Thrive

Alpha-GPC, also known as choline alfoscerate, is a relatively novel nootropic. It has potential across a variety of nootropic domains including memory and physical strength. In the brain, Alpha-GPC exists naturally as a precursor to the ubiquitous neurotransmitter acetylcholine. It exerts its effects through direct stimulation of acetylcholine receptors, and also acts more localised in the frontal cortex to stimulate dopamine and serotonin receptors.

Bacopa monnieri is an Ayurvedic herb native to Australia and India. Its nootropic mechanisms are wide-ranging: In the brain, it inhibits the enzyme acetylcholinesterase, thereby reducing breakdown of the major neurotransmitter acetylcholine. Furthermore, Bacopa has anti-oxidant properties via several mechanisms, such as promotion of glutathione (1). As a result, the herb has potential across several nootropic domains including focus, memory & mood.

The edible mushroom Hericium erinaceus grows on hardwood trees in many parts of the world. Its long, dangling and dense network of spines is the reason for its popular name in the culinary and nootropic world: Lion’s mane. The mushroom contains a variety of bioactive compounds including erinacines, which have been linked to stimulation of nerve growth factor synthesis, alkaloids, and lactones.

L-tyrosine is a unique nootropic: The more demanding the situation, the more effective it becomes. This is due to its neuropharmacological properties of being a conditionally essential amino acid. Only under significant stress does it becomes an essential precursor for the vital neurotransmitters dopamine and noradrenaline. This implies that L-tyrosine may have powerful concentration-enhancing properties.

Phosphatidylserine is a glycerol-based phospholipid. It is found naturally within the brain, where it is a major component of cortical cell membranes. Here, it plays a key role in synaptic neurotransmission via several mechanisms, including a direct effect on cell transport mechanisms and modulation of neurotransmitters such as the AMPA glutamate receptor. As the concentration of phosphatidylserine decreases with advancing age, supplementation may preserve some of the benefits of phosphatidylserine as we age. These benefits are potentially wide-ranging and include increases in focus, memory and relaxation.