Nootropics are a class of compounds or substances that help increase mental performance. Also known as “smart drugs,” “brain boosters,” or “memory enhancers,” nootropics have become widely sought after because of their proven success in increasing cognitive function, particularly in improving memory, creativity, concentration, motivation and attention.
The popularity of nootropics today — whether as prescription drugs or as dietary supplements — can be easily gleaned from their ever-increasing demand worldwide. In 2021, the global nootropics market size was valued at approximately USD $10.61-billion — a value that is expected to climb to a staggering USD $29.24-billion by 2028.
Diversified market
Interestingly, the demand for brain boosters and smart drugs are no longer exclusively related to aging, dementia, and other degenerative conditions that cause a steep decline cognitive functions. Around the world, steadily growing numbers of young and healthy individuals — majority of whom are students, professionals, and athletes — have become regular consumers of nootropics in the form of dietary health supplements, in order to improve their focus, enhance memory, even help them relax and sleep better.
Studies also reveal that the lifestyle impacts of COVID-19 have made significant contributions in amplifying the demand for nootropics, as mental health becomes more widely recognized as a critical factor in achieving holistic wellbeing. To push back against the many different stresses and changes brought about by the “new normal,” people of all ages and from all walks of life are turning towards safe and accessible “brain food” to improve their cognitive health, causing a surge in demand for products with natural nootropic ingredients such as coffee, certain varieties of mushrooms, ginseng, and the like.