Brain supplements are everywhere, often promising sharper focus and better memory, but it can be difficult to separate marketing claims from products supported by credible evidence. While research into many ingredients is still evolving and long-term cognitive benefits remain unclear, some supplements contain compounds that have been studied for their role in supporting brain health.
Understanding what’s inside each formula, how ingredients are used and what the research actually suggests can help make navigating the shelves a little easier. In this guide, we’ve reviewed brain supplements that feature well-researched ingredients and transparent formulations.
Read on to discover the best brain supplements, with options suited to a range of health goals and lifestyles. We’ve also included information on what ingredients you should look for and what you can expect from a brain supplement.
Visit our review section to find more health-related reviews, including the best protein bars, best vegan protein powders and best meal prep containers. Next, read which supplements should I take?
Best brain supplements at a glance
JUMP TO REVIEWS
- Best overall brain supplement: BrainMD Brain and Memory Power Boost, £53.09
- Best brain supplement for focus support: NOW Foods Brain Elevate Veg Capsules, £26.66
- Best brain supplement for memory support: Vitabiotics Neuromind Plus Tablets, £18.95
- Best cognitive performance blend: Form Nutrition Edge Capsules Cognitive Enhancer, £19
- Best nootropic complex: Codeage Brain Focus Vitamins Plus, £41.56
- Best traditional brain formula: Natures Best Refreshall Supplement with Ginkgo, £15.30
- Best budget brain supplement: Nutrition Geeks Lions Mane Focus Plus, £9.99
- Best brain supplement for mental support: Holland and Barrett Tribiotic Mind Balance Capsules, £31.99
- Best ginkgo biloba supplement: Purolabs Ginkgo Biloba, £23.99
- Best botanical brain supplement: New Nordic Clear Brain Tablets, £26.99
- Best high-strength ginkgo extract: British Supplements Clean Genuine Ginkgo Biloba Extract Uptake Blend, £10.39
How we tested brain supplements
To compile our list of the best brain supplements, we combined expert nutrition insight with hands-on product testing. Nutritionist Kerry Torrens helped shape the review process, advising on the current evidence for commonly used nootropic ingredients and their relevance for memory, focus, alertness and overall cognitive performance.
All supplements were assessed using the same framework. We reviewed capsules and tablets only, excluding powders, drinks and gummies, to allow for a fair comparison across products. Each supplement was taken in line with the manufacturer’s recommended dosage and findings were recorded using our established testing criteria.
The Good Health by Good Food team tested a broad range of brain supplements, including single-ingredient products such as Ginkgo biloba and Lion’s Mane, as well as more complex multi-nutrient formulations. Products were selected to reflect different budgets, dietary preferences and cognitive goals. The key areas we assessed were:
- Ingredient relevance: whether the active ingredients are supported by credible evidence for cognitive health
- Formulation and transparency: clear labelling, sensible combinations and appropriate dosages
- Ease of use: tablet or capsule size and how easily the supplement can be incorporated into daily life
- Dietary suitability: including vegetarian or vegan status and the absence of unnecessary additives
- Intended benefit: how well the formulation aligns with specific goals such as helping to support focus, memory or mental balance
- Value for money: comparison with similar products based on price and formulation quality
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Best brain supplements to buy in 2026
BrainMD Brain and Memory Power Boost
Available from Healf (£53.09)
Best overall brain supplement
Star rating: 5/5
This four-capsule daily formula combines several well-studied compounds that support different aspects of brain function. Phosphatidylserine helps maintain brain cell membranes, while acetyl-L-carnitine supports cellular energy production in neurons. Alpha-lipoic acid and N-acetylcysteine provide antioxidant support, and ginkgo biloba is commonly used in cognitive supplements to support healthy blood flow to the brain. Huperzine A helps maintain acetylcholine levels, a neurotransmitter involved in memory and learning.
Rather than focusing on basic nutrients such as B vitamins or omega-3 fats, the formula centres on specialised nootropic compounds. The ingredient doses sit within commonly used supplemental ranges and the combination targets multiple cognitive pathways, making it one of the more complex formulas in this guide. This approach may appeal to those looking for a more advanced cognitive blend.
Our tester liked the premium feel and the clearly detailed ingredient list. However, taking four capsules per day felt slightly excessive compared with simpler one-a-day options.
At approximately £1.97 per daily serving, this is one of the more expensive supplements in the guide. The higher price reflects the multi-ingredient formula and standardised extracts used. The capsules are suitable for vegetarians too.
Available from:
NOW Foods Brain Elevate Veg Capsules
Available from iHerb (£26.66)
Best brain supplement for focus support
Star rating: 5/5
This flexible formula combines phosphatidylserine, which supports brain cell membrane structure, with choline (100mg per serving), a nutrient involved in normal cell function and neurotransmitter production. It also includes ginkgo biloba, commonly used in cognitive supplements to support blood flow to the brain and glutamine, an amino acid involved in normal protein metabolism.
Compared with broader nootropic blends in the guide, this formula is more streamlined, focusing on a small number of targeted ingredients rather than a wide mix of vitamins and botanical extracts. The choline dose sits within the lower end of commonly used supplemental ranges, but works alongside phosphatidylserine and ginkgo to support several aspects of cognitive function.
The option to take one or two capsules per day makes the formula adaptable depending on preference. Our tester appreciated the ability to adjust the dose and found the capsules easy to swallow. However, because the phosphatidylserine is derived from soy, it may not suit everyone.
Cost ranges from approximately £0.22 to £0.44 per day, making it one of the better-value multi-ingredient blends in this category. The capsules are vegan and the product is labelled non-GMO.
Available from
Vitabiotics Neuromind Plus
Available from Vitabiotics (£18.95)
Best brain supplement for memory support
Star rating: 4.5/5
This dual-pack supplement combines a fish oil capsule with a vitamin and botanical tablet. Each daily serving provides 300mg of DHA, meeting the 250mg intake associated with maintaining normal brain function. DHA has also been studied for its role in memory and cognitive performance.
It also includes vitamins B6, B12 and folate, which contribute to normal psychological function and iodine, which contributes to normal cognitive function. Ginkgo biloba extract, often studied in relation to memory and circulation to the brain, is also included.
Some specialist ingredients are included in supportive rather than high-strength amounts, making this more of a broad cognitive support formula than a concentrated herbal blend.
Our tester liked the inclusion of DHA, although the 300mg dose is lower than many standalone omega-3 supplements. Taking three pills per day may also not appeal to everyone.
At around £0.68 per serving, it offers good value for a formula combining omega-3 and B vitamins. It contains fish and soya, so it is not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.
Available from:
Form Nutrition Edge Capsules Cognitive Enhancer
Available from Form Nutrition (£19)
Best cognitive performance blend
Star rating: 4.5/5
This two-capsule blend combines bacopa (300mg), ginkgo biloba (120mg), phosphatidylserine (200mg) and alpha-GPC (300mg), which provides choline involved in neurotransmitter production and normal cell structure. The formula also includes B vitamins and iodine, which contribute to normal psychological and cognitive function.
The doses broadly align with commonly used supplemental ranges for ingredients such as bacopa and ginkgo, making it one of the more targeted cognitive blends in the guide.
Our tester liked the sustainable glass packaging and the competitive price for a multi-ingredient formula. However, it is simpler than some broader blends, with no omega-3s or additional botanicals.
At around £0.63 per day, it represents good value within the blended supplement category. The capsules are suitable for vegans.
Available from:
Codeage Brain Focus Vitamins Plus
Available from iHerb (£41.56)
Best nootropic complex
Star rating: 4.5/5
Designed for teenagers, this one-capsule formula combines citicoline (250mg), a source of choline involved in neurotransmitter production, with magnesium (50mg) and B vitamins. Magnesium contributes to normal nervous system function, while vitamins B6 and B12 contribute to normal psychological function.
The citicoline dose sits within commonly used supplemental ranges, while the vitamin and mineral levels are moderate compared with many adult blends. A small number of herbal ingredients are also included in supportive rather than high-strength amounts.
Compared with adult-focused nootropic formulas in this guide, the ingredient list is simpler and more moderate in dosing, avoiding large stacks of stimulatory compounds or high-dose botanicals.
Our tester liked the single daily capsule, which makes it easier to manage than multi-pill blends, although the price is higher than most adult formulas in the guide. At approximately £0.69 per day, it sits at the premium end of the category. The capsules are vegan and manufactured to cGMP standards. It is not suitable for children under 12.
Available from:
Natures Best Refreshall Supplement with Ginkgo
Available from Natures Best (£15.30)
Best traditional brain formula
Star rating: 4.5/5
This two-tablet daily supplement blends ginkgo biloba extract (120mg) with sage (100mg), rosemary (100mg) and lemon balm (100mg). It also contains vitamin B1, which contributes to normal psychological function, vitamin B12 for normal nervous system function and iodine, which contributes to normal cognitive function.
The formula reflects a traditional herbal approach, combining well-known plant extracts historically used to support memory and mental clarity alongside key nutrients, rather than relying on high-dose or complex nootropic compounds. This is straightforward to incorporate into a routine, particularly given the low daily cost.
At approximately £0.25 per day, it is one of the most affordable options in this guide. It is suitable for vegans too.
Available from:
Nutrition Geeks Lions Mane Focus Plus
Available from Amazon (£8.99)
Best budget brain supplement
Star rating: 4/5
This formula centres on lion’s mane mushroom extract (4000mg equivalent), a mushroom commonly used in supplement blends linked to focus and cognitive support. It also includes vitamin B5, which contributes to normal mental performance and black pepper extract to aid absorption.
Compared with the broader blends in this guide, the formula is simpler and more focused, relying on a single botanical rather than combining multiple nootropic ingredients.
We appreciated the low price and straightforward approach, making it a good entry point for those curious about mushroom-based supplements without committing to a larger blend. At around 17p per day, it is one of the most affordable options in the guide. However, it does not include additional nutrients such as omega-3s or B vitamins found in some formulas.
The capsules are vegan friendly.
Amazon (£8.99)
Holland and Barrett Tribiotic Mind Balance 60 Capsules
Available from Holland and Barrett (£31.99)
Best brain supplement for mental support
Star rating: 4/5
This supplement combines probiotics, ashwagandha extract and vitamin B12. Each two-capsule serving provides 3 billion CFU of probiotic cultures, 300mg of ashwagandha extract and 2.5µg of vitamin B12, which contributes to normal psychological function and the normal functioning of the nervous system.
Probiotics are included to support the gut–brain connection. Research suggests that the balance of bacteria in the gut may influence mood, stress responses and aspects of cognitive wellbeing through communication between the digestive system and the nervous system. Including probiotics alongside nutrients such as vitamin B12 and adaptogenic herbs like ashwagandha aims to support both gut health and overall mental wellbeing.
We found the two-capsule routine easy to maintain and it was gentle on the stomach. The formula leans more towards general wellbeing support rather than direct nutrient-based cognitive support.
The cost works out at around £0.73 to £0.83 per day depending on promotions. The capsules are suitable for vegans.
Holland and Barrett (£31.99)
Purolabs Ginkgo Biloba
Available from Amazon (£23.99)
Best ginkgo biloba supplement
Star rating: 4/5
This is a straightforward one-capsule daily ginkgo supplement designed for those who prefer a focused, single-herb option without added nutrients. Each capsule provides 120mg of concentrated ginkgo biloba extract, equivalent to around 6000mg of raw ginkgo leaf before extraction.
The formula focuses purely on ginkgo extract without additional vitamins or herbal blends, which may appeal to those who prefer a simple, single-ingredient supplement.
Our tester reported feeling slightly clearer mentally during the testing period, although it’s difficult to attribute this directly to the supplement.
We liked the minimalist approach but at approximately £0.40 per day, it is priced similarly to or slightly higher than some other standalone ginkgo supplements. The capsules are vegan and manufactured in the UK.
New Nordic Clear Brain Tablets
Available from Holland and Barrett (£26.99)
Best botanical brain supplement
Star rating: 4/5
This one-tablet formula combines B vitamins with iodine and plant extracts such as green tea and pomegranate. Each tablet provides 1.4mg vitamin B6, 2.5mcg vitamin B12, 16mg niacin and 150mcg iodine, alongside botanical extracts including 100mg green tea extract and 50mg pomegranate extract.
Vitamins B6, B12 and niacin contribute to normal psychological function and help reduce tiredness and fatigue, while iodine contributes to normal cognitive function.
The plant extracts are included in moderate amounts, making this more of a balanced daily supplement than a high-strength botanical product.
Our tester liked the convenience of a single daily tablet and found it easy to add to a morning routine.
At around £0.33 per serving, it is positioned mid-range for price and is suitable for vegans, but contains walnuts, which may not suit some users.
Holland and Barrett (£26.99)
Available from British Supplements (£10.39)
Best high-strength ginkgo extract
Star rating: 4/5
This single-ingredient supplement provides 248mg of standardised ginkgo biloba extract per capsule. Standardised means the active plant compounds are measured to ensure consistent levels in each batch.
The formula also includes black pepper extract, which is often added to supplements because it contains piperine, a compound that may help improve the absorption of certain plant compounds. In this formulation, it is included to help support the uptake of ginkgo’s active components in the body.
Our tester liked the transparency around extract strength but noted that it does not include additional vitamins or omega-3 fats, so it is best suited to those specifically looking for a standalone ginkgo supplement.
At roughly £0.42 per day, it is priced moderately within the high-strength extract category. The capsules are suitable for vegans.
British Supplements (£10.39)
What are brain supplements and how do they work?
Brain supplements, or nootropics as they’re commonly called, are marketed as brain cognition enhancers claiming to improve memory, alertness, mental clarity and even mood. They function through various mechanisms depending on their ingredients which may vary from nutrients, like the B complex of vitamins or omega-3 fatty acids, to herbal extracts, like Gingko biloba or Green tea extract, or a combination of these.
Nutritionist Kerry Torrens says: “A product may be of benefit because it can boost blood flow to the brain (Ginkgo biloba), may reduce inflammation and nerve damage (Green tea extract), improves nerve messaging by preventing the breakdown of key brain chemicals (Huperzine A) or supports brain energy (Acetyl-l-carnitine). While some of these ingredients have promising support for their effects, others have limited evidence and there is need for more high-quality research.”
What form of brain supplements should I take?
Brain supplements are available as capsules, tablets, soft gels, gummies, powders, liquids or drinks. Dosage will vary dependent on the product, and its ingredients, so always check labels and keep to guideline amounts. The form of supplement you take may depend on the key ingredients you want and how the product meets your dietary and lifestyle needs.
Do brain supplements actually improve memory and focus?
Studies suggest there is some current evidence for benefits to memory with the supplementation of ingredients like ashwagandha, choline, curcumin, ginger, Lion’s Mane, phosphatidylserine and turmeric. There is, however, mixed results for carnitine, Gingko biloba, Huperzine A and vitamins D and E.
Kerry added: “As such there is a need for more robust studies to assess both the long-term use of these supplements and to learn more about the key ingredients. Moreover, although some studies show limited potential for specific or early-stage dementia, there is no evidence, relevant to the general population or to support the prevention or control of dementia, in healthy adults who enjoy a balanced and varied diet.”
Are brain supplements safe, and what ingredients should you look for?
“If you’re on prescribed medication check with your prescribing clinician before supplementing,” says Kerry. “This is because some ingredients are known to interact with certain medications, for example, Ginkgo biloba with the blood thinning medication warfarin and green tea extract with digoxin, lisinopril and certain statins.”
When adding a brain supplement to your regime, consider the other products you’re taking. This is important because it’s now common practice to take multiple products and as a result potentially double up on nutrients.
With this in mind there is established evidence that when certain nutrients (including vitamins A and D as well as the mineral selenium) are consumed in excessive amounts, toxic levels may occur in the body and it can be surprising to learn just how easy it is to reach these levels.
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Always keep supplements out of the reach of children. Unless otherwise stated we tested products available in the UK market that are suitable for adults. Check the product label and ingredients before purchase to ensure it is appropriate for your individual circumstances.
A qualified nutritionist (MBANT), Kerry Torrens is a contributing author to a number of nutritional and cookery publications including Good Food. Kerry is a member of the The Royal Society of Medicine, Complementary and Natural Healthcare Council (CNHC), British Association for Applied Nutrition and Nutritional Therapy (BANT).
All health content on goodfood.com is provided for general information only, and should not be treated as a substitute for the medical advice of your own doctor or any other healthcare professional. If you have any concerns about your general health, you should contact your local healthcare provider. See our website terms and conditions for more information.
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