What is Ginkgo Biloba?
Ginkgo Biloba is a tree native to China and one of the oldest species of trees on earth. What makes ginkgo biloba so unique however, are the leaves of the tree. The leaves contain plant metabolites known as flavonoid glycosides and have been shown to possess many different uses, especially relating to improving memory, concentration, and the slowing of cognitive decline.

Ginkgo Biloba Benefits and Side Effects
The most notable benefit of ginkgo biloba extract is its ability to improve short term memory and free recall, especially in older adults affected by cognitive decline. Another benefit of this nootropic is that it provides a degree of neuroprotection.

These benefits are made possible by the flavonoid glycosides, as they work as an inhibitor of the platelet activating factor receptor (PAF). This can potentially extend neurology and may also be a factor in the neuroprotective effects of ginkgo.

Ginkgo is also effective at reducing stress and anxiety as well as boosting mood. In regards to stress in particular, ginkgo is able to reduce corticosterone, which is the hormone that regulates how you respond to stress. Because of this, ginkgo is likely an adaptogen. Additionally, Ginkgo Biloba is able to reduce the effects of oxidative damage, thus it is an effective antioxidant as well.

For safety, ginkgo biloba is not recommended for pregnant women. On rare occasions gingko has been shown to cause an increased risk of bleeding in some users due to the reduced platelet response caused by the PAF inhibiting properties. Headaches and dizziness may also occur in some users.

Ginkgo Biloba Dosage
Individuals should take 120-240mg of Ginkgo Biloba with meals. This nootropic takes about 30 minutes to an hour to take maximum effect. If you want constant but mild benefits, take 40-120mg doses one to three times per day.

Additional Resources
Ginkgo Biloba on Examine.com
Ginkgo Biloba Wikipedia Entry

What is L-Tyrosine?
L-Tyrosine is a non-essential amino acid that can be synthesized in the body from Phenylalanine. It is also the parent compound in the creation of a number hormones and neurotransmitters. Some of the most important of these neurotransmitters include dopamine, DOPA, norepinephrine, epinephrine, and more. It is also essential in the production of the skin pigment melanin. Dietary sources of this amino acid include meat, eggs, fish, oats, and dairy products. Additionally, this supplement is also involved in many different vital functions and processes, such that it is also considered to be an all purpose amino acid.

L-Tyrosine Benefits
One huge benefit of L-Tyrosine supplementation is that it can be useful for weight loss. It does this by improving some of the neurobiological disturbances typically caused by dietary restrictions.

Medical research also indicates that L-Tyrosine supplementation can sharpen the memory, if taken on a regular basis. Tyrosine is able to protect the nerves from toxins and it is even able to cross the blood-brain barrier, which is one of the reasons why it is effective at raising the levels of key neurotransmitters. Another interesting l-tyrosine benefit is it helps the body adjust to situations of cold and fatigue.

Tyrosine supplement can also boost mood. It does this by helping you relax and as well as calming nerves and anxiety.

L-Tyrosine also plays the role as a control element, helping a number of organs function that are responsible for creation and regulation of a number of hormones. This includes the adrenal, thyroid, and pituitary glands. Additionally, this supplement is involved in the structure of almost every protein in the body.

Tyrosine is an important amino acid when the body is under stress. It is critically involved in the production of stress hormones, especially epinephrine and norepinephrine. Without proper amounts of this supplement some studies suggest that memory and performance may suffer. There is also some evidence suggesting that L-Tyrosine supplementation after sleep deprivation can help people become much more alert.

L-Tyrosine Dosage
A typical dosage range for L-Tyrosine is 500mg-2g per day, typically 30-60 minutes before encountering an acute stressor such as exercise. Of course, each user is advised to start off at a low level and only increase gradually, as they evaluate the effects and benefits.

Sources:
http://www.bodybuilding.com/fun/md1.htm
http://www.xbrain.co.uk/benefit-of-l-tyrosine
http://umm.edu/health/medical/altmed/supplement/tyrosine
http://www.raysahelian.com/tyrosine.html

What Is Bacopa Monnieri 20% Bacosides?
Bacopa Monnieri is a perennial, creeping herb that thrives in wetlands and muddy areas. It is native to much of India, but may also be found in China, Sri Lanka, Taiwan, Vietnam, and even tropical areas of the US like Hawaii and Florida.

This plant has actually been used in the Ayurvedic, Indian tradition for thousands of years. This includes religious ceremonies for babies since this plant was thought to open a gateway to intelligence for the child. Ancient religious leaders reportedly used this plant to help them learn and remember epic poems, enhancing their brain function. It has been reported to help with anxiety, memory disorders, and may even provide relief for hypothyroidism.

Bacopa Monnieri (Bacosides) Benefits
There are a number of interesting benefits associated with Bacopa Monnieri, one of which is that regular use of this herbal supplement can help to reduce overall stress and anxiety.

Bacopa is also referred to as a type of brain tonic in India. This is because it has been associated with improving learning problems, helping memory, and even boosting overall concentration. A recent study on older (but otherwise healthy) adults at Southern Cross University in New South Wales, Australia discovered that Bacopa powder has the ability to improve both memory acquisition and retention.

There are also several international studies that support the ability of Bacopa to help influence the mind in other areas. This includes a 2007 Texas A&M University study showing this supplement reduced amyloid deposits in mice with neurodegenerative diseases. Additionally, an Indian university study found that this supplement has the ability to dramatically improve the symptoms of mood disorders.

Bacopa Monnieri (Bacosides) Dosage
The standard dosage for Bacopa Monnieri 20% is 750 mg per day.

Sources
http://undergroundhealthreporter.com/benefits-of-bacopa-increase-in-helping-prevent-alzheimers-and-dementia
http://altmedicine.about.com/od/completeazindex/a/benefits_bacopa.htm
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18611150
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20590480
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17604373
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/12046860

Being sleepy, drowsy, cloudy, dopey, tired, and/or drained is simply not fun. That's why coffee and tea is consumed in such large quantities all over the world.

The reason caffeinated beverages are such popular remedies to combat fatigue are that they simply work so efficiently. While most people consider caffeine something that they get in their java, Caffeine Anhydrous is a suitable alternative which provides the added benefits of enhanced effectiveness and accurate tracking of your dose.

What is it?
Caffeine is the energizing compound found in things like coffee, tea, and soft drinks, but Caffeine Anhydrous is a form of caffeine found to be much more effective at improving mental and athletic capabilities.

This central nervous system stimulant has many sought after effects such as increased alertness, decreased fatigue, and improved performance under the eroding effects of sleep deprivation and boredom.

Caffeine Anhydrous also improve sports and athletic functions. A considerable ergogenic, caffeine improves athletic performance during both long-term endurance trials and short heats.

How does it work?
Caffeine Anhydrous is a quickly absorbed molecule that efficiently transports throughout the body. Caffeine levels begin to rise as quickly as fifteen minutes after ingestion and don't reach their peak until forty-five minutes later. It has no trouble passing the blood-brain barrier due to its lipid solubility, making it highly effective.

Benefits of Caffeine
Caffeine's role as an athletic boost is due to its wide array of mechanisms. It reduces reliance on glycogen, enhances use of free fatty acids, competes with adenosine, increases secretion of beta endorphins, and boosts thermogenesis, even in chronic coffee drinkers.

Caffeine has effects on both the brain and muscles, although its ability to spike athletic performance is most likely a predominantly neural one.

Caffeine is also the world's favorite nootropic. Caffeine supplements have shown to provide vastly improved cognitive capacities. Numerous human studies have shown Caffeine Anhydrous maximizes concentration and short term memory.

An effective supplement for runners, lifters, thinkers, and those of us who didn't get enough sleep last night, Caffeine Anhydrous is a must have.

Caffeine Dosage
Caffeine supplements can be used anywhere from 50 (1 level .15cc tsp) to 200 mg. While moderately safe, Caffeine is dose dependent and the lowest effective dose is always advisable. Caffeine can create mild dependence; use intermittently for best results.

Sources
International society of sports nutrition position stand: caffeine and performance
The psychopharmacological and electrophysiological effects of single doses of caffeine in healthy human subjects [pdf]
Johns Hopkins University Bayview Medical Center: "Information About Caffeine Dependence."
Additional Resources
http://examine.com/supplements/Caffeine/
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Caffeine

What is Alpha-GPC Powder?
Alpha GPC is a cholinergic substance used for its cognitive enhancing abilities; there is also evidence that it can reduce the rate of age related memory loss. Alpha GPC also has atheltic implications as it can enhance the production of growth hormones as well as muscle strength.

Nutritionally supporting vibrant mental health can be difficult through food alone. The modern diet does not always provide your brain with all of the nutrients it needs. That being said, some common Alpha GPC food sources include milk, soy, and eggs. However, supplementation is a much more direct method of attaining Alpha GPC. Plus, Alpha GPC is the most efficient cholinergic supplement on the market.

Due to the water solubility of Alpha GPC and its quick absorption, this form of choline is quickly becoming a popular addition to many nootropic stacks, and it is being used as a nootropic in its own right.

Alpha-GPC Benefits
Users most often take Alpha GPC for the improvement of general cognition, memory, thinking, and learning. Alpha GPC has been repeatedly shown to increase attention and certain aspects of memory.

Not only does Alpha GPC provide choline, it bonds with the omega-3 fatty acid docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) through an enzyme process that builds new membranes that promote nerve cell expansion.

This nerve expanding property of Alpha GPC is not its only claim to fame, because Alpha GPC also supports high choline levels. This helps in the creation of acetylcholine which is one of the most important neurotransmitters when it comes to thinking, memory, and learning.

High acetylcholine levels created by Alpha GPC supplementation can also benefit people who are seeking to enhance brain-muscle integration. Alpha GPC has also shown to improve brain functioning in young people.

Bodybuilders and fitness enthusiasts can also benefit from Alpha GPC. One study found that taking Alpha GPC before a power test resulted in a 14% increase in power output. Alpha GPC can also stimulate growth hormones.

Alpha-GPC Dosage
Finding the right Alpha GPA dosage can be a little tricky. Individuals should start with a dosage of 300mg. Once you learn how you respond to Alpha GPC you can increase up to 600mg.

Sources
Effect of L-alpha-glyceryl-phosphorylcholine on amnesia caused by scopolamine.
Kidd, Parris M. GPC (ClyceroPhosphoCholine) Mind-Body Power for Active Living and Healthy Aging. First ed. N.p.: TotalHealth, 2007.
Kidd, Parris M. "Neurodegeneration From Mitochondrial Insufficiency: Nutrients, Stem Cells, Growth Factors, And Prospects For Brain Rebuilding Using Integrative Management." Alternative Medicine Review 10.4 (2005): 268-293. Academic Search Elite. Web. 8 Sept. 2012.
Choline and choline esters in human and rat milk and in infant formulas.
Alpha-GPC and power output; growth hormones
Ceda GP, et al. alpha-Glycerylphosphorylcholine administration increases the GH responses to GHRH of young and elderly subjects. Horm Metab Res. (1992)
Additional Resources
http://www.smarternootropics.com/
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alpha_GPC

What is Pyridoxine HCL (Vitamin B6)?
Pyridoxine HCL, more commonly known as vitamin B6, is an essential vitamin. Because your body is incapable of naturally producing this vitamin, it must be obtained through dietary means or supplementation. It is predominately used in the metabolic process, playing a role in the metabolizing of amino acids, fats, and sugars as well as synthesizing neurotransmitters, histamine, and hemoglobin. It is also involved in gene expression, which is how your genetic information is processed.

Vitamin B6 is actually a collection of molecules that are structurally similar to pyridoxine and is ultimately metabolized in the liver. The common factor to this group of molecules is that they are all precursors to the compound pyridoxal 5'-phosphate (PLP). There are seven molecules in all; however, the three dietary forms are pyridoxine, pyridoxal, and pyridoxamine.

Pyridoxine HCL Benefits
As an essential nutrient for maintaining proper body function, vitamin B6 has a variety of benefits. For pregnant women specifically, vitamin B6 can help relieve morning sickness. Another major benefit for women includes a reduction in symptoms related to PMS, including bloating and acne.

Vitamin B6 even has potential nootropic benefits, as some studies have found that it is able to improve focus and memory in older adults. It is also able to boost dream vividness and dream recall due to the role that it plays in converting tryptophan into serotonin. Anecdotal evidence shows that some individuals believe it can boost the likelihood of lucid dreaming as well.

Inadequate vitamin B6 intake is also associated with mood disorders, as vitamin B6 helps produce serotonin and other neurotransmitters involved in elevating mood. By getting adequate levels of vitamin B6, many individuals begin to feel better and notice a lift in their mood.

Vitamin B6 can also help strengthen and support your immune system. Without adequate levels of vitamin B6 several components involved in your immune system slow down, making you more vulnerable to illness. This is particularly true for older adults.

Pyrodoxine can also reduce nausea from hangovers.

Pyridoxine HCL Dosage
Adults should take 50mg of pyridoxine per day. Various conditions call for slightly smaller or larger dosages, so always be sure to discuss your vitamin supplementation with your doctor. Here are some common dosages:

PMS: 50-100mg per day
Morning sickness: 10-25mg three or four times per day
Vitamin B6 deficiency: 2.5-25mg daily for three weeks

While vitamin B6 is an essential nutrient, too much of it can cause more harm than good. Always be sure to follow proper dosing instructions to avoid unwanted side effects. The maximum daily intake is 100mg, with toxicity seen in dosage as small as 200mg.

Sources
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17885701
http://health.howstuffworks.com/wellness/food-nutrition/vitamin-supplements/vitamin-b62.htm
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16846100
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/11883552
http://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/vitamin-b6/dosing/hrb-20058788
http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/druginfo/natural/934.html
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/2021134
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/3499066

What is CDP Choline Powder?
Cytidine Diphosphate Choline (CDP Choline) aids in the protection of cell membranes in the central nervous system. Additionally, it increases cerebral metabolism and studies have indicated it may increase the efficacy of dopamine receptors. Scientists have established that CDP Choline aids in the body's synthesis of acetylcholine. Acetylcholine is a neurotransmitter that is associated with the brain's ability to learn and remember. Acetylcholine facilitates formation of memories. If there is an increased amount of available acetylcholine in the brain, there may be an improvement in memory formation.

CDP Choline Powder Benefits
It is a common complaint that, as someone grows older, they might notice that it takes more time to remember details, or that they may not be able to remember those details at all. This is a reality faced by everyone as the brain ages. It is frustrating, and there seems to be very little that can be done about it.

There has been a lot of recent interest in acetylcholine and its role in the human brain. Cholinergics and their unique effect on brain chemistry may improve memory and cognition. There have been multiple clinical trials that have shown positive results to indicate this. Similarly, many clinical studies have been done, with positive results, in relation to cholines and an increase in cognition in people with age-related loss of memory.

Using an Oxiracetam supplement may potentiate, or improve, the positive effects of CDP Choline.

CDP Choline Side Effects
CDP Choline is extremely well tolerated by the vast majority of people who take this supplement, a fact that is reinforced by the results of several studies encompassing a fairly large sample group. The most common CDP choline side effects reported are mild gastrointestinal issues, including nausea and diarrhea. There is insufficient evidence available to insure that this supplement is safe to take while pregnant or breastfeeding. WebMD reports no potential drug interactions with its use. Similarly, there is little information available on the effects of its long term use (more than 9 weeks).

CDP Choline Powder Dosage
500-2000mg per day is the suggested dose to promote cognitive functions. A dose of 250 to 600 mg per day is suggested, for instance, for people who may be at risk for a decline in memory based on medical and familial history, such as cardio-cerebrovascular risk factors. Supplemental B complex vitamins and folate supplements may aid in the absorption of this product.

Bioavailability, Mixing and Solubility
CDP choline powder dissolves quickly in water and has almost no taste. Mix with water or juice and drink.

Sources
Effect of Oral CDP-Choline on Plasma Choline and Uridine Levels in Humans [pdf]
Stabilized CDP-Choline
Effects of CDP-choline on neurologic deficits and cerebral glucose metabolism in a rat model of cerebral ischemia. [pdf]
Effects of CDP-choline on cognition and cerebral hemodynamics in patients with Alzheimer's disease.
Retrospective and observational study to assess the efficacy of citicoline in elderly patients suffering from stupor related to complex geriatric syndrome
Erdman, John W., Maria Oria, and Laura Pillsbury. Nutrition and Traumatic Brain Injury: Improving Acute and Subacute Health Outcomes in Military Personnel.Washington, D.C.: National Academies, 2011.
Brahmi rasayana Improves Learning and Memory in Mice
How do other nutrients interact with choline?
http://www.smarternootropics.com/cdp-choline/

Additional Resources
http://examine.com/supplements/CDP-choline/
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/CDP_choline

What is Vinpocetine Powder?
Ever heard of a periwinkle plant Vinca minor? This plant is native to southern and central Europe and contains numerous useful substances. Containing more than 50 alkaloids, vinpocetine is a man made substance that closely resembles this unique flower.

Making Vinpocetine is difficult work; pristine conditions and a lot of laboratory work are required. This supplement is often used to enhance memory function[1]. Multiple double-blind studies established that Vinpocetine supplement effectively improves learning, memory, and age-relating skill impairments.

Vinpocetine Side Effects and Benefits
It is not yet 100% certain about how Vinpocetine works, but it is hypothesized that it may increase blood flow to the brain and protect neurons against some injuries. Additionally, some studies have shown that Vinpocetine supplement has some potential beneficial effects when it comes to improving cognitive ability.

Many of studies done on Vinpocetine involved a double-blind, cross-over experiment[2]. From these studies it was evident that Vinpocetine noticeably outperformed placebos when it came to enhancing memory function. In addition to being a memory enhancer, vinpocetine may have a positive effect on motion sickness and menopause symptoms

Vinpocetine Dosage
The recommended vinpocetine dosage is 10mg one to three times a day, based on dosages used in studies to enhance learning, thinking, and memory. Because our vinpocetine extract is formulated with 10% vinpocetine and 90% dextrin of pharmaceutical grade, we suggest a serving size of 100mg. We formulate our vinpocetine specifically with this ratio, to allow for an easier serving size for the consumer. The Dextrin will have no effect on the overall effectiveness of the vinpocetine.

Sources
www.webmd.com
www.raysahelian.com/vinpocetine.html

L- Theanine Benefits

promotes a smoother stimulant experience when paired with caffeine

enhanced cognition

promotes calmness

L-Theanine Dosage: 50-100 mg
One of the major problems people have these days is stress. Stress from traffic, stress from work, and stress from home. Stress clouds our thinking, and stress makes us unhappy.

There is a naturally occurring amino acid, L-Theanine, which has shown to not only reduce stress but also promote lifespan, health, and focus. By supplementing with L-Theanine, you just might find yourself relaxing and taking on life in calm, alert, and productive way.

What is L-Theanine Powder?
L-Theanine is an amino acid found most commonly in green tea (Camellia sinensis). It is a form of L-Glutamic acid and can increase alpha waves in the brain. Alpha waves promote a feeling of relaxed alertness.[2] It is considered safe and is well-tolerated in humans.

L-Theanine Benefits and Side Effects
L-Theanine supplements are popular for many purposes. The vast array of advantageous Theanine side effects include its ability to benefit cognitive and mental states, help counteract beta-amyloid formation, possibly improve body mass, and support healthy blood pressure.[1] Scientific studies of L-Theanine have concluded that a strengthened immune system is one of the benefits of l-theanine.

Some evidence suggests that through its stress fighting mechanisms, L-Theanine could help improve the quality and length of life.

L-Theanine can support recovery from the high-activity mental state caused by rigorous exercise. It does this by bringing brain waves back to normal levels quickly and helps promote mental regeneration.

When used in combination with caffeine, L-Theanine can help reduce the increase in blood pressure that results from the stimulation of caffeine. L-Theanine can also eliminate the jittery, over-wired feeling caffeine can sometimes cause, and, on top of that, L-Theanine synergistically increases the cognitive benefit of caffeine. For this reason, many often combine L-Theaine and caffeine to create a potent and popular nootropic stack.

A L-Theanine supplement has shown to have effects on serotonin, dopamine, GABA, and other neurotransmitters including norepinephrine. Its increases of GABA in the brain help lower activity in the adrenaline systems, another pathway for L-Theanine to promote a sense of calm.

L-Theanine Dosage
L-Theanine is present in many varieties of tea, but almost always occurs in too small a dose to be effective. For this reason, L-Theanine supplementation is crucial to derive the most benefit from this natural compound.

L-Theanine can be active with as little as 50 mg, but 100 mg is a more common dose. When combining with caffeine for the synergistic mental boost, a ration of two parts Theanine supplement for one part caffeine is typical.

Check out our Theanine Serene with Relora Capsules!

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Sources
L-Theanine extends lifespan of adult Caenorhabditis elegans
Eschenauer, Gregory, and Burgunda V. Sweet. "Pharmacology And Therapeutic Uses Of Theanine." American Journal of Health-System Pharmacy 63.1 (2006): 26. Academic Search Elite. Web. 12 Sept. 2012
Improving mental regeneration after physical exercise
Herbal Extracts and Phytochemicals: Plant Secondary Metabolites and the Enhancement of Human Brain Function
http://www.smarternootropics.com/table-of-contents/l-theanine/
Additional Resources
http://examine.com/supplements/Theanine/
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/L-theanine

To get your brain up to its top level of performance can take a little effort. While the food you eat can definitely provide some much needed nutrients, sometimes supplementation is still required.

Adding in just a few key nutrients can go a long way in providing support for your brain, keeping you feeling sharp and focused.

What is Phosphatidylserine Powder?
Phosphatidylserine is a negatively charged aminophospholipid. It plays a very important role in the body, making up 2 to 10 percent of your cell's lipids, and it occurs in every cell in your entire body. While it used to be sourced from cows, Phosphatidylserine is now derived from vegetarian friendly soy.

So why take Phosphatidylserine supplements? Beyond the normal functioning of every cell in your body, some evidence is suggesting that adding in Phosphatidylserine supplements will help kick your brain into high gear.

Phosphatidylserine Powder Side Effects and Benefits
Your memory may not be as strong as you wish. You think to yourself that its simply a normal process of aging, but what if you could help keep memory strong and cognition sharp? Phosphatidylserine has shown in a growing body of studies to help do just that.

Phosphatidylserine plays a key role in the building up of neuronal membranes. The implications of this are important: It works to promote cell-to-cell communication and regulates cell growth.

One study showed that Phosphatidylserine helped support a multitude of neurotransmitter systems including acetylcholine, serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine. It did all of that while also supporting a strong memory. Phosphatidylserine with DHA has shown to improve episodic memory by 42%.

Evidence suggests that Phosphatidylserine side effects have a positive impact on attention and learning, not to mention general cognitive performance.

Protein kinase C pathways require Phosphatidylserine to function, and Phosphatidylserine helps collect certain proteins in the cell.

With all of the varied Phosphatidylserine benefits, it is a great supplement to take on its own or as part of a complete brain health stack.

Phosphatidylserine Powder Dosage
Taking 100 to 500 mg of Phosphatidylserine supplement a day should be a great start to enhancing cognition and transporting memory supporting nutrients to the brain.

Now derived from soy, as opposed to bovine Phosphatidylserine, some research indicates that Phosphatidylserine supplement works best when paired with the Omega-3 fatty acid DHA.

Sources
www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2929432
www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2981104