Nootropics: Herbs and Mushrooms for Mind and Mood

Nootropics are a category of herbs containing natural compounds that may enhance cognitive function. Understanding how nootropic herbs and mushrooms can support brain health may help unlock creativity, sharpen focus, enhance productivity, and reduce brain fog.

Disclaimer: This article is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice. Please consult your health-care practitioner before adding any new herbs to your wellness routine.

History of Use

Documented use of nootropics can be traced as far back as 6000 BCE in Ayurvedic manuscripts. Referred to as “Medhya Rasayanas,” these herbs were traditionally used to support memory and intelligence. The use of natural nootropics also appears in manuscripts from Arabia, Egypt, and Sumeria, among others (1). The term “nootropics” was coined in the 1960s when chemist and psychologist C.G. Giurgea used it to describe a group of substances that may enhance brain function. The name comes from the Greek words “nous,” meaning mind, and “trepein,” meaning “to bend.” Over time, scientific interest in nootropics grew, leading to further research into substances that support cognitive function.

In today’s fast-paced world, many people turn to nootropics to support memory, focus, and overall quality of life. Several herbs and functional mushrooms are now recognized for their potential to support both cognitive function and emotional well-being.

Harmonic Arts’ Top Herbs & Mushrooms for Mind and Mood

Lion’s Mane

Several studies have explored the use of Lion’s Mane in neurodegenerative diseases such as Multiple Sclerosis, Parkinson’s, and Alzheimer’s. While results vary, research shows promising evidence supporting improved myelination of nerve fibres. Findings also suggest suppression of inflammatory processes associated with brain damage (6).

Lion’s Mane contains compounds called erinacines, which are linked to the stimulation of nerve growth factor synthesis, helping support memory and focus. Lion’s Mane can be used in capsule, powder, or tincture form, and is also available in Matcha Mind Herbal Latte.

Shilajit

Shilajit is a mineral-rich resin formed over centuries as plant matter decomposes in high-altitude mountain ranges such as the Himalayas. Traditionally used in Ayurvedic medicine as a rejuvenating “rasayana,” it contains fulvic acid and a broad spectrum of trace minerals that help support nutrient transport and cellular energy production.

Emerging research suggests Shilajit may also play a role in supporting cognitive function and healthy brain aging through antioxidant and neuroprotective compounds (7). Shilajit is available in powder form.

Ashwagandha

In a study involving adults experiencing cognitive impairment, Ashwagandha demonstrated supportive effects. Participants took either 300 mg of Ashwagandha or a placebo twice daily for eight weeks. The Ashwagandha group experienced improvements in memory, executive function, focus, and information processing (2). Ashwagandha is available in Uplifted Spirits Tincture.

Ginkgo

Ginkgo is another neuroprotective herbal option. It may help improve concentration and alertness while reducing symptoms such as tinnitus and dizziness (3). With consistent use, Ginkgo may also support both short-term and long-term memory (4). Ginkgo is available in Clarity Artisan Tea.

Easy Ways to Add Nootropics to Your Routine

Harmonic Arts offers several formats to make incorporating nootropics into a daily routine simple and enjoyable. Capsules provide a convenient option for on-the-go wellness, tinctures deliver highly bioavailable extracts, and powders can be added to coffee, tea, or smoothies for a functional boost.

Whether taken individually or as part of a synergistic blend, functional mushrooms may offer a natural way to support long-term wellness.

References
1. Lorca, C., Mulet, M., Arévalo-Caro, C., Sanchez, M. C., Perez, A., Perrino, M., Bach-Faig, A., Aguilar-Martínez, A., Vilella, E., Gallart-Palau, X., & Serra, A. (2022). Plant-derived nootropics and human cognition: A systematic review. Critical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition, 1–25. https://doi.org/10.1080/10408398.2021.2021137
2. Choudhary, D., Bhattacharyya, S., & Bose, S. (2017, February 21). Efficacy and Safety of Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal) Root Extract in Improving Memory and Cognitive Functions. Journal of Dietary Supplements, 14(6), 599–612. https://doi.org/10.1080/19390211.2017.1284970
3. B, S. (1997). Clinical improvement of memory and other cognitive functions by Ginkgo biloba: Review of relevant literature. Advances in Therapy, 15(1), 54–65.
4. Wesnes, K., Ward, T., McGinty, A., & Petrini, O. (2000). The memory enhancing effects of a Ginkgo biloba/Panax ginseng combination in healthy middle-aged volunteers. Psychopharmacology, 152(4), 353–361. https://doi.org/10.1007/s002130000533
5. Ahmad, A., Rasheed, N., Gupta, P., Singh, S., Siripurapu, K. B., Ashraf, G. M., Kumar, R., Chand, K., Maurya, R., Banu, N., Al-Sheeha, M., & Palit, G. (2012). Novel Ocimumoside A and B as anti-stress agents: Modulation of brain monoamines and antioxidant systems in chronic unpredictable stress model in rats. Phytomedicine, 19(7), 639–647. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.phymed.2012.02.012
6. Sampath S, Mahapatra SC, Padhi MM, Sharma R, Talwar A. Holy basil (Ocimum sanctum Linn.) leaf extract enhances specific cognitive parameters in healthy adult volunteers: A placebo controlled study. Indian J Physiol Pharmacol. 2015 Jan-Mar;59(1):69-77. PMID: 26571987.
7. Wong, Kah-Hui, Murali Naidu, Rosie Pamela David, Robiah Bakar, and Vikineswary Sabaratnam. “Neuroregenerative Potential of Lion’s Mane Mushroom, Hericium erinaceus (Bull.: Fr.) Pers. (Higher Basidiomycetes), in the Treatment of Peripheral Nerve Injury (Review).” International Journal of Medicinal Mushrooms 14, no. 5 (2012): 427–46. https://doi.org/10.1615/intjmedmushr.v14.i5.10/
8. Carrasco-Gallardo, C., Guzmán, L., & Maccioni, R. B. (2012). Shilajit: A natural phytocomplex with potential procognitive activity. International Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease, 2012, 674142. https://doi.org/10.1155/2012/674142

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