should be 30–60 mg [ 62 ]. Side effects are rare and usually include nausea, dizziness, diarrhea, fainting, and headache [ 73 , 74 ]. Due to the lack of experience with nicergoline in pregnant women, it is not recommended during pregnancy and lactation [ 74 ].

3.4. Piracetam

The chemical name of piracetam is 2-(2-oxopyrrolidin-1-yl)acetamide ( Figure 4 ). It is a cyclic derivative of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) and acetamide. Piracetam is thought to act on brain neurotransmission through modulation of ion channels (Ca 2+ and K + ), leading to nonspecifically increased neuronal excitability [ 75 ].

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Chemical structure of piracetam.

It enhanced the function of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine via muscarinic receptors [ 76 ], and affected N -methyl- D -aspartate receptors in rat models in vivo, increasing cell membrane permeability [ 77 ]. Piracetam has also been found to increase oxygen consumption in the brain and, in connection with adenosine triphosphate metabolism, it increased adenylate kinase activity in vivo in the rat brain [ 78 ]. It appears to increase the synthesis of cytochrome b 5 [ 79 ], which is involved in the mechanism of electron transport in mitochondria, where it also increases permeability. It alleviated the intensity of hypoxia-induced nerve cell damage, improved interhemispheric transmission, and increased glucose metabolism in the rat brain [ 80 ]. Piracetam has been tested for stroke, unconsciousness, treatment of withdrawal symptoms from alcoholism, and prevention of alcohol-induced hypoxia [ 81 , 82 ]. It also improved brain function in rat models affected by xenobiotics [ 83 ].

In addition to the metabolic effect on brain tissue, piracetam enhances erythrocyte plasticity and consequent brain perfusion [ 84 ]. It was used clinically for the prevention and treatment of post-traumatic cognitive and mental dysfunction, and to improve learning and memory functions in developmental dyslexia in children patients [ 85 ]. Piracetam has also been tested for treating Alzheimer’s disease [ 86 ] and combined with lecithin [ 87 ], but unfortunately without significant benefit in patients. The structural analogues of piracetam are oxiracetam, pramiracetam, etiracetam, nefiracetam, and aniracetam. These compounds act similarly to piracetam, but with varying efficacy [ 42 , 75 ]. According to the assessment of the effectiveness of nefiracetam on higher brain functions in terms of time and space using electric field distribution of the scalp map and low-resolution electromagnetic tomography for evoked potentials and spontaneous EEG with eyes closed, the Gottfries-Brane-Steen scale showed significant improvement. However, the Mini-Mental State Examination, the Hasegawa Dementia Scale, and the Kohs block test showed no improvement. These results suggest that nefiracetam has some benefits in patients with vascular dementia [ 88 ].

The effective dose of piracetam as an infusion for acute treatment is 4–8 g per day. The maintenance dose is usually about 2–4 g/day, adjusted based on kidney function. The tolerance of piracetam is excellent with only rare side effects, including insomnia, irritability, increased libido, and sexual function [ 75 , 83 ]. There is insufficient clinical experience with piracetam in pregnancy. Animal studies have not shown teratogenic or other embryotoxic effects, but piracetam should still be used during pregnancy only after carefully weighing the expected benefits against the potential risks. It should not be used during lactation [ 89 ].

3.5. Pyritinol

Additionally known as pyridoxine disulfide or pyrithioxin ( Figure 5 ), pyritinol was synthesized in 1961 by combining two molecules of vitamin B 6 (pyridoxine) via a disulfide bridge. Like pyridoxine, it has different effects on different organ systems; however, the CNS is the primary system in which pyritinol exhibits observable pharmacological effects. Pyritinol crosses the blood–brain barrier and accumulates in gray matter, especially in the hippocampus, cerebral nuclei, cerebellum, and cortex [ 90 ].

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Chemical structure of pyritinol.

Animal studies have demonstrated effects on various neurotransmitters [ 91 ]. In vivo assays in rats revealed increased choline acetyltransferase activity, leading to choline accumulation in cholinergic neurons [ 92 ]. Pyritinol plays a supporting role in the recovery of age-related brain deficits. For example, in elderly rats, pyritinol metabolites increased cortical acetylcholine concentration and release, and nucleic acid metabolism in the brain [ 93 ]. Acute or prolonged oral administration of pyritinol reduced formaldehyde-induced nociceptive behavior and tactile allodynia in old diabetic rats. Pyritinol was also able to scavenge oxygen free radicals, thus acting as an antioxidant and improving cerebral circulation [ 94 ]. It also restored the decreased concentration of the primary excitatory neurotransmitter N -methyl- D -aspartate when administered to older mice [ 95 ]. Results of the experiment on rats showed that pyritinol may be helpful in learning and memory disorders caused by malnutrition and deprivation [ 96 ].

A study in healthy human males treated with pyritinol showed performance improvements in response time tests but not in memory tests [ 97 ]. Intramuscular injections of nandrolone decanoate and pyritinol have dramatically affected motor development and learning ability in children with cerebral palsy, without side effects. The combined effects of vinpocetine and pyritinol also improved blood and plasma viscosity in human patients with cerebrovascular disorders [ 98 ]. Due to the status of pyritinol as a dietary supplement in some countries, it can be safely used as an adjunct to any standard treatment of CNS diseases, such as developmental dysphasia and other cognitive disorders, for which current therapeutic options are limited [ 90 ].

No accumulation of the substance was observed, even after repeated oral administration, and toxic concentrations were not reached even in patients with impaired renal function. In practice, underdosing is common. The minimum recommended daily dose is 300 mg, divided into three sub-doses, but the amount taken should be 600 mg or more [ 90 , 97 ]. The common side effects are non-specific rashes, headache, inflammation of the oral mucosa, acute pancreatitis, diarrhea, nausea, and loss of appetite [ 99 , 100 , 101 ]. Pyritinol crosses the placenta, but systemic testing in mice and rats did not show teratogenic or embryotoxic effects. Only minimal amounts of pyritinol are excreted in human milk but a careful evaluation should still be made before dosing during pregnancy and lactation [ 90 , 101 ].

4. Substances Increasing Brain Metabolism

This group of substances exhibits simultaneous nootropic, hemorheological, and vasodilatory effects. Examples include vinpocetine, naftidrofuryl, and dihydroergotoxine, which is a mixture of dihydrogenated ergot alkaloids [ 102 , 103 , 104 , 105 , 106 ].

4.1. Vinpocetine

Vinpocetine ( Figure 6 ) is a semisynthetic derivative of the vincamine alkaloid that occurs in the lesser periwinkle, Vinca minor [ 107 ].

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Chemical structure of vinpocetine.

Experiments ex vivo have shown that vinpocetine acts as a selective inhibitor of Ca 2+ /calmodulin-dependent cyclic nucleotide phosphodiesterase type I [ 21 , 108 ], a potent blocker of voltage-gated sodium channels [ 109 , 110 ], inhibits platelet aggregation, reduces blood viscosity, vasodilates cerebral arteries, and increases cerebral blood flow [ 111 ]. Ex vivo, vinpocetine increased glucose and oxygen consumption through brain tissue and improved brain cell tolerance to hypoxia [ 112 ].

In vitro, vinpocetine interacted with glutamate receptors [ 113 ], shifted glucose metabolism to more energy-efficient aerobic processes, and increased adenosine triphosphate (ATP) levels in the brain [ 114 ]. Thus, vinpocetine offers significant and direct neuroprotection in vitro and in vivo [ 104 ]. This vasoactive alkaloid has been marketed for several years as an adjunct to vasodilators and nootropics to improve memory [ 115 ]. It is also considered an active substance in treating stroke and other diseases, including circulatory disorders in the brain [ 116 , 117 ].

It is recommended that users take only 2–5 mg for the first time to ensure that they do not have a hypersensitive reaction to it. They can then increase the dose to 10–30 mg daily [ 118 , 119 ], a dose that can cause some side effects, although very rarely, including nausea, dry mouth, dizziness, headache, and heartburn [ 120 ]. The use of vinpocetine is contraindicated during lactation and pregnancy [ 121 ].

4.2. Naftidrofuryl

Chemically, naftidrofuryl is a 2-(1-naphthalenylmethyl)-3-(2-oxolanyl)propanoic acid ester of 2-(diethylamino)ethanol ( Figure 7 ). Naftidrofuryl is a vasodilator with beneficial rheological effects on the blood and has long been used to treat intermittent claudication to improve walking and provide symptomatic relief [ 103 ].

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Chemical structure of naftidrofuryl.

Naftidrofuryl in vitro has shown a regulatory impact on deoxyglucose uptake [ 122 ] and glucose utilization [ 123 ], and it inhibited the hypoxia-induced decrease in ATP levels in fibroblasts and endothelial cells in vitro [ 124 ]. It inhibited serotonin- and epinephrine-induced platelet aggregation in vitro and ex vivo [ 125 , 126 ].

In mouse brains, it showed an antagonistic effect on 5-HT 2 receptors of vascular smooth muscle cells and platelets and inhibited serotonin-induced contractions in blood vessels [ 127 ]. 5-HT 2 receptors are a subfamily of 5-HT receptors that bind the endogenous neurotransmitter serotonin (also called 5-hydroxytryptamine, 5-HT). Serotonin is important in vasoconstriction and platelet aggregation, leading to atherosclerosis [ 128 ]. Naftidrofuryl was then shown to have antiatherosclerotic effects in various animal models [ 129 , 130 ]. In rats, it also increased the storage of spatial information and showed nootropic effects [ 131 ].

In a double-blind study in human volunteers, naftidrofuryl increased erythrocyte deformability and flow [ 132 ]. The induced reduction in the lactate/pyruvate ratio in healthy human volunteers during exercise suggests that naftidrofuryl increases the efficiency of aerobic metabolism in oxygen-deprived tissues [ 133 ]. It also has a positive effect on the energy metabolism of the neuron. Naftidrofuryl is used in the treatment of cardiovascular diseases [ 134 ], senile dementia [ 135 ], and Alzheimer’s disease [ 136 ].

To treat patients with mild to moderate occlusive peripheral arterial disease, it is recommended that naftidrofuryl be administered orally at a dose of 300 to 600 mg/day in three divided sub-doses, swallowed whole. Naftidrofuryl metabolism may be reduced in elderly patients. Therefore, the dose may need to be lowered for these patients [ 102 , 103 ]. Naftidrofuryl is well tolerated, and side effects occur only rarely. These are usually gastrointestinal problems, but there was a single known case of liver damage [ 137 ].

4.3. Dihydroergotoxine

Dihydroergotoxine ( Figure 8 ) is also known as hydergine or ergoloid mesylate, and is a mixture of the methanesulfonate salts of dihydrogenated ergot alkaloids: dihydroergocornine (DHCO), dihydroergocristine (DHEC), alpha-dihydroergocryptine (α-DHC), and beta-dihydroergocryptine (β-DHC). The drug was developed in the 1940s by Albert Hofmann [ 138 ], and thus, is one of the oldest nootropic drugs still in use. It was initially used against hypertension [ 139 ], but later was found, by chance, to improve mental health when patients with Alzheimer’s disease were treated for hypertension [ 140 , 141 ].

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Chemical structures of the methanesulfonate salts comprising dihydroergotoxine. Abbreviations: DHCO, dihydroergocornine; DHEC, dihydroergocristine; α-DHC, alpha-dihydroergocryptine; β-DHC, beta-dihydroergocryptine.

Dihydroergotoxine increased neuronal metabolism, and, in rats, it stimulated local glucose utilization in those parts of the brain related to learning and memory [ 142 ]. A similar effect has been observed in patients aged 74 to 79 years with multi-infarct dementia [ 143 ]. Dihydroergotoxine modulated synaptic neurotransmission in the brains of elderly rats by reducing levels of monoamine oxidase enzymes, which are commonly elevated in aging. Monoamine oxidases degrade neurotransmitters and are essential for normal brain metabolism, but an age-related increase in their activity can deplete catecholamine neurotransmitters (dopamine, norepinephrine, and adrenaline), which impairs mental function [ 144 , 145 ]. In a rat experiment, hydergine regulated the release of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine from the hippocampus [ 146 ] and increased the number of cholinergic receptors [ 147 ]. Furthermore, dihydroergotoxine slowed the release of lipofuscin, which has been associated with the aging process of neurons in old rats [ 148 ]. Hydergine acts as a peripheral and cerebral vasodilator. In monkeys, it increased blood flow and oxygen consumption through the brain [ 149 ].

Dihydroergotoxine also protects the brain against hypoxia. In a double-blind placebo-controlled quantitative EEG and psychometric study, volunteers inhaled a combination of gases simulating high altitude conditions, which caused hypoxia that led to reduced alertness, intellectual function, and performance depending on reaction time. However, after oral administration of hydergine, subjects who were again exposed to the same conditions achieved significantly better results [ 150 ]. It is used mainly in Alzheimer’s disease and vascular and post-traumatic dementias in old age [ 151 , 152 ].

It is non-toxic and relatively safe, with possible side effects including nausea, indigestion, orthostatic hypotension, and blurred vision. It is contraindicated in hypotension, psychosis, and a slow heartbeat. In practice, low dosing is common. The recommended daily dose is up to 6 mg [ 153 ]. The combination with piracetam and xanthine derivatives, which have a bronchodilator and vasodilatory effect, increases the effect of ergot alkaloids [ 154 , 155 ].

5. Cholinergics

Substances belonging to this group usually include acetylcholine precursors or cofactors of its formation. Acetylcholine is the primary mediator in processes related to memory, thinking, counting, and attention. The important representatives of this group include acetyl-L-carnitine, which is a source of acetylcholine precursors, acetyl, choline, lecithin, and pyrrolidine derivatives [ 156 , 157 ]. These substances are classified as cognitive substances that primarily affect cholinergic transmission in the brain rather than nootropics [ 158 ], so only their well-known representative, phosphatidylcholine (lecithin), is described in more detail.

Phosphatidylcholine (Lecithin)

Phosphatidylcholine ( Figure 9 ) belongs to a group of compounds called phospholipids, which are the main lipid components of cell membranes. A mixture of these phospholipids in oil is referred to as commercial lecithin. The abundant component of lecithin-containing supplements is phosphatidylcholine, followed by phosphatidylethanolamine, phosphatidylserine, phosphatidylinositol, and phosphatidylglycerols. Fatty acids ester-linked to phosphatides are represented in lecithin by palmitic, oleic, and linoleic acids [ 159 ]. The primary source of commercial lecithin today is soybean and sunflower oil. Lecithin is also present in egg yolk, liver, whole grain products, and nut kernels [ 160 , 161 ].

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Chemical structure of phosphatidylcholine.

The presumed mechanism of action shows choline being slowly released from lecithin as a precursor for acetylcholine synthesis. Although the mechanism of action of lecithin appears to be clear, the results of tests of its effectiveness in clinical trials were less convincing. Results of an in vivo experiment suggested that the administration of phosphatidylcholine to mice in a model of dementia increased acetylcholine concentrations in the brain and improved memory [ 162 ].

In contrast, results from randomized in vivo studies have shown no benefit of lecithin in treating patients with Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease [ 163 ]. The data suggest that a lack of control over the subject’s learning levels may contribute to inconsistent findings. Phosphatidylcholine supplements may not uniformly improve memory, suggesting that the dose and time parameters required to achieve a therapeutic effect may depend on variables intrinsic to individual subjects. Students that have subnormal endogenous choline levels, may see a greater increase from phosphatidylcholine supplements, resulting in a measurable improvement in explicit memory, compared to healthy subjects with normal endogenous choline levels [ 164 ].

Many signs of aging are probably related to the fact that the older a person is, the higher the concentration of lecithin in the blood is needed to produce a good effect. The recommended dose of lecithin for prevention is 1200 mg three times a day. In patients, the amount should be 10–15 g/day or higher [ 160 ].

6. Plants and Their Extracts with Nootropic Effects

Pharmaceutical companies invest vast sums of money in discovering substances that could be used in the future to alleviate or treat mental disorders affecting people worldwide. The potential beneficial substances from plants, known as phytochemicals, are still being explored. Several species of plants have been selected for testing as nootropic agents because of their use in traditional medicine, and research has already identified several promising natural substances that could act as cognitive enhancers ( Table 1 ) [ 3 , 165 , 166 ].

Phytochemicals with potential nootropic effect.

Ref.	Phytochemical Group	Main Active Compounds	Uses and Effects
[ , , , , ]	Terpenoids	Panaxosides (Ginsenosides)	Adaptogen, antioxidant, vasorelaxation
[ , , , , ]		Ginkgolides	Antioxidant, neuroprotection, vasodilatation
[ , , ]		Asiatic acid, centellic acid, madecassic acid, asiaticoside, centelloside, madecassoside, brahmoside	Antioxidant, anxiolytic, nootropic
[ , , , ]		Withanolides	Antioxidant, increase in red blood cell content, nootropic
[ , , , ]		Bacosides, bacopasides	Antioxidant, cognitive enhancer, neuroprotectant
[ , ]	Alkaloids	Methylxanthines	Anxiolytic, nootropic, panicolytic, stimulant
[ , , ]	Polyphenols	Rosavins, salidroside	Adaptogen, antidepressant, antioxidant, anxiolytic, stimulant
[ , , ]	Polyphenols	Schisandra lignans	Antioxidant, neuroprotection
[ , , , , ]	Diverse	Eleutherosides, ciwujianosides	Antioxidant, memory improvement
[ , , ]	Diverse	Macamides, macaenes	Antioxidant, antidepressant, cognitive enhancer

1 Heterogenous group of chemical compounds.

6.1. Herbal Drug Plant Collection

Despite the continuous improvement in the production of synthetic drugs, herbal compounds still have considerable use, but the important ones come from commercial plantings. The consumption of popular species is high, and it is impossible to cover it only by collecting wild plants. Bred varieties generally provide higher yields and reduce the risk of confusion or falsification [ 40 , 41 ]. Nowadays, the collector often encounters difficulties that were not present before, such as chemical damage or contamination of the growing plants [ 167 ]. The composition and total content of complex active constituents are variable during plant development and vegetative growth. Choosing a suitable period for harvesting or collecting is essential. Plants should not be harvested in humid or rainy weather, but only when dry. During harvesting, the plants must not be damaged because breaking the leaves sometimes affects the active compounds in an undesirable manner. Many compounds, such as vitamin C or tannins, can also react with metals. Therefore, if possible, the plants or parts are collected in their entirety. The leaves and stems are usually harvested just before flowering or during flowering. The flowers are harvested shortly before full development, but some may still be in the bud stage. The fruits and seeds are harvested at the time of full ripeness. For roots and rhizomes, the suitable period is the developmental dormancy of the plant, which is usually autumn or spring. The bark is harvested in the temperate zone at the beginning of vegetative growth in early spring, or, in the tropics, throughout the year [ 168 , 169 ].

6.2. Plant Material Processing

The extraction of plant material to produce an effective drug usually involves many technical steps. Contaminants on aboveground parts can be removed by sieving or winnowing, while underground organs are decontaminated by washing and brushing. The common method of preservation continues to be drying, preceded by fermentation in some cases. By removing water, enzymes are inactivated, and the growth of fungi and bacteria is limited [ 170 , 171 ]. Most plants should be dried in the shade, and the temperature should not exceed a specific limit. For plants containing volatile essential oils, this limit is 40 °C [ 172 , 173 ]. Freeze-drying or lyophilization is also frequently used. For this method, fresh plant material is rapidly frozen at a temperature of −20 °C to −50 °C and then dried under a high vacuum. However, in some cases, freeze-drying imperfectly preserves important classes of medicinal compounds such as phenolics and volatile substances, reducing the effectiveness of some plant drugs. Additionally, the material dried in this way is very hygroscopic [ 174 , 175 ]. Freeze-dried drugs have to be stored away from moisture, as well as dust, insects, and light [ 172 , 173 ]. The drug is usually processed or cut after drying. Active compounds are used either directly in the form of medicinal products or indirectly as raw materials to obtain active compounds, which become part of medicinal products. Medicinal products produced directly from drugs can be in the form of tea for water infusion, granules, tablets, extracts, and divided or undivided powders. Active compounds are obtained from herbal materials often by extraction (alkaloids, glycosides), distillation (essential oils), or pressing (oils, fats) [ 176 , 177 ].

6.3. Specific Plant Species

6.3.1. ginseng ( panax ginseng ).

As a drug, ginseng is prepared in two different ways, which affect the content of active components and the degree of medicinal effects. It can be modified either by peeling and drying the root, after which it is called white ginseng, or the root can be steamed without peeling when it is referred to as the “hotter” red ginseng [ 215 ].

Ginsenosides have been shown to stimulate nitric oxide (NO) production in several systems. Purified ginsenoside Rb 1 induced NO production in human aortic endothelial cells in vitro. The effect on the NO pathway is responsible for ginseng’s vasorelaxant and mildly hypotensive effect [ 182 ].

Ginseng increased the activity of the antioxidant enzymes superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase in rats in vivo. Thus, supplementation may prevent increased oxidant accumulation and age-related oxidative protein and nucleic acid damage [ 178 ]. Experimental data from tests on male chicks suggest that Rb 1 may improve memory for the task of visual discrimination and that the nootropic effect may be associated with changes in anxiety [ 179 ]. Ginsenoside Rb 1 also reduced simulated Alzheimer’s disease in a rat model. Thus, it could be used in the future as a therapeutic agent for patients with memory impairment [ 180 ]. Ginsenoside Rg 1 supplementation improved the performance of old mice in the behavioral test, significantly increasing the expression of proteins associated with synaptic plasticity in the hippocampus, including synaptophysin and N -methyl- D -aspartate receptor subunit 1 [ 181 ]. Oral administration of a combination of Ginkgo biloba and Panax ginseng extracts improved memory in rats. Data on test drug effects suggested the involvement of a serotonergic transporter as an important neurochemical correlate of rat behavior and memory effects of study drugs [ 216 ].

Ginseng’s effect on the human body can be described as adaptogenic. It increased the physical and mental resilience of the organism, eliminated fatigue, and helped the body to adapt to any current needs [ 217 ]. It is recommended to use a standardized ginseng extract at a dose of 200 mg per day ginseng for an extended period of time. Standardization refers to the content of ginsenosides, which usually ranges from 1.5 to 7 percent. Alternatively, 0.5 to 2 g of dry root per day is recommended, with ginseng taken in tea or chewed [ 218 ]. Ginseng is contraindicated in patients with acute asthma and hypertension. In large doses, it can cause excessive body stimulation, restlessness, insomnia, increased blood pressure, nervousness, inability to concentrate, headaches, and nosebleeds [ 218 , 219 ].

6.3.2. Ginkgo ( Ginkgo biloba )

The leaves and ripe fruit are harvested from spring to early autumn. Leaves are used to make alcohol extracts (tinctures) or dried and ground [ 220 ]. Hulled and roasted ginkgo kernels are also consumed [ 221 ]. Mechanisms of action of Ginkgo biloba compounds include free radical scavenging for antioxidant activity, antagonistic effects on platelet-activating factor, vasodilation, and an overall reduction in blood viscosity [ 183 , 187 ].

Results of an ex vivo rat experiment showed that Ginkgo biloba extract had specific neuroprotective effects that may be useful in treating chronic cerebral hypoperfusion. The extract’s pharmacological mechanism involved modulating inflammatory mediators and the cholinergic system [ 184 ]. The triterpene lactones (ginkgolides A, B, C, and bilobalide) in the Ginkgo biloba extract have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective effects. In addition, in an experiment on mice, the extract had an antagonistic effect on glycine and GABA type A receptors [ 185 ].

A double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial in which participants received validated neuropsychological tests before and after treatment with Ginkgo biloba extract indicated significant improvement in working memory and information processing speed [ 186 ]. In contrast, a critical review of the evidence from several randomized clinical trials did not provide convincing evidence that Ginkgo biloba extracts taken either in a single dose or over a long time had a positive effect on any aspect of cognitive performance in healthy human subjects under sixty years of age [ 222 ].

Still, Ginkgo biloba extracts are widely prescribed to treat cerebral dysfunction and neurological disorders. Doses of 120–300 mg of standardized Ginkgo biloba 761 extracts (24% flavone glycosides and 6% terpene lactones) per day should be administered [ 183 , 223 , 224 ]. No side effects have been reported at regular doses, but mild stomach irritation and headaches occasionally occur with excessive consumption. It causes blood thinning, so people taking some anticoagulants should not take the drug before surgery [ 219 , 225 ].

6.3.3. Asiatic Pennywort ( Centella asiatica )

Centella’s use in traditional medicine is diverse and varies regionally. In the countries of origin, fresh leaves are consumed as a salad, as part of curry spice mixes, or cooked as a vegetable [ 226 ].

An ethanol extract of C. asiatica mediated protection against amyloid-β-induced aggregated neurotoxicity by modulating the antioxidant defense system in cells in vitro, including superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione peroxidase, glutathione reductase, and glutathione and glutathione disulfide levels. C. asiatica is a traditional medicinal herb with strong antioxidant activity that reduces amyloid-β deposition in the brain. Amyloid-β is the major component of senile plaques and neurofibrillary tangles found in the brains of patients with Alzheimer’s disease. This highlights the potential therapeutic and preventive value of C. asiatica in treating Alzheimer’s disease [ 189 ].

The results from in vivo experiments on rats in a maze, monitoring social interactions, locomotor activity, and cage tests, showed that pure asiaticoside, and methanol or ethyl acetate extracts of Centella asiatica had anxiolytic activity. In addition, asiaticoside did not affect locomotor activity, suggesting that this compound does not have sedative effects [ 227 ]. Another in vivo study in mice revealed that a NO modulating mechanism may be involved in the protective effect of Centella asiatica against anxiety caused by sleep deprivation, oxidative damage, and neuroinflammation [ 188 ]. A study in juvenile and young adult mice demonstrated the nootropic effect of an aqueous extract of C. asiatica . Treatment resulted in increased hippocampal acetylcholinesterase activity and dendritic arborization of hippocampal CA3 neurons. Thus, treatment with C. asiatica during the postnatal developmental stage can affect neuronal morphology and support brain function [ 190 ].

The reported typical daily dose of C. asiatica is approximately 600 mg of dried leaves, or from 60 mg to 120 mg of standardized extract of C. asiatica (contains at least 85% of triterpenoid glycosides) [ 228 , 229 ].

Based on clinical studies, the reported tolerability of orally administered extracts of Centella is high, and no interactions with other drugs are known. Although no teratogenic effects have been reported, the drug should not be used during pregnancy and lactation. Use by children is also not recommended [ 230 ].

6.3.4. Ashwagandha ( Withania somnifera )

The roots and the leaves are harvested and used mainly in dried form. An infusion is prepared from the leaves and a decoction from the root. Fruit is sometimes used as an emetic [ 231 ].

A study in mice indicated that ashwagandha increased the content of hemoglobin, platelets, and red as well as white blood cells. An increase in red blood cells increases the blood’s ability to transport oxygen to the peripheral system, ensuring greater maximum aerobic capacity [ 194 ]. In another study, rats were used as a model of tardive dyskinesia, a disorder characterized by involuntary neurological triggering that leads to spontaneous, repetitive body movements, such as grimacing, sticking out the tongue, or lip movements that were simulated by injection of reserpine. Oxidative stress and lipid peroxidation products are involved in the pathophysiology of this disease. Long-term administration of Withania somnifera root extract to the rats significantly reduced lipid peroxidation, restored reduced glutathione levels, and reversed the decrease in brain superoxide dismutase and catalase levels induced by reserpine treatment. Thus, Withania somnifera root extract could be a helpful drug for treating drug-induced tardive dyskinesia [ 192 ]. Several tests in animal models have confirmed the nootropic effect of ashwagandha and its potential as a treatment for Alzheimer’s disease [ 191 , 193 ]. In another study, the steroidal lactone withaferin, a bioactive compound from the group of withanolides showed significant anticancer properties both in vitro and in vivo [ 232 ].

The dosage can be from 6 to 10 g of ground roots of ashwagandha per day or the equivalent of 750 mg to 1250 mg of extract per day [ 233 ]. Ashwagandha is not recommended in cases of hyperthyroidism or pregnancy. It is a relatively safe drug when used at the recommended doses. Overdoses can cause gastrointestinal problems and vomiting; therefore, treatment should be started with small doses and gradually increased. Ashwagandha is best taken in the evening because, in substantial doses, the herbal extract can act as a sedative [ 234 ].

6.3.5. Water Hyssop ( Bacopa monnieri )

In countries of natural occurrence, it is sometimes used as a leafy vegetable in salads or soups [ 235 ].

In vitro treatment of rat astrocytes with methanol extract of Bacopa monnieri significantly reduced damage caused by high NO concentrations. It has been suggested that glial cells may produce NO by an enzyme-independent mechanism when stimulated by superoxide radicals, and the study results verified the antioxidant activity of Brahmi plant extract [ 196 ].

Treatment of albino rats with an alcoholic extract of Bacopa monnieri increased protein kinase activity and caused an increase in protein in the hippocampus. Overall, the extract has improved learning ability by enhancing cognitive function and memory retention. The chemical compounds responsible for this facilitating effect have been identified as a mixture of two saponins, bacosides A and B [ 197 ]. Choline acetyltransferase expression in the hippocampus was studied in olfactory bulbectomy mice compared to controls. Olfactory bulbectomy reduced cholinergic activity and thus choline acetyltransferase expression in the hippocampus. However, subsequent administration of Bacopa monnieri alcohol extract reversed this effect and gradually improved the induced cognitive dysfunction [ 195 ]. In a rat model of Alzheimer’s disease, Bacopa monnieri alcohol extract improved escape latency in the Morris water maze test. In addition, the loss of neurons and the density of cholinergic neurons were also mitigated [ 198 ]. Experiments have shown inhibition of the degeneration of cholinergic neurons by Bacopa monnieri , suggesting that the herb is a cognitive enhancer and neuroprotectant and may serve as a potential adjunctive drug for treating Alzheimer’s disease [ 195 , 198 ].

The Bacopa monnieri liquid extract dosage (ratio 1:2) is 5–12 mL per day for adults and 2.5–6 mL per day for children aged 6–12 years. For Bacopa monnieri extracts standardized at 20% content of bacosides A and B, 200–400 mg in divided doses for adults and 100–200 mg daily in divided doses for children is recommended [ 236 , 237 ].

No serious side effects have been reported. Rarely, mild sedation or digestive problems may occur after ingestion [ 238 , 239 ].

6.3.6. Guarana ( Paullinia cupana )

The seeds, the so-called guarana nuts, are harvested at full maturity. They are first roasted, then sifted by sieving, mechanically crushed, and mixed with water to make a bitter paste with high caffeine content. A coffee-like beverage is prepared by simmering guarana paste with hot water. Guarana paste is also added to syrups, and various non-alcoholic and alcoholic drinks are prepared from it, mainly popular in Brazil. Sometimes, the guarana paste is dried, ground into a powder, and used to make tablets [ 240 , 241 ].

In an in vivo study, the aqueous fraction of Paullinia cupana seeds was repeatedly administered to rats who were then placed in a T-maze, a model of generalized anxiety and panic disorders, and the guarana was shown to have anxiolytic and panicolytic effects [ 242 ]. The impact of long-term administration of Paullinia cupana seed extract by gavage to rats at various doses on their cognitive behavior was studied using the Morris water maze test, which showed identical results in rats with scopolamine-induced amnesia compared with controls [ 200 ]. Mice that ingested guarana suspension showed a significant increase in physical capacity when exposed to stressful situations such as forced swimming. After both single and chronic administration, guarana partially reversed the amnesic effect of scopolamine, as measured by a passive avoidance test in rats and mice, indicating a positive impact on memory acquisition [ 199 ]. Studies have shown that oral administration of processed Paullinia cupana seeds had a significant nootropic effect. Herbal drugs that exhibit this property may offer a useful adjunct therapeutic option for preventing or treating memory deficits, such as those seen in Alzheimer’s or Parkinson’s disease [ 199 , 200 ].

A typical dose is 75 mg of guarana extract (approximately 12% caffeine) administered as a tablet [ 243 ]. Guarana should not be used in persons with cardiovascular disease, who are pregnant or breastfeeding, have chronic headaches, diabetes, insomnia, mental disorders, stomach ulcers, or are taking theophylline [ 244 ].

6.3.7. Eleuthero ( Eleutherococcus senticosus )

The root is ground to a powder and formed into tablets or used in the form of a tincture. Infusion of the above-ground parts is also sometimes used [ 245 ].

In vitro experiments showed the antioxidant and antiradical activity of eleuthero [ 208 ], including the inhibition of lipid peroxidation [ 207 ].

In an in vivo study, an aqueous extract of eleuthero reduced acute stress in mice [ 210 ]. A study in normal mice examined the effects of an aqueous extract from eleuthero leaves on memory function. These in vivo tests showed that oral administration of the extract improved memory functions, and ex vivo confirmed that the active compounds of the extract, such as eleutheroside M and ciwujianoside B and C3, were able to penetrate the BBB and act on the brain. These three compounds and the leaf extract showed dendritic elongation activity against primary cultured cortical neurons, which may be related to improved memory [ 211 ].

Tests on healthy volunteers have also concluded that the active compounds of eleuthero affect cell defense, physical fitness, and lipid metabolism [ 209 ]. The detoxification properties of the extract have been used in treating chronic lead poisoning in mine workers [ 246 ]. Siberian ginseng has also been used in cosmetics [ 207 ].

The recommended daily dose of eleuthero is 2–3 g of dried root or an equivalent preparation [ 247 ]. According to the Russian Pharmacopeia, a standardized liquid extract of roots and rhizomes of Eleutherococcus senticosus (10 mg of the extract is equivalent to 120 mg of the crude herb) is currently available as an over-the-counter drug in a ratio of 1:1 with 40% ethanol. In the Russian medical system, this extract is recommended for oral use at a daily dose of 20–40 drops for an adult. However, further research is needed to investigate the appropriate dosing regimen to improve healthy adults’ cognitive function and physical performance [ 246 , 248 ]. Side effects occur infrequently. Eleuthero increases blood pressure, so its use in hypertension is not recommended [ 249 ].

6.3.8. Rhodiola ( Rhodiola rosea )

Rhizomes and roots from older plants are collected, dried, and subsequently used for extract preparation [ 250 ].

According to an in vitro study, salidroside, a phenylpropanoid glycoside isolated from R. rosea L., showed a protective effect in cultured PC12 neuronal cells against hypoglycemia and serum-restricted cytotoxicity, probably through modulation of gene expression associated with apoptosis, restoration of mitochondrial membrane potential, and inhibition of intracellular oxygen radical production [ 203 ].

An in vivo study was performed to investigate the effects of a single oral dose of an aqueous-alcoholic extract (plant material was extracted with 2% ethanol diluted with tap water) of R. rosea containing 3% rosavin and 1% salidroside on CNS activity in mice. The extract was tested for adaptogenic, antidepressant, anxiolytic, nociceptive, and locomotor activity at various doses using predictive behavioral tests in the animal model. The results showed that this extract significantly induced adaptogenic, antidepressant, anxiolytic, and stimulating effects [ 202 ], but the effects were not dose-dependent.

In a different trial, the effect of R. rosea L. extract on mood, anxiety, stress, and cognition in moderately anxious students was evaluated. Compared with the control, the experimental group showed a significant reduction in anxiety, stress, anger, confusion, and depression, and an improvement in general mood after treatment for two weeks. However, no significant difference in cognitive performance was observed between the groups [ 201 ].

The optimal dose of rhodiola extract for long-term use was 100–170 mg per day, and the rosavin content of the extract should be 3.6–6.14 mg per weight of the extract. This would suggest a daily dose of roughly 360–600 mg of standardized Rhodiola rosea extract containing 1% rosavin [ 251 ].

No serious side effects have been identified so far. Because it affects human nature, it is not recommended for patients who have manic–depressive psychosis. Rhodiola should also not be used by children, pregnant and breastfeeding mothers, or people with high blood pressure [ 252 ].

6.3.9. Schisandra ( Schisandra chinensis )

The often used parts are fruits and seeds. A tincture can be prepared from crushed seeds and a tea brewed from dried berries, shoots, and leaves. The fruits are consumed dried or marinated in sugar or honey to make jam, syrup, juice, or compote. They can also be stored frozen. In addition to syrups and juices, a strong sweet wine can be made from the juice of the berries [ 253 , 254 ]. Schisandra fruits are known to the people of the Far East primarily as a tonic and stimulant against fatigue and exhaustion [ 253 ].

An in vitro study was performed to determine the neuroprotective effects of dibenzocyclooctadiene lignan, schisantherin A, from the fruits of Schisandra chinensis against selective dopaminergic neurotoxin 6-hydroxydopamine-induced neural damage in human neuroblastoma cells. Pretreatment with schisantherin A provided neuroprotection against induced cytotoxicity, regulated the intracellular accumulation of reactive oxygen species and inhibited NO overproduction by reducing the overexpression of inducible nitric oxide synthase in cells [ 206 ].

In other in vitro and in vivo experiments, SH-SY5Y (human neuroblastoma) cells were incubated with 1-methyl-4-phenylpyridinium ion, and mice treated with 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine were used to determine neuroprotection of schisantherin A. Pretreatment with schisantherin A significantly inhibited the induced cytotoxicity in SH-SY5Y cells. In addition, schisantherin A provided significant protection against induced dopaminergic neuronal loss in a mouse model of Parkinson’s disease [ 204 ]. These findings demonstrate that schisantherin A may have potential therapeutic value for oxidative stress-related neurodegenerative disorders, such as Parkinson’s disease [ 204 , 206 ].

In vivo cognitive tests such as the Morris water maze and the passive step-down avoidance tests were performed with rats given oral doses of aqueous or 95% ethanolic extract of Schisandra chinensis (petroleum ether fraction) and showed that the extract could partially reverse the effects of decreasing activity of superoxide dismutase, catalase and the overall antioxidant effect induced by D -galactose, and to maintain normal levels of glutathione, malondialdehyde and nitric oxide in serum, prefrontal cortex, striatum, and hippocampus. The extract improved the overall induced cognitive deficit [ 205 ].

The optimal dose of dried schisandra fruit for human administration is 2–6 g per day. For an average human body weight of 60 kg, the dose is 0.03–0.1 g of fruit per kg of body weight [ 253 , 255 ]. No serious side effects have been reported. Side effects have only occurred after regular ingestion of excessive amounts of fruits and included restlessness and insomnia [ 256 ].

6.3.10. Maca ( Lepidium meyenii )

Maca root is consumed either fresh or dried and has a distinctive taste and aroma. In South America, a sweet porridge or pudding called mazamorra de maca is made from dried roots, while the fresh root is cooked like potatoes. It can also be ground into flour, with a composition similar to cereal grains. A slightly alcoholic beverage called maca chica is made from the maca plant. Many growers mix and grind the leaves with the roots [ 257 , 258 ].

Polysaccharide fractions from maca leaves showed different in vitro scavenging capacities on 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl, hydroxyl, and superoxide anion radicals [ 212 ].

Researchers have recently been interested in the neuroprotective effects of Lepidium meyenii . Experiments in vivo and ex vivo tests have shown the effect of Lepidium meyenii in reducing latency in untrained and trained mice. In the swimming strength test, maca shortened the immobility time. It also increased the uterine weight of mice after ovariectomy. Lepidium meyenii appeared to positively affect latent learning in ovariectomized mice and exhibited antidepressant activity [ 214 ]. Maca improved cognitive function, motor coordination, and endurance in middle-aged mice, increased mitochondrial respiratory function, and upregulated proteins associated with autophagy in the cortex [ 213 ].

These findings suggested that maca might be an effective functional food to slow age-related cognitive decline. The optimal dose has not been determined; however, the amount of maca root powder used in many studies was in the range of 1.5–3 g per day for the average human adult [ 259 , 260 ].

So far, no serious side effects or contraindications to the extracts have been reported. Maca seems to be safe, effective, and non-toxic [ 261 ].

7. Summary and Recommendations

Nootropics are a heterogeneous group of drugs that affect the metabolism of neuronal cells in the central nervous system. They mainly improve cognitive function, especially in cases where there is damage or degeneration. Most of these substances do not have an immediate effect after a single administration and must be used for some length of time before there is a measurable improvement. They are used in acute, subacute, and chronic conditions of memory, consciousness, and learning disorders and as a supportive treatment in patients with Alzheimer’s disease, schizophrenia, hyperkinetic disorder, or senile dementia. Nootropics are usually very well tolerated. Side effects are rare and typically mild, but some complications can occur. For example, people with cardiovascular disease should not use guarana. This is probably due to the relatively high caffeine content. The available literature suggests that the cardiovascular effects experienced by those consuming up to 600 mg of caffeine per day are, in most cases, mild, transient, and reversible, with no permanent adverse effects [ 262 ]. A typical dose of guarana is 75 mg of extract (approximately 12% caffeine) taken as a tablet [ 243 ]. Each such tablet, therefore, contains an average of 9 mg of caffeine. Therefore, in order to get close to the limit of 600 mg of caffeine, a person would have to consume around 66 of these tablets per day. A nootropic that could help in this case is naftidrofuryl, which functions as a vasodilator with rheological effects on the blood and is directly used in treating cardiovascular disorders [ 134 ]. Some nootropics can also affect psychiatric problems; for example, rhodiola is not recommended for patients with manic-depressive psychosis [ 252 ], and dihydroergotoxine is also contraindicated in psychosis [ 153 ]. An expert should be consulted before the use of any of these nootropics. Ginseng and eleuthero are contraindicated in patients with hypertension [ 218 , 219 , 249 ]. Ginkgo causes blood thinning, so people taking certain anticoagulants should not take it, for example, before surgery [ 219 , 225 ]. Additionally, ashwagandha is best taken in the evening because it can act as a sedative in large doses. It is also indicated by its Latin name Withania somnifera, where the Latin species name somnifera means “sleep-inducing” [ 234 ]. Therefore, nootropics users should consider their state of health and mood before deciding to try a certain compound; however, if the recommended dosage is followed, no serious complications should occur. Because of their potential for improving memory and thinking and their easy availability, nootropics have particularly attracted the attention of college students, who call them “smart drugs”. Because of the incomplete clinical evidence on their effectiveness, safety, and social consequences in the case of long-term use, especially with synthetic variants of these drugs, they cannot be recommended to healthy individuals who do not suffer from any cognitive dysfunction. There have not been sufficient experimental studies and results to support prophylactic use, even though the use of herbal supplements with nootropic effects has shown little risk of side effects and contraindications have been minimal. In any case, to be safe, none of these substances should be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Future research regarding nootropics should focus on experiments with more diverse human groups, whether in terms of age, health, gender, or weight. It should also mainly focus on young, healthy people, mostly university students, who use these substances a lot and obtain them, especially on the black market. Furthermore, already advanced methods based on neuroimaging assessment should be used more in experiments and studies to confirm or refute the potential beneficial effects.

Acknowledgments

We thank Gary Bentley for editing and improving the manuscript’s English and Lucie Malá for creating the graphical abstract.

Funding Statement

Financial support for publication was from CZ.02.2.69/0.0/0.0/18_054/0014642 project.

Author Contributions

Conceptualization, M.M.; formal analysis, M.M.; writing—original draft preparation, M.M.; writing—review and editing, M.M. and P.T.; visualization, M.M.; supervision, P.T.; project administration, P.T. All authors have read and agreed to the published version of the manuscript.

Institutional Review Board Statement

Informed consent statement, data availability statement, conflicts of interest.

The authors declare no conflict of interest.

Publisher’s Note: MDPI stays neutral with regard to jurisdictional claims in published maps and institutional affiliations.

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GINKGO BILOBA

Theobromine, l-phenylalanine, methylliberine, lion's mane mushroom, camellia sinensis tea leaf, vitamin b12, agmatine sulfate, n-acetyl cysteine, indian trumpet tree, phosphatidylserine, n-acetyl l-tyrosine, panax ginseng, high dha algae, ashwagandha root, dihydroxyflavone, uridine monophosphate, bacopa monnieri, magnesium bisglycinate, sceletium tortuosum, magnolia bark, ashwagandha leaf & root.

Key Focus Areas

Visual Memory

Extracted from the leaves of the Ginkgo Biloba tree, which is native to China.

Why we use it

Ginkgo Biloba has been studied for it's impact on dopamine in the prefrontal cortex. Increasing dopamine supports cognitive flexibility.

Highlighted Studies

Study 1 - Effects of Ginkgo biloba extract on cognitive control functions, mental activity of the prefrontal cortex and stress reactivity

Study 2 - Neuroregulatory role of ginkgolides

Study 3 - A double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomized trial of Ginkgo biloba extract

Neurogenesis
Neuroprotection

AlphaGrain™Alpha GPC 50% is a standardized form of Alpha GPC. It can be produced synthetically or naturally derived from some food sources, like eggs, dairy, meat, and fish.

Alpha GPC is a useable source of choline, which is used in the brain to make acetylcholine. Acetylcholine is the neurotransmitter primarily associated with learning and memory.

Study 1 - The effects of alpha-glycerylphosphorylcholine, caffeine or placebo on markers of mood, cognitive function, power, speed, and agility

Study 2 - Choline alphoscerate in cognitive decline and in acute cerebrovascular disease: an analysis of published clinical data

Study 3 - Quantitative electroencephalography changes in patients with mild cognitive impairment after choline alphoscerate administration

Citicoline is found in high concentrations in soybeans, animal products, eggs and fish.

Citicoline supports healthy cognitive function and is the building block of Acetylcholine a key neurotransmitter associated with learning and memory.

Study 1 - Citicoline and Memory Function

Study 2 - Citicoline and verbal memory in aging

Study 3 - Citicoline and the treatment of cognitive impairment

Theobromine is the primary alkaloid found in Cocoa.

Theobromine stimulates the release of dopamine and norepinephrine, which help maintain alertness and healthy energy levels. Theobromine is a molecule similar to caffeine, but has a slower onset and longer lasting effect.

Study 1 - Methylxanthines: the psycho-pharmacologically active constituents of chocolate

Study 2 - A study on Theobromine, and the up-regulation of cerebral brain-derived neurotrophic factor

Study 3 - A study on Theobromine and working memory (CaMKII/CREB/BDNF Pathway)

L-Phenylalanine is an essential amino acid found in high concentrations in meat, fish, eggs, soybeans, and cheese.

L-Phenylalanine is an amino acid that is a precursor of the excitatory neurotransmitters dopamine and norepinephrine.

Study 1 - Effects of tyrosine/phenylalanine depletion on electrophysiological correlates of memory

Study 2 - A study on DL-phenylalanine

Study 3 - Behavioral and cognitive effects of tyrosine intake

Zynamite® is a standardized extract from Mangifera indica, commonly known as mango leaves.

Mangifera indica has been shown to support performance accuracy, information processing and memory in select clinical trials. Mango leaf extracts have been used for centuries to support healthy energy levels.

Study 1 - Acute Effects of a Polyphenol-Rich Leaf Extract of Mangifera indica L. (Zynamite) on Cognitive Function

Study 2 - Analysis of phenolic compounds in mango leaves varieties

Study 3 - Central nervous system activities of extract Mangifera indica L

Dynamine™ is a standardized molecule naturally found in coffee beans, tea, guarana, cocoa, and yerba mate.

Studies show that Dynamine™ has been found to support alertness, and maintain energy levels. Dynamine™ is an alkaloid compound that is structurally similar to caffeine.

Study 1 - Effects of caffeine, methylliberine, and theacrine on vigilance, marksmanship, and hemodynamic responses in tactical personnel: a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial

Study 2 - Supplementation with Methylliberine (Dynamine®) Alone and in Combination with TeaCrine®

Study 3 - A Combination of Caffeine, TeaCrine (Theacrine), and Dynamine (Methylliberine) Increases Cognitive Performance and Reaction Time Without Interfering With Mood in Adult Male Egamers

Lion’s Mane Mushrooms are native to Northern United States and Canada.

Studies have shown Lion's Mane may increase levels of Brain Derived Neutropic Factor. It has been studied for its ability to maintain cognitive performance and support memory.

Study 1 - Study on the effects of the mushroom Yamabushitake (Hericium erinaceus)

Study 2 - A study on Hericium erinaceus impact on Mood and Sleep

Study 3 - Study on cognitive functions by oral intake of Hericium erinaceus

Epicatechin is a molecule found in high concentration in green tea and dark chocolate.

Studies have shown Epicatechin to be a potent antioxidant that can pass the blood brain barrier. Antioxidants help neutralize oxidative stress which supports healthy cellular function.

Study 1 - The Impact of Epicatechin on Human Cognition: The Role of Cerebral Blood Flow

Study 2 - Green tea effects on cognition, mood and human brain function: A systematic review

Study 3 - Beneficial Effects of Green Tea Catechins on Neurodegenerative Diseases

Nerve Health
Cellular Function

Methylcobalamin is a bioavailable form of Vitamin B12 that can be man-made or found in high concentrations of animal protein.

Vitamin B12 is known to support energy levels and is essential for nerve health. Studies have shown deficiencies in B12 can lead to decreased cognitive function.*

Study 1 - Effects of Vitamin B12 Supplementation on Cognitive Function and Fatigue

Study 2 - Neurological symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency

Study 3 - Vitamin B12 deficiency: case report and review of literature

Agmatine Sulfate is naturally produced by bacteria, plants, and human cells.

Agmatine Sulfate, derived from amino acid L-arginine, has been studied for its ability to modulate NMDA receptors.*

Study 1 - Neuroprotective offerings by agmatine

Study 2 - Agmatine, a potential novel therapeutic strategy

Study 3 - Neuroprotective Role of Agmatine in Neurological Diseases

TeaCrine® is a standardized alkaloid naturally found in the plant Cupuaçu, related to the cacao tree.

Research indicates TeaCrine® increases activity in the nucleus accumbens (NAc) region of the brain, which is believed to support motivation and and maintain healthy cognitive function.

Study 1 - Safety of TeaCrine®, a non-habituating, naturally-occurring purine alkaloid over eight weeks of continuous use

Study 2 - Cognitive Performance and Mood Following Ingestion of a Theacrine

Study 3 - The effects of TeaCrine® and caffeine on endurance and cognitive performance during a simulated match in high-level soccer players

Cellular function

Cysteine is found in most high-protein foods, like turkey, yogurt, eggs, sunflower seeds and legumes.

Studies have shown NAC may increase levels of glutathione, which help regulate the neurotransmitter glutamate, as well as support detoxification.

Study 1 - A study on N-Acetyl Cysteine and it's function as a Fast-Acting Antioxidant

Study 2 - Therapeutic potential of N-acetylcysteine

Study 3 - A study on N-acetylcysteine and selective protection of cerebellar granule cells

Sabroxy®is a standardized extract from the bark of Oroxylum Indicum, the Indian trumpet tree.

Oroxylum Indicum has been traditionally used in Ayurvedic medicine for centuries. Studies suggest it may improve cognitive function and memory.*

Study 1 - Effects of an Oroxylum indicum Extract (Sabroxy®) on Cognitive Function in Adults With Self-reported Mild Cognitive Impairment

Study 2 - Oroxylum indicum (L.) extract and human neuroblastoma

Study 3 - Systematic Elucidation of the Mechanism of Oroxylum indicum via Network Pharmacology

Made from the root of a plant in the mint family, Forskolin grows in Nepal, India, and Thailand.

Studies have shown that Forskolin increases cellular levels of a molecule called cyclic adenosine monophosphate, or cAMP. Forskolin maintains healthy blood flow to the brain.

Study 1 - Cerebral blood flow regulation and cognitive function: a role of arterial baroreflex function

Study 2 - Body composition and hormonal adaptations associated with forskolin consumption

Study 3 - Effects of forskolin on cerebral blood flow

A naturally occurring phospholipid, our Phosphatidylserine is from sunflowers.

Studies have shown this supplement to maintain memory formation and support the body's cortisol response.*

Study 1 - The effect of phosphatidylserine administration on memory

Study 2 - Effects of phosphatidylserine in age-associated memory impairment

Study 3 - Positive effects of soy lecithin-derived phosphatidylserine plus phosphatidic acid on memory, cognition, daily functioning, and mood in elderly patients

Artichoke leaves and roots.

Studies have shown Artichoke extract blocks an enzyme called phosphodiesterase IV which supports healthy blood flow. Flavonoids like those found in Artichoke extract have antioxidant properties.

Study 1 - The role of luteolin in cognitive health

Study 2 - Phosphodiesterase Inhibitors and Neuroprotection

Study 3 - A study on Luteolin, long-term potentiation and cognitive function

High concentrations in animal protein, dairy products, and whole grains.

Tyrosine is an amino acid precursor to the excitatory neurotransmitters, dopamine and norepinephrine.

Study 1 - Influence of nutritional tyrosine on cognition and functional connectivity

Study 2 - Effect of tyrosine supplementation

Study 3 - A study on Tyrosine benefits cognitive and psychomotor performance during body cooling

GS15-4® is a standardized extract from Panax Ginseng, a root native to Eastern Russian, Northeast China, and the Korean Peninsula.

Studies have shown the active components of Panax Ginseng, Ginsenosides, to support the expression of acetylcholine in the brain, which maintains learning and memory.*

Study 1 - Benefits of American Ginseng on mood and cognition in healthy young adults

Study 2 - Mechanism of action of Panax ginseng

Study 3 - Panax ginseng enhances cognitive performance

AvailOm® is a standardized form of DHA, an omega-3 fatty acid derived from algae.

DHA is a complex fatty acid molecule crucial for it's role in supporting neurological development and maintaining brain health.

Study 1 - Omega-3 supplementation improves cognition and modifies brain activation in young adults

Study 2 - Dietary DHA and health: cognitive function ageing

Study 3 - Supplementation with DHA and the psychological functioning of young adults

KSM-66® is a standardized extract found in high concentrations of the Ashwagandha root.

Ashwagandha modulates our body’s stress response to cortisol. This non-sedating modulation supports calm in stressful situations. Ashwagandha roughly translates to the “smell and strength of a horse!”

Study 1 - Clinical evaluation of the pharmacological impact of ashwagandha root extract

Study 2 - Efficacy and Safety of Ashwagandha

Study 3 - Ashwagandha Root Extract: A Double-Blind, Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Trial

7,8 Dihydroxyflavone is a flavone molecule found in the plants Godmania aesculifolia, Tridax procumbens, and in Primula tree leaves.

Studies have shown 7,8 Dihydroxyflavone can cross the blood brain barrier and bind to TrkB receptors. TrkB is a receptor for brain-derived neurotrophic factor. *

Study 1 - 7,8-dihydroxyflavone as a promising nutraceutical

Study 2 - 7,8-Dihydroxyflavone Mechanism of Action

Study 3 - 7,8-Dihydroxyflavone and Neurodevelopment

Uridine is found in foods such as fish, walnuts, broccoli, and tomatoes.

Uridine is needed to build the cell membrane of our nerve cells and produce choline. It also supports neurotrophic factors BDNF and NGF, which maintains healthy cognitive function.*

Study 1 - Triacetyluridine (TAU) study on brain pH

Study 2 - Oral uridine and neuroprotection

Study 3 - Study on Oral uridine pro-drug PN401

Synapsa® is a standardized extract of the Bacopa Monnieri plant. It has a wide range of active constituents that contribute to its therapeutic properties.

Bacopa is one of the most studied nootropics. Traditionally, Bacopa Monnieri Extract is used to support cognitive function as well as overall brain health.

Study 1 - Effects of a standardized Bacopa monnieri extract on cognitive performance

Study 2 - The cognitive-enhancing effects of Bacopa monnieri: a systematic review of randomized, controlled human clinical trials

Study 3 - Bacopa monnieri on memory performance

Affron® is a standardized extract from saffron, originating from the flower Crocus Sativus.

Saffron has been studied for it's ability to modulate the amount of serotonin available in the brain. Serotonin is a primary neurotransmitter involved in mood regulation. Saffron is the world's most expensive spice. The flowers must be hand picked, and it takes approximately 70,000 flowers to harvest a single pound of saffron stigmas.

Study 1 - Effects of Saffron Extract Supplementation on Mood, Well-Being, and Response to a Psychosocial Stressor in Healthy Adults: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Parallel Group, Clinical Trial

Study 2 - A meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials

Study 3 - Saffron: A Natural Potent Antioxidant

Neuroplasticity

A highly absorbable form of magnesium that has been shown to activate the glycine receptor, an inhibitory neurotransmitter that promotes calming effects on the brain and body.

Studies have shown magnesium may support mood, sleep, and fight oxidative stress.

Study 1 - Magnesium in drug dependences

Study 2 - The effect of vitamin D and magnesium supplementation

Study 3 - Study on Magnesium supplementation

Salvia Officinalis, more commonly known as Sage, is an herb native to the Middle East and Mediterranean areas. This herb has a long history of use in traditional medicine.

Sage has studied as an antioxidant and for its ability to modulate GABA neurotransmission. GABA is the neurotransmitter known for calm and feelings of relaxation.*

Study 1 - An extract of Salvia (sage) with anticholinesterase properties improves memory and attention in healthy older volunteers

Study 2 - Effects of cholinesterase inhibiting sage (Salvia officinalis) on mood and performance on a psychological stressor battery

Study 3 - Differential effects of the aromas of Salvia species on memory and mood

Zembrin® is a standardized extract of the South African plant Sceletium Tortuosum.

Studies have shown Zembrin® supports serotonin which regulates mood.

Study 1 - Sceletium tortuosum (Zembrin® ) ameliorates experimentally induced anxiety in healthy volunteers

Study 2 - Acute effects of Sceletium tortuosum (Zembrin), a dual 5-HT reuptake and PDE4 inhibitor, in the human amygdala and its connection to the hypothalamus

Study 3 - Ergogenic Effects of 8 Days of Sceletium Tortuosum Supplementation on Mood, Visual Tracking, and Reaction

DHH-B is a natural derivative of Magnolia Tree Bark and has been used traditionally in medicinal practices throughout much of Southeast Asia.

Magnolia Bark has been studied for it's ability to support the body’s stress response to cortisol. Cortisol is known as the body's stress hormone.

Study 1 - Honokiol: A review of its pharmacological potential and therapeutic insights

Study 2 - The Neuropharmacological Effects of Magnolol and Honokiol: A Review of Signal Pathways and Molecular Mechanisms

Study 3 - Anxiolytic-like effect of dihydrohonokiol following behavioural and biochemical assessments

Shoden® is the standardized, high potency extract from the leaves and roots of the Ashwagandha plant.

Shoden® is a highly bioavailable adaptogen. Adaptogens mimic the body’s own stress-reducing hormones, increasing the body’s ability to recover from stress and feeling of balance.

Study 1 - Efficacy and Safety of Ashwagandha Root Extract in Improving Memory and Cognitive Functions

Study 2 - An investigation into the stress-relieving and pharmacological actions of an ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) extract: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study

Study 3 - Clinical evaluation of the pharmacological impact of ashwagandha root extract on sleep in healthy volunteers and insomnia patients: A double-blind, randomized, parallel-group, placebo-controlled study

Coffee, tea, cacao, yerba mate, and guarana berries.

Caffeine blocks adenosine molecules from their receptor. When this occurs more dopamine and norepinephrine are released from our neurons. Caffeine is commonly associated with maintaining healthy energy levels.

Study 1 - Effects of Caffeine on reaction time, vigilance and logical reasoning during extended periods with restricted opportunities for sleep

Study 2 - Study on the combination of L-theanine and caffeine across cognitive performance and subjective alertness

Study 3 - Caffeine and the central nervous system: mechanisms of action, biochemical, metabolic and psychostimulant effects

Reaction time

L-Theanine is found in fairly high concentrations in green tea, and can also be found in several mushroom species.

L-Theanine has been taken alongside caffeine for centuries to minimize jitters, so we include it in our caffeinated formulations.

Study 1 - L-Theanine and the psychological and physiological stress responses

Study 2 - Impact of the combination of L-theanine and caffeine on cognitive performance and subjective alertness

Study 3 - The effects of L-theanine, caffeine and their combination on cognition and mood

Stop procrastinating

Nootropic formulas to activate every kind of brain.

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Thesis Nootropics Review
Take Thesis Nootropics Review: Personalized Nootropic Blends For Every Goal
Thesis Nootropics Review (aka Formula): Are Personalized Nootropics
Thesis Nootropics Review: Benefits, Pricing, & Everything You Need to Know
Thesis Nootropics Review vs. Evolvere Quantumind Review
Thesis Nootropic Review

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Thesis Nootropics Review
Thesis Nootropics is a brand that offers personalized nootropics designed to enhance cognitive function and overall brain health. Their blends contain a variety of ingredients that are carefully chosen for their cognitive-boosting properties, and offer numerous health benefits.
Thesis
Thesis is a nootropic company that offers personalized blends for your brain goals and lifestyle. Whether you want to boost your focus, creativity, mood, or energy, you can find the right formula for you. Try their starter kit and get free shipping, coaching, and a 30-day guarantee.
Thesis Nootropics Review: Tested In 2024
Thesis nootropics are designed to enhance cognitive function and optimize brain performance by supporting mood, memory, focus, cognitive processing, creativity and motivation, according to the ...
Thesis Nootropics Review (2024) Is It Worth The Hype?
Thesis is a stack of supplements that aims to improve cognitive function, mental stamina, mood, and overall mental energy levels. Thesis nootropics' energy formula claims to boost energy levels while catering to individuals following a certified gluten-free diet, promoting positive habits and supporting nerve health.
Thesis Nootropics Review
Thesis Energy uses cysteine and tyrosine alongside caffeine to deliver a steady energy supply. It also includes TeaCrine, a branded form of theacrine, which partners with caffeine to affect adenosine signaling and prevent fatigue. Here's a full list of Energy's ingredients: Citicoline: 300mg. Mango leaf: 300mg.
Thesis Nootropics Review (2024): Do The Brain Boosters Actually Work?
Thesis nootropics are probably the best way to get into nootropics without having to do loads of research. The brand isn't the cheapest out there, but the product is quality and the customer service is excellent. References plus icon minus icon. Lai, Puei-Lene et al (2013) https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24266378/
About
Health Sciences, Naturopathy. Amanda believes in utilizing root cause medicine to optimize health. She is passionate about neurodegenerative disease, attention deficit disorders, and aspires to build a medical practice that focuses on endocrinology. Amanda's blends. energy.
Thesis Nootropics Helped Me Ditch My 3-Coffee-A-Day Habit
It has Lion's Mane extract (a mushroom), caffeine, L-theanine, and a few other ingredients meant to support a calm, focused flow. The idea is to take the supplements in the morning so they kick ...
Personalized Nootropics
Find the right nootropics for you. Every brain is different. Our Starter Kit helps you discover the right blends to optimize your brain chemistry. Energy helps you get through the midday slump and crush your to-do list.*. Motivation helps you avoid procrastination and is your partner in tackling tasks.*.
Thesis Nootropics Review: Personalized, Nootropic Brain Support
Thesis's Creativity blend is endorsed to increase that "spark" of inspiration, get your thought processes flowing into an easeful state of being, and improve your confidence in the process with four potent ingredients:. Alpha GPC (150mg): Alpha-glycerylphosphorylcholine (αGPC) is the precursor molecule to acetylcholine, an essential neurotransmitter that plays a role in cognition and ...
Thesis Nootropics Review 2024: Honest Thoughts
Thesis offers a complete toolkit of nootropics that are tailored to your needs, in addition to ongoing expert support. Unlike other nootropics, which may include unnecessary or hidden ingredients, Thesis only offers what you need with their six unique blends that focus on supporting logic, energy, creativity, clarity, motivation, and confidence.
Thesis Review
Customer Thesis Nootropics Reviews. Verdict: Thesis Review - 4 Weeks with Noticeable Effects. Key Takeaways. Offers personalized nootropics. Transparent label. Effective when tested at increasing clarity and focus. Good sets of ingredients. Not the most affordable but worth the price. Best for long-term use.
Thesis: The Personalized, Just for You Nootropics Experience
Thesis formulas are designed to give you totally crash-free improvements in mood, focus, and energy right off the bat. You'll also notice that your results compound over time. You'll be able to tell after a month or so that your brain is stronger than it was before. But everyone's brain is different, and nootropics are not a one-size-fits ...
Thesis Nootropics Review: Unraveling the Potential & Pitfalls
Thesis Nootropics: An Overview. Thesis nootropics is magnetizing the market's interest. Sold under the promising benefit of improving cognitive function, nootropics by Thesis, as the brand claims, are personalized "based on your unique brain chemistry." The official Thesis' website makes bold statements such as: Potent active ingredients.
FAQ
Thesis is designed for daily use-with intentional rest days built in. Incorporating 1-2 days off per week can prevent building up a tolerance to your blends and allows you to reassess your baseline. If you have a very busy week, you can take your blends all seven days; just adjust for next week by taking two rest days.
Thesis Nootropics Review: Unveiling the Effects on Cognitive
Thesis Nootropics have been met with a broad spectrum of feedback from users who typically emphasize gains in focus, clarity, and energy levels. Below is a curated selection of customer testimonials: User Feedback; John S.
I Tried 4 Thesis Nootropic Blends (My 2024 Review)
Thesis Nootropic Ingredients. Thesis have six unique blends designed to target various aspects of cognitive function. What's similar between them is the option to include or exclude caffeine and L-theanine. The caffeine and l-theanine combination is the most potent instant nootropic, making each blend effective.
Take Thesis Nootropics Review (2023): Expert Insiders Thoughts
Over the span of years, they've amassed a huge dataset: Resulting in 86% of users reporting higher energy levels, better mood, more reliable memory, and greater motivation. Unsurprisingly, Thesis has garnered a stellar 96% customer satisfaction. The company also has soul.
Science
You'll notice a difference within a few days, and results tend to compound over time. " The Thesis process was developed by systematically testing different combinations of high quality ingredients. We made the process of finding the right nootropics quicker & safer.". DAN FREED.
What Are Nootropics or "Smart Drugs" or Cognitive Enhancers?
The term "nootropics" first referred to chemicals that met very specific criteria. But now it's used to refer to any natural or synthetic substance that may have a positive impact on mental skills ...
Starter Kit
Depending on your genetics and experience with nootropics, the effects can be felt in as little as 30 minutes after taking each blend. Thesis has the most impact when taken on an empty stomach, just after waking from a normal night of rest. Some people may need a few days of consecutive use to feel the effects of the nutrients.
Nootropics as Cognitive Enhancers: Types, Dosage and Side Effects of
Nootropics, also known as "smart drugs" are a diverse group of medicinal substances whose action improves human thinking, learning, and memory, especially in cases where these functions are impaired. This review provides an up-to-date overview of the potential effectiveness and importance of nootropics. Based on their nature and their ...
Ingredients
Ingredients with purpose. For all of our formulations, we source top-quality, vegan ingredients from around the world. Extracted from the leaves of the Ginkgo Biloba tree, which is native to China. Ginkgo Biloba has been studied for it's impact on dopamine in the prefrontal cortex.