It is often said that human beings only use ten percent of their brains. Countless movies make use of this common canard to transform ordinary characters into amazing brainiacs who can learn new languages, solve complex math equations, even control people with their minds. Such is the storyline of the 2014 film Lucy, in which the titular character becomes a super genius after ingesting a nootropic drug. In spite of the fact that the ten-percent brain myth is entirely unfounded, there is some evidence that the nootropic class of drugs can improve one or more aspects of mental function.
What are nootropics?
Before we begin, let us disabuse you of the notion that greatness comes in pill form. If you take nootropics, you will not acquire any extraordinary, supernatural mental abilities. You will suddenly, inexplicably be able to play the piano like Mozart or write like William Shakespeare. At their best, nootropics are drugs that may enhance working memory, motivation, and attention, thereby making you seem smarter. With that said, there is little …show more content…
The most common cognitive benefits of this class of drugs is memory enhancement, including both the speed and accuracy of recall. These supplements are especially effective when taken for extended periods of time, since it may take for the body time to adapt to increased dosage due to the development of tolerance.
At present, the two most popular nutraceuticals are panax ginseng and Ginkgo biloba. Both dietary supplements are widely sold as memory enhancers; although different reviews come to different conclusions on their supposed benefits. Because most nutraceuticals do not have adverse side effects, they are considered to be a safe, healthy alternative to prescription medications for memory enhancement.
What are nootropics?
Before we begin, let us disabuse you of the notion that greatness comes in pill form. If you take nootropics, you will not acquire any extraordinary, supernatural mental abilities. You will suddenly, inexplicably be able to play the piano like Mozart or write like William Shakespeare. At their best, nootropics are drugs that may enhance working memory, motivation, and attention, thereby making you seem smarter. With that said, there is little …show more content…
The most common cognitive benefits of this class of drugs is memory enhancement, including both the speed and accuracy of recall. These supplements are especially effective when taken for extended periods of time, since it may take for the body time to adapt to increased dosage due to the development of tolerance.
At present, the two most popular nutraceuticals are panax ginseng and Ginkgo biloba. Both dietary supplements are widely sold as memory enhancers; although different reviews come to different conclusions on their supposed benefits. Because most nutraceuticals do not have adverse side effects, they are considered to be a safe, healthy alternative to prescription medications for memory enhancement.