This term was coined by the Romanian doctor Dr. Conreliu E. Guirgea in the seventies of the last century.
The word Nootropic is formed from 2 words Nous = mind and Trópos = movement, hence its meaning is something that “moves the mind”.
He specified that a nootropic should:
1) Improve memory and learning ability.
2) Help the brain in disruptive conditions.
3) It protected neurons from physical and chemical attacks.
4) It intensifies the effectiveness of communication between neurons.
5) It had no (or minimal) side effects.
There are synthetic drugs with this power, but also foods that contain to some extent this property of stimulating memory and elevating certain mental functions such as cognition, intelligence, creativity, motivation, attention and concentration. It is believed that these work by altering the availability of neurochemical supplies in the brain (neurotransmitters, enzymes and hormones) by improving brain metabolism.
It is not surprising that we have been consuming these foods and drinks for many centuries because they make us “feel good”, among them are:
Coffee: Its caffeine content, which reaches our brain quickly and effectively, helps us delay fatigue and achieve greater mental acuity. Caffeine inhibits the brain's adenosine receptors, which results in keeping us more awake and alert.
Tea: In addition to its caffeine content (which is dosed more slowly to our brain, causing less stimulation but for a longer period of time) it has L-theanine that helps us produce alpha waves, increases mental performance, concentration and, if that were not enough, decreases anxiety levels by binding to glutamate receptors and blocking them. (Glutamate is an excitatory neurotransmitter).
The tea that contains the most L-theanine (due to the way we consume it, emulsified instead of infused) is Matcha , but it is actually present in all of our teas (White, Green, Ulong, Black and Pu Erh).
Turmeric: It is an ancient spice, highly protective that acts by preventing many chronic and neurodegenerative diseases, anti-inflammatory and anti-depressant, present in our Golden Milk .
Bluebell: This is a flower from Thailand that is rich in anthocyanins, a rich antioxidant, which, in addition to giving it its beautiful color, helps us with memory and learning, and, if that were not enough, it is anxiolytic. This flower is present in our entire Blue Life line.
Cocoa : Theobromine present in this ancient Mexican drink improves oxygenation of the brain, has a stimulating effect and therefore also improves cognitive ability. The purer the chocolate, the better (pure cocoa). Find it in our Xocolate blend that combines Black Tea and cocoa husk.
In addition to including these foods and drinks in your diet to get the best out of them, I recommend a balanced diet, meditating, sleeping well and including some type of exercise in your daily life, sunbathing, being in contact with nature and smiling. Remember that we exist to bring you peace, health and flavor in every cup of tea!
Olivia Medina
Tea Master, EURO TEA
