If you’re big into health and wellness, you might have heard of nootropics. Often called “smart drugs” or cognitive enhancers, nootropics are compounds that are thought to potentially improve mental functions such as memory, focus, motivation, and creativity*.
They include an extensive range of natural and synthetic compounds and can be found in prescription drugs, over-the-counter supplements, herbal remedies, and our food and beverages.
Nootropics have been used in traditional applications for thousands of years. Still, it is only in recent times that their popularity has grown rapidly among those seeking to gain an edge. In addition, there is increasing awareness of cognitive performance as part of a more holistic approach to overall well-being.
However, with the industry enjoying explosive growth, the concerns about quality and safety are likewise increasing. Manufacturers can launch products without FDA approval, so it is essential to only buy from reputable sources whose products are GMP-certified and have undergone stringent quality checks.
In this blog post, we’ll look at all the places you can find the best nootropics, the pros and cons of each, and how to find a reliable source of your daily brain boosters!
Understanding Nootropics
As mentioned before, nootropics are compounds that can be either natural or synthetic. Examples of natural nootropics are caffeine, mushrooms like Reishi, Chaga, Lion’s Mane, L-Theanine (found in green tea), Bacopa Monnieri, and ginseng.
Synthetic nootropics include racetams, Modafinil, Adderall, and Noopept. These are prescription drugs that have to be used under medical supervision. Their use is often more controversial compared to natural nootropics, particularly regarding long-term effects, ethical considerations around cognitive enhancement, and the potential for misuse.
Dietary nootropic supplements that can be bought over the counter or at health stores are usually made from natural nootropics, while prescription drugs require a medical consultation.
Supplements are usually less potent but have a much lower risk of side effects. Prescription drugs typically have higher potency, but the potential for abuse and side effects are far greater.
Both natural and synthetic nootropics work in several ways that can potentially support cognitive function*. For example, many nootropics work by affecting the levels of neurotransmitters in the brain. They may increase the production of neurotransmitters like dopamine and serotonin, which can potentially support mood, brain health, cognitive function, or acetylcholine, associated with memory and learning*.
Some nootropics also have antioxidant properties that protect neurons from damage by free radicals. In addition, certain nootropics can potentially ensure a steady supply of oxygen and nutrients.
Where to Buy Nootropics
Here are some common ways to buy your daily brain boosters!
Local Health Stores and Pharmacies
Local health stores, big box retailers, and pharmacies commonly stock a variety of dietary supplements, among which are substances often categorized as nootropics due to their potential benefits*.
Among these, nootropic ingredients like L-carnitine, choline, and creatine are commonly found, each having its own mechanism of action and proposed benefits for mental performance*. For example, L-carnitine helps metabolize fatty acids and converts them into energy. This compound can also be found in weight loss supplements.
Choline is an essential nutrient crucial for brain function, and because it is essential for fetal development, it can be found in prenatal vitamins for pregnant women.
Creatine is often used in the fitness world for its role in energy production and muscle growth in high-intensity workouts. It also plays a role in energy metabolism in the brain.
These supplements are accessible without a prescription, making them popular choices for those looking to support cognitive performance, including memory, focus, and energy levels.
While it is easy enough to pop into the store around the corner and immediately get your dose of supplements, your selection is also limited to what stocks are available. Buying from online options gives you way more choice.
Online Supplement Stores
When it comes to online supplement shopping, the sky’s the limit! Online supplements are usually cheaper, and the selection can be intimidatingly wide.
However, because supplements do not have to undergo FDA approval, there is a minefield of fake and inferior supplements out there that could do you more harm than good. Extreme due diligence is required before selecting a reputable vendor that tests their products for purity and potency.
The fake supplement market includes counterfeit, adulterated, and mislabeled products that claim to offer health benefits but may be ineffective, contaminated, or even harmful. The troubling issue spans a wide range of supplements, including vitamins, minerals, herbal products, and nootropics.
Counterfeit or adulterated supplements can pose serious health risks. They may contain harmful substances, incorrect doses of active ingredients, or none of the advertised ingredients at all. In some cases, these products have been linked to serious health issues, including organ damage, allergic reactions, and interactions with medications. Yikes!
Not to toot our own horn, but at Blessed Wellness, we use 100% natural, organic, GMO-free ingredients, so you can bet our quality products are doing their job!
General E-commerce Platforms
You can also buy supplements from e-commerce giants like eBay or Amazon, but be sure to only buy from trusted sources and ensure they aren’t counterfeit.
Unscrupulous manufacturers often sell fake supplements with the branding and logo of reputable ones, and platforms aren’t doing much to prevent such fraud. It is up to you, the consumer, to do your due diligence and make sure you’re buying genuine products. Always check the reviews and check with your healthcare provider before self-administering any experimental brain supplements.
Choosing a Reliable Vendor
With so many supplement providers in the market, it can get a tad confusing. Here are a few tips on how to pick one!
Quality Control Measures
Make sure that all the products have undergone third-party laboratory testing for purity, potency, and safety. Also, only buy from manufacturers that are GMP-certified. GMP stands for Good Manufacturing Practices, a system of regulations, codes, and guidelines designed to ensure that products are consistently produced and controlled according to quality standards.
Inventory and Availability
Choose vendors that can provide you with a steady supply of the nootropic of your choice. Few things are more annoying than running out of your monthly supply and discovering your supplier has run out of stock!
Pricing and Discounts
You don’t want to blow a hole in your wallet, so pick a supplier with decent pricing. Look for bundle deals and discounts for bulk purchases, but always check the expiration date.
Shipping and International Availability
If you are shipping internationally, look for policies that include free shipping over a certain amount or discounted shipping for repeat purchases. Try to combine purchases to save on shipping costs, like purchasing a three-month supply at once.
Conclusion
As wellness awareness grows, so does the demand for supplements. Unfortunately, this also means the fake supplement market is on the rise, and navigating this minefield can be tricky.
Always purchase nootropics from only reputable sources whose products have all undergone third-party testing for safety and efficacy. Do extensive research and choose where you buy your supplements carefully.
If you are on a nootropic hunt, explore our range of nootropic mushroom extracts! At Blessed Wellness, we offer the purest, most potentially beneficial nootropic products and value honesty and commitment above all else. You have only one body; we would love to help you take care of it!
Buying Nootropics: FAQs
Are nootropics safe to buy online?
Buying nootropics online can be cheaper and more convenient, but extreme caution is required to ensure the safety and purity of the product. There are countless fake supplements out there from unscrupulous vendors, and the lack of regulation and control increases the risk of contaminated, unsafe products. Only buy from certified, reputable vendors!
What should I look for in a nootropic vendor?
Look for vendors that have stringent quality control standards in place, check countless customer reviews online, and look for shipping policies that can help you save on repeat purchases.
Can I buy nootropics at local stores?
Yes, you can often find nootropics like L-carnitine and creatine in your local health food stores. Still, the selection will be relatively limited compared to vast sources like e-commerce platforms or online marketplaces.
How do I ensure the quality of nootropics I buy?
Buy only from reputable vendors with loads of 5-star reviews. Also, look only for high-quality products that have undergone third-party lab testing to ensure safety, purity, and potency.
What are the most popular types of nootropics available?
The most popular types of natural nootropics are medicinal mushrooms like Lion’s Mane, Chaga, and Reishi, L-carnitine that’s found in green tea, ginseng root, and the herb Bacopa Monnieri. Prescription drugs are experimental compounds like racetam, Modafinil, and Adderall.
Can I buy nootropics in physical stores?
Yes, you can typically buy nootropics like L-carnitine, creatine, and choline in health food and supplement stores.
*It is important to note that the benefits of these products have not been conclusively proven. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease, and the NHS has not made any guarantees about the efficacy of such products.