What Are the 5 Top Rated Nootropics for Energy?

In a world where quick fixes dominate the energy market - think sugary drinks, synthetic caffeine shots and high-stimulant tablets - it’s easy to get caught in a cycle of spikes and crashes. While these conventional options may offer short-term stimulation, they often leave users jittery, anxious, or downright exhausted. In contrast, clean and sustainable energy fuels your mind and body throughout the day without the dreaded slump. That’s where nootropics come in.

Nootropics are natural or synthetic substances that enhance cognitive function, and several have been scientifically validated to support energy levels - not just by revving up your nervous system, but by improving how your body and brain produce and manage energy at a cellular level. To identify the top-rated nootropics for energy, we’ve assessed each based on three key criteria:

• Sustained energy without crashes

• Minimal side effects

• Additional cognitive benefits

In this article, we’ll explore five of the most effective energy-enhancing nootropics backed by science and used by high performers around the globe. Best of all, many of these are found in Shine+ products - all natural for lasting energy, improved mental clarity, and overall well-being.

1. Natural Caffeine Sources: A Smoother Energy Boost

Caffeine is the world’s most widely consumed stimulant - but not all caffeine is created equal. Synthetic caffeine, common in energy drinks and pills, is rapidly absorbed into the bloodstream, causing a sharp spike in alertness followed by an inevitable crash. In contrast, natural caffeine sources like green tea, guarana, and yerba mate are absorbed more gradually. These plants also contain additional compounds such as L-theanine and polyphenols, which help modulate caffeine’s effects, leading to a smoother and more sustained energy boost.

For example, green tea provides both caffeine and L-theanine, a combination that has been shown in studies to improve attention and focus without increasing anxiety or heart rate. This makes it ideal for those seeking both physical and mental energy.

Found in Shine+: Shine+ includes natural caffeine from green tea & green coffee beans, delivering a calm, clean lift with improved cognitive performance and no harsh comedown.

2. B Vitamins – Especially B12: Fuel for Cellular Energy

B vitamins, particularly vitamin B12, play a crucial role in converting the food we eat into usable energy. They help your body produce red blood cells, support mitochondrial function (your cells’ energy factories), and facilitate the creation of neurotransmitters involved in focus and motivation.

Vitamin B12 is especially important for vegans and vegetarians, who are more likely to be deficient due to the vitamin’s primary sources being animal-based. A lack of B12 can lead to fatigue, brain fog, and even mood issues.

Other B vitamins like B6 and B5 are also involved in stress regulation and adrenal health, which directly impacts your body’s energy levels during demanding periods.

Found in Shine+: Shine+ includes a full spectrum of B vitamins, including bioavailable forms of B12, to support steady, natural energy and brain health.

3. L-Theanine: The Relaxation and Focus Enhancer

L-Theanine is an amino acid commonly found in tea leaves, particularly green tea, known for its calming effects and its ability to promote focus and mental clarity. It works by increasing levels of neurotransmitters like serotonin, dopamine, and GABA, which help regulate mood, stress, and focus. L-Theanine also has the unique ability to promote a state of relaxed alertness, meaning it can help reduce anxiety while keeping you sharp and attentive.

Unlike traditional stimulants that can cause jitteriness or a crash, L-Theanine promotes a more balanced energy, enhancing focus and concentration without overstimulation. Clinical studies have demonstrated that L-Theanine improves cognitive performance, especially under stressful conditions, while maintaining a calm, clear state of mind.

Found in Shine+: Yes - Shine+ uses L-Theanine for its scientifically-supported ability to enhance mental clarity, reduce stress, and promote sustained, calm energy without the jitters.

4. Turmeric: The Anti-Inflammatory Powerhouse

Turmeric, a vibrant yellow root commonly used in traditional medicine, is known for its powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. The active compound in turmeric, curcumin, has been shown to help reduce inflammation in the body, which can be a major contributor to fatigue and mental sluggishness. By supporting healthy brain function and reducing oxidative stress, turmeric promotes clarity, focus, and overall vitality.

Unlike stimulants that may cause quick energy spikes followed by crashes, turmeric works to support sustained energy levels and mental sharpness by addressing the root causes of fatigue and inflammation. Clinical research suggests that turmeric can also support cognitive health and improve mood, helping you stay energized and focused even during stressful or demanding times.

Found in Shine+: Yes - Shine+ uses turmeric for its scientifically-backed ability to reduce inflammation, boost cognitive function, and support overall energy and well-being.

5. Ginkgo Biloba: Enhancing Circulation and Cognitive Function

Ginkgo Biloba, one of the oldest living tree species, has long been used in traditional medicine to improve circulation and support cognitive function. Rich in antioxidants, Ginkgo Biloba is known to enhance blood flow, particularly to the brain, which can help improve focus, memory, and mental clarity. It works by increasing the circulation of oxygen and nutrients to the brain, leading to better cognitive performance and a greater sense of mental alertness.

Unlike many energy boosters that focus solely on stimulating the brain, Ginkgo supports a more natural form of sustained energy by optimizing circulation and brain function. It's particularly beneficial for individuals seeking to improve their focus and mental clarity, especially in high-stress or fatigue-prone situations.

Found in Shine+: Yes - Shine+ uses Ginkgo Biloba for its scientifically-supported ability to enhance cognitive function, improve circulation, and promote sustained mental energy.

Synergy Over Stimulation

What makes these nootropics truly effective is how they work through different pathways in the body. Rather than overstimulating the nervous system like many high-caffeine drinks, these compounds:

• Support cellular energy

• Enhance mental alertness 

• Balance stress and fatigue

• Provide clean stimulation 

When combined - as they are in Shine+ products - their benefits are not simply additive, but synergistic. You get physical energy, mental clarity, and emotional balance all in one formula, without the crash, jitters, or sleep disruption common with synthetic alternatives.

While conventional stimulants may offer temporary energy, they often come with an inevitable crash - and do little to support your brain in the long run. The five nootropics covered here - natural caffeine, L-Theanine, Turmeric and Ginkgo Biloba - deliver a more sustainable and holistic approach to energy. Each works through unique biological pathways, creating a foundation for true vitality and cognitive performance.

At Shine+, we’ve carefully formulated our products with these evidence-backed nootropics to help you unlock your energy potential every day. No sugar spikes. No afternoon crashes. Just clean, focused energy - when and where you need it most.

Explore our full range and feel the power of natural, sustainable energy - powered by nootropics, trusted by high performers.