Brain, Memory

Updated: 25 August 2026.

Brain function and memory supplements: what does the category include?

This section brings together several types of food supplements, including amino acids and their derivatives, botanical extracts, vitamins, minerals and other ingredients commonly found in formulas marketed around concentration, cognitive tasks and the nervous system.

These products are not medicines for treating memory problems, attention disorders or neurological conditions. Sudden, pronounced or persistent changes in memory or concentration should be assessed by a healthcare professional.

At a glance

• DMAE, glycine, tyrosine and inositol are chemically different substances available both individually and in multi-ingredient formulas.
• Bacopa Monnieri, Lion's Mane, gotu kola and rhodiola are botanical or mushroom-derived ingredients.
• 5-HTP and tryptophan are involved in pathways related to serotonin, so combining them with antidepressants or other medicines should be discussed with a doctor first.
• Melatonin is a hormone associated with the sleep-wake cycle, not a vitamin or a direct “memory supplement”.

DMAE

DMAE (dimethylaminoethanol) is an organic compound used as an ingredient in some food supplements and multi-ingredient formulas. When comparing DMAE products, check the amount per serving, directions for use and any additional active ingredients.

DMAE should not be treated as a medicine for memory disorders or other cognitive conditions. Food supplements do not replace medical assessment or treatment.

Glycine, tyrosine and other amino acids

• Glycine is an amino acid available as powder, tablets and in multi-ingredient formulas.
• L-tyrosine is an amino acid involved in several biochemical processes in the body.
• Taurine is an amino-acid-like compound commonly included in sports nutrition and multi-ingredient products.
• NAC (N-acetylcysteine) with selenium is a combination formula where the amount of each active ingredient should be considered separately.

5-HTP, tryptophan and GABA: what should you consider?

5-HTP and tryptophan participate in biochemical pathways related to serotonin, while GABA is a neurotransmitter. These ingredients have different roles and are not interchangeable.

If you take antidepressants or other medicines that affect serotonin signalling, adding 5-HTP or tryptophan without medical advice is not recommended. Potential interactions with prescription medicines should be checked first.

Botanical extracts: Bacopa Monnieri, Lion's Mane, gotu kola and rhodiola

The category includes a range of botanical and mushroom-derived ingredients:

• Bacopa Monnieri – a botanical extract available both alone and in combination formulas.
• Lion's Mane – a mushroom-derived ingredient also found in the Energy category.
• Gotu kola – a botanical extract.
• Rhodiola rosea – a botanical ingredient also found in the Energy category.

When comparing botanical extracts, check not only the plant name but also the amount per serving, standardisation and other specifications provided by the manufacturer.

Inositol

Inositol is an organic compound sometimes described as a B-vitamin-like substance, although it is not officially classified as a vitamin. Products vary by amount and format, so compare the amount of inositol per serving.

L-theanine (Suntheanine) and lecithin

L-theanine is an amino acid available both alone and in combination formulas. Suntheanine is a branded form of L-theanine. Some products combine L-theanine with caffeine, so check the amount of both ingredients.

Lecithin, including sunflower lecithin, is a mixture of phospholipids. The proportions and amounts of individual phospholipids may vary between products.

Melatonin

Melatonin is a hormone associated with regulation of the sleep-wake cycle. It is not a vitamin and should not be considered a direct supplement for improving memory.

When choosing melatonin, consider the amount, manufacturer directions, local rules governing its sale and potential interactions with medicines.

Magnesium, manganese and omega-3

Multi-ingredient formulas in this category may also contain magnesium, manganese and omega-3 fatty acids. These are different nutrients with their own physiological functions, so assess their specific amounts and forms rather than relying only on the name of the formula.

How to choose a supplement from this category

• Decide which specific ingredient you are looking for, such as L-theanine, tyrosine, a botanical extract, magnesium or another nutrient.
• Compare the amount of active ingredient per serving.
• For botanical extracts, check standardisation and the plant part used.
• Check whether the same active ingredients are already present in other products you use.
• If you take antidepressants or other medicines affecting the nervous system, check supplement compatibility with a healthcare professional first.

Frequently asked questions

Which vitamins and nutrients are commonly associated with memory?

This area commonly includes B vitamins, minerals, omega-3 fatty acids, amino acids and various botanical extracts. However, inclusion in a “memory” category does not mean that an ingredient can treat memory impairment.

Can several nootropic supplements be taken together?

Combining several active ingredients can increase the possibility of interactions and ingredient duplication. It is generally better not to start several new products at the same time, particularly when medicines are also being used.

What is DMAE?

DMAE is an organic compound used as an ingredient in certain food supplements. DMAE products differ in amount and formulation, and the ingredient is not a medicine for treating cognitive disorders.

Are brain supplements safe with antidepressants?

Not every combination is appropriate. Particular care is needed with 5-HTP, tryptophan and other ingredients that may interact with serotonergic medicines. If you take antidepressants or other prescription medicines affecting the nervous system, discuss the supplement with a doctor or pharmacist before use.

This information is for general reference, is not medical advice and does not replace consultation with a doctor, particularly when taking antidepressants or other prescription medicines affecting the nervous system.