Plant-based nootropics are a diverse group of natural drugs that can improve cognitive
abilities through various physiological mechanisms, especially in cases where these functions are
weakened or impaired. In many cases, the nootropics enhance erythrocyte plasticity and inhibit
aggregation, which improves the blood’s rheological properties and increases its flow to the brain.
Many of these formulations possess antioxidant activity that protects brain tissue from neurotoxicity
and improves the brain’s oxygen supply. They can induce the synthesis of neuronal proteins, nucleic
acids, and phospholipids for constructing and repairing neurohormonal membranes. These natural
compounds can potentially be present in a great variety of herbs, shrubs, and even some trees
and vines. The plant species reviewed here were selected based on the availability of verifiable
experimental data and clinical trials investigating potential nootropic effects. Original research
articles, relevant animal studies, meta-analyses, systematic reviews, and clinical trials were included
in this review. Selected representatives of this heterogeneous group included Bacopa monnieri (L.)
Wettst., Centella asiatica (L.) Urban, Eleutherococcus senticosus (Rupr. & Maxim.) Maxim., Ginkgo
biloba L., Lepidium meyenii Walp., Panax ginseng C.A. Meyer, Paullinia cupana Kunth, Rhodiola rosea L., Schisandra chinensis (Turcz.) Baill., and Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal. The species are depicted and
described, together with their active components and nootropic effects, and evidence of their efficacy
is presented. The study provides brief descriptions of the representative species, their occurrence,
history, and the chemical composition of the principle medicinal compounds, with uses, indications,
experimental treatments, dosages, possible side effects, and contraindications. Most plant nootropics
must be taken at optimal doses for extended periods before measurable improvement occurs, but
they are generally very well tolerated. Their psychoactive properties are not produced by a single
molecule but by a synergistic combination of several compounds. The available data suggest that
including extracts from these plants in medicinal products to treat cognitive disorders can have
substantial potential therapeutic benefits.