1) Shilajit (Purified Fulvic Acid Resin) — mitochondrial energy & nutrient delivery
Quick take
Shilajit offers clean, sustained energy by improving mitochondrial ATP production, enhances absorption of nutrients and other nootropics, supports healthy testosterone in men, and provides antioxidant/anti-inflammatory protection linked to longevity.
How it helps (simple)
- Mitochondrial support: fulvic acid enhances ATP production and cellular energy.
- Nutrient delivery: improves mineral transport and blood–brain nutrient availability.
- Hormonal support: increases free and total testosterone in clinical reports.
- Longevity: antioxidant effects protect mitochondria and neurons.
Dosing & form
| Start | 50–100 mg purified resin or 100–200 mg standardized fulvic extract |
| Typical | 100–300 mg/day (split if needed) |
| Tip | Use purified, third-party tested resin or standardized extract; avoid raw unpurified forms. |
Selected evidence
- Clinical trials and small RCTs show improved testosterone and sperm parameters with purified shilajit.
- Preclinical work demonstrates fulvic acid benefits for mitochondrial function and antioxidant defense.
- Observational reports across traditional use indicate improved vitality and resilience.
How it feels & safety
Users report clearer thinking, steady energy, and better recovery. Choose purified, lab-tested shilajit to avoid heavy metal contamination. Generally well tolerated; follow dosing and consult clinician if on medications.
Video — Shilajit overview
2) Ginkgo Biloba (Standardized 24/6) — circulation, cognition & mood
Quick take
Ginkgo is a time-tested cognitive herb that supports memory, learning, and mood via improved blood flow and neurotransmitter balance. It's a strong addition to stacks where circulation and oxygenation matter.
Mechanisms (simple)
- Improves cerebral blood flow: vasodilation and reduced blood viscosity deliver more oxygen and nutrients to neurons.
- Antioxidant protection: flavone glycosides guard against oxidative damage.
- Neurotransmitter modulation: supports dopamine, serotonin and norepinephrine balance for mood & motivation.
- Neuroplasticity: terpene lactones protect neurons and support synaptic function.
Dosing & form
| Start | 120 mg/day standardized 24/6 extract |
| Typical | 120–240 mg/day (split AM if needed) |
| Tip | Avoid high doses if on anticoagulants; consult prescriber. |
Selected evidence
- Multiple RCTs show modest improvements in short-term memory and attention with standardized ginkgo extracts.
- Vascular studies confirm increased cerebral perfusion following supplementation.
- Long-term antioxidant benefits may protect against age-related cognitive decline.
How it feels & safety
Users often notice subtle improvements in focus, clearer thinking during demanding tasks, and calmer mood. Ginkgo is generally safe — avoid with blood thinners or uncontrolled bleeding risks.
Video — Ginkgo overview
3) Rhodiola Crenulata — high-salidroside adaptogen for energy & resilience
Quick take
Rhodiola Crenulata is a superior adaptogen for those needing sustained, non-jittery energy, improved focus, and faster recovery from stress — ideal for high-pressure periods.
Mechanisms & benefits
- HPA-axis modulation: stabilizes cortisol and stress response.
- Neurotransmitter support: boosts dopamine, norepinephrine and serotonin balance for focus and mood.
- Mitochondrial support: improves ATP, reduces fatigue.
- Neuroprotection: antioxidant defenses support long-term brain health.
Dosing & form
| Start | 100–200 mg standardized extract (look for salidroside content) |
| Typical | 200–400 mg/day, morning dosing |
| Tip | Cycle use (e.g., 5 on / 2 off) to maintain sensitivity. |
Selected evidence
- Clinical and preclinical studies support anti-fatigue and stress-adaptation properties of Rhodiola extracts.
- Comparative analyses show Crenulata often has higher salidroside and stronger anti-fatigue effects than Rosea.
- Evidence supports improved attention and reduced burnout markers in stressful tasks.
How it feels & safety
Users report clearer focus, less mental fatigue, and improved endurance. Mild overstimulation can occur in sensitive individuals at high doses — start low and titrate.
Video — Rhodiola overview
4) N-Acetyl Semax Amidate (NAS) — next-gen peptide for learning & BDNF
Quick take
NAS is a clinical-style nootropic that enhances BDNF, speeds learning, stabilizes dopamine signaling, and increases cognitive endurance — best used carefully and in low microgram dosages.
Key mechanisms
- BDNF upregulation: promotes synaptic plasticity and memory consolidation.
- Dopamine optimization: improves reward processing and motivation without spikes.
- Neuroprotection: reduces oxidative stress and cognitive fatigue.
Dosing & form
| Typical (intranasal) | 100–300 mcg per session, 1–2× daily |
| Cycle | 5 days on / 2 days off or 3 weeks on / 1 week off |
How it feels & safety
NAS gives sharp, calm focus and faster learning. Use with caution, follow peptide sourcing best practices, and consult a clinician if uncertain. Side effects are rare but can include mild nasal irritation.
5) Agmatine Sulfate — neuromodulator for calm focus & endurance
Quick take
Agmatine creates a calm, focused mental state by modulating glutamate (NMDA), optimizing dopamine, and supporting nitric-oxide — ideal for deep work without jitter or emotional volatility.
Mechanisms & benefits
- NMDA modulation: reduces glutamate overactivity to lower anxiety and mental noise.
- Dopamine stabilization: smooths motivation and reduces compulsive urges.
- Serotonin interactions: improves mood and emotional stability.
- Nitric oxide regulation: supports circulation and cognitive endurance.
Dosing & form
| Start | 250 mg daily |
| Typical | 250–500 mg/day (split doses possible) |
| Tip | Cycle 5 days on / 2 days off to preserve sensitivity; take before deep work or training. |
Selected evidence
- Preclinical studies show agmatine’s neuromodulatory effects on NMDA and monoamine systems.
- Human reports and small trials indicate benefits for mood, cognition, and pain modulation.
- Commonly used as an adjunct in performance and mood stacks with strong synergy potential.
How it feels & safety
Users report reduced anxiety, improved focus, and less irritability. Agmatine is generally safe; avoid combining with high-dose opioids and check for drug interactions if on prescription meds.
Video — Agmatine overview
Quick resources & next steps
- Prefer lab-tested products (COA available). Look for purity and third-party testing.
- Combine nootropics with sleep, exercise, nutrition, and stress management for best results.
- Start low, track effects, and consult a clinician if you take prescription medications.