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6 Best Nootropics for Memory: Forget About Forgetfulness in 2023
Mental Health

6 Best Nootropics for Memory: Forget About Forgetfulness in 2023

Dr. Donika Vata
Written by Donika Vata, MD | Fact checked by Fact checked by Edna Skopljak, MD check
Last update: May 9, 2023
95 Views
8 min

Unfortunately, the cognitive decline that happens as we age is a natural process that cannot be completely prevented. However, nootropics may provide the answer when it comes to helping us process and retain information more quickly and effectively. We compare the top 6 options on the market and discuss which is the best for boosting your memory.

best nootropics for memory
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As we get older, both our body and brain function begin to decline. This can lead to a decrease in our alertness, concentration, and especially our memory. However, there is a solution that can help keep your brain healthy.

Also known as memory supplements or smart drugs, nootropics are a class of drugs that not only combat age-related cognitive decline but also improve your mood and allow you to remember things you might otherwise have forgotten.

To help you choose from the wide variety of products on the market, we’ve put together a guide to the 6 best nootropics for memory. Read on to discover the pros and cons of each, as well as how they may be able to help keep your favorite memories crystal clear.

Top 6 Best Nootropics for Memory

Approximately 40% of people aged 65 or older suffer from age-related memory loss, which equates to around 16 million people in the US. 

Many nootropics have proven to be effective in boosting cognitive function and helping to protect memory as we age. Keep reading to find out which smart drugs are the best on the market for this purpose.

#1 NooCube – Best overall

Noocube Logo
NooCube
  • Improves focus
  • Boosts mental energy
  • Heightens cognitive awareness and memory
  • Improves reaction times
Our rating:
4.5
stars
Learn More

NooCube is an all-in-one nootropic designed specifically for busy working people with deadlines, parents, athletes, and older people. It contains a combination of amino acids, pro-brain vitamins, and natural herbal ingredients to promote good brain health.

The award-winning Lutemax 2020 ingredient that’s included in the supplement contains powerful nutrients with antioxidative properties

These nutrients support areas of the brain responsible for information processing, preventing inflammation, and helping to maintain your memory. 

NooCube’s primary ingredient is alpha GPC, a chemical that increases levels of acetylcholine in the brain. When the brain has a good supply of the acetylcholine neurotransmitter, its cells are able to communicate more effectively, supporting cognitive abilities such as focus, learning, and memory. 

The chemical may also be effective as a treatment for vascular dementia and Alzheimer’s disease, although research is still ongoing.

Pros
  • All-natural, clinically proven ingredients
  • Non-GMO, soy-free, and grain-free
  • Gluten-free
  • Proven to halt neurodegenerative disorders
  • 60-day money-back guarantee
Cons
  • May experience mild stomach upset

#2 Mind Lab Pro – Best for brain performance

mind lab pro logo
Mind Lab Pro
  • Targets multiple cognitive functions
  • Improves memory and concentration
  • Boosts your mood
Our rating:
4.4
stars
Learn More

Mind Lab Pro’s “universal” V4.0 formula provides a range of cognitive performance benefits through its stack of 11 plant-based ingredients.

What’s great about this nootropic is that it contains no proprietary blends, meaning that all individual ingredients and their doses are made clear on the packaging. This means that you’ll know exactly what you’re putting into your body and brain. 

Taking the recommended 2–4 capsules per day provides you with 250mg of citicoline per serving, an ingredient that has been shown to improve age-associated memory loss in healthy elderly populations.

It also contains natural ingredients such as Bacopa monnieri, a herb with antioxidative properties that protect against free radical cell damage. Studies have shown that treating subjects with this herb may reverse signs of memory impairment.

Lion’s mane mushroom stimulates the production of a protein called nerve growth factor (NGF). This is important for maintaining the functioning of neurons within the brain, which help regulate memory and mood.

Pros
  • All-natural ingredients
  • Suitable for those on a plant-based diet
  • Stimulant-free
Cons
  • Ingredients may cause stomach upset
  • Relatively expensive
  • No free shipping available

#3 Noobru Advantage – Best for brain fog

Noobru logo
Noobru Advantage
  • Eliminates brain fog
  • Reduces symptoms of ADHD
  • Helps you sleep better
  • Boosts mental energy
Our rating:
4.2
stars
Learn More

Launched in 2020, Noobru Advantage is relatively new to the nootropics market. 

The supplement contains 11 active ingredients, with the doses being fine-tuned by medical doctors to provide an effective formula that helps reduce brain fog and boost mental performance.

Ashwagandha is a key ingredient within the nootropic, with evidence to suggest that, along with supporting weight loss, it could improve cognitive function for older adults with mild impairment or dementia.

Studies show that ashwagandha has antioxidative effects, which help prevent age-associated damage to the brain while improving memory, attention, and information processing speed.

Noobru Advantage also contains sulbutiamine, an artificial chemical that has been found to enhance the formation of long-term memory

However, in 2019 sulbutiamine was added to the Dietary Supplement Ingredient Advisory List by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). This means that it may not be lawful to include it in dietary supplements and should be taken with caution.

Pros
  • Suitable for vegans
  • Optimal doses of each ingredient confirmed by doctors
  • Caffeine-free formula
Cons
  • Contains ingredients that are not recommended by the FDA
  • Has added flavors and colors
  • Not third-party tested

#4 Nooceptin – Best for stress and anxiety 

nooceptin logo
Nooceptin
  • Improves memory retention
  • Increases decision-making abilities
  • Makes learning and problem-solving easier
  • Reduces stress and anxiety
Our rating:
4.2
stars
Learn More

According to the manufacturer, Nooceptin is an effective, natural substitute for prescription drugs and other nootropics that contain synthetic ingredients.

The nootropic contains a unique blend of clinically-backed ingredients that are designed to support learning, memory, and problem-solving. They do this by increasing neurotransmitter levels and promoting neuron growth in areas of the brain that are most associated with memory.

Alongside ingredients such as lion’s mane extract, citicoline, and Bacopa monnieri, Nooceptin contains ginkgo biloba, which is extracted from a plant native to China. 

The compounds within this extract increase the delivery of oxygen and nutrients to the brain cells, which helps to boost memory, learning, and mental energy when taken consistently. 

Another key ingredient is Panax ginseng, which recent clinical studies have shown to cause improvements in memory due to its effectiveness in reducing anxiety.

It has also been found to be a good brain enhancer in older people with mild cognitive impairment.

Pros
  • Made in an FDA-registered facility
  • Caffeine and stimulant-free
Cons
  • Not suitable for those who are pregnant
  • Won’t experience benefits for at least 90 days

#5 Brain Pill – Best for memory

brainpill logo
Brain Pill
  • Clears brain fog
  • Improves memory and learning ability
  • Lowers stress levels
  • Boosts decision-making capabilities
Our rating:
4.0
stars
Learn More

Brain Pill is loaded with 13 nootropic ingredients that are designed to deliver all-day focus while clearing brain fog, improving memory, and supporting overall brain health.

Like many of the other top nootropics, Brain Pill’s main ingredients are Bacopa monnieri and citicoline, both of which contribute to optimal cognitive performance. 

It also contains a vitamin B complex, including B5, 6, and 12, which work together to provide you with good brain health.

Vitamin B5, or pantothenic acid, is vital for generating energy, and deficiency in this nutrient has been linked with neurodegeneration and dementia.

Research shows that vitamins B6 and B12 are important for quick memory recall, processing speed, and good working memory

The company claims that you should begin to see the benefits of the powerful nootropic blend after 30 days of consistent use, although this can vary from person to person.

Pros
  • Stimulant-free
  • Clinically-tested ingredients
Cons
  • Not suitable for those who are pregnant or breastfeeding
  • Not recommended for people under 18

#6 Hunter Focus – Best for focus

Hunter Focus logo
Hunter Focus
  • Improves problem-solving skills
  • Increases focus
  • Enhances memory
  • Reduces anxiety
  • Anti-fatigue formula
Our rating:
4.0
stars
Learn More

As a brand, Hunter Focus has two decades of experience in the supplement market and provides one of the top nootropics for adults over the age of 30. 

Hunter Focus contains 20 ingredients that are separated into 3 key benefits designed to keep you at the top of your game, which are concentration activation, mood amplification, and memory matrix. 

Alongside organic lion’s mane mushroom and Bacopa monnieri, the nootropic also contains Rhodiola rosea extract. 

As well as helping to reduce fatigue, this plant has been shown to lower cortisol levels and increase alertness. High cortisol leads to elevated feelings of stress, a factor that can determine the effectiveness of your working memory.

Take 6 capsules per day of the supplement, and Hunter Focus claims that you should begin to feel the effects after 3 months.

Pros
  • Soy-free and gluten-free
  • No fillers or synthetic ingredients
  • Conforms with FDA regulations
Cons
  • Unsuitable for vegetarians
  • Relatively expensive
  • Not suitable for students or the elderly
  • Takes up to 3 months to notice the effects

Comparison Table

scroll hint
NooCube
Mind Lab Pro
Noobru Advantage
Nooceptin
Brainpill
Hunter Focus
4.5
stars
4.4
stars
4.2
stars
4.2
stars
4.0
stars
4.0
stars

All-natural, clinically proven ingredients

Non-GMO, soy-free, and grain-free

Gluten-free

Proven to halt neurodegenerative disorders

All-natural ingredients

Suitable for those on a plant-based diet

Stimulant-free

Suitable for vegans

Optimal doses of each ingredient confirmed by doctors

Caffeine-free formula

Made in an FDA-registered facility

Caffeine and stimulant-free

Stimulant-free

Clinically-tested ingredients

Soy-free and gluten-free

No fillers or synthetic ingredients

Conforms with FDA regulations

May experience mild stomach upset

Ingredients may cause stomach upset

Relatively expensive

No free shipping available

Contains ingredients that are not recommended by the FDA

Has added flavors and colors

Not third-party tested

Not suitable for those who are pregnant

Won’t experience benefits for at least 90 days

Not suitable for those who are pregnant or breastfeeding

Not recommended for people under 18

Unsuitable for vegetarians

Relatively expensive

Not suitable for students or the elderly

Brand
NooCube
Mind Lab Pro
Noobru Advantage
Nooceptin
Brainpill
Hunter Focus
Overall Rating
4.5
stars
4.4
stars
4.2
stars
4.2
stars
4.0
stars
4.0
stars
Pros

All-natural, clinically proven ingredients

Non-GMO, soy-free, and grain-free

Gluten-free

Proven to halt neurodegenerative disorders

All-natural ingredients

Suitable for those on a plant-based diet

Stimulant-free

Suitable for vegans

Optimal doses of each ingredient confirmed by doctors

Caffeine-free formula

Made in an FDA-registered facility

Caffeine and stimulant-free

Stimulant-free

Clinically-tested ingredients

Soy-free and gluten-free

No fillers or synthetic ingredients

Conforms with FDA regulations

Cons

May experience mild stomach upset

Ingredients may cause stomach upset

Relatively expensive

No free shipping available

Contains ingredients that are not recommended by the FDA

Has added flavors and colors

Not third-party tested

Not suitable for those who are pregnant

Won’t experience benefits for at least 90 days

Not suitable for those who are pregnant or breastfeeding

Not recommended for people under 18

Unsuitable for vegetarians

Relatively expensive

Not suitable for students or the elderly

How to Choose the Best Nootropics for Memory 

When reviewing any type of supplement, it’s important to test them against a variety of factors to help you decide whether or not they are worth the investment. 

We ranked each nootropic based on its performance in 4 categories, which are explored in more detail below.

Quality 

All the ingredients included in the top-ranked nootropics are natural and of high quality. We looked at the quality and usefulness of the vitamins, minerals, amino acids, and plant extracts in improving cognitive function and boosting memory.  

Price 

The best nootropics tend to be relatively expensive, as they are made with a range of natural, high-quality ingredients. We tried to find a balance between quality and price to ensure the products are available to a wide customer base. For many users, the benefits that they gain from the supplements outweigh the price. 

Also, many nootropics brands offer “subscribe and save” deals that allow you to order their products on a rolling basis so that you’ll never run out.

Brand reputation 

Nootropics brands with good reputations tend to sell high-quality products that genuinely help to boost brain function. They should also be transparent about the ingredients they use and provide good customer service when things go wrong.

Effectiveness

Most brands selling brain-boosting supplements will claim that theirs is the best for improving your brain power and memory. However, it’s important to explore these claims in more detail and see whether each ingredient within the nootropic is backed up by scientific research. 

FAQs 

What are the best nootropics for memory?

The best nootropics for memory are those that contain high-quality and clinically-proven ingredients to naturally boost your cognitive functioning. Overall, the top-ranked nootropic for this purpose is NooCube, an all-in-one supplement with award-winning, effective ingredients.

Can nootropics improve memory?

Yes, nootropics can improve memory as they boost blood circulation to the brain. This ensures that the brain receives essential nutrients, such as glucose, that it can use as fuel to maintain good cognitive function.

Which nootropics help with short-term memory?

Nootropics that are high in amino acids, such as L-tyrosine and L-theanine, help to maintain a healthy nerve growth factor, which is important for keeping healthy connective neurons within the brain. This improves your capacity to retain information in the short term.

A Word From Our Medical Team

Nootropics or “smart drugs” may be effective in protecting the health of brain cells, sharpening your attention span, and improving mental performance.

As well as aiding information retention in the short term, they have also been shown to boost long-term memory for those with neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and Huntington’s.

Although nootropics provide several benefits, it’s important to do other things to improve your brain and mental health too. Try to walk more, eat a balanced diet, drink plenty of water, and meet up with friends to maintain good cognitive function. Games, puzzles, and learning new things can also boost memory. It might be fun to take up a new hobby.

Some nootropics can interfere with other medications, so always consult your doctor before taking them.

You may also experience unwanted and potentially dangerous side effects if you fail to stick to the recommended dose. It’s therefore important to read the nootropic’s packaging carefully.

Conclusion

Nootropics can help improve brain health overall. Many are scientifically proven to provide benefits for memory and may even protect against neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s.

Try to choose nootropics that are made with natural, stimulant-free ingredients, such as plant extracts, vitamins, minerals, and amino acids. NooCube, Mind Lab Pro, and Noobru Advantage are among the best nootropics to support a healthy brain and boost your mood.

If you are taking any other prescription medications, be sure to speak to your doctor to rule out any potentially dangerous interactions with nootropics.

Dr. Donika Vata
Written by
Dr. Donika Vata is a highly accomplished MD whose extensive experience in the healthcare industry spans over 5 years, making her a distinguished Medical Writer and Researcher for the esteemed Health Reporter. Notably, she also holds the role of a General Practice Doctor and has rendered her exceptional patient care services in various clinics worldwide.
The article was checked by Edna Skopljak, MD
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