Name Category Type One-liner use case Who benefits most Strength of evidence Rank Recommended brands (why)
Omega-3 (EPA/DHA) Metabolic, Cardio, Brain Supplement (oil) Lowers triglycerides, supports heart/brain, reduces inflammation Most adults not eating fatty fish 2–3x/week Strong (many RCTs/meta-analyses for lipids, CV risk markers) S Nordic Naturals, Carlson, Life Extension, Thorne (triglyceride form, strict oxidation/heavy-metal testing)
Vitamin D3 + K2 (MK-7) Bone, Immune, Hormonal Vitamins Corrects deficiency; K2 helps keep calcium in bones, not arteries Low sun exposure, darker skin, older adults Strong (D deficiency outcomes; K2 observational/RCTs for bone/calcification) S Thorne, Momentous, Life Extension (clear dosing, K2 MK-7, COAs)
Magnesium (Glycinate / Threonate) Sleep, Stress, Metabolic Mineral Repletes common deficiency; glycinate for calm/sleep, threonate for cognition Poor sleep, high stress, athletes, low intake Strong for deficiency correction; Moderate for sleep/cognition A Thorne, Life Extension, NOW (chelated forms, reliable content testing)
Creatine Monohydrate Muscle, Brain, Healthy aging Amino derivative Boosts power/strength; emerging cognitive & neuroprotective support Lifters, older adults, sleep-deprived, vegan/veg Strong (hundreds of RCTs for performance; growing cognition data) S Transparent Labs, Thorne, Creapure® brands (purity, third-party tests)
Glycine Sleep, Metabolic, Skin Amino acid Improves sleep quality, supports collagen synthesis & methylation balance Poor sleep, low protein, high methionine intake Moderate (sleep/metabolic RCTs; collagen support mechanistic + clinical) A Life Extension, NOW, BulkSupplements (simple single-ingredient, COAs)
N-Acetyl-Cysteine (NAC) Detox, Respiratory, Longevity Amino derivative Precursor to glutathione; supports liver, lungs, and redox Polluted environments, illness recovery, high oxidative stress Strong (hospital use; multiple RCTs for lung/liver markers) A Life Extension, NOW, Thorne (potency & identity testing)
Taurine Cardio, Metabolic, Exercise Amino sulfonic acid Aids BP, lipids, HRV; modest endurance aid; promising aging biology Endurance athletes, high BP, older adults Moderate (human metabolic & performance data; strong animal aging data) A NOW, Life Extension, Thorne (single-ingredient purity)
Berberine Metabolic, Longevity Botanical alkaloid Lowers glucose & LDL; similar to metformin for insulin sensitivity Prediabetes, insulin resistance, dyslipidemia Strong (multiple RCTs/meta-analyses for glycemic/lipid markers) S Thorne Berbercap, Integrative Therapeutics (standardized extracts, COAs)
Aged Garlic Extract (Kyolic®) Cardio Botanical extract Lowers BP, improves arterial health; immune support Hypertension, subclinical atherosclerosis Strong (multiple RCTs on BP/CAC progression markers) S Kyolic® Wakunaga (proprietary AGE, heavy-metal/PCB testing)
CoQ10 / Ubiquinol Cardio, Energy Quinone Restores mitochondrial CoQ10; key for statin users & CHF Statin users, older adults, heart failure Strong for deficiency/CHF; Weak for young athletic performance A (S for statin users) Kaneka Ubiquinol brands, Thorne, Doctor’s Best, Jarrow (identity/potency)
Curcumin (enhanced bioavailability) Anti-inflammatory, Joints Polyphenol Reduces inflammatory markers & joint pain Arthritis, chronic inflammation Moderate–Strong (many RCTs; form-dependent absorption) A Meriva® (Thorne), Longvida®, BCM-95®, BioPerine® combos (absorption data)
Psyllium Husk Metabolic, Gut Fiber Lowers LDL, improves regularity & glycemic response High LDL, constipation, high-carb diets Strong (numerous RCTs/meta-analyses) S NOW, Konsyl (purity; minimal additives)
Melatonin (0.3–1 mg nightly) Sleep, Antioxidant Hormone Improves sleep onset; potent nocturnal antioxidant Shift workers, jet lag, older adults (low endogenous) Strong (sleep latency; antioxidant mechanistic/clinical signals) A (S for 50+ y/o) Life Extension, Pure Encapsulations (low-dose options, clean excipients)
Niacin (nicotinic acid) NAD+, Lipids Vitamin B3 Most potent per-mg NAD+ raiser; lowers LDL/TG (with flush) Dyslipidemia requiring NA; budget NAD+ boost Strong for lipids & NAD+; Caution (glucose tolerance at high doses) B Endurance Products (Slo-Niacin), NOW (dose control; avoid no-flush “inositol hexanicotinate”)
NR / NMN (grouped) NAD+, Energy Vitamin B3 forms Raise NAD+ with less flush; mixed clinical outcomes Older adults, low energy, high-stress loads Moderate (consistent NAD+ ↑; functional endpoints mixed) B Tru Niagen® (NR), DoNotAge/ProHealth (NMN) (stability/identity data)
Ca-AKG (Calcium alpha-ketoglutarate) Longevity, Bone Organic acid salt Supports bone & cellular metabolism; exploratory aging signals Post-menopause bone support; healthy aging enthusiasts Limited–Moderate (human biomarker trials; strong animal data) B DoNotAge, Renue by Science (purity; identity testing)
Sulforaphane (broccoli sprout extracts) Detox, Anti-inflammatory Isothiocyanate Activates Nrf2; supports detox & antioxidant defenses Urban pollution, metabolic inflammation Moderate (human trials for detox markers; variability in assays) B Avmacol®, Thorne Crucera-SGS (stabilized myrosinase/SGS content)
Resveratrol (trans-) Metabolic, Anti-inflammatory Polyphenol SIRT1 activation signals; metabolic support in IR Metabolic syndrome; not ideal for high-intensity trainees Limited–Moderate (heterogeneous human results; possible blunting of training adaptations) C Life Extension, Thorne (trans-resveratrol purity; light/oxidation protection)
PQQ Mitochondrial support Quinone May support mitochondrial biogenesis & cognitive energy Older adults with fatigue Limited–Moderate (small human trials; cost sensitivity) C Doctor’s Best, Jarrow (identity; third-party tests)
TMG (Betaine) Methylation, Homocysteine Methyl donor Lowers homocysteine; supports methylation pathways High homocysteine, high NAM/Niacin users, athletes Moderate (consistent homocysteine reduction) B Life Extension, Thorne, NOW (simple ingredient, COAs)
Chromium (Picolinate) Glucose metabolism Trace mineral Improves insulin sensitivity in some IR populations Prediabetes/IR; high-carb diets Moderate (mixed but positive meta-signals) B NOW, Thorne (picolinate form, appropriate dosing)
Electrolytes (balanced, low sugar) Hydration, Performance Mineral blend Replaces sodium/potassium/magnesium lost in sweat Endurance athletes, low-carb diets, heavy sweaters Moderate for performance/hydration B LMNT, Skratch Labs, Ultima (clear sodium/potassium, clean labels)
Urolithin A Anti-aging (mitophagy) Postbiotic Promotes mitophagy; may improve muscle endurance in older adults 45+, detrained, post-illness Moderate (human RCTs on function; limited long-term outcomes) B Timeline Mitopure®, Life Extension
Alpha-GPC Brain (acetylcholine) Choline donor Short-term boost to attention/memory Students, shift workers, low choline intake Moderate (small RCTs; acute effects) B Jarrow, Double Wood (COAs), Thorne
Citicoline (CDP-Choline) Brain (acetylcholine) Choline donor Supports mental energy and attention; stroke rehab adjunct Older adults, low choline intake Moderate–High B Cognizin® products (Kyowa), Life Extension
Bacopa monnieri Brain (memory/learning) Adaptogen Improves memory consolidation over 4–8 weeks Students, distracted pros Moderate (multiple RCTs) B Himalaya, Life Extension, Thorne
Lion’s Mane (fruiting body) Brain/nerve support Mushroom May support memory and mood Adults with brain fog/low mood Low–Moderate (emerging RCTs) C Real Mushrooms, Host Defense
Beet Root (nitrates) Cardio/Performance (NO) Food-derived Raises nitric oxide; better endurance & BP Endurance athletes; pre-hypertensive High (exercise economy), Moderate (BP) A Beet It Sport, HumanN/Neo40
L-Citrulline (or Citrulline Malate) Performance (NO) Amino acid Increases arginine/NO; more reps/pump Lifters, HIIT, endurance Moderate B Kaged, Transparent Labs, NutraBio
Beta-Alanine (CarnoSyn®) Performance (buffering) Amino acid Elevates muscle carnosine; delays fatigue (1–4 min efforts) HIIT/interval athletes High (meta-analyses) A CarnoSyn® products: Kaged, Thorne, Momentous
Boswellia (AKBA-std.) Joints/pain Botanical Reduces joint discomfort; complements curcumin Knee OA; lifters with aches Moderate B 5-LOXIN®/AprèsFlex®: Life Extension, NOW, Jarrow
Glucosamine sulfate Joints (OA) Supplement Slows OA symptoms; joint comfort 40+, osteoarthritis Moderate–High (sulfate > HCl) B Dona®, Doctor’s Best (sulfate), NOW
MSM (OptiMSM®) Joints/skin Sulfur compound Joint pain relief; skin elasticity OA; high-volume trainees Moderate B Jarrow, Doctor’s Best (OptiMSM®)
Hyaluronic Acid (oral) Skin/joints (hydration) Polysaccharide Improves skin hydration; mild joint support Dry skin; mild joint issues Moderate (skin), Low–Mod (joints) C Jarrow, Life Extension
Astaxanthin Skin/eye, antioxidant Carotenoid UV/skin photoprotection; eye support High sun exposure, endurance Moderate B AstaReal®: BioAstin, Nordic Naturals
Lutein + Zeaxanthin Eye (macula) Carotenoids Improves macular pigment; glare/contrast Screen users; low leafy-greens High (AREDS2 adjunct) A PreserVision AREDS2, Life Extension
Low-dose Lithium (orotate) Brain/mood (trace) Mineral Trace dosing linked to mood/neuroprotection signals Mood-fragile; low dietary lithium areas Low–Moderate (observational > RCTs) C Life Extension (low dose), Pure Encapsulations
Inositol (myo-/D-chiro) Metabolic & mood Carbocycle Insulin sensitivity; PCOS ovulatory support; calming PCOS; anxious ruminators Moderate–High (PCOS), Moderate (anxiety) B Theralogix Ovasitol®, Jarrow, NOW
Cocoa Flavanols Vascular/cognition Polyphenols Improves endothelial function; acute cognitive boost Hypertension risk; older adults Moderate–High B CocoaVia (CocoaPro®), standardized products
Ginger extract GI/metabolic Botanical Nausea relief; small glucose/weight effects Nausea-prone; metabolic syndrome Moderate (nausea), Low–Mod (metabolic) C Nature’s Way, New Chapter
Red Yeast Rice Lipids (LDL) Fermented extract Statin-like LDL reduction (medical oversight) Statin-intolerant adults High (LDL); Safety depends on std. B Thorne Choleast-900, Life Extension (assayed)
Ginkgo biloba (std.) Brain (circulation) Botanical Modest cognitive support in MCI Older adults with MCI Moderate C Nature’s Way Ginkgold, Doctor’s Best
Rhodiola rosea (std.) Stress/fatigue Adaptogen Reduces perceived stress/fatigue High-stress professionals Moderate B Gaia, Thorne, NOW
Ergothioneine Antioxidant/mitochondria Amino-thione Cytoprotective antioxidant; early cognition signals Low mushroom intake; older adults Low–Moderate C Products using ErgoActive®/NNB (COA-backed)
Nattokinase Cardiovascular (fibrinolysis) Enzyme Supports healthy fibrin breakdown; blood flow 50+ with elevated clot risk (MD guidance) Low–Moderate C Doctor’s Best, Jarrow (activity-assayed)
Collagen peptides (hydrolyzed) Skin/joints Protein/peptides Improves skin elasticity/hydration; joint comfort 30+ skin goals; joint wear-and-tear Moderate–High (skin), Moderate (joints) A Vital Proteins (NSF), Momentous (NSF), Thorne, Great Lakes
Ashwagandha (KSM-66/ Sensoril®) Stress/sleep/men’s health Adaptogen Lowers cortisol; better sleep; small T support Stressed poor sleepers; lifters Moderate–High (meta-analyses) A KSM-66® products: Transparent Labs, Life Extension; NOW
L-Theanine Sleep/calm/focus Amino acid Increases alpha-waves; smoother focus with caffeine Anxious, caffeine users, sleep onset issues Moderate B Thorne, NOW, Double Wood
Tongkat Ali (Eurycoma) Men’s health Botanical Small ↑ in free T/libido; stress reduction Men 35+ with high SHBG/stress Low–Moderate C Nootropics Depot (COAs), Double Wood
Shilajit (purified, fulvic std.) Men’s vitality/energy Mineral pitch May raise total T modestly; anti-fatigue Men 35+, high training stress Low–Moderate C Pure Encapsulations, Nootropics Depot (COAs)
Panax Ginseng (std.) Energy/cognition Botanical Modest improvements in fatigue & glucose Tired professionals; pre-diabetes Moderate B Nature’s Way, KGC CheongKwanJang
GABA (oral) Sleep/anxiety Neurotransmitter Calming; mixed oral bioavailability data Sleep onset worriers Low–Moderate C Thorne, NOW (pair with theanine)
Vitamin C (ascorbic acid / buffered) Immunity & skin (collagen) Vitamin General immune support; supports collagen synthesis Low fruit/veg intake; smokers; athletes in heavy blocks Moderate–High for deficiency correction; Moderate for common cold duration B NOW (USP options), Thorne (buffered), NutriCost (COAs)
Vitamin E (tocotrienols) Cardiometabolic & skin Vitamin Antioxidant with better membrane activity than α-tocopherol Metabolic risk; fatty liver; skin aging Moderate (mixed overall E, stronger for tocotrienols) C Annatto-GG / DeltaGold® based: Designs for Health, A.C. Grace
Vitamin K1 (phylloquinone) Bone & coagulation Vitamin Supports coagulation; adjunct bone health Low leafy-green intake; on D without K Moderate C Thorne, Life Extension
Folate (5-MTHF) Methylation & pregnancy B-vitamin Active folate for methylation & neural tube support Women trying to conceive; MTHFR variants High (pregnancy), Moderate (general methylation) A Thorne 5-MTHF, Metagenics (COAs), Life Extension
Vitamin B12 (methylcobalamin/adenosylcobalamin) Neurologic & hematologic B-vitamin Prevents/perks up deficiency-related fatigue & neuropathy Vegans, metformin users, low stomach acid High for deficiency A Jarrow (methyl), Solgar, Pure Encapsulations
Thiamine (Benfotiamine) Glucose & nerves B-vitamin Supports glucose metabolism; neuropathy support High-carb diets; neuropathy risk Moderate B Doctor’s Best Benfotiamine, Life Extension
Vitamin B6 (P5P) Neurotransmitters & magnesium cofactor B-vitamin Active B6 for neurotransmitter synthesis & Mg utilization Low PLP labs; PMS; athletes Moderate B Thorne P5P, Pure Encapsulations
Zinc (picolinate/citrate) Immunity & hormones Mineral Immune support; corrects low testosterone due to deficiency Low meat intake; heavy sweaters; acne Moderate B Thorne, NOW (picolinate), Life Extension
Selenium (selenomethionine) Thyroid & antioxidant (GPx) Mineral Supports thyroid hormone deiodinases & antioxidant enzymes Low seafood/nut intake; thyroid autoimmunity Moderate B Life Extension, Thorne
Iodine (kelp-free measured dose) Thyroid (caution) Mineral Corrects iodine deficiency for thyroid hormone synthesis Low iodized-salt intake; pregnancy (MD-guided) Moderate (deficiency), risks if excess C Pure Encapsulations (low-dose), Thorne
Boron Hormones & bone Trace mineral Can lower SHBG → ↑ free T; supports bone/mineral metabolism Men 35+ with high SHBG; low fruit/nut intake Low–Moderate C Life Extension, NOW
Calcium D-Glucarate Detox (estrogen/BA clearance) Carbohydrate conjugate Supports glucuronidation & estrogen metabolite clearance High estrogen states; toxin exposure Low–Moderate C Life Extension, Thorne
DIM (diindolylmethane) Hormonal balance (estrogen) Phytonutrient Shifts estrogen metabolism toward 2-OH pathway Estrogen dominance symptoms; athletes on cutting phases Moderate (biomarkers), Low (clinical outcomes) C Thorne, Designs for Health
Saw Palmetto (std. fatty acids) Men’s prostate Botanical Reduces LUTS in mild BPH Men 45+ with BPH symptoms Moderate (heterogeneous) C HPTLC-verified: NOW, Life Extension
Fenugreek (std., Testofen®) Men’s health/glycemia Botanical Modest libido/T support; helps post-meal glucose Men 30–60; insulin resistance Low–Moderate C Nootropics Depot, Gencor Testofen® products
Quercetin (with bromelain) Inflammation & seasonal support Flavonoid Mast-cell stabilization; mild anti-inflammatory Seasonal allergy sufferers; athletes Low–Moderate C Thorne, Life Extension, NOW
Apigenin NAD/CD38 & sleep Flavone CD38 modulation (NAD preservation) + mild sleep aid Biohackers stacking with NAD boosters Low (human) D DoNotAge (COAs), Nootropics Depot
Fisetin Senolytic candidate Flavonoid Investigational senolytic; antioxidant Longevity enthusiasts (pulse dosing) Low (human) D Doctor’s Best, DoNotAge (COAs)
Spermidine (supplement) Autophagy (longevity) Polyamine Signals autophagy; human outcomes limited Longevity enthusiasts (diet > pills) Low–Moderate (assoc. > RCT) D Oxford Healthspan, DoNotAge (COAs)
Milk Thistle (silymarin) Liver support Botanical Hepatoprotective antioxidant for liver enzymes Alcohol/med exposure; NAFLD (adjunct) Moderate (enzymes), mixed outcomes C Euromed Silymarin: Jarrow, NOW
Artichoke Extract Lipids & bile flow Botanical Mild LDL/TC reduction; digestive support High fat intake; sluggish digestion Low–Moderate C Life Extension, NOW
SAMe Mood/joints Methyl donor Antidepressant adjunct; OA pain relief MDD adjunct; joint pain Moderate–High (mood adj.), Moderate (OA) B Doctor’s Best, Jarrow
R-Alpha Lipoic Acid (R-ALA) Glucose & neuropathy Antioxidant Insulin sensitivity & neuropathy support Prediabetes; neuropathy Moderate B Doctor’s Best R-ALA, Thorne
Acetyl-L-Carnitine (ALCAR) Mito/brain Amino derivative Mitochondrial support; mental energy; neuropathy Vegans; older adults; neuropathy Moderate B Jarrow, NOW, Thorne
D-Ribose Energy (ATP synthesis) Carb May aid recovery in chronic fatigue/heart failure CFS/ME; HF (MD-guided) Low–Moderate C Life Extension, Healthy Origins
Huperzine-A Memory (AChE inhibitor) Alkaloid Short-term memory/learning boost Students; MCI adjunct Low–Moderate C Double Wood (COAs), Source Naturals
Pycnogenol® (pine bark) Vascular & skin Polyphenols Endothelial function; skin elasticity; edema Varicose tendencies; long flights; skin Moderate B Pycnogenol® licensed brands: Horphag partners, NOW
Akkermansia muciniphila (Pendulum) Gut barrier & glucose Probiotic Supports GLP-1/insulin sensitivity & mucin layer Prediabetes; gut barrier issues Moderate (strain-specific) B Pendulum Akkermansia (human RCT)
Clinically-validated probiotics (multi-strain) Gut & immunity Probiotic Regularity, IBS relief, immune modulation (strain-specific) IBS-C/D; antibiotic aftermath Moderate–High (by strain) B Seed DS-01®, Culturelle, Align (strain-labeled)
Inulin/Fructo-oligosaccharides (FOS) Prebiotic fiber Prebiotic Feeds bifidobacteria; improves stool frequency Low-fiber diets; constipation Moderate (GI), tolerance varies C NOW Inulin, Just Thrive Precision PREbiotic
Beta-Glucans (1,3/1,6 from yeast) Immune priming Polysaccharide Trains innate immunity; reduces URTI days Teachers, parents, athletes in season Moderate B Wellmune®/WGP® products: NOW, Jarrow
Colostrum (low-heat) Gut barrier & immunity Bioactive protein Supports gut permeability & URTI reduction in athletes Endurance athletes; GI issues Moderate (athlete URTI), variable quality C ARMRA, Sovereign Labs (low-heat processing)
Whey Protein (isolate/hydrolyzed) Muscle & healthy aging Protein Maximizes MPS; convenient leucine-rich protein Lifters; older adults (anabolic resistance) High A Momentous (NSF), Transparent Labs, Optimum (Informed-Choice)
Plant Protein (soy/pea-rice blends) Muscle (dairy-free) Protein Muscle support when dosed for leucine (~2.5g) Vegans; lactose-intolerant Moderate–High (adequate dose) B Ritual, KOS (COAs), Nuzest (Informed-Sport)
Essential Amino Acids (EAA blends) Muscle (intra/fasted) Amino blend Stimulates MPS when meals are light/fasted Cutting phases; low appetite Moderate B Kaged, Transparent Labs
HMB (β-hydroxy β-methylbutyrate) Muscle preservation Leucine metabolite Anti-catabolic; preserves lean mass in older/sarcopenic 60+; immobilized; clinical rehab Moderate–High (older adults) B Metagenics HMB, Optimum HMB
Betaine HCl (with pepsin) Digestion (low stomach acid) Acid support Improves protein digestion in hypochlorhydria Older adults; PPI weaning (MD-guided) Low–Moderate C Thorne, NOW
Ginger + Peppermint (enteric) GI motility Botanical combo Reduces nausea/bloating; supports motility Functional dyspepsia; motion sickness Moderate B IBgard/FDgard (encapsulated mint), Nature’s Way ginger
Lycopene Prostate/vascular Carotenoid Antioxidant; prostate biomarker support Men 45+; low tomato intake Moderate (observational > RCT) C Life Extension, NOW
Beta-Carotene (avoid high dose in smokers) Skin/antioxidant Carotenoid Provitamin A; skin hue Low carotenoid diet; non-smokers Moderate efficacy; safety caveat D Food > pills; if supplementing: low-dose mixed carotenoids
GHK-Cu (oral) Skin & wound signals Peptide complex Collagen/elastin signaling; skin quality Skin-focused users; wound/scar care Low (oral), better topical D  
Niacinamide (NAM) Skin (photoaging), NAD salvage B3 vitamin Boosts NAD via salvage pathway; oral/topical benefits for skin tone/texture Skin focus; those who can’t tolerate niacin flush Moderate for skin; Low–Moderate for systemic longevity B (skin) / C (longevity) Oral: Life Extension, Thorne • Topical: Paula’s Choice, The Ordinary (for skin only)
EGCG (Green Tea Extract) Cardiometabolic & antioxidant Botanical Modestly improves cardiometabolic markers; antioxidant People not drinking green tea; metabolic risk Moderate (biomarkers), liver-safety needs care C Life Extension Decaffeinated, Thorne Green Tea Phytosome
MCT Oil (C8/C10) Brain energy (ketones) Lipid Rapid ketone source for mental energy and appetite control Low-carb/fasters; cognitive demand days Moderate (acute ketone/cog), Low (long-term outcomes) B Bulletproof (tested), NOW MCT, Sports Research
Calcium (citrate/carbonate) Bone (with D/K2) Mineral Corrects deficiency for bone health; use food-first if possible Low dairy/low intake; post-menopause (MD-guided) Moderate benefits; safety caveat (CAC with high-dose pills) C Citrate forms: Thorne, NOW; aim to meet remainder via food
Iron (bisglycinate or heme) Anemia & energy Mineral Repletes iron deficiency to restore energy and cognition Confirmed iron-deficient (ferritin, CBC) High (deficiency), risks if excess A (deficiency) / F (unneeded) Gentle Iron (bisglycinate): Solgar, NOW • Heme: Proferrin
Specialized Pro-Resolving Mediators (SPMs) Inflammation resolution Lipid mediators Supports resolution phase of inflammation (not general suppression) Athletes in heavy blocks; chronic low-grade inflammation Moderate (small RCTs/biomarkers) B–C Metagenics SPM Active, Designs for Health SPM Supreme
Digestive Enzymes (broad spectrum) Digestion Enzyme blend Helps with high-protein/fat meals or pancreatic insufficiency Older adults; indigestion; pancreatic enzyme insufficiency Moderate (symptoms), Low (hard endpoints) C Pure Encapsulations Digestive Enzymes Ultra, NOW Super Enzymes
Saccharomyces boulardii Gut & travel immunity Probiotic yeast Reduces antibiotic-associated diarrhea; traveler’s diarrhea Antibiotics users; travelers High (AAD), Moderate (IBS adjunct) A–B Florastor, Jarrow Saccharomyces boulardii + MOS
Tart Cherry (Montmorency) Sleep & recovery Botanical Increases melatonin slightly; reduces DOMS Lifters/endurance; poor sleep Moderate (sleep latency/DOMS) B Cheribundi (juice), Life Extension Tart Cherry Extract
Valerian Root (std.) Sleep onset Botanical Mildly shortens sleep latency Occasional insomnia; prefers herbal Low–Moderate C Gaia Herbs, Nature’s Way (std. valeric acids)
Kava (noble, peeled) Anxiety (short-term) Botanical Anxiolytic comparable to mild benzos without sedation (monitor liver) Situational anxiety; public speaking Moderate efficacy; safety caveat (liver) C Noble-only: Kalm with Kava (COAs), Gaia Kava Root
Phosphatidylserine (PS) Memory/Stress Phospholipid Supports working memory and lowers cortisol response High-stress professionals; older adults Moderate B Double Wood (COAs), Jarrow PS 100
Uridine Monophosphate Mood/Memory (stacking) Nucleotide May support synaptic phospholipids; often stacked with choline/DHA Cognitive enhancement hobbyists Low–Moderate C Nootropics Depot (COAs)
Heliocare (Polypodium leucotomos) Skin (photoprotection) Botanical Oral photoprotective antioxidant; reduces UV-induced damage Fair skin; high UV exposure (adjunct to sunscreen) Moderate B Heliocare (IFC-Cantabria)
Plant Sterols/Stanols Lipids (LDL) Phytosterols Lower LDL by reducing intestinal cholesterol absorption High LDL; statin-intolerant High (LDL reduction), outcomes less clear A–B Nature Made CholestOff (USP), NOW Plant Sterols
Citrus Bergamot (BPF) Lipids (LDL/TG) Botanical Lowers LDL/TG; may raise HDL modestly Mixed dyslipidemia; statin-intolerant Moderate B Jarrow Bergamot BPF, Karuna Bergamot
Cinnamon (Ceylon/Cassia extracts) Glucose (post-meal) Botanical Modest fasting glucose/HbA1c improvements Prediabetes; high-carb diets Moderate B–C Cinsulin® products (Indena), Life Extension
Gymnema sylvestre (std.) Sugar cravings & glucose Botanical Reduces sweet taste perception; may aid glycemic control Cravings; prediabetes (adjunct) Low–Moderate C Gaia Herbs, Himalaya (std. gymnemic acids)
DHEA (low dose, MD-guided) Hormones (adrenals) Hormone May improve wellbeing/libido in low DHEA; helpful in some women Middle-aged/older with low DHEA-S Moderate (deficiency), Low (general) C Life Extension DHEA (lab-guided dosing)
Pregnenolone (MD-guided) Neurosteroid Hormone May aid sleep/mood/cognition in select cases Low neurosteroids; clinician-supervised Low D Designs for Health (with labs/MD)
Methylene Blue (USP-grade, low dose) Mitochondria (niche) Redox dye ETS bypass in mitochondrial dysfunction; niche cognitive use Documented mito issues; older adults Low (human), potential drug interactions D Troscriptions (COAs), USP-grade only; avoid if G6PD-deficient
Serrapeptase/Nattokinase combos Clot/viscosity (circulation) Enzyme Proteolytic/fibrinolytic support (Natto already listed; adding Serra) High fibrin states (MD-guided) Low–Moderate C Doctor’s Best, Arthur Andrew (check units/SPU/FU)
Elderberry (Sambucus) URTI duration Botanical May shorten cold duration if taken early Parents/teachers; travelers Low–Moderate C Nature’s Way Sambucus (identity-tested)
Betaine (as HCl separate from TMG) Digestion (low acid) Acid support Helps protein digestion in hypochlorhydria Low stomach acid; older adults Moderate (symptoms) C Thorne, NOW (already listed Betaine HCl above; include here if separate SKU needed)
Maca (Lepidium meyenii) Libido/energy Botanical Modest libido/menopause symptom support Menopause; low libido Low–Moderate C Gaia Herbs, NHI Maca (COAs)
Plant Polyphenol Mix (grape seed/OPCs) Vascular & skin Polyphenols Endothelial support; antioxidant Varicose tendencies; skin elasticity goals Moderate B–C Life Extension, NOW Grape Seed (std. OPCs)
SPMs + Fish Oil combo Inflammation & lipids Lipid combo Pairing EPA/DHA with SPMs for resolution + lipids Athletes; joint overuse Moderate (complementary) B Nordic Naturals ProOmega + SPM Active (two products)
Pro-oxidant polyphenols (pterostilbene) Longevity (speculative) Polyphenol Resveratrol analog; limited human data; LDL may rise Longevity hobbyists (with COA) Low D Nootropics Depot (COAs); use cautiously
Carnosine Anti-glycation (skin/joint) Dipeptide Helps limit advanced glycation end products; niche skin/joint support High sugar intake; skin aging focus Low–Moderate (human markers > outcomes) C Life Extension, Doctor’s Best
Saffron (affron®/std.) Mood & Eye (AMD adjunct) Botanical Small but consistent boost to mood/sleep; supports macular function Mild low mood/stress; early AMD Moderate (multiple RCTs, small N) B affron®-standardized (Nutralife/Double Wood), Life Extension
UC-II® (Undenatured Type II Collagen) Joints (cartilage) Protein fraction Low-dose (40 mg) improves knee comfort/function Knee OA; lifters with joint pain Moderate (several RCTs) B NOW UC-II®, Jarrow, Healthy Origins
Silicon (ch-OSA) Skin/Hair/Nails & Bone Mineral complex Improves hair tensile strength, nail brittleness; supports collagen cross-linking Brittle hair/nails; peri/post-menopause Moderate (cosmetic outcomes) B BioSil® (ch-OSA)
Pomegranate (std. punicalagins) Cardiometabolic (arterial) Polyphenol Modest help for BP, endothelial function; antioxidant Elevated BP/IMT; low fruit intake Low–Moderate C Life Extension Pomegranate Complete, Pomella® extracts
TUDCA Liver & Bile flow Bile acid Supports cholestasis and liver enzymes; niche GI use Elevated cholestatic markers (MD-guided) Low–Moderate (human in specific conditions) C Double Wood (COAs), Nutricost (use with clinician)
Bitter Melon (Momordica) Glucose (post-meal) Botanical Mild fasting glucose/HbA1c reduction Prediabetes; high-carb meals Low–Moderate C Himalaya, Swanson (identity-tested)
Palmitoylethanolamide (PEA) Pain/Neuroinflammation Lipid amide Helps neuropathic pain and pelvic pain; well-tolerated Chronic nerve pain; mast-cell driven pain Moderate (several RCTs, small–mid N) B Ergomax PEA, Doctor’s Best, Nootropics Depot (COAs)
Cranberry (PAC-A standardized) UTI prevention Botanical Reduces recurrent UTIs via anti-adhesion PAC-A Women with recurrent UTIs Moderate (prevention > treatment) B Ellura®, Azo Cranberry with PAC-A spec
Olive Leaf (oleuropein) Blood pressure & lipids Botanical Modest BP lowering; antioxidant Mild hypertension; metabolic risk Moderate (BP), Low (outcomes) B–C Comvita, Gaia Herbs (std. oleuropein)
Partially Hydrolyzed Guar Gum (PHGG) Gut (prebiotic/IBS) Fiber Improves regularity, IBS-C symptoms, and microbiome Constipation-predominant IBS Moderate B Sunfiber® (Tomorrow’s Nutrition), Healthy Origins
L-Glutamine Gut lining (permeability) Amino acid Supports mucosal repair; may help IBS symptoms Athletes with GI distress; IBS; post-abx Low–Moderate C Thorne, NOW, Kaged
Pygeum africanum Prostate/urinary flow Botanical Improves nocturia and flow in BPH Men with mild–moderate BPH Moderate (symptoms) B Life Extension, Jarrow (std. phytosterols)
Stinging Nettle Root (std.) Prostate/SHBG Botanical May improve LUTS and lower SHBG modestly Men with BPH; high SHBG Low–Moderate C Gaia Herbs, NOW (std. lignans)
Vitex (Chasteberry) Women’s health (PMS) Botanical Reduces PMS breast tenderness, mood swings Premenstrual symptoms Moderate (symptom relief) B Gaia Herbs, Nature’s Way (agnus-castus std.)
L-Tyrosine Stress/Cognition (acute) Amino acid Supports catecholamines under stress/sleep loss; improves task performance Operators, students, shift workers Moderate (acute tasks) B Thorne, BulkSupplements (COAs)
5-HTP Mood/Sleep (serotonin) Amino acid Can aid sleep and mood; risk of GI upset & drug interactions Those not on SSRIs/SNRIs; short-term sleep Low–Moderate; safety caveats C Natrol, NOW (use cautiously; avoid with serotonergic meds)
Theaflavins (black tea) Lipids/Inflammation Polyphenol Modest LDL and CRP improvements Low tea intake; metabolic risk Low–Moderate C Life Extension Theaflavins
Fucoidan Immune/Anti-inflammatory Polysaccharide (seaweed) Early data for immune modulation & gut barrier Interested in marine polysaccharides Low D Doctor’s Best, Ancestral Supplements (COAs)
Propolis URTI & oral health Bee resin May reduce duration of colds; supports oral microbiome Teachers/parents; frequent flyers Low–Moderate (heterogeneous) C Beekeeper’s Naturals (COAs), NaturaNectar
Royal Jelly Skin/energy (speculative) Bee product Cosmetic/energy claims with limited clinical backing Cosmetic focus Low D Y.S. Eco Bee Farms (COAs)
Nigella sativa (Black seed, thymoquinone) Cardiometabolic Botanical Modest reductions in fasting glucose, TG, and CRP Metabolic syndrome traits Moderate (biomarkers), small N B–C Amazing Herbs, Life Extension Black Cumin Seed
Hawthorn (Crataegus) Cardiac support (adjunct) Botanical Symptom relief in mild CHF; BP support Mild CHF (adjunct; MD-guided) Moderate for symptoms; outcomes unclear C MediHerb (practitioner), Gaia Herbs
Berberis aristata + Silymarin combo Lipids/Glucose Botanical combo Silymarin can support berberine tolerability and LDL lowering Those intolerant to berberine GI effects Low–Moderate (combo data) C Integrative Therapeutics Berberine Complex
Grape Seed OPC (standalone) Vascular/edema Polyphenol Reduces leg edema and supports microcirculation Long-standing, flights Moderate B Life Extension, NOW (std. OPC % shown)
Resistant Starch (RS2/RS3 powders) Gut (butyrate) Prebiotic Increases butyrate producers; improves stool form Low-fiber diets; IBS-C (titrate slowly) Low–Moderate C Bob’s Red Mill Potato Starch (RS2); Hi-Maize® (RS2)
Astragalus membranaceus Kidney/Immune; Telomere hype Botanical Traditional kidney/immune support; telomerase claims preliminary Immune support seekers Low–Moderate (specific endpoints) C Planetary Herbals, Gaia Herbs
Holy Basil (Tulsi) Stress/adaptogen Botanical Mild reductions in stress and perceived anxiety High-stress lifestyles Low–Moderate C Organic India Tulsi, Gaia Herbs
Schisandra chinensis Stress/Liver (ALT) Botanical Adaptogen with possible liver enzyme benefits Stressed individuals; mild ALT elevations Low–Moderate C Gaia Herbs, Paradise Herbs
Gynostemma (Jiaogulan) AMPK/Metabolic Botanical AMPK-activating tea; gentle metabolic support Low-intensity metabolic support Low–Moderate C Hyperion Herbs (tea), Dragon Herbs
Echinacea (purpurea/angustifolia) URTI prevention (seasonal) Botanical Small reduction in cold incidence/duration Seasonal use; high-exposure jobs      
Spirulina Metabolic & immune Algae Modest lipid/glucose support; antioxidant protein source People with low veggie/protein intake Low–Moderate (heterogeneous quality) C Nutrex Hawaii, NOW (COAs)
Chlorella Detox & micronutrient Algae Binds some heavy metals; B12 analogs; chlorophyll High fish intake; low greens Low–Moderate C Sun Chlorella, Jarrow
Arginine (L-Arginine) Vascular (NO) Amino acid Short-term pump/BP support; less effective than citrulline Athletes chasing pumps; mild ED Moderate for NO, weaker than citrulline C Thorne, NOW
L-Carnitine L-Tartrate (LCLT) Performance & recovery Amino acid Aids recovery and androgen receptor density in some studies Strength/power athletes Low–Moderate B–C Kaged, Jarrow
Agmatine Sulfate Neuro & pain Amine May help neuropathic pain and mood; nitric oxide modulation Neuropathic pain; pre-workout users Low–Moderate C Nootropics Depot (COAs)
Phosphatidylcholine (PC) Liver & cognition Phospholipid Supports bile flow and membrane repair; choline source Fatty liver risk; low choline diets Moderate (liver enzymes) B BodyBio PC, Thorne
Apple Cider Vinegar (Acetic acid) Post-meal glucose Fermented food Blunts post-prandial glucose/insulin spikes High-carb meals; prediabetes Moderate (acute effects) B Bragg (with “mother”); capsules: Enzymedica
Diosmin/Hesperidin Vein & lymph (legs) Flavonoids Reduces leg edema and venous insufficiency symptoms Prolonged standing, travel Moderate (symptom relief) B Daflon®/Vasculera (Rx in some regions); Life Extension
Rutin Capillary strength Flavonoid Supports fragile capillaries; adjunct for hemorrhoids/veins Those with easy bruising, venous issues Low–Moderate C Swanson, NOW
Tributyrin (Butyrate) Gut barrier & immune Postbiotic Increases butyrate; supports barrier integrity, motility IBS, low fiber diets Low–Moderate (promising) C Healthy Gut Tributyrin, MitoPure® Butyrate equivalents
N-Acetyl-D-Glucosamine (NAG) Gut lining Amino sugar Mucin support; may ease IBS/IBD symptoms adjunctively IBS/IBD (with clinician) Low–Moderate C Jarrow, NOW
Strontium (citrate) Bone density (caution) Mineral Increases DXA readings; safety/interpretation concerns Severe osteopenia (MD-guided) Low–Moderate; safety caveats D Life Extension (only with MD; separate from Ca)
Ipriflavone Bone turnover Isoflavone May reduce bone resorption; mixed fracture data Post-menopause (adjunct) Low–Moderate C Double Wood (COAs)
Vitamin K2 (MK-4) Bone & arterial Vitamin High-dose MK-4 used in Japan for bone; short half-life Osteoporosis protocols (MD-guided) Moderate (bone markers/outcomes in Japan) B Thorne MK-4
Bromelain (stand-alone) Inflammation & sinus Enzyme Reduces nasal swelling and post-exercise soreness Sinus issues; DOMS Moderate (symptom relief) B Doctor’s Best, NOW
NADH (reduced NAD⁺) Energy (CFS) Coenzyme May help chronic fatigue in small trials CFS/ME populations Low–Moderate C Enada® NADH
Oxaloacetate (OAA) Metabolic/brain (speculative) Metabolite Emerging data for fatigue & mood; TCA cycle support Biohackers; fatigue Low D benaGene®
DMAE Cognitive (speculative) Choline analog Cosmetic skin tightening claims; unclear cognition benefits Cosmetic users Low D Life Extension DMAE
Policosanol Lipids (LDL) Alcohol mixture Mixed results; Cuban vs non-Cuban data conflict Statin-intolerant seeking mild help Low–Moderate D Life Extension, Jarrow
CLA (Conjugated Linoleic Acid) Fat loss (claims) Fatty acid Minimal fat-loss effect; GI upset possible Limited use cases Low–Moderate (tiny effects) D NatureWise, Sports Research
Garcinia cambogia Weight loss (claims) Botanical No meaningful, sustained fat-loss; GI risks Low F
7-Keto DHEA Metabolic (MD-guided) Hormone metabolite Slight metabolic rate bump; hormonal caveats Middle-aged with MD oversight Low–Moderate C Life Extension (doctor-supervised)
L-Ornithine Ammonia & sleep quality Amino acid Reduces perceived fatigue; supports ammonia handling High-protein eaters; late-night heavy meals Low–Moderate C NOW, Thorne
Cordyceps (militaris/sinensis) Performance (endurance), Energy Mushroom extract May improve aerobic capacity and fatigue resistance Endurance athletes, low-energy individuals Moderate human; small RCTs B Nammex/Real Mushrooms, Host Defense, Double Wood
Reishi (Ganoderma lucidum) Immune, Stress/Sleep Mushroom extract Immune modulation and calmer sleep Stressed adults, frequent colds Moderate human; many mechanistic B Host Defense, Real Mushrooms, Life Extension
Chondroitin sulfate Joint Supplement Supports joint comfort with glucosamine Adults with knee OA Moderate–strong human B Doctor’s Best, Kirkland, NOW
Meso-zeaxanthin Eye (macula) Carotenoid Completes macular pigment alongside lutein/zeaxanthin Screen-heavy users, early macular risk Moderate human B MacuHealth (LMZ3), Life Extension
D-Aspartic Acid (DAA) Hormone (T) Amino acid May transiently increase testosterone in some Men with low T; training blocks Mixed/weak human D BulkSupplements, NutraBio
Fadogia agrestis Hormone (T) Herb Popular T booster with minimal human data Niche biohackers only Very weak human F — (avoid until better data)
Mucuna pruriens (L-DOPA) Mood/Drive Herb extract Dopaminergic support; libido/motivation Low drive or Parkinson’s adjunct (MD-guided) Moderate (specific contexts) C Himalaya, NOW, Double Wood
Evening Primrose Oil (GLA) Skin, Women’s health Oil GLA for skin hydration and PMS symptoms Women with PMS/eczema Moderate human C Barlean’s, NOW, Solgar
Borage Oil (high-GLA) Skin, Inflammation Oil Higher GLA per softgel than EPO Those wanting higher GLA dose Moderate human C Life Extension, NOW
Ceramides (wheat extract oil) Skin Lipid extract Improves skin barrier and hydration Dry/aging skin Moderate human B Ceramosides® products (Life Extension, Sports Research)
L-Serine Neuro, Sleep Amino acid May support neuropathy, sleep quality Neuropathy risk, poor sleep Early human C Thorne (Seriphos alt is phosphoserine), BulkSupplements
Zinc Carnosine (PepZin GI) Gut lining Complex Repairs/soothes gastric mucosa GERD/gastritis support Moderate human B Doctor’s Best PepZin GI, Jarrow
Larch Arabinogalactan Immune/Gut Fiber Prebiotic; may cut URTI duration Frequent colds, low fiber intake Moderate human C Swanson, NOW
Andrographis paniculata Immune (URTI) Herb Reduces duration/severity of colds Teachers, parents, travelers Moderate human B Gaia Herbs, Himalaya
AHCC (active hexose correlated compound) Immune Mushroom-derived NK-cell activity; adjunct during cold season Immunity-focused adults Early–moderate human C Quality of Life (AHCC®), Swanson
Butterbur (PA-free) Allergy/Migraine Herb May reduce allergic rhinitis/migraine frequency Seasonal allergy sufferers Moderate human C Petadolex® (PA-free only)
Celery Seed Extract Uric Acid/BP Herb Supports uric acid and mild BP Gout-prone, mild hypertension Early–moderate human C Swanson, Nature’s Way
Black Cohosh Women’s health Herb Menopause hot-flash relief Peri/postmenopausal women Moderate human B Remifemin®, Nature’s Way
Vinpocetine Brain blood flow Drug-like Cerebral circulation/cognition support Older adults (note regulatory status) Mixed human C Life Extension (check legality in your country)
Capsaicin (oral) Metabolic Compound Tiny thermogenic effect; appetite aid Cutting phases Mixed human D Swanson, NOW
Choline Bitartrate Brain/Liver Choline salt Budget choline for liver/methylation High alcohol/fatty liver risk Moderate human C NOW, BulkSupplements
Grape Skin Polyphenols Vascular Polyphenols Endothelial function; BP support Hypertensive/pre-hypertensive Early–moderate C Life Extension, Pure Encapsulations
Meso-PS (Phosphatidylserine 100 mg variants) Stress/Cortisol Phospholipid Blunts exercise-induced cortisol; focus High-stress workers Moderate human B Jarrow, Double Wood
Green Coffee Bean (chlorogenic acids) Metabolic Extract Small aid to glucose/weight control Overweight, high post-meal glucose Mixed human C NatureWise, Life Extension
Berberine + Inositol combo Metabolic/PCOS Stack Insulin sensitivity & cycle regularity PCOS (MD-guided) Moderate human (combo) B Thorne, Life Extension (separate ingredients)
Skullcap (Baicalin) Calm/Inflammation Herb Anxiolytic + anti-inflammatory flavones Stress/anxiety Early–moderate human C Gaia Herbs, Double Wood
Horsetail (Silica herb) Hair/Nail Herb Silica source for hair/nails Weak hair/nails Weak–early human D Nature’s Way
Pine Pollen Hormone (T) Pollen Claims natural T support; scant human data Men chasing natural T Very weak F — (insufficient evidence)
Bacillus spore probiotics Gut resilience Probiotic Heat-stable spore strains; bloat support Travelers; SIBO-prone (case-by-case) Moderate strain-specific C Microbiome Labs (MegaSpore), Just Thrive
Bifidobacterium longum 1714 Stress/Brain–gut Probiotic strain May reduce stress scores High-stress adults Early–moderate strain-specific C Zenflore® (PrecisionBiotics)
Korean Red Ginseng (Rg1/Rb1-std.) Energy/Libido Adaptogen Mild energy, libido, glucose effects Fatigued adults Moderate human B CheongKwanJang, ILHWA, Nature’s Way
Cissus quadrangularis Joint/Tendon Herb May reduce joint discomfort Lifters with elbow/knee niggles Early–moderate C PrimaForce, Swanson
Pau d’Arco (lapachol-std.) Microbalance Bark extract Traditional anti-microbial support Recurrent yeast issues Weak–early D Herb Pharm
Shatavari (Asparagus racemosus) Women’s health Herb Menopause/PMS support, libido Peri-menopausal women Early–moderate C Himalaya, Banyan Botanicals
Dandelion (Taraxacum) leaf Fluid balance Herb Gentle diuretic; bloat relief PMS bloat, salt-heavy diets Weak–moderate C Gaia Herbs
Cissus + Curcumin topical (combo) Joint (topical) Topical stack Local joint comfort Lifters with localized pain Early C Euphoria formulations (various)
Beta-Sitosterol (stand-alone) Prostate Plant sterol Urinary flow in BPH Men >50 with LUTS Moderate human B NOW, Swanson
Astaxanthin + Vitamin E mix Skin/Photo Antioxidant stack UV-induced skin fatigue & wrinkles Outdoor athletes Moderate human (combo) B AstaReal® sources (Sports Research, NOW)
Coluracetam/Noopept Nootropic Peptide-like Subjective memory/focus Biohackers; very limited data Very weak human F — (not recommended)
Gynostemma pentaphyllum (tea) Metabolic/Longevity Herb AMPK-leaning, mild glucose/lipid Metabolic syndrome Early–moderate C Dragon Herbs, Teawarehouse
Sclareolide Body comp Terpene Marketed for “cutting”; evidence lacking Cutting phases Very weak F
Cissus + MSM + Boswellia combo Joint stack Supplement stack Multi-pathway joint support Heavy lifters, OA Moderate (components) B Build from individual reputable brands
Kanna (Sceletium tortuosum) Mood/Anxiety Herb Serotonergic calm; social stress Acute anxiety Early–moderate C Zembrin® products
Proline + Hydroxyproline Skin/Collagen Amino acids Collagen precursors (non-collagen) Low-protein diets Early–moderate C BulkSupplements (or get via collagen peptides)
Oxaloacetate (OAA) Mitochondrial / Longevity Metabolite salt Supports mitochondrial turnover and may slow biological aging markers Older adults, fatigue or metabolic-slowdown cases Moderate (human pilot + animal lifespan) B BenaGene®, Jarrow (Oxaloacetate complex)
NADH (reduced NAD⁺) Energy / Cognitive Coenzyme Directly donates electrons to the mitochondrial chain; small boost to alertness Chronic fatigue, jet lag, low-energy Moderate (small RCTs) C Enada®, NOW Foods
Ketone Esters (R-3-hydroxybutyl R-3-hydroxybutyrate) Energy / Brain fuel Exogenous ketone Rapid clean fuel for brain and endurance Endurance athletes, keto-adapted users Moderate (acute human) B H.V.M.N., KetoneAid KE4
Ketone Salts (BHB Salts) Energy / Metabolic Salt complex Raises blood β-hydroxybutyrate mildly for mental energy Low-carb dieters, fasting support Mixed / moderate C Perfect Keto®, KetoLogic®
Succinic Acid Mitochondrial cycle TCA intermediate Enhances ATP production and antioxidant buffering Fatigued or metabolic-syndrome adults Early human C BulkSupplements
Malic Acid Energy / Recovery TCA intermediate May reduce post-exercise soreness (with magnesium malate) Chronic fatigue, athletes Moderate human C NOW Foods, Thorne (Mag Malate)
D-Ribose Energy metabolism Simple sugar Restores ATP in myocardium and fatigue conditions Chronic fatigue, heart failure patients Moderate human B Life Extension, Doctor’s Best
L-Carnitine L-Tartrate (LCLT) Energy / Recovery Amino-acid derivative Transports fatty acids into mitochondria for fuel; reduces DOMS Strength athletes, vegetarians Strong human A NOW, Thorne, NutraBio
Acetyl-L-Carnitine (ALCAR) Brain / Mitochondrial Amino-acid derivative Supports brain energy, focus, and nerve repair Aging brains, fatigue Strong human A Jarrow, Doctor’s Best, Thorne
R-Alpha-Lipoic Acid (R-ALA) Antioxidant / Energy Fat-soluble antioxidant Recycles CoQ10 and glutathione; improves insulin sensitivity Diabetics, mitochondrial support Strong human A Doctor’s Best (R-ALA), Life Extension
Coenzyme Q9 (Ubiquinone-9) Energy support Quinone Similar to CoQ10 with better tissue penetration in some Older adults Early–moderate C Swanson, NOW
Carnitine Orotate Energy / Liver Carnitine complex Combines carnitine & orotic acid for liver mitochondrial support Fatty liver, chronic fatigue Early human C Double Wood Supplements
Phosphatidylcholine (PC) Cell membrane / Liver Phospholipid Rebuilds mitochondrial and liver membranes Fatty liver, high-toxin exposure Strong human (liver data) A BodyBio PC, NOW, Thorne
Carnosine Longevity / Glycation Dipeptide Buffers pH and reduces AGEs for mitochondrial protection Aging adults, diabetics Moderate human B Life Extension, Double Wood
Ubiquinol + PQQ Combo Mitochondrial biogenesis Stack Stimulates new mitochondria and ATP production Older adults, low energy Moderate–strong A Life Extension (Mitochondrial Energy Optimizer)
MitoQ (CoQ10 targeted) Targeted mitochondrial Antioxidant derivative Delivers CoQ10 directly to mitochondria for ROS reduction Aging adults with oxidative stress Moderate human B MitoQ Official
Pyrroloquinoline Quinone (PQQ) Mitochondrial biogenesis Quinone Stimulates new mitochondrial growth Cognitive aging, fatigue Strong preclinical + human pilot B Jarrow, NOW Foods
Urolithin A (Mitopure®) Mitophagy / Longevity Metabolite Promotes mitophagy to clear damaged mitochondria Aging adults / low muscle energy Strong human pilot (2022–23) A Timeline Nutrition (Mitopure®)
Magnesium Malate Energy / Fatigue Mineral complex Combines Mg + malic acid for ATP cycle support Chronic fatigue and muscle soreness Strong human A Thorne, NOW
Riboflavin (B2) Energy / Migraine Vitamin Cofactor for FAD & mitochondrial energy; lowers migraine frequency Migraine sufferers, low energy Strong human (migraine data) A Thorne, NOW, Pure Encapsulations
Pantethine (B5 active) Energy / Metabolic Vitamin Supports CoA synthesis for fat metabolism Lipid issues / fatigue Strong human B Jarrow Formulas, NOW
Methylene Blue (low dose) Mitochondrial redox Redox dye Electron carrier enhancing ETC efficiency (µM dose only) Cognitive decline / biohackers Early–moderate human C Troscriptions (Blue Cannatine) – use MD supervision
Succinate Dehydrogenase Boosters (stack) Mitochondrial enzyme Stack concept Theoretical TCA amplifiers (e.g., oxaloacetate + succinate) Research / advanced biohackers Early data only D
Sodium Pyruvate Energy buffer Metabolite salt Improves cellular redox and fatigue tolerance CFS / exercise fatigue Early human C BulkSupplements
Niacinamide Riboside Hydrogen (NRH) NAD⁺ precursor NAD⁺ booster New generation precursor with rapid NAD⁺ rise Longevity research users Early human (2022–24 data) B ChromaDex (Niagen prototype)
Alpha-Ketobutyrate (AKB) Longevity / Metabolic Keto-acid May extend lifespan via redox balance (rodent data) Advanced longevity users Preclinical only D
Thiamine (Benfotiamine for mitochondria) Energy / Nerve Vitamin B1 form Improves nerve energy metabolism & glycation defense Diabetic neuropathy Strong human A Doctor’s Best, Life Extension
Acarbose Longevity / Metabolic Health Prescription alpha-glucosidase inhibitor Slows carbohydrate absorption, blunts glucose spikes, and extends lifespan in mice more than almost any other compound tested People with insulin resistance, prediabetes, or those seeking to reduce post-meal glucose spikes Strong animal (longevity), moderate human (glucose/lipid studies) A Prescription only (Glucobay®, Precose®). Research alternatives: physician-compounded or MD-supervised use only
Finasteride Hormonal Health / Hair Prescription 5α-reductase inhibitor Blocks conversion of testosterone into DHT, reducing hair loss and prostate growth Men with androgenic alopecia (male-pattern baldness) or benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) Strong human (multiple RCTs, FDA-approved) A (for hair loss) / C (for overall health) Prescription only (Propecia®, Proscar®)
Thodiola rosea              
Turkesterone              
asprin              
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
    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