What is the difference between adaptogens and nootropics?
Over the past few years, you may have heard the terms ‘adaptogens’ and ‘nootropics’ more frequently due to a recent boom in popularity within the health and wellness industries. Both of these supplements can be used to help improve motivation, information recall and learning capabilities, sleep, mood, and creativity, and they can also present some anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits that can improve physical health.
However, it’s important to know that these two terms are not the same thing, and shouldn’t be used interchangeably. If you’re unsure about the differences between the two, then keep reading as we discuss each of these options and how they can be used to improve your health and well-being.
What are adaptogens and nootropics?
Adaptopgens and nootropics are mostly natural substances that are derived from plants, herbs, and roots. For a familiar example, ginseng, peppermint, lemon, caffeine, and some mushrooms can be classified within the adaptogen or nootropic categories. It should be noted however that whilst adaptogens are always natural, nootropics are sometimes synthetic. Therefore, whilst adaptogens should not cause any harm or damage to regular bodily functions when dosed correctly, nootropics should be taken with more caution.
Both types can be consumed in various forms, including in tea, as a capsule supplement, or powdered and added to foods or drinks. Typically, adaptogens lean more towards being consumed as food or drinks, whereas nootropics tend to be consumed as a capsule or powder.
Are nootropics and adaptogens the same thing?
No, they’re not the same. While both adaptogens and nootropics can be used to enhance cognitive function, they do so in different ways. This likely is where the confusion between the two comes from, as many people think they do roughly the same thing. However, whilst they both operate as a means to improve mental and cognitive performance, there are a few key differences that you should consider before you decide which option is best for you.
The most fundamental difference is that nootropics are used to target specific areas of cognitive and brain function, whereas adaptogens are used to help manage or counter hormone production and therefore alter your body’s response to the production of these hormones, for example, stress.
What are adaptogens?
Adaptogens are thought to help your body better handle mental and physical stress but they do not stimulate or subdue any of your natural functions, they simply help you to ‘adapt’ and make you more naturally resilient. They can do this by helping to regulate the body’s response to stress hormones such as cortisol and adrenaline. By working to counter the negative effects of stress, adaptogens can also improve other aspects of your mental well-being such as reducing fatigue and improving your mood and quality of sleep. For a more detailed look at adaptogens, you can view our dedicated blog. However, to offer a summary, some of the most common examples of adaptogens can be found below:
Ashwagandha
Ashwagandha is used within Ayurvedic medicine, one of the oldest traditional medicinal systems in the world. People may use it to help treat issues such as stress, fatigue, and anxiety. This is because the supplement contains withanolides which help to counter stress hormones.
Together Whole Root Ashwagandha 30 caps
Ginseng
Ginseng has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries and remains a popular option today. Ginseng has plenty of natural benefits but in terms of cognitive function, it may help to improve mood, and memory, and reduce the effects of stress and depression. Some studies also suggest that it may have positive effects on brain function for people with Alzheimer’s disease.
Living Nutrition Fermented Red Ginseng 60 Caps
Maca
The maca plant has traditionally been used by Andean people for thousands of years, both as a form of sustenance and to help treat respiratory conditions. However, it has become increasingly popular in Western cultures as a means to enhance cognitive function, mood, and energy levels.
KIKI Premium 4 Root Maca Powder
We recommend that if you plan to start taking adaptogens, you start on a low dose and gradually increase the amount you take whilst being mindful not to over consume. If you have any medical or physical health conditions, it is best practice to consult with your doctor to avoid any adverse effects as they may interfere with your prescribed medication.
What are nootropics?
Nootropics are used to improve cognitive functions related to concentration, focus, memory, and creativity. Many nootropics are naturally found in your diet such as caffeine, but some are man made to target specific cognitive areas and improve function. Some of the most popular examples of nootropics are as follows:
Ginkgo Biloba
Lion’s Mane
Lion’s mane mushrooms contain hericenones and erinacines, which are two compounds that can help stimulate brain cell growth. Some people take this supplement to help relieve symptoms associated with depression and anxiety. It may also help those who wish to improve their memory and overall brain health.
Mushrooms For Life Organic Lion's Mane Focus Coffee 75g
L-Theanine
A type of amino acid commonly found in black and green tea, L-Theanine can help to improve mental focus levels, as well as provide anxiety relief and combat stress. Additionally, when paired with caffeine it can help to improve alertness and reaction times.
Pure Encapsulations l-Theanine 60
Typically, natural nootropics do not tend to present any adverse effects when the correct dosage is taken. However, we would suggest consulting with your doctor if you have any medical concerns. Since the discovery of nootropics is fairly recent, more research is needed to establish their effectiveness and whether they have any negative effects on prescription medications.
Enhance your cognitive performance with Planet Organic
If you’re looking to improve your cognitive function, or you’re looking to help care for your mental well-being through nootropic or adaptogen consumption, here at Planet Organic, we have a wide range of both adaptogens and nootropics available in a variety of forms. No matter if you’re looking for an easy-to-drink tasty tea, a tincture or some daily capsules, you can find a variety of specialist supplements that can boost brain function. Explore the collection to find supplements that are suited to your lifestyle.
