A natural precursor to steroid hormones, pregnenolone in the body is converted into hormones such as DHEA, testosterone, progesterone, and estrogen. A rat study in 1992 indicating its effectiveness as a cognitive enhancer piqued the interest of smart-drug users, but no human studies have been completed to date. As with all other hormones, the long-term […]
Produced in the adrenal gland, DHEA is the most abundant steroid hormone in the bloodstream. Proponents claim that it preserves youthfulness and prevents brain cell degeneration and that it has cognitive-enhancing effects as well. Sodhi warns agains using DHEA, as its long-term effects are not yet well understood. Natural medicine expert Andrew Weil, M.D., also […]
WHAT IT IS Pyroglutamate is a naturally occurring amino acid found in the brain, blood, and cerebrospinal fluid.
REPORTED EFFECTS Like DMAE, pyroglutamate is believed to have overall cognitive enhancement properties.
HOW IT WORKS Its role in brain chemistry is not yet well understood. Because it occurs naturally in the brain, replenishing pyroglutamate through dietary supplements is […]
WHAT IT IS This substance occurs naturally in the brain, and plays a key role in the synthesis of acetylcholine.
REPORTED EFFECTS Though much of the evidence is still anecdotal, many people have reported success with DMAE as a cognitive enhancer and mild stimulant.
HOW IT WORKS In the brain, DMAE combines with phosphatidyl serine and vitamin […]