Coffee is the second-most beloved beverage worldwide (after tea and not counting water). Brewing it from roasted, ground seeds of Coffea Arabica plant – found across more than 40 countries around the globe – provides powerful invigoration that plays an integral part in our day-to-day energy levels. Caffeine’s stimulant properties contribute heavily to this experience, though there may also be beneficial compounds like phenolic acids and phytochemicals present.

Research indicates that our daily cup of coffee might not quite count as nootropics, yet research indicates otherwise. Coffee plants contain numerous vitamins, minerals and antioxidants which have been shown to enhance mood and boost energy levels as well as reduce Parkinson’s risk and blood pressure levels.

While coffee’s benefits are generally attributed to its caffeine content, a recent study demonstrated that paraxanthine, another naturally occurring nootropic molecule, could produce similar cognitive-enhancing benefits without the negative side effects associated with caffeine. Paraxanthine was specifically found to enhance measures of executive function and decrease cognitive fatigue prior and after exercise (Wenk et al, 2021). Additionally, paraxanthine enhanced locomotor activity which may prove particularly helpful for athletes looking to prevent or mitigate exercise-induced dementia (Wenk et al 2021).