Memory & Focus Enhancing Supplements

Memory enhancing supplements are nootropics or smart drugs. These drugs provide various benefits, including improved memory, focus, planning, decision-making, reasoning and problem solving. According to the NCCA, studies are ongoing for the various health supplements and the listed benefits are inconclusive. Some of these supplements can interfere with other medications and cause minor problems, such as gastrointestinal upsets, so patients must discuss supplements with their physicians before use.

Ginkgo Biloba

• Ginkgo Biloba comes from the seeds of the Chinese ginkgo tree. According to the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine, it treated a variety of ailments in the past, from asthma to tinnitus. Today's uses include memory enhancement, Alzheimer's and other mental health conditions.

Omega-3

• Among other uses, people take Omega-3 fatty acid for the prevention of memory impairment and recovery from depression. It consists of polyunsaturated fatty acids obtained from fish and vegetables but mostly fish. Take this in controlled doses; it can interact with other medications and cause gastrointestinal upsets.

Soy Lecithin

• Soy, from soybeans, is a common food but you also can take it as a supplement in the form of capsules or tablets. It is helpful in the treatment and prevention of several conditions, from memory problems to hot flashes.

Acetyl L-Carnitin

• L-Carnitin is an amino acid present in most cells in the body. It helps protect the brain cells from deterioration, and ultimately protects memory.

L-Theanine

• L-Theanine is an amino acid contained in tea leaves. It produces a calming effect and enhances mental alertness. It also releases neurotransmitters in the brain, improving memory and learning ability.

Vinpocetine

• Vinpocetine helps improve focus and memory. According to information on Drugs.com, this supplement is not for patients who are pregnant, lactating, senile or elderly. Additionally, it is not for those with cerebral hypertensive crises or heart problems.

Choline

• Choline affects the acetylcholine neurotransmitter in the brain, which is responsible in part for intelligence, mood and memory. Choline also treats conditions including bipolar depression, liver disorder, hepatitis, Alzheimer's and some neurological disorders.

Huperzine

• Huperzine is an alkaloid from the Huperzia serrata plant. Its main uses are treatment of Alzheimer's disease and to enhance memory.