Nootropic herbs: Research on brain-boosting botanicals

Nootropic substances for enhanced cognition are all the buzz these days, appealing to a vast audience, from the individual looking to ward off age-related cognitive decline to the executive looking to maintain his or her mental edge at work or the e-gamer looking to outsmart and outwit the competition. Dietary supplements are an increasingly important part of the hunt for improved cognitive function, with some estimates suggesting that the global market for brain health supplements-which, according to Research and Markets, saw estimated sales of $2.3 billion in 2015-will rise to over $11 billion by the year 2024.¹

Numerous botanical extracts are demonstrating ability to serve as part of the nootropic toolbox, whether one is interested in enhancing memory, attention, processing speed, or mood, or supporting other factors contributing to brain health. While herbs such as rhodiola (Rhodiola rosea), bacopa (Bacopa monnieri), and Ginkgo biloba have a long history of traditional use for brain health, research is now finding that several other botanicals are increasingly important players for improving cognitive health and helping to maintain that mental edge.

Reference

1. Research and Markets. 2018. “Global $11.6 Billion Brain Health Supplements Market To 2024.” Prnewswire.com. Accessed October 4 2018.

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