Finding high-quality nootropics that suit your needs is challenging, but being limited to vegan options can make this process even harder.
As a health & performance coach, I have tested numerous vegan nootropics, conducted a 43-hour research, and consulted our team of nutrition experts to curate a list of the ten best vegan nootropics that will support your brain function and improve your overall cognitive abilities.
All nootropic supplements from our list were hand-picked by our experts based on improvements in memory, motivation, creativity, focus, and mood.
The Best Vegan Nootropics
- Best Overall Vegan Nootropic: Mind Lab Pro
- Cheapest Vegan Nootropic: Vital Brain Boost
- Best Stimulant-Free Nootropic for Vegans: Onnit Alpha Brain
- Best Vegan Nootropic for Improved Sleep: Mind Lab Pro
- Best Vegan Nootropic for Weight Loss: Spore Focus Performance
- Best Tasting Vegan Nootropic: Genius Consciousness
- Best Vegan Nootropic for Improved Focus: NooCube
Our Top Vegan Nootropics (July 2024)
1 - Mind Lab Pro (Best Overall & for Sleep)
- Price per serving : $2.3
- Key ingredients : Lion's Mane Mushroom, Citicoline, Bacopa Monnieri
- Third-party tested : Yes
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Excellent for controlling stress and insomnia
- Ability to concentrate for longer bouts of time
- All-natural nootropic ingredients
- Supports your brain functions by promoting brain cells' growth
Cons
- Normal dosage may be too strong for some people
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- Those needing stress control and insomnia relief
- Ideal for prolonged concentration
Who is it not for?
- People sensitive to strong dosages
Final Verdict
Mind Lab Pro is highly effective for enhancing alertness and mood. It supports brain function with natural ingredients, suitable for daily use.
Mind Lab Pro is one of the most effective smart drugs for boosting your sense of alertness and improving your mood.
Our tests indicate that the best time to take this nootropic is in the morning before a meal and at lunchtime.
You can take it with any beverage, but I’ve noticed the best results when taking it with coffee.
According to the study found on the National Center for Biotechnology Information, Bacopa monnieri, coupled with organic lion's mane mushroom and Rhodiola Rosea, reduces inflammation, improves brain cells' growth, and helps your body adapt to stress better [1][2][3].
Another study published on the National Center for Biotechnology Information website found that citicoline, one of the ingredients, boosts neural regeneration and helps you stay sharp during the working day [4].
Supplement Facts
2 - Onnit Alpha Brain (Best Stim-Free)
- Price per serving : $2.33
- Key ingredients : L-Theanine, Alpha GPC, Huperzia Serrata
- Third-party tested : Yes
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Transparent formula
- Relieves the symptoms of cognitive dysfunction
- Ideal for afternoon crashes since it's stimulant-free
Cons
- It might take longer to see the effects for some people
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- Suitable for cognitive dysfunction symptoms
- Best for those who prefer stimulant-free options
Who is it not for?
- Individuals requiring immediate results
Final Verdict
Onnit Alpha Brain is great for cognitive support without stimulants, making it ideal for afternoon use. It may take some time to notice the effects.
Onnit Alpha Brain is another excellent nootropic with a number of high-quality ingredients.
Bacopa, one of Onnit Alpha Brain’s primary ingredients, is beneficial for promoting the growth of the nerve cells and recovery of the nervous system [5].
In addition, the combination of a cat's claw and Huperzia Serrata will stimulate the immune system function and help treat cognitive dysfunction [6][7].
According to our research and tests, you can achieve maximum benefits with only two daily capsules.
However, it took more than a couple of weeks for us to see noticeable effects on cognitive function.
Supplement Facts
3 - Gorilla Mind Smooth
- Price per serving : $1.50
- Key ingredients : Bacopa Monnieri, Alpha GPC, Ginkgo Biloba
- Third-party tested : Yes
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Keeps you focused for up to 8 hours
- Sustained levels of energy during the day
- Slight boost in the short-term memory
Cons
- Possible side effects if the supplement is taken after eating
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- Those sensitive to caffeine
- Users needing focused energy for extended periods
Who is it not for?
- If consuming on a full stomach
Final Verdict
Gorilla Mind Smooth offers sustained focus and energy. It is most effective when taken on an empty stomach for cognitive enhancement.
Gorilla Mind Smooth is one of the most popular and best vegan natural nootropic supplements known for its productivity-boosting effects.
In addition, this supplement is excellent for people sensitive to caffeine, as it is 100% stimulant-free.
Gorilla Mind Smooth's ingredients, Alpha-GPC and ginkgo extract, will improve your circulation and increase the release of acetylcholine, the neurotransmitter that facilitates memory, learning, and better cognitive functions [8][9].
One of my clients reported seeing the first effects only 15 minutes after consuming a daily dose, while the maximum results are seen within 1 hour.
It would be best to take it on an empty stomach to maximize its cognitive-boosting effects.
Supplement Facts
4 - NooCube (Best for Focus)
- Price per serving : $1.08
- Key ingredients : Lutemax 2020, Bacopa Monnieri, Panax Ginseng
- Third-party tested : Yes
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Helps with organization and staying more focused
- Doesn't give any jitters
- Contains 60 capsules in a single bottle
Cons
- It may cause stomach discomfort in some users
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- People needing stress relief
- Suitable for organizational support and focus
Who is it not for?
- Users prone to stomach discomfort
Final Verdict
NooCube helps reduce stress and anxiety with minimal side effects. It supports cognitive health effectively, though some may experience gastrointestinal issues.
Resveratrol, a component of NooCube, is an excellent ingredient with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that protect against diabetes and Alzheimer's disease [10].
In addition, Lutemax and bacopa monnieri can significantly reduce stress, anxiety, and serum cortisol [11][12].
Our clients prefer to take this supplement before work and have seen a noticeable reduction in stress and anxiety.
Finally, one of NooCube’s ingredients, Huperzia Serrata, focuses on the root cause of brain health issues and not on stimulating neural function [13].
That said, some of our clients experienced side effects in the form of stomach discomfort.
Supplement Facts
5 - Gorilla Shroom
- Price per serving : $1.67
- Key ingredients : Lion's Mane, Cordyceps, Reishi, Maitake
- Third-party tested : Yes
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Increases pre-workout effects if mixed together
- Boosts mood and satisfaction
- Provides a perfect blend of mushroom ingredients
Cons
- May induce some side effects if taken before drinking alcohol
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- Ideal as a pre-workout booster
- People dealing with stress and anxiety
Who is it not for?
- Individuals who consume alcohol frequently
Final Verdict
Gorilla Shroom is effective for mood and performance enhancement but should be avoided with alcohol to prevent side effects.
Gorilla Shroom contains highly effective ingredients, such as cordyceps mushroom, which boosts exercise performance, fights inflammation, and has anti-aging properties [14].
Many of our clients use this nootropic as a pre-workout to get them fired up and ready for working out.
In addition, Shroom contains a dosage of ashwagandha extract that can relieve anxiety and stress and increase muscle and strength [15].
It should be noted that one of its ingredients, Lion's Mane, requires at least six days of use to produce maximum effects and begin promoting neuron growth and brain health [16].
The recommended dose for this product is six capsules daily, but I saw solid results even after taking only three.
It should be noted that some of our clients noticed a bad interaction between this supplement and alcohol.
Supplement Facts
6 - Spore Focus Performance (Best for Weight Loss)
- Price per serving : $0.95
- Key ingredients : Lion's Mane, Rhodiola Rosea, Ginkgo Biloba
- Third-party tested : Yes
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Helps your brain fire faster
- Great for suppressing appetite
- Assists in recovering from a total burnout
Cons
- May cause skin irritation in rare instances
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- Those looking to suppress appetite
- Individuals recovering from burnout
Who is it not for?
- People sensitive to skin irritations
Final Verdict
Spore Focus Performance assists in cognitive function and recovery from fatigue. However, it may cause skin irritation in sensitive individuals.
Spore Focus Performance is one of the best smart drugs for increasing your cognitive functions.
Ashwagandha, one of its ingredients, can relieve anxiety and stress and promote muscle growth and strength [17].
In my personal experience, I noticed the benefits when taking it after the workout.
This is because its ingredients, such as cordyceps mushroom, assist your adrenals in recovering from extensive training regimens and fatigue built over time [18].
The daily dose is two capsules, best taken on an empty stomach in the morning and at lunchtime.
The only side effect few customers experienced was slight skin irritation.
Supplement Facts
7 - Zhou Neuro Peak Brain Support
- Price per serving : $0.50
- Key ingredients : Bacopa Monnieri, Rhodiola Rosea, DMAE
- Third-party tested : No
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Improves memory by supporting oxygen in the brain
- Perfect once-daily dose
- All ingredients follow GMP (good manufacturing practices)
Cons
- May cause abdominal pain in rare instances
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- People with ADHD or Alzheimer’s
- Users needing memory and cognitive support
Who is it not for?
- Those prone to abdominal pain
Final Verdict
Zhou Neuro Peak offers quick cognitive enhancement and is particularly effective for memory support. Some users may experience abdominal pain.
Zhou Neuro Peak is one of the fastest-working nootropics, as our clients report experiencing effects after just one day of using it.
This product is excellent for people having mental disorders such as ADHD and Alzheimer’s because of ingredients such as Huperzine Serrata and Rhodiola Rosea, which have been proven to aid in such conditions [19].
In addition, the supplement contains a sufficient dose of Bacopa, which is excellent for enhancing your learning process, memory, and cognitive function.
However, some of our clients that participated in the testing experienced side effects such as abdominal pain after a few days of using it.
But, other clients reported lower levels of anxiety and depression after using this nootropic.
Supplement Facts
8 - Qualia Mind
- Price per serving : $0.93
- Key ingredients : Ginkgo Biloba, Alpha GPC, Bacopa Monnieri, DHA
- Third-party tested : Yes
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Helps you fall asleep faster
- Contains only researched ingredients
- Treats depression and reduces nerve pain in people with diabetes
Cons
- The taste may be too strong for some users
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- Those needing mood and anxiety reduction
- Individuals with sleep difficulties
Who is it not for?
- Users sensitive to strong flavors
Final Verdict
Qualia Mind is a researched nootropic for mood improvement and sleep support. The flavor might be too strong for some, but the benefits are significant.
Qualia Mind is one of the most researched nootropics on the market.
Its ingredient, acetyl-L-carnitine, is suitable for treating symptoms of depression and reducing nerve pain in people with diabetes [20].
In addition, L-theanine, another great ingredient found in Qualia Mind, is excellent for improving your sleep and reducing blood pressure [21].
As mentioned earlier, combining ingredients such as Bacopa Monnieri and Rhodiola Rosea is excellent for reducing inflammation and the recovery of the nervous system.
After testing the supplement, our clients reported improvement in their mood and a decrease in anxiety after a couple of days of use.
Supplement Facts
9 - Genius Consciousness (Best Tasting)
- Price per serving : $2.41
- Key ingredients : Alpha GPC, Lion's Mane Mushroom
- Third-party tested : Yes
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Natural brain-enhancing ingredients
- Improved memory, concentration, and focus
- Tastes really good
Cons
- High in stimulants
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- Individuals looking for memory and focus improvements
- Users enjoying varied flavors
Who is it not for?
- Those avoiding caffeine intake at night
Final Verdict
Genius Consciousness enhances cognitive functions with natural ingredients and comes in pleasant flavors, but it's not suitable for evening use due to caffeine.
Genius Consciousness contains high levels of Alpha-GPC, which is excellent for improving your circulation.
In addition, Lion's Mane mushroom is very effective for stimulating nerve growth factors and improving learning ability.
This was confirmed by a couple of our clients, who reported a faster and easier learning process.
Genius Consciousness is one of the best-tasting nootropic supplements on the list, with a variety of flavors like watermelon and mango.
However, it should be noted that due to its contents of caffeine, it should not be taken before bed since it may cause trouble while trying to fall asleep.
Supplement Facts
10 - Vital Brain Boost (Cheapest Option)
- Price per serving : $0.64
- Key ingredients : Vitamin B12, Ginkgo Biloba, DMAE
- Third-party tested : No
Pros and Cons
Pros
- A perfect blend of vitamins, minerals, and herbal extracts
- Reduces inflammation and helps the body adapt to stress
- Improves circulation by decreasing the stickiness of platelets
Cons
- May cause headaches and anxiety in some users
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- Those seeking mental clarity and focus
- An alternative to coffee for staying alert
Who is it not for?
- Users who experience headaches and anxiety
Final Verdict
Vital Brain Boost offers an effective blend for sustained focus and alertness. However, it might induce headaches and anxiety in sensitive users.
Vital Brain Boost is especially effective for people who seek to stay focused for extended periods.
It is an excellent substitute for coffee, but it also gives you more clarity, and you feel more awake due to vitamin B12 [22].
In addition, Ginkgo Biloba may improve your circulation by reducing the "stickiness" of platelets, cell fragments responsible for forming clots in our blood.
According to my clients, the most significant benefit of this supplement is the improvement of the ability to focus and stay awake for longer.
However, some clients reported experiencing headaches and anxiety after a couple of weeks of using Vital Brain Boost.
How We Test for the Best Vegan Nootropic
As a health and performance coach with a keen interest in cognitive enhancement, I've had the opportunity to evaluate various vegan nootropics based on a comprehensive set of criteria. Here's how I tested and assessed the best vegan nootropics:
Effectiveness
I monitored my clients' cognitive performance using standardized cognitive tests before and after the supplementation period. Improvements in memory, focus, and reaction times were noted, along with subjective reports of enhanced mental clarity.
Ingredients
I meticulously analyzed the ingredient list of each product for quality and the presence of scientifically-backed nootropics like Bacopa monnieri, Rhodiola rosea, and Lion's mane mushrooms.
I also ensured that the ingredients were sustainably sourced and free from animal products, aligning with vegan standards.
Price
I compared the cost per serving across different brands to determine which products offered the best value without compromising on quality. This included looking for bulk purchase options, subscription discounts, and the overall number of servings per package.
Certifications
I checked for certifications such as non-GMO, gluten-free, and organic, which can be indicative of the product's purity and the manufacturer's commitment to high standards.
Bioavailability
I considered the form in which the nootropic was delivered (e.g., capsules, powders, or liquids) and the presence of any bioavailability enhancers that ensure the body can effectively absorb and utilize the active ingredients.
Brand Reputation
I researched customer reviews, company history, and transparency practices to gauge trustworthiness and reliability. A brand with a strong positive presence and open communication about its sourcing and manufacturing processes scored higher.
Sustainability and Ethical Practices
Given the vegan focus, it was crucial to assess the sustainability of each product, including the environmental impact of the ingredients and the company's ethical practices, such as fair trade and labor rights.
User Experience
I took into account the ease of use, taste (if applicable), and convenience of incorporating the nootropic into a daily routine. Products that fit seamlessly into a variety of lifestyles have a distinct advantage.
Buyer’s Guide
To know which vegan nootropic suits you the most, you need to know the main nootropic ingredients.
Based on our tests, all nootropic ingredients will yield different effects, so knowing what each does is essential.
In addition, knowing the potency, proper dosage, and side effects of nootropic supplements is mandatory.
Let's review these factors separately, so you can easily decide which nootropics to look for.
Active Ingredients
Active ingredients are the most important aspect of a nootropic supplement. Each of the ingredients affects the human body differently.
Some of the most effective supplements and their corresponding benefits are:
- Ginkgo biloba – Improves circulation and cognitive function.
- Maritime pine bark extract – Helps treat symptoms of asthma.
- L-tyrosine – Produces melanin, which is responsible for hair and skin color.
- Rhodiola Rosea – Combats stress and anxiety and supports brain health.
- Vitamins B6, B9, and B12 – Reduce levels of amino acids such as homocysteine, which are responsible for dementia, strokes, and coronary artery disease.
- L-theanine – Supports relaxation and sleep.
- Bacopa monnieri – Regenerates the nervous system by improving brain cells' growth.
- Lion's Mane mushroom – Excellent for memory and learning while reducing brain fog.
- Phosphatidylcholine – Great for repairing the liver.
- Citicoline – Increased energy and anti-aging effects for the nervous system
Potency
Nootropics that contain stimulants can prevent you from sleeping and cause side effects like jitters and anxiety.
Users who are sensitive to these types of ingredients should look for nootropic supplements that are either low or completely free of stimulants.
For example, if a particular supplement contains more than 500 mg of coffee, you should avoid using it.
This is because coffee is one of the most potent stimulants that blocks our adenosine receptors and deceives us into not being tired.
Daily Dose
Consider the number of capsules or the amount of powder you take a day.
Some nootropic supplements require you to take up to six capsules a day, while others only require two capsules.
Try to find a nootropic that recommends as little as one or two daily doses to avoid unnecessary complications.
Lastly, some nootropics contain stimulants, and taking them before bed can make falling asleep difficult. Always aim for a stimulant-free version of a nootropic supplement.
Side Effects
We need to know how to spot nootropics that are less likely to cause side effects.
Here are two things to look for:
- Research-backed tolerability – Always look for nootropics that have human clinical trials.
- Anecdotal tolerability – If a nootropic has been used for centuries, it is usually side-effect-free.
Nevertheless, each individual reacts to ingredients differently, so avoid products that contain any substances that have caused discomfort in the past.
Who Should Take Vegan Nootropics?
Anyone looking for an innovative way to boost their cognitive abilities should take vegan nootropics.
People with low stress tolerance and unhealthy private life-job balance can benefit from using nootropics since they are great for stress and anxiety relief.
In addition, some nootropic supplements that include ingredients such as Huperzine Serrata and Rhodiola Rosea may help treat symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease and naturally boost brain function.
Lastly, people who are constantly tired and can't seem efficient enough for their jobs and families should try using nootropics to gain more sustainable energy levels.
"Nootropics work on improving cognition, memory, alertness, concentration, creativity and attention."
– Amira Guirguis, Lecturer in Pharmacy at Swansea University in Wales, U.K
Who Shouldn’t Take Vegan Nootropics?
People allergic to active ingredients found in the supplement shouldn't take vegan nootropics.
Consuming such ingredients may lead to experiencing side effects and severe health problems.
I always advise consulting your doctor before purchasing a new supplement.
Some people are more prone to developing negative reactions and need to take extra precautions.
Some of the side effects you may encounter are:
- Fast heart rate
- High blood pressure
- Sleep disturbances
- Addiction
- Trouble with vision
If you experience any of these adverse effects, contact your healthcare provider immediately.
FAQs
Are Nootropics Vegan?
No, not all nootropics are vegan. However, most nootropics are derived from plant-based sources, meaning they are vegan-friendly. Always check the label to ensure that all ingredients have no animal-based products.
What Are Natural Nootropics?
Natural nootropics are herbal nootropics, such as American Ginseng or Ginkgo biloba. They are the opposite of synthetic nootropics, which are created in labs.
Are Nootropics Gluten & Lactose-Free?
No, not all nootropics are gluten and lactose-free. However, most of the natural nootropics on our list don’t contain lactose or gluten.
What Vegan Foods Are High in Nootropics?
Vegan foods that are high in nootropics are red wine, dark chocolate, coconut oil, green tea, eggs, blueberries, turmeric, and spinach. The good news is that these food items are delicious and enjoyable to eat.
How Does the Production of Vegan Nootropics Impact the Environment?
The production of vegan nootropics can have a varied environmental impact depending on the sourcing and manufacturing processes. Sustainable practices, such as organic farming and low-carbon manufacturing, minimize this impact and support eco-friendly supplementation.
Can Vegan Nootropics Be Effectively Combined With Other Supplements Like B12 or Iron?
Yes, vegan nootropics can be effectively combined with other supplements like B12 or iron to address common deficiencies in vegan diets and potentially enhance cognitive benefits. It's important to consult with a healthcare provider to tailor the combination to individual health needs.
What Ethical Considerations Should Be Taken Into Account When Producing Vegan Nootropics?
Ethical considerations that should be taken into account when producing vegan nootropics include fair labor practices, avoiding animal testing, and, ideally, using organic ingredients to prevent harm to ecosystems. Consumers can look for certifications that indicate these ethical practices have been followed.
How Might Vegan Nootropics Influence Gut Health and Cognitive Function?
Vegan nootropics may contain prebiotic fibers or other compounds that support gut health, which is closely linked to cognitive function through the gut-brain axis. A healthy gut microbiome is associated with improved mental clarity and mood regulation.
How Can Individuals Personalize Their Vegan Nootropic Regimen to Fit Their Specific Needs?
Individuals can personalize their vegan nootropic regimen to fit their specific needs by considering their dietary patterns, health goals, and cognitive demands. Consulting with a health professional can help tailor a nootropic stack that complements an individual's unique profile and lifestyle.
Our Verdict on Best Vegan Nootropics
After weeks of testing and gathering our client’s feedback, we highly recommend Mind Lab Pro as one of the best vegan nootropics on the market.
Its ingredients, Lion's mane mushroom, Rhodiola rosea, and Bacopa monnieri, produce the best benefits when coupled together.
They can help reduce inflammation, adapt to stress, and improve brain health and cell growth.
Most of our clients reported feeling sharp during the day without feeling restless at night due to its notable citicoline dosage.
Our #1 Recommendation
Mind Lab Pro (Best Overall & for Sleep)
Rated With Total Shape's Scoring System
- Excellent for controlling stress and insomnia
- Ability to concentrate for longer bouts of time
- All-natural nootropic ingredients
- Supports your brain functions by promoting brain cells' growth
- Get the BEST PRICE until the end of July
- Normal dosage may be too strong for some people
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