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People everywhere are tackling the daily challenge of staying focused and productive. They’re on the lookout for Adderall alternatives that don’t come with a laundry list of serious side effects.
What are the natural substitutes that stand up to the test?
In this article, we unpack the 11 leading natural alternatives to Adderall and break down how they work. Topping the list is MindVitality, a powerhouse formula that ramps up your energy and optimizes your brain’s chemistry, but we suggest you go through them all and find the one that fits your needs best.
Top Natural Adderall Alternatives 2024
MindVitality – Best Adderall alternative overall
Addall XR – Best for brain fog
Noocube – Best Adderall alternative for mental energy
Hunter Focus – Best nootropic for focus
Neuro Gum – Best nootropic gum
Brain Pill – Best Adderall alternative for older adults
FOCL Day – Best nootropic for mood
BetterBrand – Affordable Adderall alternative
Performance Lab Mind – Best Adderall alternative for athletes
MindLab Pro – Best for daily cognitive boost
Earth & Star Mushroom Gummies – Best mushroom-based nootropic
The best natural Adderall alternatives have proven ingredients that enhance brain chemicals, energy levels, and cell health. They offer a good balance of effectiveness, cost, and credibility. MindVitality is our top pick, followed by Addall XR for its convenience.
1. MindVitality – Best Adderall Alternative Overall
Pros
Ingredients to increase dopamine and reduce stress hormones
May improve cellular energy production
100-day money-back guarantee
Cons
It may not be compatible with ADHD medication
Who Is MindVitality For?
MindVitality is number one in our list of the best Adderall alternatives because of its powerful ingredients that may increase dopamine and reduce stress hormones. We recommend it to anyone struggling with poor focus, executive dysfunction, or a lack of mental energy.
Benefits
MindVitality’s ingredients, including ashwagandha and bacopa, have been known to promote brain cell growth, increase acetylcholine (the primary neurotransmitter for cognition), and boost dopamine [1].
Phosphatidylserine may improve lack of focus during tasks. One trial found that focus scores improved. The participants’ overall ADHD scores also improved from 11.4 to 7.2 [2].
Cost/Pricing
1 month of MindVitality costs $69.99
5 months’ supply costs $209.99, saving you 40%
Ingredients
MindVitality contains 12 ingredients divided into three categories:
Brain Focus: Bacopa monnieri, Ginkgo biloba, mucuna, pine extract
Stress Kill Switch: Ashwagandha, Panax ginseng, Rhodiola rosea, phosphatidylserine
Cognitive Accelerators: N-acetyl-l-tyrosine, Huperzia serrate, lion’s mane
Summary
MindVitality contains a winning combination of herbs and nutrients to improve attention, mental energy, and other aspects of cognitive health.
>>Check the best prices for MindVitality
2. Addall XR – Best for Brain Fog
Pros
Essential B vitamins for cellular energy production
Significant savings with regular discount offers
Free shipping
Available at some physical stores
Cons
Proprietary blend does not disclose dosages
Who Is Addall XR for?
Addall XR stands out as the go-to Adderall alternative for those battling brain fog. These TSA-friendly capsules pack a punch with essential B vitamins and calming GABA. Whether you’re looking to clear the haze or just need a mental boost, Addall XR is designed to support your brain health.
Benefits
Addall XR may help to increase levels of neurotransmitters such as dopamine, GABA, and acetylcholine. Vitamins B1 and B2, two of its ingredients, are critical for cellular energy production [3]. It’s also available at some physical stores if you’re ever caught short.
Cost/Pricing
Bottle price: $99
Subscription price: $92.07
Ingredients
Vitamins B1, B2, and B6
GABA
Bacopa
Summary
Addall XR gives you a short-term yet essential energy boost without being over stimulating and is available in convenient serving sizes.
>>Check the best prices for Addall XR
3. Noocube – Best Adderall Alternative for Mental Energy
Pros
Carotenoids may protect your eye and brain health
Adaptogenic herbal ingredients for energy
60-day money-back guarantee
Free shipping worldwide
Cons
Not suitable alongside ADHD medication
Who Is Noocube for?
Noocube is one of the best Adderall alternatives if you’re studying and need a sustained lift in mental energy.
Benefits
Noocube includes antioxidants; dopamine-boosters such as tyrosine, B vitamins for energy production, and adaptogens.
Adaptogens are herbs that improve your body’s resistance to stress, often through benefits for cellular health and the stress response. One of these, Panax ginseng, may assist energy metabolism. Its antioxidant properties may also protect against everyday stress [4].
Cost/Pricing
1 bottle of Noocube costs $64.99
5 bottles for the price of 3, which totals $194.99
Ingredients
Lutemax, a triple combination of carotenoids
Choline
Panax ginseng
Ashwagandha
Bacopa monnieri
Tyrosine
Cat’s claw
Resveratrol
Pterostilbene
L-theanine
Vitamins B1, B7 (biotin) and B12
Summary
Noocube provides cellular protection and an energy lift when you need it most, thanks to its benefits for energy metabolism.
>>Check the best prices for Noocube
4. Hunter Focus – Best Adderall Alternative for Focus
Pros
Natural dopamine boosters
Adaptogens and vitamins for energy production
Provides extensive references for its ingredients
Cons
May be incompatible with ADHD medication or blood thinners
Who Is Hunter Focus for?
If you often find it hard to stay focused, even on tasks you enjoy or require your immediate attention, Hunter Focus might be the ideal alternative to Adderall for you.
Benefits
Hunter Focus may benefit memory, focus, and cognitive performance. One ingredient that supports these properties is citicoline, which aids in producing neurotransmitters and cell membranes.
Citicoline may boost acetylcholine levels. As a result, citicoline has shown benefits in memory, impulse control, and task accuracy in cognitive testing [5].
Cost/Pricing
1 Bottle: $90
2 Bottles: $180
3 + 1 Bottles: $270
Ingredients
Hunter Focus divides its ingredients into three categories:
Concentration: L-tyrosine, citicoline, l-theanine, Ginkgo biloba, Spanish sage
Memory: Rhodiola rosea, lion’s mane, Bacopa monnieri, maritime pine bark extract
Mood: Ashwagandha root, acetyl-l-carnitine, phosphatidylserine, caffeine, Panax ginseng
It also has vitamins C, D3, B6, B9, B12, and K2
Summary
Hunter Focus is a great choice if you’re looking for an Adderall alternative to help with focus issues. It’s specially made to improve your ability to concentrate and think clearly.
>>Check the best prices for Hunter Focus
5. Neuro Gum – Best Adderall Alternative Gum
Pros
A sustained-release effect
Calming and stimulating properties
Save with a subscription
Cons
Some find caffeine overstimulating
Who Is Neuro Gum for?
Neuro Gum is the top Adderall alternative on our list for people who have trouble swallowing pills, or prefer a more chewable option.
Benefits
Neuro Gum may help quickly boost your brainpower. It contains ingredients that may support your focus better and help you think faster, especially when it comes to multitasking. Plus, it has vitamins that protect your brain from certain health issues [6].
Cost/Pricing
1 pack of either 54 gum pieces or 72 mints costs $38
With a subscription, you can save 10%
Ingredients
Caffeine
Vitamin B6
Vitamin B12
L-theanine
Summary
Neuro Gum revolutionizes the game with its chewable form, offering a swift cognitive uplift that’s easier to take than traditional capsules. For those seeking Adderall alternatives, this gum is not just a brain booster, it’s a convenience you can count on.
>>Check the best prices for Neuro Gum
6. Brain Pill – Best Adderall Alternative for Older Adults
Pros
Some ingredients may protect brain cell function and structure
B vitamins for red blood cell production and homocysteine reduction
Ginkgo biloba for healthy circulation
67-day risk-free guarantee
Cons
May interfere with blood thinners and dopamine-boosters
Who Is Brain Pill for?
We recommend Brain Pill as the Adderall alternative for older adults. Its list of evidence-backed ingredients like Ginkgo Biloba and Lion’s Mane mushroom have been shown to protect cognition and mobility.
Benefits
Brain Pill steps up with a robust array of benefits for older adults, making it a standout among Adderall alternatives. Take phosphatidylserine, for instance—it’s not just a major component of what actually forms your brain; it’s also key in supporting the longevity of brain cells and fostering the birth of new ones.
Ginkgo biloba may protect against cognitive decline and the B vitamins in Brain Pill may reduce brain shrinkage alongside the fatty acid DHA [7].
Cost/Pricing
Brain Pill costs $79.95 for one month
You can save per box with larger orders
Ingredients
Citicoline
Vitamins B5, B6, folate (B9), and B12
L-tyrosine
DHA omega-3 complex
Phosphatidylserine
Ginkgo biloba
L-theanine
Vinpocetine
Bacopa monnieri
Huperzia serrata
Summary
Brain Pill emerges as a powerful contender in the realm of Adderall alternatives, especially for older adults. It’s not just about supporting cognitive health; it’s about providing essential structural and functional advantages that are crucial for maintaining a sharp and active mind.
>>Check the best prices for Brain Pill
7. FOCL Day – Best Adderall Alternative for Mood
Pros
Stress-relieving ingredients
Lion’s mane for brain cell maintenance
Save with subscriptions
Cons
Needs FOCL Night for full effect
Who Is FOCL Day for?
We recommend FOCL Day as a natural Adderall alternative if you experience low mood.
Benefits
Ingredients in FOCL Day, including rhodiola and lion’s mane, may have mood-lifting benefits. They may increase serotonin, dopamine, and GABA levels; reduce inflammation, and lower levels of stress hormones. Better yet, it may also support brain cell growth and development, which supports learning and mood [8].
Cost/Pricing
A subscription to FOCL Day costs $39.20 per month
Alternatively, you can make a one-off purchase to try it for $45
Ingredients
Bacopa monnieri
Lion’s mane
Rhodiola rosea
Vitamin B6
L-theanine
Summary
FOCL Day, your Adderall alternative, promises a brighter cognitive path. Its special ingredients may boost neurotransmitters making every day mentally vibrant and clear.
>>Check the best prices for FOCL Day
8. BetterBrand – Affordable Adderall Alternative
Pros
Costs just over $0.50 per day
Adaptogenic herbs for stress relief
Phosphatidylserine for cognitive function
Cons
No vitamins included
Who Is BetterBrand for?
If you’re a student, stressed to the max, and on a budget, BetterBrand may be the Adderall alternative for you.
Benefits
BetterBrand contains adaptogens that boost your resistance to stress, including ashwagandha and rhodiola. Research shows that rhodiola may increase energy and mental performance while reducing stress hormone levels, helping to prevent burnout in the long term [9].
Cost/Pricing
$39.95 for 2 months
Subscribe for discounts
Ingredients
Ashwagandha
Rhodiola rosea
Pinus pinaster
Schisandra
Phosphatidylserine
Summary
BetterBrand supports cognition while relieving stress, and is light on your wallet, too.
>>Check the best prices for BetterBrand
9. Performance Lab Mind – Best Adderall Alternative for Athletes
Pros
Powerful antioxidants
Caffeine-free formula
May enhance sports performance
Cons
May interact with ADHD medication
Who Is it for?
Performance Lab Mind may be the ideal Adderall alternative to improve your sports performance if you have higher levels of oxidative stress due to more intense workouts which demand more energy.
Benefits
The antioxidant power of maritime pine bark may protect tyrosine, the precursor of dopamine, from being damaged by oxidative stress. As oxidative stress is a normal result of energy metabolism, this could be beneficial for athletes [10]. Additionally, citicoline may boost psychomotor performance, while phosphatidylserine may improve attention.
Cost/Pricing
1 month’s supply costs $59.99
4 months costs $177.00
Ingredients
Citicoline
L-tyrosine
Maritime pine bark extract
Phosphatidylserine
Summary
Performance Lab Mind provides the essentials, and important antioxidant support to protect your brain.
>>Check the best prices for Performance Lab Mind
10. MindLab Pro – Best for Daily Cognitive Boost
Pros
Clinical studies on the whole formula
Citicoline and tyrosine for neurotransmitters
Protective antioxidants
Cons
Contains high doses of B vitamins
Who Is MindLab Pro for?
MindLab Pro may be an effective Adderall alternative if you just need an everyday brain boost.
Benefits
Unlike most supplements, where ingredients have usually been tested alone, MindLab Pro has been studied twice as a complete formula. These include one trial where participants saw improvement in reaction times. This ability to make snap decisions may benefit sports performance [11].
However, Opti Nutra, the company behind Mind Lab Pro, did fund the research, so take this with a pinch of salt.
Cost/Pricing
1 month’s supply of MindLab Pro costs $69.99
4 months’ supply for $207.00
Ingredients
Citicoline
N-acetyl-l-tyrosine
Maritime pine bark extract
Bacopa monnieri
Lion’s mane mushroom
Phosphatidylserine
Rhodiola rosea
B Vitamins (B6, B9, B12)
L-theanine
Summary
MindLab Pro, an Adderall alternative, comprises sunflower-derived phosphatidylserine, enhancing memory and protecting brain cells. It’s a brain-boosting powerhouse, minus the caffeine jitters, potentially improving focus, memory, and emotional balance.
>>Check the best prices for MindLab Pro
11. Earth & Star Mushroom Gummies – Best Mushroom-Based Nootropic
Pros
Free of caffeine and tyrosine
Tasty raspberry flavor
Calming l-theanine
Cons
May take longer to show significant cognitive benefits
Who Is Earth & Star Mushroom Gummies for?
Earth & Star Mushroom Gummies provide a great Adderall alternative considering the cognitive benefits of mushrooms. It also has no overpowering dopamine boosters or caffeine, ideal if you don’t like being overstimulated.
Benefits
Earth & Star Mushroom Gummies combines the calming theanine with lion’s mane mushroom. This mushroom may increase nerve growth factor (NGF), which helps brain cells develop and protect themselves. Clinical studies show that lion’s mane may improve reaction times, alongside mood [13].
Cost/Pricing
30 servings cost just $32 with a subscription, which is less than $1.10 each
Ingredients
L-theanine
Lion’s mane
Summary
Earth & Star Mushroom Gummies are the best option for you if you need gentle, long-term support.
>>Check the best prices for Earth & Star Mushroom Gummies
What Is ADHD?
ADHD is a psychiatric condition most commonly associated with children, but adults may also be affected. Siblings of children with ADHD are at a higher risk, but infections, prenatal smoking exposure, deficiencies, and other environmental issues are implicated [14].
Symptoms of ADHD
ADHD features developmentally inappropriate patterns of hyperactivity, inattention, and impulsivity.
ADHD symptoms must be present for at least six months, and include:
Forgetfulness
Insufficient concentration
Disorganization
Hyperactivity
Impulsivity
Difficulty completing tasks
Poor emotional regulation
Difficulty in social relationships
It is important to remember that these symptoms must negatively impact daily life. They are not simply preferences for certain activities or feeling a little restless [14].
How Is ADHD Treated?
Conventional treatment for ADHD involves medication and psychotherapy. Stimulants, antidepressants, and alpha-agonists are prescribed. As for psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral training may assist in impulse control and other symptoms [14].
>>Check the best prices for MindVitality
What Are Adderall Alternatives?
Adderall alternatives are typically natural substances that may improve executive function without the side effects of Adderall.
How Do Adderall Alternatives Work?
Natural Adderall alternatives work through multiple pathways:
Increasing production of dopamine, acetylcholine, and other neurotransmitters
Providing structural support to brain tissue, such as phosphatidylserine
Increasing growth factors to aid learning
Reducing stress hormone levels
Reducing inflammation and oxidative stress
Types of Adderall Alternatives
Adderall alternatives may be stimulant or non-stimulant, pharmaceutical or natural.
Stimulant Medications
Stimulant medications include amphetamines, such as Adderall, and methylphenidates. These increase dopamine by blocking its reabsorption or directly stimulating its production [14].
Non-Stimulant Medications
Non-stimulants are typically antidepressants such as selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs). They boost other neurotransmitters, typically norepinephrine [14].
Pharmaceutical Adderall Alternatives
You may find that another stimulant, or a norepinephrine-boosting non-stimulant medication such as Ritalin, is more effective for you than Adderall. Keep in mind that pharmaceutical Adderall alternatives are illegal without a prescription.
Natural and OTC Adderall Alternatives
Natural Adderall alternatives are typically gentler and support your brain’s neurotransmitter and energy-producing pathways. Caffeine, tyrosine, B vitamins, phosphatidylserine, and citicoline are common ingredients.
>>Check the best prices for MindVitality
How to Choose the Right Adderall Alternative
When choosing the best alternative to Adderall, consider the following:
The likely causes of your symptoms: Chronic stress-related inattention and fatigue may respond best to adaptogens, while B vitamins can give an energy lift
Your goals: Certain ingredients may have more specific benefits for energy, memory, or concentration
Your profession and lifestyle: If you have a physically active lifestyle, you could benefit more from ingredients such as motor function-supporting citicoline, for example.
Your age, as some ingredients such as DHA or Ginkgo biloba may protect against loss of cognitive function.
Whether you prefer supplements or medication: Supplements are the best option if you want to support your brain’s overall health and avoid artificial substances
History of side effects, including both pharmaceutical stimulants and natural ones such as caffeine
Whether you can comfortably swallow pills, or prefer a liquid supplement or chewing gum.
Your budget, including whether the supplement brand offers discounts
Best Adderall Alternative Pills Potential Benefits
The best Adderall alternatives have a range of potential benefits, including memory and focus.
Improved Memory Recall
Some ingredients such as citicoline increase levels of acetylcholine. This neurotransmitter may assist in memory retrieval.
Better Focus and Concentration
Natural dopamine boosters, such as tyrosine, are common in Adderall alternatives. Additionally, phosphatidylserine has been shown to improve ADHD symptom scores by reducing inattention.
Protect Against Cognitive Decline
Some ingredients, such as DHA and phosphatidylserine, make up part of the brain’s structure. Others are antioxidants with cell-protective properties.
Enhanced Mood
Through supporting neurotransmitter production, such as serotonin and dopamine, you may find a mood-lifting effect from these supplements. Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) supports cell growth and maintenance while improving mood [13].
Better Accessibility
Natural Adderall alternatives are available over the counter, as they are less likely to cause dangerous side effects and make general wellness claims. They are also often more affordable, especially compared to prescriptions without insurance.
>>Check the best prices for MindVitality
Adderall Alternatives Possible Side Effects
Even the best natural Adderall alternatives may have a few side effects. They mainly center around overstimulation or an agitated feeling and are most common with caffeine-containing supplements. The other main issue is the potential for allergic reactions or interactions with medications.
FAQs About Best Adderall Alternatives
If you’re new to Adderall alternatives and other best nootropics, these are some questions you may have.
Are Natural Adderall Alternatives Safe to Use?
Most natural Adderall alternatives are safe for the vast majority of people. However, negative interactions with prescription medications are possible.
Does Vyvanse Feel Like Adderall?
As Vyvanse is a stimulant, it would likely feel similar to Adderall.
What Are Some Over-the-Counter Stimulants?
Caffeine is the most popular over-the-counter stimulant, including herbal remedies rich in the substance.
Is Vyvanse an Over-the-Counter Drug?
No, Vyvanse is a prescription drug for ADHD and binge eating that may be addictive or cause other neurological or cardiovascular side effects.
Is Strattera a Stimulant Like Adderall?
Strattera is not a stimulant, but it still may increase dopamine and norepinephrine levels.
Are Adderall Alternatives Legal?
Natural alternatives to Adderall are legal, but pharmaceutical stimulants may be illegal depending on whether they are approved for the reason you take them.
Best Adderall Alternatives 2024: Final Word
The best natural Adderall alternatives do more than just boost dopamine. They also support energy, brain health and other brain chemicals like acetylcholine. This gives you more benefits, like faster reactions and better memory.
Based on our research, we think one of the best Adderall alternatives is MindVitality. It has ingredients that may lower stress and protect your brain from problems like lack of focus and mistakes in daily tasks.
If you’re not feeling our #1 pick, the other brands on our list of best Adderall alternatives are also worth considering. Regardless of what you end up with, just remember to always consult with your doctor before taking any supplement.
References
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Hirayama, S et al. “The effect of phosphatidylserine administration on memory and symptoms of attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder: a randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial.” Journal of human nutrition and dietetics: the official journal of the British Dietetic Association vol. 27 Suppl 2 (2014): 284-91. doi:10.1111/jhn.12090
Kennedy, David O. “B Vitamins and the Brain: Mechanisms, Dose and Efficacy–A Review.” Nutrients vol. 8,2 68. 27 Jan. 2016, doi:10.3390/nu8020068
Jung, Dong-Hyuk et al. “Effects of ginseng on peripheral blood mitochondrial DNA copy number and hormones in men with metabolic syndrome: A randomized clinical and pilot study.” Complementary therapies in medicine vol. 24 (2016): 40-6. doi:10.1016/j.ctim.2015.12.001
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Camfield, David A et al. “Acute effects of tea constituents L-theanine, caffeine, and epigallocatechin gallate on cognitive function and mood: a systematic review and meta-analysis.” Nutrition reviews vol. 72,8 (2014): 507-22. doi:10.1111/nure.12120
Fairbairn, Paul et al. “Combining a high DHA multi-nutrient supplement with aerobic exercise: Protocol for a randomised controlled study assessing mobility and cognitive function in older women.” Prostaglandins, leukotrienes, and essential fatty acids vol. 143 (2019): 21-30. doi:10.1016/j.plefa.2019.04.001
Limanaqi, Fiona et al. “Potential Antidepressant Effects of Scutellaria baicalensis, Hericium erinaceus and Rhodiola rosea.” Antioxidants (Basel, Switzerland) vol. 9,3 234. 12 Mar. 2020, doi:10.3390/antiox9030234
Luo, Chuanhong et al. “Natural medicines for the treatment of fatigue: Bioactive components, pharmacology, and mechanisms.” Pharmacological research vol. 148 (2019): 104409. doi:10.1016/j.phrs.2019.104409
He, Qingfeng et al. “Pine (Pinus sylvestris L.) bark proanthocyanidins affords prevention of peroxynitrite-induced l-tyrosine nitration, DNA damage and hydroxyl radical formation.” Pakistan journal of pharmaceutical sciences vol. 33,1 (2020): 141-148.
Utley, A. “The Efficacy of A Nootropic Supplement on Information Processing in Adults: A Double Blind, Placebo Controlled Study.” Biomedical Journal of Scientific & Technical Research vol. 49, 1 (2023): 40297-40305. doi:10.26717/BJSTR.2023.49.007746
Sagaro, Getu Gamo et al. “Activity of Choline Alphoscerate on Adult-Onset Cognitive Dysfunctions: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.” Journal of Alzheimer’s disease : JAD vol. 92,1 (2023): 59-70. doi:10.3233/JAD-221189
La Monica, Michael B et al. “Acute Effects of Naturally Occurring Guayusa Tea and Nordic Lion’s Mane Extracts on Cognitive Performance.” Nutrients vol. 15,24 5018. 6 Dec. 2023, doi:10.3390/nu15245018
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