5 Nootropics to Increase GABA in Your Brain (Tested & Reviewed)

Nootropics, also known as cognitive enhancers, are supplements or substances that can potentially enhance brain function and improve mental performance. With the increased interest in optimizing brain performance and mental clarity, the search for the best nootropics for GABA is on the rise.

GABA is a neurotransmitter in the central nervous system, synthesized in the body from the amino acid glutamate, that helps regulate brain activity. It plays an important role in promoting relaxation, reducing anxiety levels, and improving cognitive functioning.

In this article, we’ll explore some of the most effective nootropics that can help boost GABA levels in your brain and enhance its many benefits. Whether you’re looking to reduce stress levels, improve sleep quality, or simply sharpen your focus and concentration, you won’t want to miss out on this guide!

Nootropics Optimal for Boosting GABA

• Picamilon — Great for increasing blood flow to the brain
• NooCube — Best to relieve stress and promote relaxation
• Mind Lab Pro — Great for regulating GABA and serotonin levels
• Vyvamind — Best for calmness and relaxation
• L-Theanine — Best plant extract for improving cognitive function

How to Choose the a Nootropic Specifically for Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA)?

Selecting the right nootropics for GABA enhancement is critical to achieving your cognitive and relaxation goals. Here’s what to consider to make an informed choice.

• Ingredient Quality: Ensuring that the nootropics contain high-quality, pure ingredients is crucial for your health and for the effectiveness of the GABA boost.
• Formulation: A well-thought-out blend of ingredients can enhance the benefits of GABA, as certain compounds work synergistically to improve its bioavailability and function.
• Brand Reputation: A brand with a strong reputation is often a reflection of product reliability and customer satisfaction. It also indicates a company’s commitment to maintaining high standards.
• Scientific Backing: Products backed by scientific research offer reassurance that the formulation is based on proven data rather than anecdotal evidence.
• User Experiences: Real reviews from users can shed light on how the nootropic performs outside clinical settings, indicating potential effects and common experiences.

The TopNootropics of 2024

According to our in-depth testing and research, the top nootropics or smart drugs that can help your GABA levels are:

1. Picamilon

Picamilon is a nootropic compound that is broken down into two important components: GABA and niacin. As a result, it is believed to have the ability to positively affect some anxiety disorders, improve mood, and lower the chances of seizures. GABA is an inhibitory neurotransmitter that reduces the activity of the brain’s neurons, leading to a calming effect. Niacin, on the other hand, helps improve blood flow in the brain.⁽¹⁾ These benefits make Picamilon one of the best nootropics for GABA.

Pros:

• Increases blood flow to the brain, which leads to increased concentration and focus
• Boosts energy levels and mood
• Can lower anxiety without impairing motor function or mental abilities

Cons:

• Some users may experience side effects such as headaches, dizziness, and nausea
• May interact with other medications
• Long-term effects are not well understood

When it comes to effectiveness, Picamilon has been shown to positively impact overall cognitive functioning, alertness, and mental energy. As a result, the nervous system is better able to respond to stress, anxiety, and other factors that can impede optimal functioning. Picamilon, thus, is an effective nootropic that can boost GABA and improve mental clarity, focus, and overall cognitive performance.

2. NooCube

NooCube is a top nootropic supplement that is made up of natural ingredients like Lutemax, Bacopa Monnieri, Pterostilibene,Vitamin B7 and L-Tyrosine. It supports healthy serotonin, GABA, and acetylcholine levels, resulting in improved focus and concentration. Moreover, NooCube promotes the production of neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine, which can boost memory retention.⁽²⁾

Pros:

• Helps with memory, attention, and cognitive functions and performs as a mood enhancer
• Yields mood balance and improves your state of mind
• Improves focus, concentration, and overall brain function

Cons:

• Some users may experience minor side effects
• May interact with other medications
• May not be effective for everyone

NooCube is renowned for its effectiveness and safety. However, people with neurological disorders should avoid taking it and consult a medical practitioner beforehand. Overall, NooCube is an excellent supplement that supports GABA function and enhances cognitive processing for sharper focus and better memory.

3. Mind Lab Pro

Mind Lab Pro is acclaimed as the ‘universal nootropic’ due to its ability to improve all aspects of mental cognition. It works by increasing acetylcholine levels in the brain, which is one of the most essential neurotransmitters involved in memory and focus. It can support healthy serotonin, GABA, and acetylcholine levels, which help improve focus and mood.

Pros:

• Improves focus, attention span, and memory
• Contains natural ingredients that yield mood balance
• Improves overall brain function and enhances creativity

Cons:

• Some users may experience headaches or nausea
• Long-term effects are not well understood
• May not be effective for everyone

Its effectiveness in supporting brain health and remedying low GABA levels is evident, making it a top contender for the best nootropic for GABA.

4. Vyvamind

Vyvamind is a nootropic supplement that has gained popularity as a safe alternative to prescription medication for ADHD. It is considered among the best nootropic supplements for improving focus, memory, and learning while decreasing anxiety and stress. It has 6 ingredients including L-Theanine, which elevates levels of the neurotransmitter GABA, and L-tyrosine, which is known for boosting overall neural health and function.

Pros:

• Helps reduce anxiety and stress
• Improves cognitive function and memory

Cons:

• Effects vary depending on individuals’ age and health status
• Not recommended to be taken with other medications or supplements

Vyvamind is a highly effective GABA supplement that boosts mood and alleviates anxiety.

5. L-Theanine

L-theanine is a naturally occurring compound and a popular nutritional supplement frequently used for its ability to promote relaxation without causing drowsiness. It is found in tea leaves and can easily cross the blood-brain barrier. One of the best nootropics for sleep, L-theanine affects brain chemicals like serotonin and dopamine, making it a great option for those who have trouble sleeping due to stress.⁽³⁾ It also helps promote focus and cognitive function.

Pros:

• Promotes relaxation without causing drowsiness
• Helps reduce anxiety and stress
• Improves cognitive function and memory

Cons:

• May be less effective for some individuals
• May interact with certain medications
• May cause mild side effects like gastrointestinal problems

L-theanine, due to its effectiveness and potency, is part of a lot of nootropic stacks like NooCube, Mind Lab Pro, and Vyvamind

How Do These Class of Nootropics Work?

GABA-boosting supplements work by targeting the neurotransmitter gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the brain. GABA is responsible for calming the nervous system and reducing stress and anxiety. Nootropics can support GABA function by increasing its production, blocking its breakdown, or enhancing its effects on nerve cells.⁽⁴⁾

Picamilon, for example, is a combination of niacin and GABA that can cross the blood-brain barrier and directly activate GABA receptors. Similarly, L-Theanine can increase GABA levels and alpha brain waves, leading to a relaxed yet focused state of mind.

The effectiveness of each nootropic depends on the specific ingredients, dosage, and individual factors such as age, health status, and lifestyle. Therefore, it is important to do research and choose a reputable brand that offers transparent information and positive user reviews. Ultimately, nootropics for GABA can provide a natural and safe way to reduce stress, improve sleep, and support cognitive function.

What to Consider Before Buying GABA Nootropics?

Before investing in nootropics designed to enhance GABA, several key factors should be taken into account to ensure that you make a suitable choice for your needs.

1. Individual Health and Sensitivities

Understand your own health conditions and sensitivities. Certain ingredients in GABA nootropics may not be suitable for everyone, especially if you have pre-existing health issues or are sensitive to specific compounds.

2. Desired Outcomes

Clarify what you hope to achieve with GABA nootropics. Whether it’s to reduce anxiety, improve sleep, or enhance cognitive function, knowing your goal will help narrow down the options.

3. Interaction With Other Supplements or Medications

Consider any other supplements or medications you are taking. Some nootropics for GABA might interact with other substances, affecting their efficacy or causing adverse reactions.

4. Dosage and Administration

Examine the recommended dosage and method of administration. It’s essential to follow the guidelines provided by the manufacturer to achieve the desired effects and avoid potential side effects.

5. Budget and Value

Assess the cost of the nootropics in relation to your budget. While it’s important to invest in quality products, ensure that the price aligns with the value you are receiving in terms of ingredient quality and effectiveness.

How We Picked the Top Nootropics in This Category

We used a multi-factor review process to identify the best GABA supplement. We took into account effectiveness, ingredients, brand reputation, transparency, production method, user feedback, price, and value. By evaluating each of these aspects, we curated a comprehensive list of the most effective nootropics for enhancing GABA levels.

Effectiveness

We analyzed clinical trials and user experiences to assess improvements in GABA levels, anxiety reduction, and sleep quality enhancement.

Ingredients

We inspected each formula, focusing on evidence-based, natural, and high-quality ingredients that effectively promote GABA synthesis and function.

Scientific Evidence

We referred to peer-reviewed studies and meta-analyses to confirm the efficacy of key ingredients in elevating GABA levels.

Dosage

We determined optimal dosages and ingredient ratios, ensuring they are consistent with established research for maximum effectiveness.

Safety

We confirmed the safety of each ingredient, accounting for potential side effects and interactions and ensuring compliance with regulatory guidelines. FDA-approved ingredients are prioritized.

Brand Reputation

We assessed the credibility and trustworthiness of GABA supplement brands through customer reviews, expert endorsements, and company history.

Product Transparency

We appreciated the complete ingredient disclosure of the supplements, which includes sources and concentrations, to empower informed consumer decision-making.

Manufacturing Process

We evaluated manufacturing standards, favoring products made in certified facilities adhering to Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP).

User Reviews

We examined actual customer feedback, emphasizing testimonials that detail improvements in the amount of GABA, anxiety reduction, and sleep quality.

Price

We compared product prices, ensuring they were competitive and aligned with the quality and efficacy of the GABA-boosting nootropic. While some supplements may boast impressive ingredients and brand reputations, they may come at a high cost. It’s important to weigh the effectiveness and quality of ingredients against the price.

Value

We gauged overall value by considering price, quality, and effectiveness to ensure users receive the best return on investment.

In Summary

The use of nootropics has become increasingly popular due to their ability to enhance GABA activity in the brain, leading to a calmer state of mind and improved focus.

Picamilon and NooCube are particularly popular due to their ability to support healthy serotonin, GABA, and acetylcholine levels. Mind Lab Pro contains Bacopa Monnieri, which is known to improve GABA receptor activity and cognitive function. Vyvamind is a blend of nootropics that includes L-Tyrosine, improving neural health and brain function. L-Theanine is also a popular supplement that is known to promote relaxation and improve sleep quality.

When selecting supplements, you should consider factors like ingredients, brand reputation, and value. These factors can help to ensure that you are getting a safe and effective product that meets your specific needs. It’s also important to note that these supplements should be used with caution and under the guidance of a healthcare professional.

FAQs

1. Gasperi, Valeria et al. “Niacin in the Central Nervous System: An Update of Biological Aspects and Clinical Applications.” International journal of molecular sciences vol. 20,4 974. 23 Feb. 2019, doi:10.3390/ijms20040974 ↩
2. Aguiar, Sebastian, and Thomas Borowski. “Neuropharmacological review of the nootropic herb Bacopa monnieri.” Rejuvenation research vol. 16,4 (2013): 313-26. doi:10.1089/rej.2013.1431 ↩
3. Kim, Suhyeon et al. “GABA and l-theanine mixture decreases sleep latency and improves NREM sleep.” Pharmaceutical biology vol. 57,1 (2019): 65-73. doi:10.1080/13880209.2018.1557698 ↩
4. Leonte, Anna, et al. “Supplementation of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) affects temporal, but not spatial visual attention.” Brain and cognition 120 (2018): 8-16. ↩