Nootropics can come in the form of natural substances, like caffeine and curcumin, which are often used to develop nootropic supplements and drugs. ©Getty Images Nootropics have been attracting increasing consumer interest as people seek to perform better at work and school, but one academic has voiced concerns. Sarah Benson, a Postdoctoral Research Fellow at Swinburne University’s Centre for Human Psychopharmacology, has been researching nootropics — cognitive enhancers meant to improve concentration, alertness and memory. Speaking to NutraIngredients-Asia ​, she said: “The mechanisms of action and implications are different for different substances. Typically, enhancers work by increasing blood flow to the brain, but may also alter neurochemicals or stimulate nerve growth. ​ “When used correctly, these products tend not to have negative side effects. However, people may ‘stack’ cognitive enhancers — that is, combine several nootropics that are taken together. These combinations are usually not researched, and the effects on health are not known.” ​ ‘Natural’ does not mean ‘safe’ Claims that certain nootropic supplements are ‘natural’ are common as they tend to be attractive to buyers, though this does not necessarily mean they are safe to consume. Nootropics can come in the form of natural substances, like caffeine, Bacopa monnieri ​, curcumin, ginkgo biloba ​, and Siberian ginseng, which are often used to develop nootropic supplements and drugs. Benson said that while there was “compelling evidence” ​ from clinical trials showing that certain nutraceuticals were indeed able to enhance cognitive function, it was imperative to note that their efficacy could differ depending on the standardisation and compositions of the ingredients used. Additionally, the nootropics that have been clinically tested may not be identical to that of a purchased product. The vast difference in the level of regulation nutraceuticals and pharmaceuticals are subject to is also a factor. While […]

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Say ‘no’ to nootropics? Expert advises extreme caution and extensive research