111 supplement names checked
Which supplements can help with brain fog?
There is no single best supplement for brain fog. The strongest choice is usually the one tied to a confirmed problem, not the bottle with the loudest focus claim.
Look past the promise on the front of the bottle.
Find your supplement
Search 111 supplement names
Type the name on the bottle. Each result explains how it could relate to brain fog, what researchers tested and whether the evidence came from that ingredient alone or a combined formula.
Safety notes appear only when a checked source gives a specific reason for caution.
83 profiles
5-HTP
3 names grouped hereSleep, migraine, pain or fatigue
5-HTP is used for low mood, poor sleep and fatigue. Improvement in any of those problems could make thinking feel easier.
What the research actually shows
In a small 12-week trial involving 30 older adults, cognitive screening and depression scores improved within the 5-HTP group. Another trial tested 5-HTP only in a formula with L-theanine and GABA. Memory and well-being scores improved in the formula group, while attention and reaction-time tests did not.
What the studies measured
Safety that matters here
5-HTP can interact with antidepressants and other medicines that raise serotonin.
Check supplement interactionsNames grouped into this profile
5-HTP, 5-Hydroxytryptophan, Oxitriptan
Formulas and common stacks
- 5-HTP + L-theanine + GABAStudied together
After ten days, memory and well-being scores improved within the formula group. Attention and reaction-time tests did not change.
The trial gave all three ingredients together, so it can't show what 5-HTP added.
Read the evidence · 3 sources
Acetyl-L-Carnitine (ALCAR)
For a specific health problem
ALCAR is used for fatigue, low mood and some neurological problems. Human studies are most relevant to depression, celiac-related fatigue, fibromyalgia and alcohol-related cognitive impairment.
What the research actually shows
ALCAR helps transport fatty acids into mitochondria, where cells make energy. Human trials have reported changes in depressive symptoms, fatigue, pain or cognition in specific conditions, but each result applies only to the condition the trial studied.
What the studies measured
Alpha-Lipoic Acid
For a specific health problem
Alpha-lipoic acid helps cells turn food into energy and supports antioxidant defenses. People use it for diabetic nerve symptoms, while human studies have also examined migraine, inflammation and progressive MS.
What the research actually shows
A migraine meta-analysis found fewer and less severe attacks. Diabetic-neuropathy reviews disagree: shorter trials report relief of pain and sensory symptoms, while a 2024 Cochrane review found little or no benefit after six months. Meta-analyses also report changes in some inflammatory markers. Its “detox” reputation comes from antioxidant and metal-binding chemistry. The mercury sources here are reviews, not clinical chelation trials.
What the studies measured
Apigenin
Research still developing
People usually take apigenin at night for sleep. Better sleep may mean better alertness and concentration the next day.
What the research actually shows
Many nighttime supplements include apigenin. A completed trial studied it with magnesium L-threonate and L-theanine for sleep and stress, but the registry has not posted results. Memory and anxiety findings currently come from animal studies.
What the studies measured
Formulas and common stacks
- Apigenin + magnesium L-threonate + L-theanineCompleted trial; results not posted
A 115-person trial measured sleep quality and stress in healthy adults. The registry lists the study as completed, but it shows no results.
The trial gave all three ingredients together, so any future result will apply to the complete formula, not apigenin alone.
Read the evidence · 2 sources
Ashwagandha
2 names grouped hereResearch still developing
People consider ashwagandha when stress is making it harder to think clearly. Small studies reported cognitive changes in stressed adults.
What the research actually shows
Small trials and reviews report cognitive changes in stressed adults. Results may depend on the extract, dose and people studied.
What the studies measured
Safety that matters here
Avoid ashwagandha during pregnancy or breastfeeding, before surgery, and with autoimmune or thyroid disorders. It can also interact with sedatives, thyroid hormone, diabetes medicines and blood-pressure medicines.
Check supplement interactionsNames grouped into this profile
Ashwagandha, Ashwagandha (KSM-66)
Read the evidence · 3 sources
Atrantil (quebracho + horse chestnut + peppermint)
For a specific health problem
Atrantil is a branded three-ingredient formula for bloating and other digestive symptoms. It may be relevant when those symptoms are disrupting sleep, eating or concentration.
What the research actually shows
A 2025 randomized trial of a quebracho and chestnut tannin formula measured IBS symptoms and quality of life. An earlier Atrantil case series followed 24 people with constipation-predominant IBS. Both results apply to the whole formulas, not each ingredient alone.
What the studies measured
Formulas and common stacks
- Quebracho + horse chestnut + peppermintBranded digestive formula
Atrantil combines these ingredients and is sold for bloating and related digestive symptoms.
The finished formula needs its own human evidence. Results for peppermint or another component don't apply to Atrantil as a whole.
Read the evidence · 2 sources
B-Complex
2 names grouped hereWhen a nutrient is low
A B-complex can make sense when diet, alcohol use, malabsorption or another problem may have lowered several B vitamins. Each vitamin still has a different job, dose and safety profile.
What the research actually shows
“B-complex” names a type of formula, not one treatment. You can't combine research on B1 in alcohol dependence, B12 or folate deficiency, and B6 safety into one verdict. Use the individual vitamin profiles to match the product to the reason for taking it.
What the studies measured
Names grouped into this profile
B Vitamins (methylated B-complex), B-Complex
Formulas and common stacks
- B-complex formulasContents vary widely
Products can contain very different amounts and forms of B1, B6, folate, B12 and other B vitamins.
Check each vitamin against the reason for taking it. Evidence and safety for one B vitamin do not become evidence for the complete formula.
B12 + Folate
2 names grouped hereWhen a nutrient is low
B12 and folate are often checked together because either deficiency can affect blood-cell production, energy and thinking. The blood results determine which nutrient needs correcting.
What the research actually shows
This pair belongs in a deficiency pathway. Folate can correct the anemia caused by low B12 without correcting B12-related nerve damage. So read the two results together. Using the pair as a general energy formula misses this.
What the studies measured
Names grouped into this profile
B12 + Folate (correct deficiency pre-operatively), B12 + Folate (test first)
Formulas and common stacks
- Vitamin B12 + folateOften assessed together
Both nutrients affect blood-cell production, but the cause and treatment of each deficiency differ.
Folate can improve the anemia caused by B12 deficiency without correcting B12-related nerve damage, so always check B12 status.
Read the evidence · 2 sources
Berberine
For a specific health problem
Berberine is mainly used for blood-sugar and insulin-resistance problems. It may be relevant when energy crashes or PCOS-related metabolic problems are affecting concentration.
What the research actually shows
Human PCOS studies report changes in insulin resistance and related metabolic markers. So berberine has a clear metabolic use. Those results don't show it directly improves memory or attention.
What the studies measured
Safety that matters here
Berberine can interact with medicines, including cyclosporine. Avoid it during pregnancy and breastfeeding, and do not give it to infants.
Check supplement interactionsBiofilm Disruptors
Guide, not one product
“Biofilm disruptor” is a marketing category that can mean enzymes, herbs, bismuth products or other ingredients. The name alone does not tell you what is in the product or what it was tested for.
What the research actually shows
First, look up the exact ingredient or formula here. Then check the human evidence for that product and condition. A study of one SIBO treatment can't support every product sold under the biofilm label.
What the studies measured
Biotin
When a nutrient is low
Biotin treats true biotin deficiency, which is uncommon but can cause neurological symptoms. Companies sell most high-dose products for hair, skin and nails, not concentration.
What the research actually shows
Biotin is useful when a deficiency or a diagnosed biotin-processing disorder is present. A separate practical issue matters for everyone: high-dose biotin can distort thyroid and other laboratory tests, which can lead to misleading results.
What the studies measured
Safety that matters here
High-dose biotin can interfere with thyroid and other blood tests. Tell the laboratory or clinician what you take before testing.
Check supplement interactionsRead the evidence · 2 sources
Black maca root
3 names grouped hereSleep, migraine, pain or fatigue
Black maca is used for low energy and low mood. The human study measured energy, mood and quality of life.
What the research actually shows
A 12-week trial compared black maca, red maca and placebo in 175 adults living at low or high altitude. Mood, energy and quality-of-life scores improved with maca, with stronger mood and energy results for red maca.
What the studies measured
Names grouped into this profile
Black maca root, Black maca, Lepidium meyenii
Read the evidence · 2 sources
Boron
Research still developing
Researchers study boron for bone and mineral metabolism, hormone levels and inflammation. Those are the reasons it appears in energy and testosterone products.
What the research actually shows
The human evidence WBF collected is small. It focuses on hormone and inflammation tests, not how people feel or think. That makes boron a specific biological question, not a strong first choice for concentration problems.
What the studies measured
Read the evidence · 1 source
Butyrate (Sodium or Tributyrin)
Research still developing
Butyrate is a short-chain fatty acid made by gut bacteria when they ferment fiber. Sodium butyrate and tributyrin are supplements intended to raise butyrate more directly.
What the research actually shows
Human oral-butyrate research has measured metabolic and inflammatory outcomes, including a randomized trial in children with obesity. Neurological claims still rely heavily on animal or mechanistic research, so gut-brain biology explains the interest but does not settle the cognitive effect.
What the studies measured
Read the evidence · 2 sources
Calcium
2 names grouped hereFor a specific health problem
Calcium matters when intake or blood calcium is low, and it is part of nutrition after bariatric surgery. Researchers have also studied it for premenstrual symptoms.
What the research actually shows
When calcium is low, replacement addresses the deficiency and its symptoms. Other studies concern premenstrual symptoms and nutrition after bariatric surgery; those are separate reasons for taking it.
What the studies measured
Names grouped into this profile
Calcium, Calcium Citrate
Read the evidence · 2 sources
Cat's Claw
Research still developing
Cat’s claw is used as an anti-inflammatory herb and is also included in some Lyme protocols. People usually take it for symptoms, not as a direct memory supplement.
What the research actually shows
The Lyme evidence currently held by WBF is laboratory activity against Borrelia plus botanical reviews. That explains why the herb appears in protocols, but human symptom research is still needed before saying what it does for people with tick-borne illness.
What the studies measured
Chinese Skullcap
Research still developing
Chinese skullcap is an herbal extract used in traditional medicine and in some allergy, inflammation and tick-borne-illness formulas. It is different from American skullcap.
What the research actually shows
So far, WBF has a review on tick-borne illness but no human trial of Chinese skullcap. The profile can explain why people discuss the herb, but practical claims need herb-specific human research.
What the studies measured
Read the evidence · 1 source
Chlorella
Limited evidence
Chlorella is a nutrient-rich algae supplement marketed for cholesterol, general nutrition and “detox.” Its relevance depends on the result someone is trying to change.
What the research actually shows
A meta-analysis of ten adult trials studied blood lipids and found small changes in some measures, with inconsistent product-quality reporting. That's real human research, but it doesn't support broad mercury-detox or cognition claims.
What the studies measured
Read the evidence · 1 source
Choline
For a specific health problem
Your body needs choline for cell membranes and acetylcholine. Food choline, citicoline and alpha-GPC are different products and should not share one cognitive verdict.
What the research actually shows
Human citicoline research mainly concerns stroke, brain injury and related cognitive impairment. Pregnancy studies ask a different question about child development, while ordinary dietary choline also matters to liver health. Check the form and population before applying a result.
What the studies measured
Read the evidence · 2 sources
Chromium
For a specific health problem
Chromium is used for blood-sugar and insulin-resistance concerns. It may be relevant when PCOS or unstable glucose is contributing to low energy and poor concentration.
What the research actually shows
The human studies in this library measured insulin resistance and related PCOS outcomes. That supports a metabolic discussion, with the studied chromium form kept visible, rather than a general claim about focus.
What the studies measured
CoQ10
Sleep, migraine, pain or fatigue
CoQ10 supports mitochondrial energy production. People most often consider it when fatigue, migraine or fibromyalgia symptoms are part of the problem.
What the research actually shows
Human studies have reported changes in fatigue, headache or other symptoms in fibromyalgia, ME/CFS, multiple sclerosis, PCOS and migraine. It's most useful to match CoQ10 to one of those problems, not to treat it as a universal focus supplement.
What the studies measured
Read the evidence · 2 sources
Creatine
Research still developing
Creatine helps cells replenish quick energy. Beyond strength and exercise, researchers have studied memory and processing speed, including during aging and other periods of high energy demand.
What the research actually shows
Recent reviews find a possible memory benefit, while results for processing speed and other cognitive tests are less consistent. Diet, age, sleep and baseline creatine stores may help explain why results differ between groups.
What the studies measured
Read the evidence · 2 sources
Cryptolepis
Limited evidence
Cryptolepis is an antimicrobial herb used in some tick-borne-illness protocols. Its reputation comes mainly from laboratory research, not from trials that measured symptoms in people.
What the research actually shows
Laboratory research found activity against Borrelia. Human trials have not yet shown how a named cryptolepis product changes Lyme or Bartonella symptoms, so the laboratory result should remain clearly labeled.
What the studies measured
Read the evidence · 1 source
Curcumin
2 names grouped hereResearch still developing
Curcumin is used for pain and inflammation and has also been tested on memory and other cognitive measures. Absorption differs greatly between formulations.
What the research actually shows
Recent cognition reviews disagree on the overall result, although some individual tests improved. Age, study quality and the curcumin formulation may explain part of the difference, so the product used in each trial matters.
What the studies measured
Safety that matters here
Highly absorbable curcumin formulas have been linked to liver injury. Turmeric supplements may be unsafe during pregnancy.
Check supplement interactionsNames grouped into this profile
Curcumin, Curcumin (bioavailable formulation)
D-Ribose
Research still developing
D-ribose is a sugar used to make ATP, the molecule cells use for energy. People try it for fatigue in ME/CFS and fibromyalgia.
What the research actually shows
A pilot study reported improved fatigue and related symptoms, but it had no placebo group. The finding is a reason for further research, not a reliable estimate of how much D-ribose helps.
What the studies measured
Read the evidence · 1 source
DAO Enzyme
Sleep, migraine, pain or fatigue
People take DAO supplements before food to help break down histamine in the gut. Small studies have examined migraine and symptoms described as histamine intolerance in people with low DAO activity.
What the research actually shows
The clearest human evidence is in selected people with migraine or DAO-related digestive and histamine symptoms. DAO works in the digestive tract, so this is different from treating every mast-cell symptom or directly changing memory.
What the studies measured
Digestive Enzymes
For a specific health problem
Digestive enzymes can help when the missing enzyme is known, like lactase for lactose or prescription pancreatic enzymes for pancreatic insufficiency. Broad over-the-counter blends are a different category.
What the research actually shows
There is no single “digestive enzyme” result. One randomized trial found symptom changes after a named multi-enzyme blend for functional dyspepsia. Lactase and prescription pancreatic enzymes answer different problems and need their own evidence.
What the studies measured
Read the evidence · 1 source
Electrolytes
For a specific health problem
Water and electrolytes may matter when orthostatic symptoms, fluid loss, or POTS is part of the problem. The evidence is tied to those situations.
What the research actually shows
Water and electrolyte strategies can matter when orthostatic symptoms or fluid loss are part of the problem. The evidence is tied to those settings, especially POTS.
What the studies measured
Read the evidence · 2 sources
Folate / Methylfolate
2 names grouped hereFor a specific health problem
Folic acid corrects folate deficiency and is used during pregnancy. L-methylfolate is also used alongside treatment for some depressive disorders.
What the research actually shows
These forms answer different questions. Correcting deficiency can improve anemia and fatigue. Add-on L-methylfolate research concerns mood treatment. Neither result automatically applies to someone with normal folate levels and no depression.
What the studies measured
Names grouped into this profile
Folate/Methylfolate, Methylfolate
Ginger (Prokinetic)
For a specific health problem
Ginger has human evidence for nausea. Researchers have also studied it for other digestive symptoms. Some SIBO plans use it as a prokinetic, but that is a more specific claim.
What the research actually shows
A systematic review of gastrointestinal trials found the clearest support for nausea relief; evidence for other digestive problems was thinner. Relief from nausea or indigestion may make eating and functioning easier, while the SIBO-prokinetic claim still needs its own human evidence.
What the studies measured
Read the evidence · 1 source
Ginkgo Biloba
For a specific health problem
Ginkgo is used for memory and cognitive symptoms, usually as a standardized extract. Most substantial human research involves people with cognitive impairment or dementia.
What the research actually shows
A systematic review of nine trials and 2,561 participants found improvements in cognition and daily functioning with standardized EGb 761 in cognitive impairment or dementia. That evidence does not tell us how an unstandardized product performs or whether the same result applies to younger people with unexplained concentration problems.
What the studies measured
Safety that matters here
Ginkgo can raise bleeding risk with warfarin and may interact with other medicines. Ginkgo seeds are toxic.
Check supplement interactionsGlutathione
Research still developing
Glutathione is one of the body’s main antioxidants. Companies market supplements for oxidative stress, liver health and exposure-related concerns, but oral and liposomal products aren't interchangeable.
What the research actually shows
Antioxidant biology explains the interest in glutathione, including in mold-related protocols. Human results depend on the product and outcome studied, so “detox” is too broad to describe what happened.
What the studies measured
Read the evidence · 1 source
Glutathione + NAC
Limited evidence
NAC supplies cysteine used to make glutathione, so the two are often sold or taken together. That biological relationship does not make every combination equivalent.
What the research actually shows
So far, WBF's sources include lab findings after Borrelia exposure, but no human trial of the pair. Use the separate NAC and glutathione profiles unless a finished formula has its own ingredient list, dose and human evidence.
What the studies measured
Formulas and common stacks
- NAC + glutathioneCommon biological pairing
NAC supplies cysteine used to make glutathione, which is why the two are paired.
A biological relationship is not a clinical result for the combination. Use product-specific human evidence when it exists.
Glycine
Sleep, migraine, pain or fatigue
People commonly take glycine at night for sleep. Small human studies have measured sleep quality, fatigue and next-day performance after restricted sleep.
What the research actually shows
The small sleep studies report improvements in fatigue or daytime performance in some settings. That makes sleep the practical route to consider, while the limited sample sizes leave uncertainty about how dependable the effect is.
What the studies measured
Herbal Antimicrobials (SIBO)
Guide, not one product
“Herbal antimicrobials” refers to formulas containing several herbs, not one standardized supplement. People use them for SIBO-related bloating, pain and bowel symptoms.
What the research actually shows
The often-cited comparison with rifaximin was a retrospective chart review using breath-test clearance. It studied named regimens as complete formulas; it cannot rank every antimicrobial herb or show which ingredient produced the result.
What the studies measured
Read the evidence · 1 source
Huperzine A
3 names grouped hereResearch still developing
Huperzine A is used in memory and attention products because it changes acetylcholine activity.
What the research actually shows
Huperzine A slows the breakdown of acetylcholine, which explains its use in memory and focus products. A small trial in healthy adults found no improvement in digit span, verbal fluency or Stroop performance. Alzheimer’s disease trials report mixed results, and reviews have raised concerns about the quality of much of that research.
What the studies measured
Safety that matters here
Huperzine A inhibits acetylcholinesterase. Check it before combining it with medicines or supplements that also increase acetylcholine activity.
Check supplement interactionsNames grouped into this profile
Huperzine A, Huperzine-A, Huperzia serrata
Formulas and common stacks
- Huperzine A + alpha-GPC or citicolinePopular stack, not directly tested
Huperzine A slows acetylcholine breakdown, while alpha-GPC and citicoline supply choline used to make it. We found no human trial showing that the combination improves cognition.
You can't add separate results for Huperzine A and choline products and treat them as evidence for the stack.
Iodine
When a nutrient is low
Iodine is used to correct iodine deficiency, including during pregnancy. Adequate iodine supports thyroid function and child development.
What the research actually shows
A review concerns thyroid function and child development during iodine-deficient pregnancy. Adult brain fog and unsupervised iodine use are different questions.
What the studies measured
Iron
2 names grouped hereWhen a nutrient is low
Low iron and iron-deficiency anemia can cause fatigue and poor attention. Iron is useful when testing confirms that shortage.
What the research actually shows
Correcting iron deficiency is well supported. The research also covers pregnancy, kidney disease and absorption schedules, so the reason for taking iron matters.
What the studies measured
Safety that matters here
Too much iron can cause harm. Persistent or recurrent deficiency also needs an explanation.
Check supplement interactionsNames grouped into this profile
Iron (oral or IV depending on tolerance), Iron (test first)
Read the evidence · 2 sources
Japanese Knotweed (Resveratrol)
Research still developing
Japanese knotweed is a botanical source of resveratrol, but an herb extract and a purified resveratrol supplement are not the same product. Both appear in inflammation and tick-borne-illness discussions.
What the research actually shows
The WBF tick-borne sources are reviews and laboratory work against Borrelia. Judge human resveratrol research on its own, for the extract and dose it tested. It doesn't back Japanese-knotweed treatment plans by association.
What the studies measured
L-Arginine
Research still developing
L-arginine is used to make nitric oxide, which helps blood vessels relax. Human studies have examined endothelial function in cardiovascular and metabolic conditions.
What the research actually shows
A meta-analysis found changes in measures of endothelial function across cardiovascular and metabolic trials, although products and populations varied. The Bartonella source is a cell study and should remain a separate research question.
What the studies measured
Read the evidence · 1 source
L-Glutamic Acid
3 names grouped hereLimited evidence
L-glutamic acid appears in focus products because glutamate helps brain cells communicate. The body tightly controls how much dietary glutamate reaches the brain.
What the research actually shows
Glutamic acid is an amino acid, and glutamate is a major brain neurotransmitter. The blood-brain barrier tightly controls glutamate entry, so swallowing more doesn't automatically raise brain glutamate. We found no modern human trial showing better memory or attention from an L-glutamic acid supplement.
What the studies measured
Names grouped into this profile
L-Glutamic Acid, Glutamic acid, L-glutamate
L-Glutamine
For a specific health problem
L-glutamine is used for gut health and recovery. A randomized trial found improved gut symptoms and intestinal permeability in post-infectious IBS.
What the research actually shows
Post-infectious IBS is the clearest human use in the WBF source pack. Less pain, diarrhea or digestive disruption may make daily functioning easier; the trial did not establish a separate memory effect.
What the studies measured
Read the evidence · 1 source
L-Lysine
Limited evidence
L-lysine is an essential amino acid best known as a supplement used for recurrent herpes simplex. It is also included in some EBV plans, which is a different claim.
What the research actually shows
The human trial held by WBF concerns recurrent herpes simplex. That can support an HSV discussion, but EBV needs its own evidence, not a result borrowed from another virus.
What the studies measured
Read the evidence · 1 source
L-Theanine
Research still developing
Small studies cover stress, sleep, cognition, and depression treatment. The cognitive findings are promising but still inconclusive.
What the research actually shows
Small trials cover stress, sleep, cognition and use alongside depression treatment. A recent review called the cognitive findings promising but inconclusive.
What the studies measured
Read the evidence · 2 sources
Lavender Oil (Silexan)
Sleep, migraine, pain or fatigue
Silexan may be relevant when anxiety is part of the problem. Any concentration benefit would be indirect and specific to that standardized oral product.
What the research actually shows
Trials involve Silexan, a standardized oral lavender product, in anxiety disorders. Any concentration benefit would be indirect and product-specific.
What the studies measured
Lion's Mane
Research still developing
People take lion's mane for memory and concentration. Human studies include an older trial in mild cognitive impairment and small trials in younger adults.
What the research actually shows
The mild cognitive impairment trial and younger-adult studies measure thinking directly, although the studies are small and results vary by test. Cell studies involving inflammation or infection cannot carry the human conclusion.
What the studies measured
Read the evidence · 3 sources
Luteolin
2 names grouped hereResearch still developing
Luteolin is a plant flavonoid used in allergy and mast-cell supplements. People usually take it to reduce symptom flares, not as a direct memory product.
What the research actually shows
The current evidence consists mainly of reviews and cultured mast-cell research. That explains the biological interest, but a useful human answer still needs trials that measure allergy, mast-cell or cognitive symptoms after a named luteolin product.
What the studies measured
Names grouped into this profile
Luteolin, Luteolin (liposomal form preferred)
Magnesium
3 names grouped hereSleep, migraine, pain or fatigue
Magnesium may matter for a confirmed deficiency, migraine or sleep. Citrate, glycinate, oxide and proprietary L-threonate products have different uses and should not borrow evidence from each other.
What the research actually shows
Sleep reviews include mixed observational and supplementation findings. A 2024 cognition review found too few randomized trials to reach a firm conclusion. Migraine, deficiency and sleep therefore remain separate, form-specific reasons to consider magnesium.
What the studies measured
Safety that matters here
Magnesium can interact with medicines. Kidney problems change how the body handles it.
Check supplement interactionsNames grouped into this profile
Magnesium, Magnesium (glycinate or L-threonate), Magnesium L-Threonate
Formulas and common stacks
- Magnesium citrate, glycinate, oxide and L-threonateForms are not interchangeable
Different forms are used for different purposes, including constipation, supplementation and proprietary cognition products.
A result from magnesium L-threonate doesn't apply to glycinate, citrate or oxide without evidence for that form.
Read the evidence · 2 sources
MCT Oil
2 names grouped hereResearch still developing
MCT oil raises ketone availability more quickly than ordinary dietary fat. Human cognition studies mainly involve mild cognitive impairment or Alzheimer’s disease.
What the research actually shows
Meta-analyses found higher ketone levels and a small overall cognitive signal in MCI or Alzheimer’s disease, while memory, language and attention results were not consistently improved. That population-specific evidence is more useful than a generic claim about mental energy.
What the studies measured
Names grouped into this profile
MCT Oil, MCT Oil / Caprylic Acid
Read the evidence · 2 sources
Melatonin
2 names grouped hereSleep, migraine, pain or fatigue
Melatonin may help when sleep timing or insomnia is part of the problem. It can also cause next-day fatigue, which matters if your thinking's already unclear.
What the research actually shows
Melatonin can change sleep, but cognitive results vary by population. Daytime use and next-day fatigue are part of the evidence, not side issues.
What the studies measured
Safety that matters here
Next-day grogginess can worsen the problem you are trying to solve.
Check supplement interactionsNames grouped into this profile
Melatonin, Melatonin (perioperative)
Read the evidence · 2 sources
Milk Thistle
For a specific health problem
Milk thistle contains silymarin and is mainly used for liver-related concerns. Its possible relevance to concentration would come through a diagnosed liver problem, not a vague “detox” claim.
What the research actually shows
A 2024 meta-analysis pooled 26 randomized trials of silymarin in fatty-liver disease and measured liver and metabolic outcomes. That's the relevant human research. Its use in Bartonella or mold plans doesn't count as separate evidence.
What the studies measured
Read the evidence · 2 sources
Mycotoxin Binders
Guide, not one product
“Mycotoxin binder” can mean activated charcoal, prescription bile-acid binders or other products with different actions and risks. It's a treatment category, not one supplement.
What the research actually shows
The human trial held by WBF studied binders inside a larger package of measures for people in water-damaged buildings. It cannot show which part of the package mattered. Each product needs its own evidence and safety profile.
What the studies measured
Read the evidence · 1 source
Myo-Inositol
For a specific health problem
Myo-inositol is mainly used for PCOS, including insulin resistance and ovulatory problems. It also appears in a specific thyroid-antibody formula.
What the research actually shows
PCOS studies measure metabolic and reproductive outcomes. Thyroid research asks a different question and sometimes uses myo-inositol in a combined product, so those results should remain separate.
What the studies measured
Read the evidence · 2 sources
NAC
For a specific health problem
NAC helps replenish glutathione and also loosens thick mucus. Human research spans respiratory illness, addiction and psychiatric care, PCOS and inflammatory conditions.
What the research actually shows
Researchers studied respiratory symptoms, compulsive or addictive behavior, psychiatric care and metabolic outcomes separately. One antioxidant label can't cover them all.
What the studies measured
Nicotinamide Riboside (NAD+ precursor)
Research still developing
Nicotinamide riboside is a vitamin B3 derivative used to raise NAD levels involved in cellular energy. It is not the same compound as NMN.
What the research actually shows
The human study in this library involved older adults with mild cognitive impairment, while the brain-injury source used NMN in preclinical research. A rise in NAD-related markers does not by itself show that memory or fatigue improved.
What the studies measured
Omega-3
2 names grouped hereFor a specific health problem
Omega-3 products differ in EPA and DHA content. EPA-heavy research often focuses on mood, while DHA is central to brain tissue and appears more often in cognition and pregnancy research.
What the research actually shows
Recent cognition reviews reach mixed conclusions across different ages and conditions. Mood, pregnancy, triglyceride treatment and cognitive aging are separate uses, so the EPA/DHA composition and the population studied must stay attached to each result.
What the studies measured
Safety that matters here
High-dose omega-3 can interact with anticoagulants such as warfarin. Four-gram daily regimens slightly increased atrial-fibrillation risk in people with cardiovascular disease or at high risk.
Check supplement interactionsNames grouped into this profile
Omega-3, Omega-3 (DHA-dominant)
Formulas and common stacks
- EPA-led and DHA-led omega-3 productsComposition changes the question
EPA-heavy research often focuses on mood, while DHA appears more often in cognition, pregnancy and brain-development research.
The total oil amount is not the EPA or DHA dose. Keep the actual fatty-acid content attached to each study result.
Oregano Oil
For a specific health problem
Companies sell oregano oil for antimicrobial and digestive uses. Culinary oregano, essential oil and oral capsules are different products with different concentrations.
What the research actually shows
One human study used oregano essential oil for minor infections in people with metabolic syndrome and also measured gastrointestinal effects. It doesn't answer the Candida question, and its result applies only to that preparation and population.
What the studies measured
Read the evidence · 1 source
PEA (Palmitoylethanolamide)
Sleep, migraine, pain or fatigue
PEA may matter when pain is disrupting concentration. Its possible use here is pain relief, not a direct effect on memory or focus.
What the research actually shows
The reviews concern musculoskeletal, neuropathic and other pain.
What the studies measured
Peppermint Oil (enteric-coated)
Sleep, migraine, pain or fatigue
Enteric-coated peppermint oil may help IBS symptoms and abdominal pain. It matters here when digestive symptoms are making it harder to function.
What the research actually shows
Enteric-coated peppermint oil has randomized evidence for IBS symptoms and abdominal pain. It's here for digestive symptom relief, not a direct effect on thinking.
What the studies measured
Read the evidence · 1 source
PHGG
For a specific health problem
A SIBO trial tested PHGG with rifaximin, and breath tests cleared more often with the combination. Apply that result only to the combined treatment.
What the research actually shows
One randomized SIBO trial found that breath tests cleared more often with rifaximin plus PHGG than with rifaximin alone.
What the studies measured
Read the evidence · 1 source
Phosphatidylserine
Research still developing
It's one to consider for memory complaints, but the formula matters. Phosphatidylserine alone has produced mixed results, while several combinations reported gains on particular memory tests.
What the research actually shows
Researchers have tested phosphatidylserine alone and in formulas. A 120-person trial of soy-derived phosphatidylserine found no memory benefit. Trials combining it with DHA, coffee-cherry extract, or ALA, ginkgo and B vitamins reported improvements on selected memory tests, so those results belong to the complete formulas.
What the studies measured
Formulas and common stacks
- Phosphatidylserine + DHAStudied together
Immediate verbal recall improved in a 15-week trial involving 157 older adults with memory complaints.
The preparation attached DHA to phosphatidylserine, so the trial cannot separate the contribution of each ingredient.
- Phosphatidylserine + whole coffee-cherry extractStudied together
Several working-memory, reaction-time and picture-recognition results improved after 42 days in adults with self-reported memory problems.
The product contained both ingredients, and the study cannot show whether either would produce the same result alone.
- Phosphatidylserine + ALA + ginkgo + B vitaminsStudied together
Short-term memory and two other cognitive scores improved after 12 months in older adults with mild cognitive impairment.
Six active ingredients were included. The researchers could not identify phosphatidylserine as the ingredient responsible for the change.
Read the evidence · 4 sources
- Trial of soy-derived phosphatidylserine alone in 120 older adults with memory complaints2001
- Randomized trial of phosphatidylserine combined with DHA2010
- Randomized trial of phosphatidylserine combined with whole coffee-cherry extract2023
- Randomized trial of a formula containing phosphatidylserine, ALA, ginkgo and B vitamins2025
Probiotics
3 names grouped hereFor a specific health problem
A probiotic result applies only to the exact strain or multi-strain product tested. Human studies have measured digestive symptoms, mood and cognition in different populations.
What the research actually shows
One randomized trial in this library reported cognitive outcomes during breast-cancer chemotherapy. Other probiotic results don't carry over across strains, doses and conditions, so the library should show the product and population beside every finding.
What the studies measured
Names grouped into this profile
Probiotics, Probiotics (pre- and post-operative), Probiotics (STRAIN-SPECIFIC ONLY)
Formulas and common stacks
- Single strains and multi-strain formulasProduct-specific evidence
A probiotic name may describe one strain, several strains or an added prebiotic, each at a different dose.
A benefit from one named product doesn't carry over to every probiotic on the shelf.
Read the evidence · 2 sources
Quercetin
2 names grouped hereResearch still developing
Quercetin is used for allergy and inflammation concerns and is popular in mast-cell communities. Products also combine it with bromelain or other ingredients.
What the research actually shows
Most mast-cell evidence held by WBF comes from reviews or cell studies. Human trials in other inflammatory conditions cannot automatically answer the MCAS question, so single-ingredient and combination evidence should remain separate.
What the studies measured
Names grouped into this profile
Quercetin, Quercetin + Bromelain
Read the evidence · 2 sources
Rhodiola Rosea
Research still developing
Rhodiola is used for stress-related fatigue, burnout and mental performance. Extract standardization matters because products do not all contain the same active compounds.
What the research actually shows
Clinical reviews report encouraging findings for stress, fatigue and some measures of cognitive performance, but many studies are small or use different preparations. The evidence hints at help for stress and fatigue, but it doesn't guarantee better focus.
What the studies measured
Read the evidence · 2 sources
Riboflavin (B2)
Sleep, migraine, pain or fatigue
Riboflavin can help prevent migraine. Fewer or milder attacks may make it easier to think and function.
What the research actually shows
Randomized and pooled evidence supports riboflavin for migraine prevention. That may help when migraine is making concentration or thinking worse.
What the studies measured
Saffron
2 names grouped hereFor a specific health problem
Researchers have studied saffron for depression, anxiety, premenstrual symptoms and cognitive impairment. Mood and cognition are separate reasons people consider it.
What the research actually shows
Small randomized trials and systematic reviews report cognitive changes in mild cognitive impairment or dementia, alongside a separate body of mood research. The populations are specific and the trial base remains small, but the profile should not hide the direct cognition studies.
What the studies measured
Names grouped into this profile
Saffron, Saffron (Crocus sativus)
Read the evidence · 2 sources
SAMe
For a specific health problem
SAMe is used alongside treatment for depression, where improved mood may also make concentration and mental energy better. A smaller, separate set of studies covers cognition.
What the research actually shows
Its strongest practical use is add-on depression treatment, not a general brain booster. Mood and cognition outcomes should be reported separately, and the serotonin and bipolar-disorder safety questions belong with the treatment context.
What the studies measured
Safety that matters here
SAMe may not be safe for people with bipolar disorder and can interact with medicines or other supplements.
Check supplement interactionsSelenium
When a nutrient is low
Selenium matters when intake is low or a specific thyroid question is present. It is also easy to overdo because the useful and excessive intake ranges are not far apart.
What the research actually shows
The current human evidence focuses on thyroid antibodies and condition-specific tests, not a direct effect on concentration. Keep deficiency, thyroid research and excess-intake risk together; unrelated mercury and propolis records do not help the decision.
What the studies measured
Read the evidence · 2 sources
- Selenium Supplementation Significantly Reduces Thyroid Autoantibody Levels in Patients with Chronic Autoimmune Thyroiditis: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.2016
- Effects of Selenium Supplementation on the Indices of Disease Activity, Inflammation and Oxidative Stress in Patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis: a Randomized Clinical Trial.2024
Soy Isoflavones
For a specific health problem
Soy isoflavones are used for hot flashes and other menopause symptoms. Researchers have also tested cognition during and after the menopause transition.
What the research actually shows
A systematic review found some positive cognition trials but judged the overall evidence unconvincing because studies were small or poorly designed. Symptom relief and a direct cognitive effect should remain separate questions.
What the studies measured
Read the evidence · 2 sources
Spearmint Tea
For a specific health problem
Spearmint tea may be relevant when hormone-related PCOS symptoms are part of the problem. Small studies found changes in androgen levels and hirsutism.
What the research actually shows
Small PCOS trials found changes in androgen levels and hirsutism. That makes spearmint relevant to hormone-related PCOS symptoms, not general focus.
What the studies measured
Stinging Nettle
2 names grouped hereFor a specific health problem
Stinging nettle is used for nasal allergy symptoms. Less congestion and better sleep may help concentration when allergic rhinitis is the actual problem.
What the research actually shows
An older human trial measured rhinitis symptoms, while laboratory work explores allergy mechanisms. The practical use is allergy relief. The evidence doesn't show a direct effect on focus.
What the studies measured
Names grouped into this profile
Stinging Nettle, Stinging Nettle (Urtica dioica) Extract
Sulforaphane
Research still developing
Sulforaphane activates antioxidant-response pathways. Human trials have measured pollutant excretion and airway antioxidant enzymes after specific exposures.
What the research actually shows
Those studies show that sulforaphane can change exposure-related biological outcomes in some settings. Whether that produces clearer thinking is a separate question. It needs a measure of thinking, not an antioxidant test alone.
What the studies measured
Read the evidence · 2 sources
Thiamine (B1)
2 names grouped hereWhen a nutrient is low
Thiamine is used to prevent or treat deficiency, especially with alcohol dependence, severe dietary risk, or Wernicke encephalopathy. Correcting the deficiency is the connection to thinking and memory.
What the research actually shows
Thiamine is essential in preventing or treating Wernicke encephalopathy and matters in alcohol dependence or severe dietary risk. That's medical deficiency care, not a brain-booster claim.
What the studies measured
Names grouped into this profile
Thiamine (B1, high-dose), Thiamine (B1)
Tongkat Ali
For a specific health problem
Tongkat ali is used for testosterone and sexual-function concerns. It may be relevant when a confirmed androgen problem is also affecting energy or mood.
What the research actually shows
A human trial in older men reported changes in testosterone and erectile function. That result applies only to men with the studied symptoms and product. The trial didn't test concentration directly.
What the studies measured
Vitamin B12
When a nutrient is low
B12 can matter when a deficiency is present. Extra B12 has not reliably improved cognition when B12 levels are already adequate.
What the research actually shows
B12 treatment matters when a deficiency is present. Trials have not found reliable cognitive improvement from extra B12 when B12 status is already adequate.
What the studies measured
Read the evidence · 1 source
Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxal-5-Phosphate)
Research still developing
Vitamin B6 helps make neurotransmitters and blood cells. A true deficiency can cause neurological symptoms, while too much supplemental B6 can damage sensory nerves.
What the research actually shows
The strongest practical answer is to correct deficiency without turning a high-dose product into a long-term experiment. The histamine review held by WBF does not provide a useful treatment result, so it should not lead the profile.
What the studies measured
Safety that matters here
Excess supplemental vitamin B6 can cause sensory neuropathy.
Check supplement interactionsRead the evidence · 1 source
Vitamin C
When a nutrient is low
Vitamin C treats deficiency and helps absorb iron. That can matter when low vitamin C or iron is contributing to fatigue or poor attention.
What the research actually shows
Deficiency correction and iron absorption are the clearest routes to better energy or attention. Immune, Ehlers-Danlos and histamine studies each ask a different question.
What the studies measured
Vitamin D
2 names grouped hereWhen a nutrient is low
Vitamin D is most useful to discuss when a blood test shows deficiency. Depression, pain, autoimmune disease, PCOS and cognition studies each ask separate questions.
What the research actually shows
Cognition reviews remain mixed, and baseline vitamin D status differs across studies. Correcting deficiency is not the same intervention as giving extra vitamin D to someone whose level is already adequate, so every result needs its starting level and population.
What the studies measured
Names grouped into this profile
Vitamin D, Vitamin D3 (correct deficiency pre-operatively)
Read the evidence · 2 sources
Vitamin E
For a specific health problem
Vitamin E is an antioxidant nutrient used to correct deficiency and studied in mild cognitive impairment and Alzheimer’s disease. Most people already obtain it from food.
What the research actually shows
A Cochrane review found no evidence that vitamin E prevents progression from mild cognitive impairment to dementia; one Alzheimer trial reported slower functional decline without a clear cognitive benefit. That is more useful than the old pesticide-only source gap.
What the studies measured
Read the evidence · 2 sources
Vitamin K2
For a specific health problem
Vitamin K2 is mainly used in bone and cardiovascular-health products, often with vitamin D3. A combined D3/K2 product cannot show what K2 contributed.
What the research actually shows
A meta-analysis of 16 randomized trials examined bone density and fractures in postmenopausal women. K2 has bone-health research behind it. Results from a combined D3/K2 product still apply only to the complete product.
What the studies measured
Formulas and common stacks
- Vitamin D3 + K2Common combined product
Vitamin D3 and K2 are often sold together for bone and cardiovascular-health goals.
A study of the combined product cannot show which ingredient produced the result.
Read the evidence · 2 sources
Vitex agnus-castus (Chasteberry)
For a specific health problem
Vitex is used for premenstrual symptoms. It's most relevant when concentration changes appear alongside the same monthly symptoms.
What the research actually shows
A meta-analysis covers premenstrual syndrome. The result applies to that symptom cluster; PMDD and direct cognitive effects are separate questions.
What the studies measured
Read the evidence · 1 source
Zinc
When a nutrient is low
Zinc matters when intake or absorption is low. Human research also covers selected depression, testosterone, celiac and eating-disorder contexts.
What the research actually shows
A deficiency-first answer keeps the profile useful: correct a documented shortage, then apply condition-specific findings only to the group studied. Long-term excess can create copper deficiency and its own neurological problems.
What the studies measured
Read the evidence · 2 sources
Zinc Carnosine
For a specific health problem
Zinc carnosine is used for specific stomach and intestinal problems. A trial found improved small-bowel integrity.
What the research actually shows
The human result concerns the gut barrier. Relief from a defined digestive problem may improve daily functioning, but zinc carnosine should not be confused with ordinary zinc or presented as a direct memory supplement.
What the studies measured
Read the evidence · 1 source
The WBF timing rule
How long do supplements take to work?
Match the clock to the job. A same-day effect, a better blood test, better sleep and clearer thinking are different results. Start with what the supplement is meant to change, then ask whether enough time has passed for that change to happen.
An immediate effect
Hydration, alertness, drowsiness, digestion or sleep can change on the same day. That tells you about an immediate effect.
A change that builds
Researchers study some ingredients after regular use because absorption, storage and adaptation take time. One capsule cannot answer a question researchers studied over repeated doses.
Replacing what the body lacks
The starting level, how long it was low, what caused it and how well you absorb the replacement all affect recovery. A blood test and your symptoms may improve at different speeds.
When a product backfires
Can supplements make brain fog worse?
Read every active ingredient
A sleep, stress or focus blend may contain more than the ingredient named on the front.
Look for duplicates
A multivitamin, electrolyte mix and separate capsule can contain the same nutrient.
Review medicine interactions
Supplements can make some prescription and over-the-counter medicines stronger or weaker.
One safety note
If you have a serious reaction, stop taking the product.
The FDA explains which reactions to report and how to send a report.
Before checkout
How to judge a supplement label
- 1
Find the amounts
Read the Supplement Facts panel. “Proprietary blend” can hide how much of each ingredient is present.
- 2
Separate quality from effectiveness
An independent lab can verify what is in the product, test for harmful contaminants and review factory standards. It cannot tell you whether the product works.
- 3
Treat front-label claims as advertising
“Brain health,” “natural” and “doctor formulated” are not study results.
FDA does not approve dietary supplements for safety and effectiveness before they go on sale.
How FDA oversight works What USP verification coversWhere the evidence comes from
The library draws on WBF cause research, government guidance, clinical guidelines, systematic reviews and PubMed-indexed studies. Each profile links to the sources behind its answer. We checked what researchers actually measured because a blood-test result, better sleep and better memory are not the same outcome.
Sources reviewed August 25, 2026.
- NIH ODS: Dietary Supplements, What You Need to Know
- FDA: Dietary supplements are not approved before sale
- NCCIH: How medications and supplements can interact
- USP: What supplement verification covers
- BMJ: Interventions for Long COVID, living systematic review
- FDA: How to report a problem with a dietary supplement