Mucuna pruriens, rhodiola, bacopa, oat straw, B-complex vitamins and lutein sit on the focus and mood side. Research on these ingredients is still developing, so we describe them as traditional or nutritional ingredients and never as treatments.*
VidaCalm7. Mucuna Pruriens
The velvet bean. Mucuna pruriens is a tropical climbing legume. Its seeds are a natural source of levodopa (L-dopa), the compound the body uses to make dopamine.
VidaCalmIt has a long place in Ayurvedic practice, and it is sold for mood and focus.
Good to know: This one matters most: it can interact with Parkinson's medicines such as levodopa, with MAOI antidepressants, antipsychotics, and with diabetes and blood pressure medicine. Avoid it with a history of psychosis or melanoma, and in pregnancy.
8. Rhodiola Rosea
A cold-climate adaptogen. Rhodiola rosea, called golden root or arctic root, is a hardy plant of cold, high places in Europe and Asia.
It has been used as a traditional stamina tonic, and research on mental fatigue is mixed.
Good to know: It can feel stimulating and may cause dizziness or dry mouth. Ask first if you take antidepressants or have bipolar disorder, and avoid it in pregnancy.
9. Bacopa Monnieri
An Ayurvedic memory herb. Bacopa monnieri, also called brahmi, is a small creeping herb of wet places in India and Southeast Asia.
It is traditionally linked with learning. Small studies on memory measures have mixed results and usually run eight to twelve weeks.
Good to know: It can cause stomach upset or cramps. Ask first if you take thyroid medicine or sedatives.
10. Oat Straw
Green oat tops. Oat straw is the green, milky top of the oat plant, Avena sativa, used as an herbal tea and extract.
It has traditionally been used for nervous-system comfort. Human research is limited.
Good to know: It is generally food-like in safety. People with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity should check with the seller, since oats can be cross-contaminated.
11. B-Complex Vitamins
The B vitamin group. The B vitamins are a family of eight water-soluble vitamins, including B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, B7, B9 and B12, that help the body turn food into energy.
They are found in meat, fish, eggs, dairy, legumes and whole grains. Needs are usually met through food, and supplements help some people.
Good to know: Very high amounts of vitamin B6 over a long time can harm nerves, so count the B6 from all your supplements. Ask your clinician about B vitamins if you have a medical condition.
12. Lutein
A leafy-green carotenoid. Lutein is a yellow-orange pigment found in leafy greens, eggs, corn and blueberries. It collects in the macula, the central part of the retina.
It is best known as an eye-health nutrient, and it is included here as a nutritional ingredient.
Good to know: It is generally well tolerated. Ask your clinician if you take other carotenoid supplements.
Next
See all eighteen ingredients and safety and interactions.
*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.