Nootropics & Adaptogens – boosting mental health the natural way!

In a digital and efficient modern world, where the body and the mind are stressed and over-active, nootropics and adaptogen ingredients offer a way to support customers in a natural way. Mental well-being is becoming more and more of a focus, also in the beverage sector. Adaptogenic ingredients in beverages, such as ginseng or ashwagandha are perfect to answer the demand. Since caffeine is already consumed by a large part of the population every day, manufacturers should also explore other sources besides the coffee bean. 

Adaptogens & Nootropics – what’s the difference?

Adaptogens, as the name already suggests, help the human body to adapt to lifestyle conditions – whether that means combatting stress, boosting the immune system, or supporting overall vitality. In contrast to common functional herbs that are known as immune boosting, calming, or energizing, adaptogens work on several parts of the body at once to help create lasting, holistic health. (Source: newhope.com, 2021) Nootropics, however, are defined as a compound that enhances an aspect of human cognition. That means, they are said to be a great way to improve aspects of brain functions such as memory, focus or mood. (formnutrition.com, 2021)  

Adaptogens & Nootropics to remember

A popular and widely used adaptogen is ginseng. It is known for having energizing properties, and to increase stamina and the immune support. Known as the “King of Adaptogens”, Red Ginseng is considered a symbol of health and longevity. It is widely used in Chinese medicine for years and as recent studies show, it has also beneficial impact on cognition due to its antioxidant properties. Ashwagandha is also classified as an adaptogen. Ashwagandha is said to support the balance in the nervous system and, in Indian Ayurveda, ensures calmness and clarity of mind. This can be particularly helpful in cases of overwork and chronic exhaustion. The calming effect of Ashwagandha helps to alleviate anxiety and has a calming effect in cases of stress.

One of the most known nootropics is consumed on a daily basis already: caffeine. Research shows, it is effective in improving sports performance and fights tiredness. (Source: formnutrition, 2021) It is also said to provide a boost in mental alertness and concentration. It can be found especially in coffee but also in tea and energy drinks. Popular botanicals that contain caffeine are green coffee beans, guayusa, guarana and the popular mate plant. Another popular nootropic is l-theanine: the amino acid is found mainly in real tea (Camellia sinensis), with green tea having a slightly higher content than black tea. It is the one of the reasons for the often-described effect of green tea: it gently wakes you up and relaxes you at the same time.   

Many Europeans believe in the beneficial effects of plants and herbs and this confidence plays into the widespread popularity of botanical actives of said ingredients. That’s why launches of teas bearing cognitive benefits are starting to increase and brands expand beyond physical to more mental alertness benefits. (Source: Mintel, 2021)

Do you want to find out how to include adaptogenic herbs and nootropics in your product? Don’t hesitate to contact us! sales@martin-bauer.com