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Do you feel like you could do with a much-needed boost to your energy, your mood or even your sex drive? The best dopamine supplement can help you with this.
Dopamine supplements are a fantastic, natural way to increase your happiness and give yourself that often much-needed boost. Dopamine is hugely important and has a direct influence on many of your brain and bodily functions including mood, learning, memory, sleep, attention, behaviour, pleasure, reward and even movement!
In order to help you, our amazing readers, in making the best choice we've reviewed a huge range of products that best boost dopamine and came up with this shortlist of top 15 products that we believe are the best of the best in the market.
Organic Mucuna Extract contains 15% L-Dopa (the immediate precursor of dopamine) and is one of our top choices given that according to research L-Dopa is one of the best ways to increase Dopamine. It is also of great value for money and repeatedly scores high amongst its users in terms of results with several users describing it as “life changing”.
Bulk Supplements Pure Acetyl L-Carnitine (ALCAR) Powder has proven benefits to the brain and overall mental well-being as well as helping with weight loss. With no real smell, it dissolves instantly in a glass of water and begins a noticeable improvement in mood within 10 minutes. This is a much liked supplement that should be given strong consideration.
Jarrow Formulas Ps-100 containing no nut / wheat / soy or dairy products. This supplement is much liked by its users who report its success in boosting general happiness, memory and concentration.
Nature's Bounty Ginkgo Biloba helps with general brain functions and improves memory. Users report a noticeable difference in memory and are really satisfied especially given it's value for money.
Now Foods, L-Theanine 200mg is a double strength supplement aimed at improving cardiovascular function and stress management. Using a naturally occurring amino acid found in green tea it promotes successful relaxation without the drowsy side effect found in many similar products for stress relief.
Doctor's Best SAM-e 400 proven in 18 controlled human trials published over a span of 40 years, this supplement enhanced mood, mental well-being as well as promoting comfort and better physical movement. Though a little on the expensive side users have repeatedly scored this product with a 5-star rating due to its effectiveness.
NutriGold Bacopa GOLD contains Bacosides that supports memory and provides cognitive enhancement along with their sustainably sourced, fair-trade ingredients is one of the best memory supplements although some users have reported stomach cramps when using this product.
Turmeric Curcumin Complex with BioPerine marketing their product as 50% more potent and 50% more capsules then competitors, their value for money can’t be contested. An anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant, users love its effectiveness in relieving pain from often debilitating illnesses.
Jarrow Formulas Citicoline is primarly used for brain function support. This supplement is highly rated for its effectiveness and value for money.
Now Foods L-Tyrosine is another great supplement that supports mental wellbeing by helping to regulate dopamine levels. Users report increased energy levels and a more stable mood as a result of taking it.
Full-Spectrum Muira Puama Root is a natural sexual performance enhancer for both men and women famous in Brazil. Some users report feeling a strong 'lift' as well as enhanced sexual performance when using this product.
Sulbutiamine this mood, motivation and memory enhancer might be in the higher price category however it's one of the most effective dopamine supplements on the market. Taking effect in as little as 30 minutes and with very few side effects reported.
Finally, we’ve also decided to review three caffeine products due to caffeine's effectiveness and it's popularity. ProLabCaffeine Maximum Potency, Matcha Green Tea Powder and NumiOrganic Tea Mate Lemon all boost concentration and metabolism while also helping with weight loss and energy levels.
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Best Dopamine Supplements Comparison Table
Picture | Product | Main Ingredient |
|---|---|---|
 | Mucuna Pruriens (L-Dopa) | |
| Acetyl L-Carnitine | |
| Phosphatidylserine | |
| Ginkgo Biloba | |
| L-Theanine
| |
| S-Adenosyl Methionine | |
| Bacopa Monnieri | |
| Curcumin | |
| CDP Choline | |
| L-Tyrosine | |
| Muira Puama | |
| Sulbutiamine | |
| Caffeine | |
| Green Tea (Caffeine, L-Theanine, Catechins) | |
| Yerba Mate (Caffeine, Theobromine) |
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The Best Dopamine Supplement Reviews
Mucuna Pruriens also called Velvet Bean, contains L-Dopa (also known as Levodopa) which increases dopamine production since its a dopamine precursor and therefore gets converted into dopamine in the brain. Mucuna Pruriens is used to treat mood (as an anti-depressant), improve memory and also has anti-aging benefits.
Mucuna is beneficial for aging since it increases production of growth hormone which in turn helps sleep, physical ability and boosts libido.
Organic Mucuna Extract is a 100% vegetarian formula containing 15% L-Dopa and gives really good results at a very reasonable price.
Made from 800mg standardized Mucuna Pruriens extract, each serving provides 120mg of L-Dopa. Since L Dopa is a dopamine precursor it is highly effective together with other supplements that affects dopamine such as caffeine. This supplement has high satisfaction feedback among users because of it's ability to increased cognitive function, memory and improved sexual performance. Dopamine and testosterone is highly correlated to each other, one of them boosts the other etc. Hence, L-Dopa is highly successful in increasing both dopamine as well as testosterone levels. L-Dopa from Mucuna Pruriens is one of the best supplements for patients with Parkinson Disease.
Things We Liked
- Great value
- Boosts dopamine as well as testosterone and growth hormone
- Dopamine Precursor
- 15% L-Dopa
- Natural Ingredients
Things We Didn't Like
- Some users report increased feelings of aggression
Acetyl-L-carnitine or ALCAR is an acetylated form of L-carnitine which is naturally produced in the body and is derived from the two essential amino acids Methionine and Lysine. It promotes increase mental ability and mood enhancement as well as both weight loss and increased sexual fertility. It is especially effective in increasing fertility in men. Additionally, this supplement can lower blood pressure to improve heart health and reduce anxiety and feelings of stress. It can help age-related degeneration and Parkinson’s disease.
Bulk Supplements Pure Acetyl-L-Carnitine (ALCAR) Powder is a reputable option in the L-Carnitine field of supplements. The packaging includes an easy to follow graph on correct dosage to take. Users reported good results shortly after dosing and this product scores highly amongst older users who report increased energy levels and increased vitality.
Things We Liked
- Helps increase cognitive ability
- Helps fight against age related degeneration and Parkinson symptom
- Increased testosterone function
- Very good customer satisfaction
Things We Didn't Like
- Risk for side effects if you already have problems with your thyroid function
- You might need to increase Biotin intake while taking Carnitine if you have hair loss
Phosphatidylserine or PS is a type of fat compound that is vital for normal brain function. It decreases cortisol and is helpful in keeping stress levels low and testosterone levels high. It stimulates dopamine production and is used to help with age-related decline as well as to help treat ADHD and to increase athletic performance.
Jarrow Formulas Ps-100 scores highly in customer satisfaction in promoting happiness and wellbeing. Customers report increased sexual performance as well as increases in concentration, memory, general well-being and stress reduction. Recent studies have found a strong link between phosphatidylserine and increased memory which validates what a lot of customers are experiencing from the supplement.
Things We Liked
- Simulates dopamine production and boost mood
- Helps increase Athletic performance
Things We Didn't Like
- Not as effective as Dopamine precursors such as L-Dopa
Ginkgo Biloba is a supplement that is derived from the leaves of a type of tree native to China only.
Used extensively in traditional Chinese medicine it is used to enhance cognitive function and memory. It is widely belived it does this by increasing blood flow to the brain.
It is also used to reduce stress as well as treating dementia and Alzheimer disease.
Nature's Bounty Ginkgo Biloba supports healthy brain function and helps fight age-related decline. It comes in easy to swallow 120mg capsules which are double the dosage of most of other similar Ginkgo products on the market. Again a product that scores highly in customer satisfaction despite studies that have failed to find a link between Ginkgo Biloba and increased brain function. We belive that Ginkgo is effective since thousands of years of use in Chinese medicine has proven its use.
Things We Liked
- Authenticated by the US Food and Drug Administration
- High customer satisfaction
Things We Didn't Like
- Numerous studies that find results to be inconclusive
L-Theanine is a non-dietary amino acid that is found nearly exclusively in teas from Camellia Sinensis. It promotes relaxation and stress reduction without sedation.
L-Theanine effects are unique and one of the best supplements there is to increase dopamine, focus, motivation and concentration.
Users with high anxiety levels have reported really successful results within less then an hour of ingestion. This would confirm the findings of studies that have found a noticeable link between L-Theanine intake and increased alertness and memory capability.
L-Theanine is one of our favourite supplements here at Anabolic Health and we recommend it to anyone who needs to reduce stress.
Things We Liked
- Strong clinical evidence to suggest its effectiveness
- Good promoter of relaxation
- Can be used to reduce high blood pressure
Things We Didn't Like
- Previous users need to be aware of a change in formula as the product no longer contains Suntheanine brand L-Theanine
S-Adenosyl methionine or SAMe is a compound that provides the body with Methyl groups to support metabolic reactions. Low level of SAMe are associated with low mood and depression. SAM-e supplement is known to increase the levels of epinephrine, serotonin and dopamine in the brain. SAMe, is capable of crossing the blood-brain barrier, and works by enabling the body to make more of this neurotransmitter dopamine.
Doctor's Best SAMe 400 is a highly regarded supplement utilizing only the highest quality Italian SAMe available on the market. Within 2 weeks many users report an upsurge in mood and positive outlook which demonstrates SAMe's effectiveness. In our view, this product has to be considered in the top among supplements for increasing dopamine and serotonin.
Things We Liked
- Many proven clinical trials
- Highly effective at crossing the blood-brain barrier
- Effective Mood booster
- Very high customer satisfaction
Things We Didn't Like
- Mechanism of how SAMe effect the brain is still not fully understood
Bacopa GOLD contains the herb Bacopa Monnieri which contain triterpenoid saponins which support better overall mental wellbeing, attention, memory and learning. Aside from improved mental ability studies have also found Bacopa to possess antioxidant qualities that help protect the body from free radicals.
NutriGold Bacopa GOLD contains 55% Bacosides and is made from the Synapsa form of Bacopa that has been the subject of more than 30 years of clinical studies and is non-GMO. Each capsule of Bacopa GOLD provides 320mg which is suggested to be the optimum dose to achieve the best cognitive improvements.
Users report Bacopa taking about 3 weeks on average to give noticeable results but then felt good improvements is mental focus and pain relief.
Things We Liked
- Subject to high quality assurance tests
- Effective at increasing memory function
- Effective pain reliever
Things We Didn't Like
- Reports of side effects such as stomach cramps
Curcumin is a chemical in Turmeric root that acts as an anti-inflammatory and antioxidant and also has anti-cancer properties. It has become increasingly popular as a dietary supplement in recent years. It has been found to be a successful antidepressant though further trials are needed to suggest clinical use.
Pure Turmeric Curcumin Complex contains BioPerine for maximum absorption. This is an extract from black pepper. Each capsule contains 50mg of high quality curcumin, 95% curcuminoids per dose. This high concentration of curcuminods is effective in boosting neurotransmitters because of it's effect on MAOI. Customers are repeatedly satisfied with the results from this product, particularity in terms of pain reduction.
Things We Liked
- Effective at boosting neurotransmitters
- Effective anti-inflammatory
- Great value for money
Things We Didn't Like
- Black Pepper Extract can interact with the absorbation of certain medications
Citicoline is a brain stimulant that increases dopamine receptors density, leading to increased well-being, concentration and memory. A study, published in the August edition of the Journal of Attention Disorders showed significantly increased motor speed and improved attention span. It also improves visual function in patients with Glaucoma and Amblyopia.
Jarrow Formulas Citicoline has been described as a 'miracle' and comes highly recommended by numerous users. A strong increase in cognitive ability and general mood are repeated assertions. This is no doubt due to its ability to increase dopamine receptor densities allowing for more uptake of dopamine in the brain.
Things We Liked
- Highly rated for its effectiveness in clinical trials
- Increases dopamine receptor densities which lead to much improved cognitive function
Things We Didn't Like
- Some reports of insomnia and brain fog
L-Tyrosine is a non-essential amino acid that helps regulate noradrenaline and dopamine levels to support mental alertness.
It is found in most dairy products. It is an amino acid that is part of the building blocks of protein.The body makes Tyrosine from another amino acid called Phenylalanine. Amino acid L-Tyrosine then gets converted into the compound L-Dopa which itself then gets converted into Dopamine.
Now Foods L-Tyrosine offers smooth and balanced improvements to your general mood. Users state that unlike many other products it doesn’t give you that spike of energy associated with for example caffeine. Users are happy with it's effectiveness due in fact to L-Tyrosine being part precursor to Dopamine, though some state that it takes time to give effective results. This is most likely due to the body needing to convert it to L-Dopa prior to producing Dopamine.
Things We Liked
- Gets converted into L-Dopa which is a precursor to dopamine, so an effective way to increase dopamine production
- Studies show it is also effective at reducing blood pressure
Things We Didn't Like
- L-Tyrosine gets converted into L-Dopa before dopamine so less effective then using L-Dopa supplements directly
Muira Puama also known as Ptychopetalum olacoides (or P. uncinatum), is said to enhance sexual function as an aphrodisiac, especially in older men. Muira Puama is a plant famous in Brazil. The bark and root are used to make medicine.
Full-Spectrum Muira Puama Root is a good option when seeking to enhance libido and erectile strength. Dr. Jacques Waynberg undertook a study using Muira Puama on men who had a lack of libido and impotence. It was published in 1994 in the American Journal of Natural Medicine. The results were roughly 62% reported a dynamic effect on erectile function.
Customer feedback seems to favour this supplement though there are reports of good and bad side effects such as lucid erotic dreams and headaches.
Things We Liked
- Increase in Dopamine affecting libido and enhancing erections
Things We Didn't Like
- Can cause headaches
Sulbutiamine is the trade name of Isobutyryl Thiamine Disulfide and is sometimes also referred to as brand names Ereon and Arcalion. Sulbutiamine is an enhanced version of Vitamin B1 also known as Thiamine. It is a nootropic which is a class of supplements shown to help improve memory, learning capacity, decision-making, concentration and focus.
Sulbutiamine should be on any top dopamine supplements short list as it is highly rated by it's users for it's effectiveness and fast acting formula. Dosage needs to be adjusted per patients needs so start on the lower 400mg dose and slowly build up. This is a highly effective supplement that the majority of users notice effects from.
Things We Liked
- Shown to be effective for reducing fatigue
- Does not have a noticeable tolerance build-up unlike most other Dopamine supplements
- Improves Dopaminergic and Glutaminergic dopamine neurotransmission
Things We Didn't Like
- Side effects such as nausea and insomnia
Most of the developed world take caffeine in some form or another. Possibly the most used stimulant it works by reducing the neurotransmitter adenosine which signals that you are tired. This will make you feel more awake and refreshed.
ProLab Caffeine Maximum Potency provides the energizing effects of caffeine without added sugar or calories to support your training needs without compromising your dietary goals. Very high user satisfaction rate due to the high dosage and low price.
Things We Liked
- Quick boost in energy
- Helps reduce weight
Things We Didn't Like
- Cause insomnia if taken late in the afternoon or evening
- Edgy feeling for some users
Matcha Green Tea Powder is Green Tea but you get a much more concentrated dose since you consume the whole powdered leaf. Matcha contains much higher amounts of L-Theanine and Caffeine then regular Green Tea.
This 100% certified organic Matcha increases energy and focus, lifting your vitality and concentration by releasing it's nutrients slowly. Matcha will provide a steady energy boost throughout the day without the caffeine crash. This is one of the most healthy drinks there is.
Things We Liked
- One of the most healthy drinks you can consume
- Can be used in a variety of tasty drinks (tea, smoothies, milkshakes etc)
- Great packaging to keep it fresh
Things We Didn't Like
- Some users might not enjoy the taste of the powder since it really doesn't disolve competely
Numi Organic Tea Mate Lemon is a tea that will not only give you a boost but is also delicious to drink! If that wasn’t enough it also has a wide range of other health benefits and it's 100% organic, Fair Trade Certified, non-GMO verified and boxes are made with 100% recycled material.
Mate is nickname for Yerba Mate which is a herb very popular as a coffee substitute in South America. Yerba Mate contains caffeine same as in coffee, but it releases this into the blood stream slower and over a longer period of time compared to coffee. It also contains the stimulant Theobromine which can also be found in Cacao (Chocolate). Theobromine has different stimulating effects then caffeine and affects mainly the heart which can help to strenghten it over time.
Things We Liked
- Tasty Tea
- Ethical and environmentally friendly
- Also contains Theobromine
Things We Didn't Like
- Some users can be extra sensitive to Theobromine's effects
What Is Dopamine and What Does It Do?
Dopamine is a neurotransmitter, which in basic terms means it is a chemical that is responsible for passing signals between the billions of neurons that make up our brains. It is produced naturally in our brains during 'reward times' like eating, exercise and sex.
Maintaining good levels of Dopamine will help keep people feeling happy and energized. A recent study that appeared in the neuroscience journal Neuron by researchers at the Universitat Jaume I of Castellón, has found a clearer understanding of how Dopamine works and how dopamine deficiency is a key reason behind depression, addiction and even diseases like Parkinson’s.
Dopamine also boosts testosterone levels so it can be used to effectively increase sexual performance.
Conclusion
With so many Dopamine release supplements on the market today, it’s hard to pick the best supplements for increasing dopamine to give you the best results. All products, including natural dopamine supplements, run the risk of undesired side effects so we recommend a few simple steps before you make your final decision.
Before considering even starting any dopamine supplement you should first examine your lifestyle and diet to see if there is anything that can be improved. A healthy diet, regular exercise and a good work/life balance will all greatly increase your chances of improving your well-being.
Do your research. Do extensive background research including reading customer feedback to try to get an honest understanding of how well each product works. This will take time but it is worth it to ensure that you reap maximum benefits of the supplements you decide to try.
Once you have selected a product consult your Doctor or/and health care provider to get the best possible advice you can, particularly if you have an existing disorder such as Bipolar, ADHD, ADD etc.
Of all the products we looked at we tend to favour L-Dopa based products as they will guarantee an increase in Dopamine production. L-Dopa is the best Dopamine booster on the market as it is directly converted into Dopamine in the brain.
Organic Mucuna Extract is the best choice as it is a really effective all round Dopamine supplement and the majority of it's customers do achieve high levels of success with increasing cognitive ability, memory, and mood with few reported side effects. Mucuna Pruriens is our #1 choice when it comes to increasing Dopamine naturally.
Image credits: Amazon.com
