Vinpocetine is one of the most regarded man-made dietary supplements meant to boost mental powers and enhance memory and cognitive functions. It is not found as such in the nature but is developed in the laboratory using some exotic plant products. It acts as a brain and nerve tonic by increasing the flow of blood to the brain. It is also known to repair the worn out nerve cells and hence increase the functional abilities of the brain especially in older people. The substance is also known to prevent the onset of deadly nervous disorders like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease. Historical Context Vinpocetine is not a natural substance and was prepared for the first time in the laboratory in Germany where it is being used as a dietary supplement since the first time it was prepared. The preparation of the substance in the laboratory needs a lot of tedious lab work which makes it somewhat costly. More than a hundred studies have been conducted on the safety and effectiveness of the supplement by the creator Gedeon Richter. There are also some natural plant-based alternatives of the product but the actual Vinpocetine is made in the laboratory and the lab made substance is actually the most effective one.

Mechanism of Action

The exact mechanism of action of the supplement is still under investigation. On a shallower level we have observed that the supplement increases the flow of blood to the brain and nerve cells hence increasing the amount of oxygen and nutrients the brain gets. Due to this the brain can function more efficiently and its functional capabilities increase many fold. It is also observed that it increases the immunity of the nerve cells against infections and viruses. Under the effect of the supplement, the brain cells also have a greater tendency of repairing themselves after injuries. All these factors combine to empower and safeguard the brain.

Effects

The studies in laboratory and the observations in practice have shown the following effects of the supplement in the users.

• The users have experienced increased mental powers and memory functions and this has been confirmed by the electroencephalographs of the subjects
• Increased blood flow to the brain decreases the risks of strokes and attacks of paralysis in the users.
• The risk of the onset of diseases like Alzheimer and Parkinson’s disease
• It is known to decrease the rate of decline of mental function with age
• Users have reported that they can focus better when they have used the supplement

Side Notes

A number of studies have been conducted by researchers and doctors which confirm that the substance is safe to be used as a dietary supplement by adults on long term basis. The best results of the supplement are gained when the supplement is used continuously for long time. The dosage is determined depending on a number of factors like the age, weight and general health and fitness of the user. The use of the supplement in pregnant women has not yet been studied.