Top Nootropics That Help You Sleep Better

Are you on the lookout for good supplements or nootropics for sleep? We’ve all been through situations where we struggle with sleep.

Prioritizing sleep is important as it affects cognitive performance, mood, and physiological processes.

At the time of this article, close to 30% of Canadians are experiencing sleeping problems and about a similar percentage are from other places in the world. Additionally, 2.2% of Canadians suffer from obstructive sleep apnea. Lack of sleep is linked with chronic stress; 36.3% of people sleeping less than the recommendation report feeling chronically depressed.

So many factors can result in poor quality of sleep. Things like stress and inability to relax, illness, anxiety, depression, and medications lead to poor sleep, to name a few. Discovering and tending to the root cause of sleep problems is the best way to solve it.

Nootropic supplements are mostly for improving cognitive functions such as memory and learning. However, there are some that can significantly boost your sleep quality.

1. Melatonin.

Melatonin supplements are common for reducing the time you take to fall asleep and to promote improvement in sleep quality further. It is in the same category as nootropics or cognitive enhancers because this is an essential factor for effective memory consolidation procedure that takes place while you sleep.

Melatonin supplements are best taken when you miss your "melatonin window," the part of your sleep-wake cycle when your body initiates the release of melatonin. This one-hour window is the ideal time to go to bed to give yourself the best chance of falling and staying asleep. But the timing of it all depends on your circadian rhythm — your internal body clock that controls things like when you feel awake or sleepy, and when you produce hormones like melatonin and cortisol.

SUMMARY

Melatonin is a hormone synthesized by the pineal gland of the brain which regulates other hormones and maintains the body’s natural circadian rhythm, also called the sleep/wake cycle taking place in the background of your brain.

Melatonin is best used for improving REM sleep, or for help with falling asleep.

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CBD Sleep Solution (starts at $69) and 1:1 Sleep Solution (starts at $69).

2. CBD (Cannabidiol).

CBD is a natural compound derived from the cannabis plant. It is known for its calming properties and is commonly used to promote relaxation and improve sleep quality.

CBD modulates the ECS, which plays a crucial role in regulating sleep and various physiological processes, by enhancing Anandamide levels, a neurotransmitter associated with mood regulation and pain perception. This leads to reduced anxiety and stress, promoting a state of relaxation that can support better sleep.

CBD also interacts with other neurotransmitters and hormones, like GABA, serotonin, and cortisol. GABA is a neurotransmitter that helps calm the brain and nervous system to quell anxiety and help you sleep. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter involved in mood and sleep; by modulating serotonin signaling, it makes sense that CBD helps regulate sleep patterns and promote better sleep quality. Lastly, some studies also show that CBD regulates levels of cortisol (the stress hormone) to help promote relaxation and reduce stress, which can contribute to better sleep.

SUMMARY

CBD is a natural compound derived from the cannabis plant that interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system. It modulates anandamide levels, GABA, serotonin, and cortisol, which can contribute to reduced anxiety, enhanced relaxation, improved sleep quality, and stress reduction. These effects make CBD a promising nootropic for supporting better sleep.

Its ability to promote relaxation and improve overall sleep quality suggests that it may have positive effects on various stages of the sleep cycle.

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Full Spectrum, CBD Sleep Solution, CBN Sleep Solution (melatonin-free!), and 1:1 Sleep Solution.

Read: How CBD Actually Helps You Sleep Better

3. Valerian Root (Valeriana officinalis).

Valerian Root has been used for millennia as a natural remedy for insomnia and other sleep disorders. Its calming properties are linked to the modulation of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) levels, a neurotransmitter responsible for regulating nerve impulses in the brain. Higher GABA levels can promote relaxation, reduce anxiety, improve sleep quality, reduce the time it takes to fall asleep, and potentially have positive effects on various stages of the sleep cycle.

Valerian Root has been found to have sedative effects and may help improve sleep quality and reduce the time it takes to fall asleep. It may also help regulate the body’s circadian rhythm, which can contribute to better sleep.

SUMMARY

Valerian Root contains compounds that may help increase GABA levels in the brain, promoting relaxation and reducing anxiety. Valerian Root has sedative effects and may help improve sleep quality, reduce the time it takes to fall asleep, and regulate the body’s circadian rhythm.

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CBD Sleep Solution, CBN Sleep Solution (melatonin-free!), and 1:1 Sleep Solution.

4. Passionflower (Passiflora incarnata).

Originating from the tropical regions of the Americas, Passionflower is a plant that is revered for its ability to promote relaxation and treat anxiety and insomnia. Similar to Valerian Root, Passionflower contains compounds that may help increase GABA levels in the brain, which can promote relaxation and reduce anxiety.

Passionflower has been found to have sedative effects and may help improve sleep quality and reduce the time it takes to fall asleep. Research from 2017 suggests that Passionflower can have a positive effect on sleep patterns. One study found that Passionflower significantly increases slow-wave (deep) sleep, reduces rapid eye movement sleep, and help with falling asleep more quickly. Another study found that Passionflower reduced the time it took to fall asleep and increased the duration of sleep.

SUMMARY

Passionflower, known for increasing GABA levels, offers reduced anxiety, relaxation, and relief from insomnia. Its calming effects bolster its reputation as a beneficial nootropic for sleep.

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CBD Sleep Solution, CBN Sleep Solution (melatonin-free!), and 1:1 Sleep Solution.

5. Lion's Mane (Hericium erinaceus).

Lion’s mane, Hericium Erinaceus, is a mushroom with medicinal properties, used for many years in Traditional Chinese Medicine and Asian countries, like India, Japan, and Korea. Of course, now it's a well-known nootropic.

Lion’s mane contains compounds that may help regulate sleep patterns and promote deep, restful sleep. Research suggests that lion’s mane can have positive effects on various stages of the sleep cycle.

Some studies show that Lion’s Mane's can help alleviate symptoms of stress and depression. In fact, one study referred to the effects of Lion’s Mane as ‘antidepressant-like’ because there is a direct connection between depression and inflammation in the body. Lion’s mane is anti-inflammatory, which may help reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety.

Moreover, lion’s mane contains compounds called hericenones and erinacines, which have been found to stimulate the production of nerve growth factor (NGF) in the brain. NGF is a protein that plays a crucial role in the growth, maintenance, and survival of neurons. By promoting NGF production, lion’s mane may help support cognitive function and overall brain health.

SUMMARY

Lion’s mane is a type of mushroom that contains compounds that may help regulate sleep patterns and promote deep, restful sleep. It also contains compounds that stimulate the production of nerve growth factor (NGF) in the brain, which may help support cognitive function and overall brain health. Additionally, lion’s mane fights inflammation in the body, which has a connection to depression and stress. As stress and depression are both indicated in insomnia and disrupted sleep, lion’s mane may help provide sleep by eliminating its adversaries.

These effects make lion’s mane a promising nootropic for supporting better sleep.

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Brain Stack.

Read: Lion's Mane Before Bed: How This Mushroom Supports Sound Sleep

6. Turmeric (Curcuma longa).

Turmeric, a vibrant yellow spice native to Southeast Asia, has been utilized for millennia not just for its flavor but also for its medicinal properties. The active compound in turmeric, curcumin, has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. These properties can aid in neutralizing free radicals in the body and combat inflammation which can indirectly support better sleep.

Research has indicated that curcumin can also help in managing symptoms of depression and anxiety by promoting serotonin production. Given that mood disorders can often disrupt sleep, turmeric might indirectly help in enhancing sleep quality.

SUMMARY

Turmeric, rich in the compound curcumin, offers anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits. Its potential role in mood regulation suggests it can support sleep by addressing underlying issues like anxiety and depression.

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Vitality Stack.

7. Chaga (Inonotus obliquus).

The Chaga mushroom, found primarily on birch trees in cold climates, is packed with antioxidants. This mushroom has been used traditionally to boost the immune system and improve overall health. Its high antioxidant content can counteract oxidative stress in the body, which has been linked to sleep disorders.

Furthermore, Chaga might help regulate the sleep-wake cycle by influencing various neurotransmitters involved in sleep regulation.

SUMMARY

Chaga mushroom, known for its rich antioxidant profile, can combat oxidative stress linked to sleep issues. Its influence on neurotransmitters hints at its potential to regulate sleep patterns, marking its importance as a nootropic for sleep.

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Vitality Stack.

8. Cordyceps.

Cordyceps is an adaptogenic mushroom known to promote energy and help the body better respond to physical, chemical, and biological stresses. Used for centuries in Traditional Chinese Medicine, Cordyceps has been praised for its energy-enhancing properties. Interestingly, by promoting better energy regulation during the day, Cordyceps can aid in establishing a more balanced sleep-wake cycle.

Like most adaptogens, Cordyceps can support overall well-being and maintain optimal brain function during periods of stress. Some studies suggest that Cordyceps can help improve cellular function, which may contribute to better brain function and sleep quality.

Cordycepin, a bioactive component of Cordyceps militaris, has been found to reduce sleep-wake cycles, increase NREM sleep, and decrease REM sleep in rats.

SUMMARY

Cordyceps, while renowned for its energy and immune-boosting properties, also possesses sleep-promoting and nootropic benefits. Its neuroprotective, antioxidant, anti-fatigue, and adaptogenic qualities all contribute to a foundation that supports and enhances sleep and cognition. These properties not only make it beneficial for physical well-being but also for cognitive health, both directly and indirectly.

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Energy Stack and Vitality Stack.

9. Psilocybin mushrooms (Psilocybe cubensis).

Psilocybin, found in certain types of mushrooms, is primarily known for its psychedelic effects. However, recent clinical research has been exploring its potential therapeutic benefits, especially concerning mental health. Studies have shown that, under controlled settings, psilocybin can reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety.

Given that mental health disorders can adversely affect sleep, there's an indirect association between psilocybin's benefits and sleep improvement. Additionally, its ability to alter certain neural pathways might play a role in regulating sleep patterns.

SUMMARY

Psilocybin, beyond its psychedelic properties, has shown promise in alleviating depression and anxiety symptoms. Its impact on mental health and neural pathways suggests a potential benefit for sleep, adding to its nootropic profile.

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Brain Stack, Energy Stack, and Vitality Stack.

10. Sage (Salvia lavandulifolia).

An herb has been revered for its medicinal properties for centuries. Beyond its culinary applications, sage exhibits anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and cognition-enhancing effects. Its calming properties can reduce anxiety, which is beneficial for inducing sleep.

Research has also suggested that sage can improve cognitive function, especially in the elderly, and this cognitive enhancement can indirectly influence better sleep patterns.

SUMMARY

Sage, rich in calming and cognitive-enhancing properties, can support sleep by reducing anxiety and promoting brain health. Its multifaceted benefits make it a promising nootropic for sleep.

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Brain Stack.

11. Vitamin B3 (Niacin).

Vitamin B3, commonly known as niacin, plays a vital role in over 400 enzymatic reactions in the body, crucial for converting food into energy. Adequate niacin levels can positively influence mood and reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety, both of which can interfere with sleep. Additionally, niacin has a direct impact on the synthesis of the sleep-regulating hormone, melatonin. The relationship between Vitamin B3 and serotonin, a neurotransmitter, also means that niacin can directly influence sleep cycles and mood.

SUMMARY

Vitamin B3 or niacin is essential for energy metabolism, mood regulation, and melatonin synthesis, all of which play pivotal roles in sleep regulation. Its integral roles in various body processes make it an important nootropic for sleep health.

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Brain Stack, Energy Stack, and Vitality Stack.

12. Matcha.

Matcha is a finely ground powder of specially grown and processed green tea leaves.

While it contains caffeine, which is a stimulant, matcha also boasts a high content of L-theanine. This amino acid promotes relaxation without drowsiness and can counteract the jittery effects of caffeine, resulting in a calm alertness. This balance can be especially beneficial for maintaining a consistent sleep-wake cycle.

SUMMARY

Matcha, a unique blend of caffeine and L-theanine, offers both alertness and relaxation. Its ability to promote calm without drowsiness makes it a notable nootropic for balanced sleep patterns.

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Energy Stack.

13. GABA.

It’s a gabaergic supplement for treating sleep problems, improve mood and relieve stress.

Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid (GABA) is an amino acid synthesized in the brain from Vitamin B6 and glutamate. It is a calming neurotransmitter in the central nervous system and prevents excessive stimulation of Glutamate.

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We don't formulate with GABA. However, the ingredients in our work synergistically to promote healthy GABA activity 3 ways:

1. Passionflower: Boosts GABA production in the brain, which increases GABA levels
2. Valerian Root: Slows the breakdown of GABA, which increases GABA levels
3. CBD: Enhances GABA's effects by modulating GABA receptor activity

CBD Sleep Solution, CBN Sleep Solution (melatonin-free!), and 1:1 Sleep Solution.

Are you struggling with stress, fatigue, and a lack of productivity? We can help. Message us via live chat or e-mail us for a personalized one-on-one consultation.

14. Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera).

Ashwagandha is a small shrub that grows in the Middle East, India, and parts of Africa. The root and berry are used for medicinal purposes.

Ashwagandha is primarily used for stress relief and as an adaptogen for many conditions. A study showed that Ashwagandha had a notable positive effect on sleep for the participants. There is additional evidence that this supplement can improve mood and reduce anxiety; and, to a lesser degree, nervousness, physical performance, and mindfulness. As these tend to war against sound sleep, it makes sense that a supplement that can calm the brain and reduce blood pressure can also ensure sound sleep.

SUMMARY
Ashwagandha is a supplement that has been shown to regulate cortisol, calm the brain, and reduce blood pressure. This enables it to reduce anxiety and stress and improve mood and sleep.

Final thoughts.

We all know how important sleep is to our mental and physical well-being, but sometimes we don’t prioritize it. Well done for reading up on nootropics that can help you achieve optimal sleep and better overall health. Our bodies are all different, so often, our responses to supplements vary. Do your research and try those that stand out. Don’t be disheartened if one doesn’t work for you. Try another. 

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