8 Best Nootropics For Neurogenesis (BDNF) In 2024

Updated March 8, 2024 by | Reviewed by William Gallagher, MNeuroSci
(Estimated reading time: 10 minutes)

In this article, I'll take a closer at the 8 best nootropics for neurogenesis (BDNF). I'll also cover the potential risks and side effects you may run into, as well as the benefits you can expect.

As we get older, it becomes more and more difficult to form new neural connections in our brains.

This is due to a decrease in neurogenesis – the process of creating new neurons. Fortunately, there are many nootropics that can help boost neurogenesis and keep your brain healthy!

So let's take a deep dive into the world of BDNF-boosting nootropics, shall we?

The best nootropics for neurogenesis (BDNF), according to scientific evidence, are:

  • Mind Lab Pro
  • Bacopa Monnieri
  • Maritime Pine Bark Extract
  • L-Theanine
  • Rhodiola Rosea
  • Ashwagandha
  • Noopept
  • Resveratrol
Table of Contents show

1. Mind Lab Pro

Mind Lab Pro is a supplement that is designed to support cognitive function. One of the key ways it does this is by promoting neurogenesis, which is the process by which new neurons are generated.[1]

Neurogenesis is important for several reasons. First, it helps to replace neurons that have been lost due to age or disease. Second, it can help to improve cognitive function by increasing the number of neurons available for processing information.

Finally, neurogenesis has been linked to improved mood and increased resilience to stress.[2] Mind Lab Pro promotes neurogenesis by providing an optimal environment for BDNF, a protein that plays an essential role in neuronal growth and development.

It's no secret that BDNF levels decline with age, so supplying the body with extra BDNF can help to support cognitive function in older adults.

Additionally, Mind Lab Pro contains 11 all-natural ingredients that help to protect BDNF from degradation, allowing it to play a more active role in promoting neurogenesis. As a result, Mind Lab Pro can help to support cognitive function by promoting the growth of new neurons.

Mind Lab Pros

  • It contains 11 all-natural ingredients
  • Promotes neurogenesis
  • It supports cognitive function and protects BDNF from degradation

Mind Lab Pro Cons

  • It is a bit more expensive than some other options

Mind Lab Pro in Summary

Mind Lab Pro is an excellent choice for those looking to promote neurogenesis and support cognitive function. It contains 11 all-natural ingredients that help to protect BDNF from degradation, making it an effective supplement for supporting the growth of new neurons.

2. Bacopa Monnieri

Bacopa Monnieri is a plant that has been used in traditional medicine for centuries. It is most commonly consumed as a tea or powder and is thought to have a wide range of health benefits.

Bacopa Monnieri is an effective nootropic for neurogenesis because it contains compounds that can help to support the growth and development of new neurons.[3] One of these compounds is bacosides, which are thought to help repair damaged neurons and promote the growth of new ones.[4]

In addition, bacosides can help to protect BDNF from degradation. The bacosides work by inhibiting the enzymes that degrade BDNF, thereby keeping more BDNF available for use by the brain.

The enzyme that is inhibited by the bacosides is called acetylcholinesterase. This enzyme works by breaking down the neurotransmitter acetylcholine (ACh), which is essential for memory formation and cognitive function.

By inhibiting this enzyme, the bacosides can keep more acetylcholine available for use by the brain, leading to improved cognitive function and memory formation.

Additionally, Bacopa Monnieri has been shown to help reduce stress and anxiety, two factors that can interfere with cognitive function.[5]

Bacopa Monnieri Pros

  • Potent neurogenesis-promoting properties
  • It can help to repair damaged neurons
  • It helps protect BDNF from degradation
  • It inhibits the enzyme that breaks down acetylcholine

Bacopa Monnieri Cons

  • It can take several weeks for the full effects to be felt

Bacopa Monnieri in Summary

Bacopa Monnieri is an effective nootropic for neurogenesis. It contains compounds such as bacosides that help to support the growth and development of new neurons.

Additionally, Bacopa Monnieri can help to protect BDNF from degradation and inhibit the breakdown of acetylcholine, leading to improved cognitive function.

3. Maritime Pine Bark Extract

Maritime Pine Bark Extract is a supplement made from the bark of the maritime pine tree. This extract is rich in compounds called proanthocyanidins (PA), which are thought to have a wide range of health benefits.

Proanthocyanidins are effective for neurogenesis because they can help to support the growth and development of new neurons. They also protect against oxidative stress and apoptosis, two processes that can damage or kill neurons.[6]

Oxidative stress is caused by an imbalance of free radicals and antioxidants in the body. When there are too many free radicals, they can damage cells, including neurons. Apoptosis is a type of cell death that can be caused by oxidative stress. When cells undergo apoptosis, they die and are not replaced. This can lead to a decline in cognitive function.

Maritime Pine Bark Extract Pros

  • It can help to support the growth and development of new neurons
  • It protects against oxidative stress and apoptosis

Maritime Pine Bark Extract Cons

  • It can take several weeks for the full effects to be felt

Maritime Pine Bark Extract in Summary

Maritime Pine Bark Extract is an effective nootropic for neurogenesis. It contains proanthocyanidins, which help to support the growth and development of new neurons. Additionally, Maritime Pine Bark Extract can protect against oxidative stress and apoptosis, improving cognitive function.

4. L-Theanine

L-Theanine is an amino acid found in green tea that has been shown to have various benefits for brain health.

One of the most important benefits of L-Theanine is its ability to increase levels of BDNF.[7]

L-Theanine has also been shown to have anti-inflammatory activity and antioxidative properties which can protect against damage to neurons.[8]

L-Theanine Pros

  • It can increase levels of BDNF
  • It has anti-inflammatory and antioxidative properties

L-Theanine Cons

  • It can take several weeks for the full effects to be felt
  • Works best when stacked with Caffeine

L-Theanine in Summary

L-Theanine is an effective nootropic for neurogenesis. It can increase levels of BDNF and has anti-inflammatory and antioxidative properties. Additionally, L-Theanine can help to protect against damage to neurons.

5. Rhodiola Rosea

Rhodiola Rosea is an adaptogenic herb that has been shown to help with Neurogenesis BDNF.[9]

This, in turn, leads to improved cognitive function and reduced stress and anxiety. It is thought that the adaptogenic properties of Rhodiola Rosea help to protect the brain from stress-related damage, thus helping to ensure that the brain remains healthy and functioning at its best.

Rhodiola Rosea Pros

  • It can help to improve cognitive function
  • It can reduce stress and anxiety
  • It has adaptogenic properties

Rhodiola Rosea Cons

  • Not ideal for people who take medication for anxiety or depression

Rhodiola Rosea in Summary

All in all, Rhodiola Rosea is an effective nootropic for neurogenesis. It can help to improve cognitive function, reduce stress and anxiety, and has adaptogenic properties.

6. Ashwagandha

Ashwagandha is an ancient medicinal herb that has been used in Ayurvedic medicine for centuries. Modern science has only begun to uncover the many ways in which Ashwagandha can benefit our health.

One area of research that is particularly exciting is the potential of Ashwagandha to promote neurogenesis and the growth of new brain cells. This process is believed to be essential for learning and memory formation. It has also been linked to a reduced risk of age-related cognitive decline.[10]

There are several mechanisms by which Ashwagandha may promote neurogenesis. One of the most well-studied is its ability to increase levels of BDNF.[11]

This increased BDNF activity leads to increased neurogenesis, ultimately improving cognitive function.

Ashwagandha Pros

  • It can help to improve cognitive function
  • It increases levels of BDNF

Ashwagandha Cons

  • Not ideal for women who are pregnant or nursing

Ashwagandha in Summary

All in all, Ashwagandha is an effective nootropic for neurogenesis. It can help to improve cognitive function and increase levels of BDNF by promoting the growth of new brain cells.

7. Noopept

Noopept is a cognitive enhancer that has shown promise in improving memory and reducing anxiety.

One mechanism by which Noopept may exert these effects is through its impact on neurogenesis.

A study from 2016 has shown that Noopept treatment can increase the rate of neurogenesis in the hippocampus, a brain region important for learning and memory. In addition, Noopept has been shown to increase levels of BDNF.[12]

Together, these effects suggest that Noopept may help to improve cognitive function by promoting the growth of new nerve cells in the brain.

Noopept Pros

  • Helps with neurogenesis
  • Helps with memory
  • Potent nootropics for overall brain health

Noopept Cons

  • Can be hard to find online

Noopept in Summary

Noopept has been shown to help with neurogenesis and memory. It's a potent nootropic for overall brain health. It works by promoting the growth of new nerve cells in the brain.

8. Resveratrol

Resveratrol is a type of polyphenol, which is a class of natural compounds that includes many essential nutrients like antioxidants.

Resveratrol can be found in the skin of red grapes, and some plants also produce it in response to stressors like UV light exposure or fungal infections.

While resveratrol has many benefits for human health, it is especially effective in promoting neurogenesis, which is the growth and development of new nerve cells.

One of the ways that resveratrol promotes neurogenesis is by increasing levels of BDNF. As we age, levels of BDNF gradually decline, contributing to age-related cognitive decline.[13]

However, resveratrol can help to reverse this process by increasing levels of BDNF and promoting the growth of new nerve cells. Therefore, resveratrol may effectively prevent age-related cognitive decline and maintain cognitive health into old age.

Resveratrol Pros

  • It helps with neurogenesis
  • Can help to prevent age-related cognitive decline

Resveratrol Cons

  • High-quality resveratrol can be hard to find

Resveratrol in Summary

Resveratrol is a good option if you're looking for a nootropic that can help with neurogenesis and prevent age-related cognitive decline. It's a natural compound found in red grapes and other plants, and it helps to increase levels of BDNF.

What Are the Best Nootropics for Neurogenesis BDNF?

best-nootropics-for-Neurogenesis

The best nootropics for neurogenesis BDNF include:

  1. Mind Lab Pro
  2. Bacopa Monnieri
  3. Maritime Pine Bark Extract
  4. L-Theanine
  5. Rhodiola Rosea
  6. Ashwagandha
  7. Noopept
  8. Resveratrol

I've chosen these nootropics based on their ability to promote neurogenesis, increase levels of BDNF, and improve cognitive function and their safety profile.

Mind Lab Pro is my top pick because it's an all-natural nootropic with several compounds. This means you don't have to buy each nootropic individually, saving you money and time.

How to Choose the Right Nootropic Supplement for Neurogenesis BDNF?

You choose the right nootropic supplement for neurogenesis BDNF by looking for a product that contains effective doses of ingredients that have been shown to promote neurogenesis and increase levels of BDNF.

In addition, you should make sure the product is made by a reputable company and that it does not contain any harmful ingredients. Your goals for taking a nootropic supplement will also influence your decision.

If your goal is to promote neurogenesis as well as overall cognitive function, Mind Lab Pro is my top recommendation.

What Are the Benefits of Nootropics for Neurogenesis BDNF?

The benefits of nootropics for neurogenesis include:

  • Promoting the growth of new nerve cells
  • Increasing levels of BDNF
  • Improving cognitive function
  • Protecting the brain from age-related damage
  • Reducing anxiety and depression symptoms
  • Enhancing sleep quality

Nootropics can help promote new nerve cell growth and increase levels of BDNF. This can improve cognitive function and protect the brain from age-related damage. In addition, nootropics can also reduce anxiety and depression symptoms, as well as enhance sleep quality.

What Are the Side Effects of Nootropics for Neurogenesis BDNF?

The side effects of nootropics for neurogenesis are typically mild and may include:

  • Headaches
  • Nausea
  • Digestive issues
  • Anxiety

Most of the side effects of nootropics are mild and can be easily avoided by starting with a low dose and gradually increasing it as your body adjusts to the supplement. However, if you experience any severe side effects, stop taking the supplement and consult a doctor.

Do Nootropics Really Work for Neurogenesis BDNF?

Yes, nootropics can really work for neurogenesis BDNF. They can help promote the growth of new nerve cells and increase levels of BDNF. In addition, nootropics can also improve cognitive function and protect the brain from age-related damage.

If you're looking for a nootropic supplement that can help with neurogenesis and overall cognitive function, Mind Lab Pro is my top recommendation.

Mind Lab Pro is an all-natural nootropic supplement with several compounds that have been shown to promote neurogenesis and increase levels of BDNF. In addition, Mind Lab Pro is also effective for improving cognitive function and protecting the brain from age-related damage.

Final Thoughts

There is much anecdotal evidence and science to support their use when it comes to finding the best nootropics for neurogenesis. Nootropics are not only effective in enhancing cognitive function but also memory, focus, and brain health.

The most important factor in finding the best nootropics for you is to start with a low dose and increase gradually as needed. Be patient and give each nootropic at least a few weeks to take effect. Doing so will enable you to better gauge its effectiveness and minimize the risk of any negative side effects.

I highly recommend taking a closer look at the ingredients covered in this article and doing your own research to learn more about the best nootropics for neurogenesis. A good place to start is Mind Lab Pro, which is a natural nootropic supplement that includes many of the ingredients discussed here.

References
  1. Ribeiro, Filipa F, and Sara Xapelli. “An Overview of Adult Neurogenesis.” Advances in experimental medicine and biology vol. 1331 (2021): 77-94. doi:10.1007/978-3-030-74046-7_7 â†‘
  2. Anacker, Christoph et al. “Hippocampal neurogenesis confers stress resilience by inhibiting the ventral dentate gyrus.” Nature vol. 559,7712 (2018): 98-102. doi:10.1038/s41586-018-0262-4 â†‘
  3. Pham, Hang Thi Nguyet et al. “Bacopa monnieri (L.) Wettst. Extract Improves Memory Performance via Promotion of Neurogenesis in the Hippocampal Dentate Gyrus of Adolescent Mice.” International journal of molecular sciences vol. 21,9 3365. 9 May. 2020, doi:10.3390/ijms21093365 â†‘
  4. Singh, Babita et al. “Neuroprotective and Neurorescue Mode of Action of Bacopa monnieri (L.) Wettst in 1-Methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine-Induced Parkinson's Disease: An In Silico and In Vivo Study.” Frontiers in pharmacology vol. 12 616413. 16 Mar. 2021, doi:10.3389/fphar.2021.616413 â†‘
  5. Benson, Sarah et al. “An acute, double-blind, placebo-controlled cross-over study of 320 mg and 640 mg doses of Bacopa monnieri (CDRI 08) on multitasking stress reactivity and mood.” Phytotherapy research : PTR vol. 28,4 (2014): 551-9. doi:10.1002/ptr.5029 â†‘
  6. Ma, J., Gao, S.-S., Yang, H.-J., Wang, M., Cheng, B.-F., Feng, Z.-W., & Wang, L. (1AD, January 1). Neuroprotective effects of proanthocyanidins, natural flavonoids derived from plants, on rotenone-induced oxidative stress and apoptotic cell death in human neuroblastoma SH-Sy5y Cells. Frontiers. Retrieved August 8, 2022, from https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fnins.2018.00369/full â†‘
  7. Administration of L-theanine induced upregulation of hippocampal BDNF ... (n.d.). Retrieved August 8, 2022, from https://researchgate.net/figure/Administration-of-L-theanine-induced-upregulation-of-hippocampal-BDNF-Though-TrkB-and_fig3_249315928 â†‘
  8. Hwang, Yong Pil et al. “Inhibitory effects of l-theanine on airway inflammation in ovalbumin-induced allergic asthma.” Food and chemical toxicology : an international journal published for the British Industrial Biological Research Association vol. 99 (2017): 162-169. doi:10.1016/j.fct.2016.11.032 â†‘
  9. Sangiovanni, Enrico et al. “Botanicals as Modulators of Neuroplasticity: Focus on BDNF.” Neural plasticity vol. 2017 (2017): 5965371. doi:10.1155/2017/5965371 â†‘
  10. Raghavan, Aparna, and Zahoor A Shah. “Withania somnifera: a pre-clinical study on neuroregenerative therapy for stroke.” Neural regeneration research vol. 10,2 (2015): 183-5. doi:10.4103/1673-5374.152362 â†‘
  11. Konar, Arpita et al. “Protective role of Ashwagandha leaf extract and its component withanone on scopolamine-induced changes in the brain and brain-derived cells.” PloS one vol. 6,11 (2011): e27265. doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0027265 â†‘
  12. Vakhitova, Y V et al. “Molecular Mechanism Underlying the Action of Substituted Pro-Gly Dipeptide Noopept.” Acta naturae vol. 8,1 (2016): 82-9. â†‘
  13. Wang, R., Wu, Z., Bai, L., Liu, R., Ba, Y., Zhang, H., Cheng, X., Zhou, G., & Huang, H. (2021). Resveratrol improved hippocampal neurogenesis following lead exposure in rats through activation of SIRT1 signaling. Environmental Toxicology, 36(8), 1664–1673. https://doi.org/10.1002/tox.23162 â†‘