Want to know which is the best nootropic supplement available? NooCube has a top-tier reputation. Find out why in this comprehensive, honest NooCube Review.
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Written by Alex Whybrow – fact checked by Jason M & the editorial team
Alex is a full time writer. He is a creative soul who loves to express himself through his written word. When focus or concentration becomes an issue he turns to nootropics. Aside from the world of nootropic supplementation and writing, Alex is a huge fan of coffee and can regularly be found consuming it and writing about it.
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NooCube – An Introduction
The world of nootropics is booming. New brands are entering the arena, feeding the population’s desire to be smarter, slicker, and cognitively healthier.
One such product is NooCube. Originally launched in 2016, Noocube is made by Wolfson Brands – a wellness company based in Glasgow, Scotland.
They pride themselves on their ‘cutting-edge science’, and work closely with athletes to create products ranging from beauty and wellness, to strength and muscle building supplements.
NooCube is aimed at ‘people with deadlines’ – those with busy, demanding lifestyles that require sharpened memories, focus, and alertness, with no room for brain fog or fatigue.
NooCube is caffeine-free and made with all-natural ingredients. This is hugely appealing to not only the caffeine sensitive, but also those of us who become reliant on caffeine to keep us alert.
NooCube is the perfect alternative – a better alternative – that avoids those peaks and crashes you get with caffeine.
With experience and research combined, here’s my honest account of… spoiler alert… one of the best nootropic supplements going.
NooCube – Our Quick Verdict
NooCube is one of our all-time favorite nootropic supplements. It tops pretty much all of our comparisons, and is also our no.1 rated nootropic overall.
It comes with a very reassuring 60-day money back guarantee, which you’ll unlikely need. NooCube’s intelligent blend of all-natural ingredients proves highly effective, and has quick results. We highly recommend it.
NooCube Benefits
NooCube has meticulously designed a blend of potent, natural ingredients to bring these five life-enhancing benefits, which I experience first-hand when supplementing with it myself.
Razor Sharp Focus
Focus is essential in most specifically our work environment. Whether you’re in an office, a board meeting, on a construction site, or in a healthcare setting – how focused you are can have a huge impact on your ability and performance.
It’s frustrating when we lose focus too. For me as a writer, focus is paramount. I don’t work with any background noise – it all helps my focus. Yet still we all get those days where our cognitive ability diverts to something or nothing.
NooCube works to sharpen your cognitive ability to remain focused on the task at hand. And it works.
Lowered Stress Levels
Stress is a problem for a lot of reasons – for one it can really inhibit your productivity. It can form a thick fog in your head, which prevents you from seeing the solutions to your problems.
Stress, of course, is also not very good for your health. It can lead to all kinds of health problems, physical and mental, with serious consequences if it continues for a long period of time.
Many of the ingredients that are included in NooCube are there to specifically target stress.
Boosted Memory
Our memories are essential for not just those sentimental moments, but also our ability to learn and be productive. NooCube works to optimize both your short-term and long-term memory recall, unlocking that extra level of intellect and making everyday life easier and clearer.
Enhanced Eye-Brain Connection
This is a benefit that you don’t get with many nootropics – a focus on eye health.
The theory is that as we are all staring at various screens for much longer these days, the blue light that is emitted from our phones and tablets can cause damage to our eyes, resulting in long-term damage as well as disrupted sleep.
To combat this, NooCube is packed full of ingredients that have a focus on the health of our eyes, which in turn will slow down the aging of our brains.
All of these benefits are produced by the unique combination of ingredients in NooCube. Let’s now take a more in-depth look at those ingredients and find out exactly what is inside these supplements.
NooCube Ingredients
A quick look now at all of the ingredients that you will find in NooCube, and what their individual impact is – or at least what the theory is behind each ingredient’s inclusion.
Bacopa monnieri extract (250mg)
Also known as water hyssop, this is a creeping herb that is commonly found in wetlands all over the world, but particularly in India. It has been used for medicinal purposes for centuries as it is thought to have a positive impact on memory, as well as work to reduce anxiety, and has even been used to treat epilepsy.
It is the impact on memory that is particularly positive, and this has been backed up by some independent studies, albeit mainly in the elderly community. It has been recommended for use for early-onset Alzheimer’s disease and mild cognitive impairment.
However, its effect on healthy, younger minds is subject to more debate, with no conclusive studies as yet.
L-tyrosine (250mg)
This is an amino acid that can be produced naturally within the body (from another amino acid, phenylalanine). L-tyrosine is essential for producing various brain chemicals, as well as helping to produce melatonin and aiding the function of organs that regulate hormones.
Its use in NooCube is focused on its involvement in stress neurotransmitters epinephrine and norepinephrine. While research isn’t yet conclusive, it is thought that by taking L-tyrosine supplements you can improve your memory and perform better when put under stress.
Cat’s Claw concentrate (175mg)
This woody vine from the Amazon rainforest (so-called because its thorns resemble the claws of cats) has been used to protect against disease for 2,000 years in South and Central America.
Today it is seen as a dietary supplement for a vast array of medical conditions, ranging from hemorrhoids and arthritis to cancer and Alzheimer’s disease.
While its primary function seems to boost the immune system, it is thought to work to prevent aging of the brain as well, although there needs to be more research to back up this claim.
Panax Ginseng Concentrate (20mg)
NooCube originally used oat straw extract here, but it contains gluten. So to make NooCube more widely suitable, they brought Panax Ginsing in as a replacement.
Panax Ginseng is a strong adaptogen (a natural substance that helps our bodies adapt to stress), and its benefits have been indulged by us humans for centuries. But don’t be fooled into thinking this makes it merely an old wives’ tale; modern science is proving that it does indeed lower our stress hormones and even improve our memory.
A great formula adjustment from NooCube here.
L-theanine (100mg)
Another amino acid, L-theanine is commonly found in green and black tea, as well as some mushrooms. While it is not essential for humans, it is thought to have a positive impact on the brain, particularly in combating anxiety.
It is thought that L-theanine encourages the production of serotonin – the chemical in the brain that stabilizes mood and makes you happier. Again, there is no concrete scientific evidence to support this. Some studies, though, have shown some signs that it can help to reduce anxiety, but more work is needed there.
VitoCholine® (250mg)
Again, this is another newcomer to NooCube’s formula, stepping in to replace Alpha GPC. Alpha GPC is soy derived, and so in order to make NooCube more bioavailable (enter our systems more efficiently), NooCube switched to VitoCholine®.
Choline is something we struggle to supplement our bodies with from just food, but is important for our mood, motivation, mental focus and memory. Choline is what the brain uses to make a neurotransmitter called acetylcholine, which is responsible for all these benefits.
NooCube’s patented version of Choline, VitoCholine® is designed to be absorbed immediately and much faster than Choline in its original form.
Lutemax® 2020
Lutemax® 2020 has won awards for its blend of macular caretenoids (the orange pigmentation in carrots), which are found in marigold flowers.
Marigold extract has traditionally mainly been used to combat skin complaints – it has soothing properties that can nullify the effects of inflammation.
However, recently it has been suggested that as marigold extract is high in lutein and zeaxanthin, it may give a boost to memory, cognitive function, and quick thinking. It has antioxidant properties, which may help to protect the brain; but like with most things, more research would be great.
Resveratrol 99% (14.3mg)
Another substance that is rich in antioxidants now – resveratrol. It can be found in the skin of grapes, blueberries, mulberries, raspberries, and peanuts.
The theory behind including resveratrol in NooCube is similar to the inclusion of marigold extract in their Lutemax 2020® blend – it works to slow down the aging of the brain. This is where the theory behind the health benefits of red wine comes from.
It is also an anti-inflammatory, which leads to improved alertness and focus. There is already plenty of evidence to back up the positive effects of resveratrol.
Pterostilbene (140mcg)
Pterostilbene is another ingredient that is found in blueberries. It is thought to have an impact on all manner of health issues – it is anti-carcinogenic, anti-inflammatory, and can help fight against diabetes and vascular diseases.
It has been found to help combat neurodegenerative diseases, again in older patients. This impact on the brain is why it has been included in the production of NooCube. The exact impact, though, does require more research.
D-Biotin (50mcg)
Sometimes known simply as Vitamin B7, D-Biotin has many purposes within our bodies. It plays an important part in breaking down fats and carbohydrates, as well as helping to maintain your hair, liver, eyes, and nervous system.
It is that last point, the nervous system, that is of particular focus for the producers of NooCube. It can help to reduce anxiety, promote good sleep, and maintain energy – all great for a well-functioning brain.
D-Biotin is the plant-based form of Biotin, which is animal-based – another excellent switch-up from NooCube for the benefit of its users.
Vitamin B1 (1.1mg)
If you’re low on this vitamin, you’ll be lacking the benefits it offers for aging, obesity and even alcoholism, where a deficiency contributes toward alcohol-induced brain damage.
B1 helps maintain an improved mood, brain function, and energy levels.
Vitamin B12 (2.5mcg)
This is another vitamin we struggle to get enough of, but we are offered it right here in a decent dose from NooCube. Plenty of B12 in our systems will help with cognitive impairment, depression and even dementia.
It can even help prevent brain shrinkage. B12 is becomig increasingly well known for its benefits today, and it’s great to see it here in each and every capsule.
Who is NooCube For?
As we alluded to at the start of this review, NooCube is suitable for pretty much anyone (I’m talking adults, of course). There are certain people, however, for which it may have more of an appeal.
Students
Nootropics are great for studying. Studying for long periods can really take its toll on the brain of a student. Motivating yourself to hit the books day after day, with so many other distractions, is tougher than ever.
Having that little extra help to knuckle down, focus, and memorize is obviously incredibly helpful to students.
Athletes
When it comes to focus and motivation, athletes need every advantage they can get over their rivals. Not just to perform better on the day, but to train better, with more intensity, day in, day out. For that reason, NooCube could provide the advantage they desire.
High Achievers
It is often the case that with success comes extra stress. Whether at work or in education, the better you do, the more is expected from you – both from others and from yourself.
This expectation can be overwhelming, and working with a nootropic like NooCube could be just the thing to help you stay focused and calm.
Parents
Ever heard of Baby Brain? It is very common for mothers to suffer from memory problems and absent-mindedness during pregnancy and after the birth of their child. This, coupled with the sleep deprivation and intense responsibility can lead to parents struggling to focus and concentrate at work.
NooCube is designed to help that. Always seek medical advice before taking new supplements if you are pregnant or breast feeding.
The Over-55s
You may have noticed that in the previous section we listed a lot of ingredients that are often used to help fight off Alzheimer’s disease, as well as other neurodegenerative issues. It is for this reason that nootropics like NooCube can be incredibly helpful for the over-55s, prolonging their cognitive health and ability.
Watch Our YouTube NooCube Review
How To Take NooCube
Different nootropics get into your system in slightly different ways, so it is always advisable to check on the preferred way to use a product before you start.
In the case of NooCube, it is recommended that you take two capsules with some water – ideally in the morning. This is to allow the various ingredients to enter your system, providing a slow release throughout the day, thus maximizing their benefits.
You can take NooCube with or without food.
Using NooCube – The Results
In order to write an authoritative piece about NooCube, I put myself on a month-long trial of it. I took two pills every morning with my breakfast, as instructed.
Just before I start, though, it may help to know a little bit about me. I am a father to two young children, the youngest having just turned one. As a writer and researcher, I often find myself working to tight deadlines, and the last year or so has been tough, what with the lack of sleep I have been experiencing.
I’m a good example of someone who would benefit all that a nootropic has to offer – and I can tell you, NooCube delivered.
For the first week or so, I didn’t really notice much difference. I think this is to be expected as, even though supplements tend to affect people in slightly different ways and at slightly different speeds, it is perfectly normal for it to take at least a week for things to kick in.
It was around this time though that I started to notice that I was getting a lot more work done. What was usually a testing day balancing workload with distractions seemed to whizz by – I was focused, and achieving tasks more easily.
This increased productivity meant that I could spend more time with my wife once the children were asleep, and that when I was with my children I really was there. I wasn’t thinking about the work that I still needed to finish.
This made a huge difference to me. My quality of life was genuinely improving because of it.
I found that I was properly unwinding in the evenings, and so I started to sleep a bit better – less anxiety about what I needed to catch up on, and what was yet to come. My mind felt relaxed, and I slept better for it.
It was a positively addictive cycle. The more sleep I got, the more work I could do the next day, so the more relaxed I was, and so on. My work/life balance was working in my favor – I felt successful and happy. It has certainly enhanced my relationship with my family members.
It’s true that people can have different results with supplements. And though these benefits are fully intentional from NooCube’s design and commonly praised by its users, it’s always wise to be aware of potential side effects.
These can include headaches, dizziness and stomach pain, as well as low mood and confusion. None of which I experienced myself.
The side effects are proving to be rare; however, if you find that you feel any negative effects from taking NooCube, or any other nootropic or supplement, stop taking it and seek medical advice. I’d recommend you do this before taking any new supplement, certainly if you have any pre-existing medical conditions.
I was keen to speak to others about their experiences of NooCube, and I was lucky enough to have James de Lacey, co-founder of Lift Big Eat Big, share his experiences with Noocube with me:
“Having recently added a newborn baby to the family, the inevitable energy and cognitive fade comes over me as the day wears on. But, I still need to work and I host a few podcasts that need an hour of undivided focus, attention, and memory recall. Taking NooCube before hosting the podcasts has dramatically improved the quality of my interviewing, from remembering questions to alertness. I’ll be taking it before every episode!”
James is big in the health space, and so this is a pretty big testimony as to the efficacy of NooCube, and his experience certainly shared parallels with my own.
NooCube Pros and Cons
For a complete picture of what you can expect when you start taking NooCube, we have researched and spoken to other people to get an idea of other experiences, both good and bad:
NooCube Pros
Greater concentration: Most people who take NooCube report that they have much greater concentration, better focus, and optimized productivity.
Less stress: You could argue that this is a by-product of getting more done with your time, rather than a direct impact of NooCube; but the fact remains that a lot of people who take NooCube report feeling generally less susceptible to stress.
Caffeine-free: There are plenty of supplements out there that contain caffeine, which can cause people problems when it comes to sleep, or just feeling a bit jittery. Thankfully NooCube is caffeine-free and made from natural ingredients, so this isn’t a problem.
NooCube Cons
Expensive: While the recommended starting dose is for two capsules a day, you are able to take up to four a day. The results are of course more amplified, but at an increased expense (although for the quality of ingredients here, I’d say it’s fully justified from NooCube).
Difficult to purchase: As things stand, NooCube is only available through the manufacturer’s website. You have to be a bit more organized and order them in advance to ensure you don’t run out.
Verdict
If you want the best-rated nootropic going, NooCube is a great option. As it is fully natural and caffeine/GM-free, you can be assured that you aren’t putting anything harmful into your body, which is a great base to start from.
The impact that it could potentially have on your body could change your life – a worthy investment for a supplement some may initially consider ‘expensive’. The super-smart and meticulously considered ingredients list naturally yet effectively enhances your cognitive ability, allowing you to achieve more, think clearer, and rest easier.
Give it a go – it often nabs the no.1 spot in our trials against the best nootropics going, and you’ve got the money-back guarantee for peace of mind.
Latest Updates:
✎ April 23, 2024: Ingredients checked. Images resized.
✎ March 11, 2024: Updated with new NooCube formula from V2 to V3. Slightly stronger recommendation added due to improved formula. New image added showing updated ingredients label.
✎ Jan 30, 2024: Further details added to Pros and Cons. Improved formatting.
✎ Sept 10, 2024: Interview quote added from James DeLacey to offer more personal insight beyond the scope of the reviewer.
This article was written by: Alex Whybrow – Full Time Writer, Coffee Connoisseur & Nootropic Fan
Alex spends a lot of his time writing. He is a creative soul who loves to express himself through his written word. When focus or concentration becomes an issue he turns to nootropics. Aside from the world of nootropic supplementation and writing, Alex is a huge fan of coffee and can regularly be found consuming it and writing about it.