Adaptogens and nootropics are popular ingredient groups in modern wellness. Adaptogens support the body’s stress response (think: calmer, steadier energy), while nootropics support cognitive performance (focus, memory, mental clarity).
They act through different pathways (stress-response vs cognition), but often complement each other, pairing stress resilience with sharper focus.
Quick definitions:
Adaptogens: Mainly natural substances (herbs/fungi) used for stress resilience, often linked to HPA-axis support, reduced oxidative stress, and stress hormone regulation. Examples include ashwagandha, rhodiola, ginseng, cordyceps, and reishi.
Nootropics: Natural or synthetic ingredients that support attention, memory, learning, or mental energy via pathways like neurotransmitters, cerebral blood flow, neurotrophic factors, and the brain’s growth-and-repair signals. Examples include caffeine, L-theanine, lion's mane, citicoline, and Bacopa monnieri.
How they differ:
- Adaptogens mainly support stress resilience and mood.
- Nootropics are cognitive enhancers that target mental function.
Where they overlap:
Some ingredients count as both adaptogens and nootropics, like rhodiola and ginseng. Beyond overlap, they also pair well together for a more synergistic effect; caffeine with ashwagandha is a simple, proven pairing for calm focus.
This comprehensive guide breaks down what adaptogens and nootropics are, how they work, and which products are worth considering to introduce them into your life.
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Further reading:
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This Article Contains:
- What Are Adaptogens?
- What Are Nootropics?
- Adaptogens vs Nootropics: Differences & Overlaps
- Can You Take Adaptogens and Nootropics Together?
- 6 Ways to Consume Adaptogens and Nootropics
- 5 FAQs About Adaptogens and Nootropics
What Are Adaptogens?
Adaptogens are a category of plants, herbs, and fungi first defined and studied by Russian scientists in the 1940s (though many have been used in Eastern traditional medicine practices for centuries).
Interestingly, what unites them isn’t what plant family they come from. It’s how they work in our bodies.
To count as an adaptogen, a plant- or fungus-derived ingredient has to meet three main criteria:
- Non-harmful at typical doses
- Reduces stress or improves stress tolerance
- Helps the body maintain homeostasis (balance) under stress
Adaptogens work primarily by acting on the HPA (hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal) axis — your body’s central stress-response system.
Effects vary by ingredient. Some adaptogens help modulate cortisol, a stress hormone that can become too high or too low when the HPA axis is out of balance.
For example, ashwagandha is an adaptogenic herb often used to lower elevated cortisol levels and ease anxiety. Meanwhile, licorice root can increase cortisol activity, which may help counter fatigue.
Studies have shown that adaptogens present potential benefits for productivity, attention, and reducing fatigue when under stress.
Examples of Adaptogens
- Ashwagandha
- Cordyceps
- Reishi
- Eleuthero (Siberian ginseng)
- Holy Basil
- Rhodiola rosea
- American ginseng
- Licorice root
What Are Nootropics?
Nootropics are a category of cognitive enhancers that improve factors like memory, attention, learning, energy, and creativity. The term was coined by Romanian psychologist and chemist Corneliu Giurgea in 1964.
Like adaptogens, nootropics are defined by their health benefits, not where they come from.
Nootropics can be natural (sourced from plants) or synthetic (lab-designed compounds).
How they work depends on the ingredient, but many act through a few well-known pathways:
- Neurotransmitters: Influencing chemical messengers involved in focus and memory
- Cerebral blood flow: Supporting circulation that delivers fuel to brain cells
- Brain plasticity: Nudging growth-factor signals that help neurons form and strengthen connections
Certain nootropics have even been found to slow age-related cognitive decline.
Examples of Nootropics
- Caffeine
- Lion's Mane (Hericium erinaceus)
- Ginkgo biloba
- B Vitamins (beneficial mainly in deficiency)
- Citicoline
- Alpha GPC
- Tyrosine
- Theanine
- 5-HTP
- Creatine
So, adaptogens and nootropics: Are they apples and oranges or more like “tomato, tomahto”?
Let’s dive deeper.
Adaptogens vs Nootropics: Differences & Overlaps
Adaptogens and nootropics have different primary roles, but they do overlap. Here’s a simple comparison:
- Adaptogens work mainly to reduce stress and promote balance, and are mostly natural substances.
- Nootropics are primarily about boosting cognition and brain function, and can be natural or synthetic.
That said, a few common adaptogens and natural nootropics fall into both categories — Bacopa monnieri, gotu kola, ginseng, and rhodiola are great examples.
However, almost no synthetic nootropic shows any adaptogenic health benefits the way a natural nootropic might.
Now, here’s where it gets interesting:
Thanks to their primary mechanism of improving stress resilience, adaptogens can also support brain function indirectly — in the sense that it’s easier to focus on cognitive tasks when you’re less stressed. Likewise, some nootropics can also indirectly improve mood elements by way of supporting overall brain health.
So, categorization can be tricky in some cases. But here’s some good news: You don’t have to choose one over the other!
Can You Take Adaptogens and Nootropics Together?
Short answer: Yes!
Adaptogens and nootropics are like cheese and wine. They pair beautifully. You can enjoy the best of both improved cognition and better stress response.
Examples of top adaptogen and nootropic pairings:
- Ashwagandha helps smooth out the jitters from caffeine, so you can enjoy the boost without the crash.
- Phosphatidylserine (PS) is a nootropic that helps your body handle physical stress, especially from exercise. It pairs nicely with Rhodiola rosea, which may boost endurance and performance.
- Citicoline helps your brain make acetylcholine, a key neurotransmitter for memory and learning. Combine it with Bacopa monnieri, which further helps increase acetylcholine levels by slowing its breakdown.
It’s just about picking the right combination in a format that works for your lifestyle. Let’s explore what that might look like next.
6 Easy Ways to Consume Adaptogens and Nootropics
There are many ways to introduce adaptogens and nootropics into your life, from pills to oral pouches to beverages.
Here are our top recommendations:
1. Cyclone Pods Focus and Energy Pouches
Cyclone Pods Focus & Energy Pouches are small oral pouches you place between your gum and cheek for quick, clean absorption. Each pouch blends natural nootropic and adaptogenic ingredients to support overall brain health and provide calm, “zen-like” focus without any jitters or anxiety.
They’re fast-acting, often felt within minutes, and the effect can last up to four hours. Use when you need to lock in for study sessions, deep work, training, or whenever top performance is key.
Here’s what’s inside:
- Guarana (Nootropic): A natural caffeine source (50mg per pouch) for smooth energy and sharper focus.
- Ashwagandha (Adaptogen and nootropic): Eases stress and supports learning and memory.
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Lion’s mane (Nootropic): Helps with memory, focus, and mental clarity.
Bacopa monnieri (Adaptogen and nootropic): Boosts cognitive function and mental function. - Cordyceps (Adaptogen and nootropic): A cognitive enhancer that supports stamina, brain health, and stress resilience.
These pouches also make for a healthier replacement for smoking, nicotine vaping, nicotine pouches, energy drinks, and sugary coffee drinks.
They do contain caffeine (about as much as a cup of black tea), but the adaptogenic herb content may help take the edge off of any jitters. If you’re sensitive to caffeine, avoid using them in the evening so it doesn’t disturb your sleep. Start with just one pouch per day to see how your body responds.
But if you like the sound of smooth energy in a convenient and discreet format, you can pick up Cyclone Pods Focus and Energy Pouches in the following fantastic flavors:
Price: $9.99 per pack of 20 pouches
Value: Very affordable, especially if replacing other costly and unhealthy habits like energy drinks and nicotine pouches.
2. Qualia Mind
Qualia Mind is a broad-spectrum nootropic supplement in a capsule format designed to improve overall brain function.
It contains over 25 ingredients, including vitamins, amino acids, and herbal extracts such as:
- Rhodiola rosea (Adaptogen and nootropic)
- Lion’s mane mushroom (Nootropic)
- Bacopa monnieri (Adaptogen and nootropic)
- Citicoline (Synthetic nootropic)
- Alpha-GPC (Synthetic nootropic)
- L-theanine (Synthetic nootropic)
- Caffeine (Synthetic nootropic) — 100mg per serving
They’re formulated to target focus, memory, and productivity.
However, a full serving (six supplement capsules) contains a relatively high amount of caffeine, which may not be comfortable for all users. Plus, with 25+ ingredients, it’s hard to predict how you would respond to the full stack. Some may prefer a simpler option on this list.
Price: $39 for your first order and $139 thereafter (for 120 capsules, or 20 servings)
Value: A high monthly cost to take long term, but with potent ingredients if you can afford it.
3. Kin Euphorics Kin Spritz
Kin Spritz is a ready-to-drink nootropic and adaptogenic beverage designed as a mood-boosting, refreshing alternative to alcohol and traditional energy drinks. It provides a lift without crashes, intoxication, or hangovers.
Key ingredients include:
- Rhodiola rosea (Adaptogen and nootropic)
- GABA (Synthetic nootropic)
- L-Theanine (Synthetic nootropic)
- 5-HTP (Synthetic nootropic)
- Citicoline (Synthetic nootropic)
- Phenylethylamine (Synthetic nootropic)
- Caffeine (Synthetic nootropic) — 50mg per can
Kin Spritz is only available in one flavor, with grape, ginger, citrus, and hibiscus notes. The brand does offer different functional blends in other flavors, so it may take some trial and error to find the right match between flavor and functional effects.
If ‘all natural’ is a must for you, keep in mind Kin Spritz leans on synthetic (not strictly plant-based) nootropics.
Price: $39 for 8 cans
Value: Good as an occasional treat, but expensive for the steady use typically required for long-term results.
4. Four Sigmatic Original Mushroom Coffee
Four Sigmatic’s Mushroom Coffee combines organic instant coffee with functional mushrooms that offer nootropic and adaptogenic benefits.
It’s the same ritual as your usual cuppa with ingredients that support your gut and brain health, such as:
- Lion’s mane mushroom (Nootropic)
- Cordyceps (Adaptogen and nootropic)
- Reishi mushroom (Adaptogen)
- Turkey Tail (Adaptogen)
- Chaga (Adaptogen)
- Yacon root (Probiotics)
- Coffee — 50mg caffeine (Nootropic) per serving
If you’re a coffee lover, the flavor may take some getting used to due to the added mushrooms. And if you don’t enjoy coffee or caffeine, this may not be the product for you.
Price: $50 per pack (contains 30 servings)
Value: Relatively affordable for daily use, but more expensive than traditional coffee (and coffee fanatics may still crave caffeine boosts through the day from other sources)
5. Heartsong Herbs Brain Boost Tincture
Heartsongs Herbs’ Brain Boost Tincture is a simple herbal blend designed to clear brain fog and boost focus, creativity, and mental clarity. Take about 1.5 droppers of the tincture in water, up to three times a day, for a natural boost.
It’s made from fresh (undried) herbs, including:
- Bacopa monnieri (Adaptogen and nootropic)
- Gotu kola (Adaptogen and nootropic)
- Ginkgo biloba (Nootropic)
- Holy basil (Adaptogen)
This formula is simple: four herbs with alcohol and water. It’s caffeine-free, so it’s a good choice at night or if you’re sensitive to caffeine, but it won’t boost your energy levels. If you avoid alcohol or are sensitive to it, skip this one.
Price: $28 for 2oz (24 servings)
Value: Good value for a daily caffeine-free formula, but the alcohol base can be a deal-breaker for many.
6. Strong Coffee Company Drops *Nootropic + Adaptogen Coffee Gummies
These chewable coffee gummies from Strong Coffee Company deliver a quick, balanced boost — combining caffeine with calming and focus-enhancing adaptogens and nootropics, such as:
- Caffeine (Nootropic) — 100mg per serving (50mg per gummy)
- L-Theanine (Synthetic nootropic)
- Ashwagandha (Adaptogen and nootropic)
- Reishi mushroom (Adaptogen)
They have a chantilly cream and coffee flavor, though coffee lovers may struggle to replace their daily coffee with gummies. Then again, with the candy-like format, it may be challenging to stick to the recommended serving size.
Price: $13 for a pack of 16 gummies (8 servings)
Value: If you take two per day, a pack will last just over a week, making this better for an occasional treat than a daily nootropic supplement.
Not sure how adaptogens and nootropics actually fit into your life or whether they’re right for you? Let’s tackle some of the most common questions people have about using them.
5 FAQs About Adaptogens and Nootropics
Here are five quick answers to the questions we hear the most, including what to expect when you take them and how to use them safely and effectively.
1. Who Should Take Adaptogens and Nootropics?
You’ll benefit most from adaptogens and nootropics if you fit into one or more of these groups:
- College students
- Athletes and gym-goers
- People with demanding work schedules, like shift workers
- Artists and creatives
- People who struggle with brain fog, especially in the afternoons or after lunch
- People who experience anxiety, depression, attention deficit, or troubles with executive function (but not as a replacement for traditional treatments or without the approval of a doctor)
2. Do Adaptogens and Nootropics Give You a “Buzz”?
Generally speaking, no, adaptogens and nootropics are unlikely to make you feel intoxicated, high, or buzzed.
Some people might feel a light “lift” and brightness, depending on the ingredients, dose, and individual response. But there's no loss of inhibition or coordination, and no cloudiness, making them an excellent option for sober leisure time and socializing.
3. Are There Any Risks to Taking Adaptogens and Nootropics?
When used as directed, adaptogens and nootropics are generally well-tolerated and can be a helpful addition to your daily wellness routine.
That said, everyone’s different. A few people may notice mild effects like sleep disturbance, digestive upset, or shifts in blood pressure—especially at higher doses or if they’re sensitive to certain nootropics or adaptogens. Starting low, building gradually, and noticing how you feel is a good approach.
If your nootropic and adaptogen supplement formula includes caffeine, keep total daily intake moderate (the FDA suggests ≤400 mg/day for most healthy adults) and use earlier in the day if you’re prone to sleep issues.
Some ingredients can interact with meds or health conditions. If you’re on prescriptions, pregnant, or have heart or blood-pressure issues, a quick check-in with your doctor is a smart move.
4. How Can You Take Adaptogens and Nootropics Safely and Effectively?
Here are our best tips for harnessing the potential benefits of adaptogens and nootropics while avoiding risks:
- Follow the label. Check whether it should be taken with food or not. (When in doubt, avoid taking them on an empty stomach.)
- Don’t overdo it. Stick to the recommended serving size. If you notice side effects, consider lowering the dose or taking a break.
- Give it time. It may take up to 2 weeks of consistent use to notice full benefits.
- Take days off. Try using your supplement only 5 to 6 times a week to maintain effectiveness and avoid building a tolerance.
- Talk to your doctor. If you’re pregnant, on medication, or managing any physical or mental health concerns, check with a doctor before trying adaptogens and nootropics.
5. What Do Scientific Studies Say About Adaptogens and Nootropics?
Natural nootropics and adaptogens have been around for a long time, and science is still catching up. While not every claim is fully proven yet, there’s growing evidence of their effectiveness.
Some examples:
- Clinical trials on Bacopa monnieri have shown promising results for improving language comprehension, memory, attention, and stress resistance. (Sources: Kumar et al. 2016, Benson et al. 2013,
- Research on Ginkgo biloba has confirmed improvements to memory, mood, and learning. (Sources: Naprienko 2014, Mix and Crews 2002, Kennedy et al. 2007b)
- Studies on Ashwagandha have revealed benefits for learning, memory, and anxiety relief. (Sources: Choudhary et al. 2017, Pratte et al. 2014, Salve et al. 2019)
- Human studies involving lion’s mane showed improvements for anxiety, depression, and cognitive function. (Sources: Nagano et al. 2010, Docherty et al. 2023)
- A report analyzing 25 different studies identified positive effects on managing cortisol levels with several common adaptogens, including: Bacopa monnieri, Siberian Ginseng, Holy Basil, Asian Ginseng, Golden Root. (Tóth-Mészáros et al. 2023)
Adaptogens and Nootropics: Your Brain’s New Best Friends
Adaptogens and nootropics can boost your brain power, energy levels, and stress resilience — with roots in traditional medicine backed by modern science.
The tricky part is finding something that works well and fits effortlessly into your day. That’s where Cyclone Pods Focus and Energy Pouches shine! They’re fast-acting, thoughtfully formulated, and super convenient to use whenever you need a lift.
Try Cyclone Pods Focus and Energy Pouches today and get ready to feel energized and focused with zero jitters or crashes.