Natural Caffeine
Caffeine is the world’s most widely used stimulant and a natural alkaloid found in coffee beans and tea leaves. It works by blocking adenosine receptors in the brain, thereby reducing the perception of fatigue and promoting wakefulness. Caffeine helps increase alertness in adults (authorised health claim - applicable at a minimum dose of 75 mg per serving). It is commonly used in functional supplements designed to support mental performance during periods of high cognitive demand.
- A randomized controlled trial demonstrated that caffeine at doses of 75–100 mg significantly improves alertness, sustained attention, and cognitive performance in healthy adults during mentally demanding tasks.
→ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29420994/ - Research showed that caffeine enhances vigilance, reaction time, and accuracy on cognitive tests, making it effective for periods of high mental workload.
→ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21040626/ - A systematic review and meta-analysis confirmed that caffeine acutely improves attention by enhancing both reaction time and accuracy in the general population.
→ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40335666/ - In a home-setting study using web-based cognitive tests, caffeine consumption led to significantly faster reaction times in attention tasks (Go/No-Go test), with effects comparable to those observed in controlled laboratory conditions.
→ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28882811/
Citicoline
Citicoline is a naturally occurring compound in the human body that serves as a highly bioavailable source of choline. It acts as a precursor to phosphatidylcholine, a major structural component of cell membranes, particularly in the brain. Citicoline is commonly included in functional supplements formulated to support cognitive processes during periods of high mental demand and daily productivity.
- In a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study on healthy older adults, 12 weeks of citicoline supplementation (500 mg/day) significantly improved overall memory performance, with particularly strong effects on episodic memory.
→ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33978188/ - A clinical trial in healthy volunteers demonstrated that citicoline (500 mg) significantly improved psychomotor vigilance, arousal, and visual working memory compared to placebo, while also reducing markers of oxidative stress.
→ https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7878037/ - Supplementation with citicoline in middle-aged women resulted in improved attentional performance, with fewer omission and commission errors on continuous performance tests after 28 days.
→ Improved Attentional Performance Following Citicoline Administration in Healthy Adult Women - A review of human studies concluded that citicoline supports memory function and may help counteract early age-related cognitive changes by improving brain choline uptake.
→ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37196134/
L-Theanine
L-Theanine is a unique amino acid naturally found in green tea leaves (Camellia sinensis). When combined with caffeine, it is known for its ability to promote a state of calm alertness without causing drowsiness. It is frequently used in cognitive support formulas to help achieve smooth, jitter-free mental performance during focused work.
- A randomized controlled trial showed that the combination of L-Theanine and caffeine significantly improved attention, focus, and cognitive performance while reducing mind-wandering compared to caffeine alone.
→ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29420994/ - Research demonstrated that L-Theanine (200 mg) combined with caffeine (100 mg) enhanced accuracy and speed on attention-switching tasks and improved overall alertness.
→ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21040626/ - EEG study revealed that L-Theanine + caffeine increased alpha brain wave activity, associated with a state of relaxed yet alert attention.
→ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18816480/ - A review of multiple studies concluded that the synergistic combination of L-Theanine and caffeine provides superior cognitive benefits for sustained attention and working memory compared to either compound alone.
→ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18296306/
Panax Ginseng Extract
Panax ginseng is a traditional medicinal plant whose root extract has been used for centuries in East Asia. It contains naturally occurring ginsenosides, bioactive compounds commonly included in functional supplements designed to support mental performance and daily vitality.
- The study found that a single dose of Panax ginseng significantly improved cognitive performance, including working memory and mental arithmetic, while reducing feelings of mental fatigue in healthy young adults.
→ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15982990/ - Research demonstrated that Panax ginseng extract (G115) enhanced aspects of working memory, attention, and subjective calmness during sustained cognitive tasks.
→ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20737519/ - A clinical trial showed that daily supplementation with Panax ginseng improved cognitive function and reduced mental fatigue in middle-aged adults over 8 weeks.
→ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29624410/ - A systematic review concluded that Panax ginseng may support cognitive performance and help reduce mental fatigue during periods of high mental demand.
→ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22643043/
Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine Hydrochloride)
Vitamin B6, in the form of pyridoxine hydrochloride, is a water-soluble vitamin that plays an essential role in numerous metabolic processes in the body. It is involved in the metabolism of amino acids, the synthesis of neurotransmitters, and the normal functioning of the nervous system. Vitamin B6 contributes to normal energy-yielding metabolism and to the reduction of tiredness and fatigue.
- A review of B vitamins emphasized that vitamin B6 is crucial for energy metabolism and helps reduce feelings of tiredness and fatigue by supporting proper neurotransmitter function.
→ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31963141/ - Research in older adults showed that vitamin B6 supplementation improved long-term memory performance compared to placebo.
→ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/1365868/ - A study on young adults found that higher vitamin B6 intake was associated with better cognitive function and lower levels of subjective fatigue.
→ https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9787829/ - Vitamin B6, as part of the B-vitamin complex, has been shown to support energy production and help mitigate fatigue during periods of increased mental and physical demand.
→ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31963141/
Vitamin B12 (Cyanocobalamin)
Vitamin B12, in the form of cyanocobalamin, is an essential water-soluble vitamin that plays a key role in energy metabolism, red blood cell formation, and the normal functioning of the nervous system. It is particularly important for maintaining healthy neurological function and supporting overall energy levels. Vitamin B12 contributes to normal energy-yielding metabolism and to the reduction of tiredness and fatigue.
- A clinical study demonstrated that vitamin B12 supplementation improved cognitive function and reduced fatigue in individuals with suboptimal B12 status.
→ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35406106/ - Research showed that adequate vitamin B12 levels are associated with better energy metabolism and lower perceived fatigue in adults.
→ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31963141/ - A systematic review found that vitamin B12 supplementation can help improve symptoms of tiredness and support neurological function, especially in people with low B12 levels.
→ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24379897/ - Long-term observational studies indicated that higher vitamin B12 status in mid-to-late adulthood is linked to slower cognitive decline and better maintenance of mental energy.
→ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24379897/
L-Theanine
L-Theanine is an amino acid naturally occurring in green tea leaves. It is well-known for promoting a relaxed yet attentive state without sedation. It is commonly included in formulas designed to support emotional balance and a calm mind during stressful or demanding periods of the day.
- A triple-blind, placebo-controlled study found that a single dose of L-Theanine significantly increased frontal alpha brain wave activity and reduced salivary cortisol levels during an acute stress challenge, indicating a calming effect.
→ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34562208/ - In a 28-day randomized trial, L-Theanine supplementation significantly decreased perceived stress and improved sleep quality in healthy adults with moderate stress.
→ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38758503/ - A study showed that L-Theanine reduced psychological and physiological stress responses (heart rate and salivary IgA) during an acute mental stress task.
→ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16930802/ - Research demonstrated that L-Theanine (200 mg) promotes relaxation without inducing drowsiness by increasing alpha-band oscillatory brain activity.
→ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18296328/
Ashwagandha Root Extract (Withania somnifera)
Ashwagandha is a traditional Ayurvedic herb whose root extract has been used for centuries. It is one of the most researched botanicals in modern supplementation and is commonly included in formulas designed to support the body’s ability to adapt to daily demands and maintain a sense of balance during challenging periods.
- In a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study, ashwagandha root extract (300 mg twice daily) significantly reduced perceived stress and cortisol levels in healthy adults over 60 days.
→ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31517876/ - A 30-day study showed that ashwagandha supplementation improved sleep quality, reduced morning cortisol, and enhanced overall well-being in adults experiencing high stress.
→ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34858513/ - Research demonstrated that ashwagandha extract helped decrease feelings of anxiety and fatigue while supporting better mental composure in stressed individuals.
→ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38931168/ - A systematic review and meta-analysis concluded that ashwagandha supplementation is associated with significant improvements in stress-related outcomes and overall psychological well-being.
→ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41644067/
Lemon Balm Leaf Extract (Melissa officinalis)
Lemon balm is a perennial herb from the mint family traditionally used in Europe for centuries. Its leaf extract is valued for its mild, pleasant aroma and is commonly included in supplements formulated to support calmness and emotional well-being during daily life.
- A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study found that a single dose of lemon balm extract significantly improved calmness and reduced feelings of alertness-related stress in healthy young adults.
→ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15272110/ - In a clinical trial, lemon balm extract (Zensera™) improved mood, increased calmness, and enhanced cognitive performance under moderate psychological stress.
→ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41782777/ - Research showed that lemon balm supplementation was associated with reduced anxiety-like symptoms and improved self-reported feelings of relaxation in healthy adults.
→ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25360512/ - A 2024 systematic review concluded that lemon balm extract may help promote a calm state and support overall psychological well-being without causing drowsiness.
→ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39458539/
Rhodiola Rosea Extract
Rhodiola rosea is a perennial plant that grows in cold, mountainous regions of Europe and Asia. Its standardized root extract has been traditionally used for centuries and is one of the most researched botanicals in the context of supporting the body during physically and mentally demanding periods.
- In a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study on physicians working night shifts, Rhodiola rosea extract significantly reduced fatigue and improved performance on complex cognitive tests compared to placebo.
→ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11081987/ - A study on students during a stressful exam period found that Rhodiola rosea supplementation significantly decreased mental fatigue and improved neuromotor performance.
→ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10839209/ - Research involving people experiencing burnout symptoms showed that Rhodiola rosea extract improved concentration, reduced fatigue, and enhanced overall well-being after 12 weeks of use.
→ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19016404/ - A systematic review concluded that Rhodiola rosea may help the body adapt to stress and reduce symptoms of fatigue associated with demanding mental or physical activity.
→ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22643043/
Magnesium Bisglycinate
Magnesium bisglycinate is a highly bioavailable, chelated form of magnesium that is gentle on the digestive system. Magnesium is an essential mineral involved in over 300 enzymatic reactions in the body. It contributes to the reduction of tiredness and fatigue, supports normal functioning of the nervous system, and helps maintain normal energy-yielding metabolism.
- A randomized controlled trial found that magnesium bisglycinate supplementation significantly improved sleep quality and reduced daytime fatigue in healthy adults reporting poor sleep.
→ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40918053/ - Research showed that magnesium supplementation helped decrease perceived stress and improved subjective feelings of calmness in adults with moderate stress levels.
→ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33321899/ - A systematic review concluded that magnesium bisglycinate, due to its high bioavailability, effectively supports the reduction of tiredness and fatigue while contributing to normal nervous system function.
→ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39009081/ - In a clinical study on individuals with high daily stress, magnesium bisglycinate supplementation was associated with better emotional regulation and reduced symptoms of exhaustion.
→ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33260549/
Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine Hydrochloride)
Vitamin B6, in the form of pyridoxine hydrochloride, is a water-soluble vitamin that plays an essential role in numerous metabolic processes in the body. It is involved in the metabolism of amino acids, the synthesis of neurotransmitters, and the normal functioning of the nervous system. Vitamin B6 contributes to normal energy-yielding metabolism and to the reduction of tiredness and fatigue.
- A review of B vitamins emphasized that vitamin B6 is crucial for energy metabolism and helps reduce feelings of tiredness and fatigue by supporting proper neurotransmitter function.
→ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31963141/ - Research in older adults showed that vitamin B6 supplementation improved long-term memory performance compared to placebo.
→ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/1365868/ - A study on young adults found that higher vitamin B6 intake was associated with better cognitive function and lower levels of subjective fatigue.
→ https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9787829/ - Vitamin B6, as part of the B-vitamin complex, has been shown to support energy production and help mitigate fatigue during periods of increased mental and physical demand.
→ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31963141/
Vitamin B12 (Cyanocobalamin)
Vitamin B12, in the form of cyanocobalamin, is an essential water-soluble vitamin that plays a key role in energy metabolism, red blood cell formation, and the normal functioning of the nervous system. It is particularly important for maintaining healthy neurological function and supporting overall energy levels. Vitamin B12 contributes to normal energy-yielding metabolism and to the reduction of tiredness and fatigue.
- A clinical study demonstrated that vitamin B12 supplementation improved cognitive function and reduced fatigue in individuals with suboptimal B12 status.
→ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35406106/ - Research showed that adequate vitamin B12 levels are associated with better energy metabolism and lower perceived fatigue in adults.
→ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31963141/ - A systematic review found that vitamin B12 supplementation can help improve symptoms of tiredness and support neurological function, especially in people with low B12 levels.
→ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24379897/ - Long-term observational studies indicated that higher vitamin B12 status in mid-to-late adulthood is linked to slower cognitive decline and better maintenance of mental energy.
→ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24379897/
Natural Caffeine
Caffeine is the world’s most widely used stimulant and a natural alkaloid found in coffee beans and tea leaves. It works by blocking adenosine receptors in the brain, thereby reducing the perception of fatigue and promoting wakefulness. Caffeine helps increase alertness in adults (authorised health claim - applicable at a minimum dose of 75 mg per serving). It is commonly used in functional supplements designed to support mental performance during periods of high cognitive demand.
A randomized controlled trial demonstrated that caffeine at doses of 75–100 mg significantly improves alertness, sustained attention, and cognitive performance in healthy adults during mentally demanding tasks.
→ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29420994/
Research showed that caffeine enhances vigilance, reaction time, and accuracy on cognitive tests, making it effective for periods of high mental workload.
→ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21040626/
A systematic review and meta-analysis confirmed that caffeine acutely improves attention by enhancing both reaction time and accuracy in the general population.
→ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40335666/
In a home-setting study using web-based cognitive tests, caffeine consumption led to significantly faster reaction times in attention tasks (Go/No-Go test), with effects comparable to those observed in controlled laboratory conditions.
→ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28882811/
L-Theanine
L-Theanine is a naturally occurring amino acid from green tea. When paired with caffeine, it helps smooth the stimulatory effects, supporting clean, balanced energy without excessive jitteriness or nervousness. It is often included in performance formulas to promote stable energy during physical or mental exertion.
- The combination of L-Theanine and caffeine improved sustained attention and reduced the typical negative side effects of caffeine alone.
→ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21040626/ - Research showed that L-Theanine + caffeine enhanced cognitive performance and reaction time while minimizing jitteriness associated with caffeine.
→ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29420994/ - Participants reported smoother subjective energy and improved task performance when L-Theanine was added to caffeine compared to caffeine used alone.
→ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18296306/
Vitamin B5 (Pantothenic Acid)
Vitamin B5, also known as pantothenic acid, is a water-soluble B vitamin essential for the synthesis of coenzyme A, a key molecule involved in numerous metabolic pathways. It plays a fundamental role in the breakdown of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, and is vital for cellular energy production. Vitamin B5 contributes to normal energy-yielding metabolism and to the reduction of tiredness and fatigue.
- A comprehensive review of B vitamins highlighted that vitamin B5, as a precursor to coenzyme A, is essential for mitochondrial energy production and is closely linked to the body’s ability to combat fatigue.
→ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31963141/ - Experimental studies on induced pantothenic acid deficiency demonstrated increased fatigue, apathy, and neurological symptoms that improved following supplementation.
→ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK563233/ - Research involving B-vitamin supplementation, including pantothenic acid, showed improvements in energy metabolism and reduced subjective feelings of tiredness in active adults.
→ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37810523/ - A functional evaluation of anti-fatigue effects concluded that adequate intake of vitamin B5 supports sustained energy production and helps mitigate fatigue during periods of increased physical or mental demand.
→ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31963141/
Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine Hydrochloride)
Vitamin B6, in the form of pyridoxine hydrochloride, is a water-soluble vitamin that plays an essential role in numerous metabolic processes in the body. It is involved in the metabolism of amino acids, the synthesis of neurotransmitters, and the normal functioning of the nervous system. Vitamin B6 contributes to normal energy-yielding metabolism and to the reduction of tiredness and fatigue.
- A review of B vitamins emphasized that vitamin B6 is crucial for energy metabolism and helps reduce feelings of tiredness and fatigue by supporting proper neurotransmitter function.
→ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31963141/ - Research in older adults showed that vitamin B6 supplementation improved long-term memory performance compared to placebo.
→ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/1365868/ - A study on young adults found that higher vitamin B6 intake was associated with better cognitive function and lower levels of subjective fatigue.
→ https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9787829/ - Vitamin B6, as part of the B-vitamin complex, has been shown to support energy production and help mitigate fatigue during periods of increased mental and physical demand.
→ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31963141/
Vitamin B12 (Cyanocobalamin)
Vitamin B12, in the form of cyanocobalamin, is an essential water-soluble vitamin that plays a key role in energy metabolism, red blood cell formation, and the normal functioning of the nervous system. It is particularly important for maintaining healthy neurological function and supporting overall energy levels. Vitamin B12 contributes to normal energy-yielding metabolism and to the reduction of tiredness and fatigue.
- A clinical study demonstrated that vitamin B12 supplementation improved cognitive function and reduced fatigue in individuals with suboptimal B12 status.
→ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35406106/ - Research showed that adequate vitamin B12 levels are associated with better energy metabolism and lower perceived fatigue in adults.
→ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31963141/ - A systematic review found that vitamin B12 supplementation can help improve symptoms of tiredness and support neurological function, especially in people with low B12 levels.
→ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24379897/ - Long-term observational studies indicated that higher vitamin B12 status in mid-to-late adulthood is linked to slower cognitive decline and better maintenance of mental energy.
→ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24379897/