Some swear by its effects while others frown upon its long list of ingredients. But no matter which side of the debate you belong to, Qualia Mind remains one of the top-tier nootropic stacks available out there currently. In the following review, we'd like to examine everything from its pricing to its safety score and almost everything else you need to know.
Quick Facts
Qualia Mind Review 2020: What You Need To Know
This is a blend of 28 ingredients among them nootropics, multivitamins, and energy-enhancers. It's produced by a company called Neurohacker Collective which has its headquarters in California.
The brain supplement is categorized as non-GMO, gluten-free and 100% vegan-friendly. What's more? A closer look at its list of ingredients proves that it's 100% natural i.e. you won't find any lab-made stuff in it. Only earth-grown ingredients (more on this a little later).
4 Flaws Worth Keeping In Mind
It'd be a shame for us to mention the good stuff about this product and fail to mention the bad ones. So, before we proceed any further, these are the downsides the Neurohacker salesteam would never mention to you.
#1: Quite Pricey
At $119 per bottle, this is one of the most expensive brain pills available on the markets currently. And while it contains some expensive ingredients, we think cheaper stacks exist e.g. Mind Lab Pro, Alpha Brain, and Performance Mind Lab.
#2: Too Many Capsules to Take Daily
Can you imagine having to take 7 capsules on a day to day basis? Crazy, right? We'd, however, like to note that we have seen some people open the capsules to get the powder which they then mix with fruit juice and drink.
From the feedback we've gathered so far, the capsule doesn't leave a weird after-taste behind if taken that way.
#3: Some Key Ingredients are Under-Dosed
Some ingredients are provided at lower-than-recommended dosages. For example, you get N-Acetyl L-Tyrosine (NALT) at 250mg which is below the 300mg recommended daily intake. Alpha GPC is also underdosed at 200mg instead of the recommended 250mg to 600mg intake.
#4: Contains Caffeine
This is kind of a big deal to us because we're generally against the use of caffeine. Caffeine is addictive and has some weird side effects e.g. jitters and stomach cramps. Simply put, it's a cheap ingredient that shouldn't form part of a top-tier pre-made stack.
Fortunately, there's a caffeine-free version of it. If you're as picky as we are, you can find it here.
A Closer Look at its Ingredients
This stack is packed to the brim with ingredients including nootropic compounds, neuro-vitamins, antioxidants, amino acids, adaptogen extracts, and choline donors. And thanks to its wide spectrum of ingredients, it can target multiple pressure points. This increases its probability of working for different people.
However, with all these ingredients, it becomes difficult to know what works best for you and what doesn't.
That said, here's the full list of Qualia Mind ingredients:
1. Bacopa monnieri Extract- 300mg
Bacopa monnieri has been shown to have adaptogenic, neuroprotective, and nootropic effects ( 1). Actually, its leaf extract is used to improve memory formation, enhance mood, and reduce stress.
As far as the dosage is concerned, QM contains 300mg of Bacopa monnieri which is the recommended daily dosage for this noot.
2. Rhodiola Rosea Extract - 300mg
Rhodiola is a Scandinavian herb that contains salidrosides and rosavins as its main active compounds. This ingredient is known to increase levels of serotonin, dopamine, and melatonin ( 2). As such, it not only helps to improve mood and promote relaxation but also helps to fight fatigue and reduce stress.
The 300mg in the stack is more than enough to calm your mind down. This is because the recommended dosage is 50mg to 600mg.
3. Uridine 5' Monophosphate - 250mg
This is a naturally occurring nucleic acid that is believed to support both short and long-term learning, memory, attention, and executive function ( 3). What's more? It may help increase dopamine and NGF levels.
With the optimal dosage being between 150mg to 500mg, it's clear that this nootropic contains potent levels of this ingredient.
4. N-Acetyl L-Tyrosine - 250mg
N-Acetyl-L-Tyrosine is an acetylated form of tyrosine which is an amino acid. And as it turns out, research has shown that Tyrosine may help balance the levels of GABA and serotonin hormones. It also helps improve memory, learning, attention, and concentration ( 4).
However, this ingredient is slightly under-dosed as it contains only 250mg yet the recommended daily dosage is 300mg.
5. L-Theanine - 200mg
This is yet another amino-acid in Neurohacker Qualia Mind that's commonly found in green tea. It boasts neuroprotective effects and studies suggest that it may help enhance memory ( 5). On top of that, L-Theanine is known to promote relaxation and attention by increasing alpha brain waves.
And the best part is that it may help reduce the side-effects of caffeine and protect neurons from damage. What's more, it contains 200mg which is within the ideal amount in a given day.
6. Alpha-GPC - 200mg
Alpha-GPC is a natural cholinergic compound that can be obtained from soy or sunflower. Studies suggest that it may help increase the production of acetylcholine thereby improving your mood and mental energy ( 6).
Also, it helps increase choline levels in the brain as well as the production of the growth hormone. Unfortunately, it's a bit under-dosed. The optimal amounts are between 250mg and 600mg but it only contains 200mg.
7. Cognizin (Citicoline) - 150mg
This is a compound that is made up of cytidine and choline. Generally, cognizin helps reduce age-related memory impairment as well as cognitive decline.
On top of that, this compound may help increase the production of dopamine and acetylcholine in the brain ( 7). As a result, this improves your concentration, mood, attention, and learning. But with optimal dosage being 250 mg and above, there is no doubt that it's a bit under-dosed.
8. Organic Coffeeberry - 90mg Caffeine
Also known as coffee cherry or coffee fruit, coffeeberry is made from organic coffee fruits. It contains a minimum of 70% caffeine plus polyphenols. And as you're probably aware, caffeine is one of the most used nootropic compounds.
It not only supports mood but also cognitive performance and exercise performance ( 8). And with the recommended dosage being between 50mg and 200mg, Qualia contains just the right amounts. The 90mg of caffeine is actually equivalent to one cup of coffee.
9. Phosphatidylserine - 100mg
This is a naturally occurring compound that is found in the brain in very high concentrations. Studies show that it can minimize fatigue, stress, forgetfulness, and attention deficit ( 9).
It also plays a major role in increasing processing speed, working memory, and accuracy. But here is the best part; it is optimally dosed so you get to enjoy all its benefits.
10. Gingko Biloba - 50mg
Gingko Biloba is a plant that contains flavonoid glycosides compounds which are powerful antioxidants. As such, it can help reduce any damaging effect to the cells. It may also help neutralize oxidative stress and reduce cortisol thanks to its adaptogenic effect ( 10).
However, it appears like it's a little bit under-dosed since the ideal amount is 120mg yet it only contains 50mg.
11. Mucuna pruriens (Velvet Bean)- 100mg
Mucuna pruriens is a bean that is popularly known for its mood-enhancing effects. It works by boosting the production of dopamine and serotonin which helps create a feel-good effect.
Besides, its seeds have been shown to reduce the secretion of cortisol hormone which is responsible for stress. Studies also suggest that it can be used to minimize free radicals ( 11).
Generally, the optimal dosage is around 200mg to 500mg. However, this pre-made stack only contains 100mg of it meaning it's slightly under-dosed.
12. Pyrroloquinoline Quinone (PQQ) - 10mg
PQQ is a mitochondrial nutrient that plays a major role in promoting cellular energy ( 12). In the brain, this ingredient helps in supporting healthy cognition and memory with aging.
But you know what the best part is? Well, it is used in the optimal dosages so you don't have to worry about not experiencing its full effects.
13. Huperzia Serrata - 5mg
This is a powerful natural synaptic enzyme that can support neuroplasticity, learning, and memory. It also works by inhibiting an enzyme called acetylcholinesterase ( 13). This causes a steady build-up of acetylcholine which helps enhance multiple measures of mental performance.
As far as dosages are concerned, it contains 5mg which apparently is optimal. This is because it has been proven to be effective even in dosages as low as 50mcg.
Other Ingredients
Coleus forskolin root extract
Celastrus paniculatus extract
DHA
Theobromine
Taurine
DL-Phenylalanine
Artichoke Leaf Extract
Acetyl-L-Carnitine HCI
Pantothenic Acid
Vitamin C
Vitamin D3
Thiamine
Niacin
Vitamin B6
Vitamin B12
How to Take (Recommended Dosage)
The recommended daily dosage is seven capsules. That's a whole lot compared to other premium nootropics out there like Mind Lab Pro. You should take the capsules in the morning preferably on an empty stomach.
However, according to different Qualia Mind reddit reviews, the optimal dosage usually varies from one person to another. Some people may feel the effects of the stack by taking less than seven capsules. Others have to take up to ten capsules.
But the manufacturer warns against taking more than ten capsules at once. What's more, Neurohacker Collective recommends taking this nootropic five days on and two days off every week. This helps in maximizing its benefits over time.
Any Potential Side Effects?
The ingredients in QM are all-natural, gluten-free, non-GMO, and 100% vegan. Therefore, we don't think that this nootropic can cause any serious side effects if used as instructed by Neurohacker.
However, each daily serving of this supplement contains 90mg of caffeine which is equivalent to what you get from an espresso. This amount of caffeine is enough to produce noticeable side effects like:
- Jitters
- Difficulty focusing
- Dizziness
- Confusion
- Heart palpitations
On a positive note, these effects can be avoided by cutting out a cup of coffee while using this product. Besides, caffeine is generally safe for most people but only when used in sensible amounts.
All of the other ingredients in this nootropic are thought to be generally safe for both daily and long-term use.
Nevertheless, if you think that you react negatively to any of the 28 ingredients mentioned, this product is definitely not for you.
Where to Buy Qualia Mind & Pricing
You can choose to buy Qualia Mind pills either on or the Neurohacker Collective official website. Generally, a bottle containing 154 capsules typically goes for $139 for the first purchase which is pretty expensive.
The good thing is that you can purchase the same at $69.50 for the first shipment and $119 thereafter. However, you will need to check the subscribe & save button to enjoy this great discount.
Qualia Mind vs Adderall
Qualia is often mentioned as a natural alternative to Adderall ( see other alternatives). However, Adderall is just irreplaceable especially since it's a pharmaceutical-grade stimulant.
That said, Qualia might still be of help if you're suffering from a shortage of choline and dopamine. However, it may need to be taken for several to achieve any meaningful benefits in that regard.
Disclaimer: Adderall is a pharmaceutical compound that should only be taken with a doctor's prescription. Please consult with your doctor on all matters related to its use & replacement.
Qualia Mind vs Focus
QM is richer in nootropic ingredients than QF. In fact, QM contains twice as much Rhodiola Rosea root extract than QF. What's more? It contains 50mg more Uridine monophosphate.
On the other hand, Qualia Focus comes with 100mg more Alpha GPC than Qualia Mind. That's probably to make up for the fact that the former doesn't have Citicoline (Cognizine) in its ingredients list.
Also, Qualia Mind contains the following ingredients which you won't find on Qualia Focus's menu:
Pyrroloquinoline (PQQ)
DHA
Phosphatidylserine (PS)
Lastly, the "Mind" stack costs nearly twice as much as the "Focus" stack. That is $119 vs $59 per bottle (check latest prices on Amazon)
Frequently Asked Questions
Now let's take a quick look at some of the common questions people ask about this premium nootropic.
Q: How long does Qualia Mind take to work?
A: The length of time to notice the effects of this nootropic can vary from one person to another. However, the manufacturer claims that you'll likely feel its effects from day one.
Q: Where is this product made?
A: It is made in the US and in a cGMP certified facility. So, as far as its quality is concerned, it does meet or exceed the standard quality control guidelines for dietary supplements.
Q: What does Qualia Mind do?
A: It simply supports long-term brain health by promoting neuroplasticity, neurogenesis, and neuron development. It also helps to elevate energy, heighten creativity, and promote mental clarity.
Pros
-Backed by a 100-day money-back guarantee
-Most of its benefits can be felt in as little as 40 minutes
-Contains carefully-sourced and high-quality ingredients
-Backed by thousands of hours of research from top scientists
-No proprietary blends
-The manufacturer is transparent about the science and research behind this noot
-Offers optimized mental performance
-Fast shipping and great packaging
Cons
-Quite pricey
-Too many capsules to take daily
-Some key ingredients are under-dosed
-Contains caffeine
Final Verdict
All things considered, we think Neurohacker Collective Qualia Mind is a great nootropic supplement. Thanks to its many ingredients, it's capable of enhancing many different aspects of cognitive function.
However, just like other nootropic stacks, this Qualia Mind review confirms that this product equally has its fair share of downsides.
Our biggest issue with it is the cost which we find to be exorbitant. What's more, it contains a couple of ingredients that don't contribute to improved cognitive functioning.
Therefore, we think that it's not as premium as Mind Lab Pro which contains fewer and higher quality ingredients.
But despite its few drawbacks, the product works relatively well for most people. So, if you are interested in enhancing your brain health, you may give it a shot here.
