Vinpocetine: A Brain Health Supplement from the Periwinkle Plant
Secure Ordering | Free Shipping | Best Quality | Best Prices
Along with providing information on whether Vinpocetine supplements might be right for you, this article also links to Fullscript where you can buy high quality supplements. Order online through Fullscript’s secure healthcare formulary to get the best prices and free shipping on professional-grade supplements.
Vinpocetine comes from the periwinkle plant (Vinca minor) and is often used as a supplement to support brain health. It’s thought to improve blood flow to the brain, which may help with memory, focus, and mental clarity. Some research also suggests it could help protect brain cells from damage, though results have been mixed. This article explores how vinpocetine works, its possible uses, and what current research says about its role in brain health.
What Is Vinpocetine?
Vinpocetine is a compound made from vincamine, a natural substance found in the periwinkle plant (Vinca minor). It has been used both as a supplement and, in some countries, as a prescription medication for its potential to support brain health and cognitive function. ~PMC10610279
Vinpocetine is often taken for its ability to improve blood flow to the brain by helping widen blood vessels, which may allow more oxygen and nutrients to reach brain cells. This effect has led to its use in research exploring memory support, mental clarity, and age-related cognitive decline. Some studies suggest vinpocetine may also help protect brain cells by acting as an antioxidant and reducing inflammation in brain tissue, which could play a role in conditions linked to oxidative stress and chronic inflammation.
Vinpocetine is available as a supplement in some countries and by prescription in others, with ongoing debate about how it should be regulated due to its synthetic nature.
What Are the Benefits of Vinpocetine?
Vinpocetine, might have benefits in cognitive health and circulation, [PMC5766389] but much of the research cited here is done in animal models. Here’s a look at the possible health benefits associated with Vinpocetine:
Enhances Cognitive Function: In animal models, Vinpocetine is most known for its potential to improve memory, concentration, and overall cognitive function, making it popular among those seeking cognitive enhancement.
May Help with Age-Related Cognitive Decline: Due to its potential cognitive benefits and neuroprotective properties, Vinpocetine is sometimes considered for managing age-related cognitive decline. [PMC4160700]
Improves Blood Flow to the Brain: It is believed to increase cerebral blood flow, which can help in better oxygen and nutrient delivery to the brain, supporting its function. [PMID: 17713111]
Neuroprotective Properties: Vinpocetine may protect brain cells against damage caused by excessive calcium influx, oxidative stress, and toxic environmental factors. [PMC10018848]
Stroke Recovery: Some studies suggest that Vinpocetine might aid in the recovery process after a stroke by improving blood flow and reducing inflammation in the brain. [PMID: 15760651]
Anti-Inflammatory Effects: It possesses anti-inflammatory properties, which can be beneficial in reducing inflammation in the brain and other parts of the body. [PMID: 38147382]
Vision: There is some evidence that Vinpocetine may improve vision and eye health by enhancing blood flow to the eyes. [PMID: 17228515]
Tinnitus and Inner Ear Conditions: There is some evidence that Vinpocetine may improve symptoms of tinnitus and certain inner ear disorders by improving blood circulation in these areas. [PMID: 33712282, PMID: 2432041]
Epilepsy and Seizure Disorders: Some studies have explored Vinpocetine’s potential in reducing the frequency and severity of seizures in epilepsy, but more research is needed in this area. ~PMC10424645
Parkinson’s Disease: Given its neuroprotective properties, Vinpocetine is also being explored for its potential benefits in Parkinson’s disease. [PMID: 30315378]
Is Vinpocetine Safe?
Vinpocetine is safe for consumption when used appropriately. It has been extensively studied and used in various parts of the world, with a good safety record in controlled dosages. Most people who take vinpocetine experience no adverse effects, and when side effects do occur, they are typically mild and transient, such as minor gastrointestinal disturbances or headaches. However, safety in pregnant or nursing women, children, and those with severe renal or hepatic impairment has not been established, underscoring the importance of professional advice in these cases.
Medication Interactions with Vinpocetine
Blood Thinners (Anticoagulants and Antiplatelets): Vinpocetine may enhance the blood-thinning effects, increasing the risk of bleeding.
Aspirin: Similar to blood thinners, combining vinpocetine with aspirin can increase bleeding risk.
Warfarin: The use of vinpocetine with warfarin might increase the chances of bleeding and affect blood clotting parameters.
Clopidogrel: Taking vinpocetine with clopidogrel can potentially elevate the risk of bleeding.
Ibuprofen and Other Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs): NSAIDs combined with vinpocetine might increase gastrointestinal bleeding risk.
Blood Pressure Medications: Vinpocetine can enhance the effects of these medications, leading to hypotension (low blood pressure).
Immune Suppressants: There may be potential interactions with these drugs, but specific effects are less clear and require further research.
Supplement Interactions with Vinpocetine
Ginkgo Biloba: Vinpocetine and Ginkgo Biloba together may increase the risk of bleeding due to their combined blood-thinning effects.
Garlic Supplements: Similar to Ginkgo Biloba, garlic supplements may also enhance the risk of bleeding when taken with vinpocetine.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids (Fish Oil): These supplements, known for their blood-thinning properties, might further elevate the risk of bleeding in combination with vinpocetine.
Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10): There is a potential for increased bleeding risk when CoQ10 is taken alongside vinpocetine.
St. John’s Wort: This supplement might interfere with the metabolism and effectiveness of vinpocetine.
Ginseng: Ginseng may amplify the blood-thinning effect of vinpocetine, increasing the risk of bleeding.
Vitamin E: High doses of Vitamin E, combined with vinpocetine, could potentially increase bleeding tendencies.
When you purchase linked products presented on this page, Supplement Sciences, LLC receives affiliate fees so that our dietitians can continue to create great content.
Thank you for your support!
Order Vinpocetine Online
Why Professionals Choose the Fullscript Formulary
Health professionals know that many online and retail options set a very low bar for quality– sometimes amazingly low. The Fullscript formulary is the most secure online source for the highest quality brands, securely sourced to assure freshness and purity. Here’s what makes Fullscript the best:
Meticulous vetting of brand quality. Meticulous vetting of brand quality. Health professionals trust Fullscript to monitor the quality of every item. While other retailers prioritize profit above all else, Fullscript focuses solely on quality and reliability. Unlike discount stores and large online marketplaces, you won’t find ingredients sourced from China or other questionable suppliers.
Free shipping over $50and best prices when you order through Supplement Sciences.
Wide Selection: Access to the entire Fullscript formulary. Search for the exact brands and products you want.
Easy Sign-up & No Spam Email: Click “View Product” or the button below to be taken to Fullscript’s login page where you can quickly create your secure account with just your name, email, and phone number. Then you will be taken directly to the product page.
When you purchase linked products presented on this page, Supplement Sciences, LLC receives affiliate fees so that our dietitians can continue to create great content.
Thank you for your support!
Vinpocetine 20mg by Pure Encapsulations
Vinpocetine supports healthy cognitive function while promoting healthy blood flow and oxygen utilization. Vinpocetine specifically helps distribute oxygen to cells.*
Supports cognitive function and cerebrovascular health*
Promotes memory function*
Made with hypoallergenic, vegetarian ingredients
Vinpocetine is an alkaloid synthesized from vincamine, a natural compound extracted from the leaves of periwinkle (Vinca minor L) which was first developed in Europe over 20 years ago. Vinpocetine is absorbed in the small intestine and then processed in the liver. Once in systemic circulation, vinpocetine is absorbed by most tissues in the body and crosses the blood brain barrier. Vinpocetine enhances healthy cerebrovascular blood flow, possibly by supporting cyclic GMP phosphodiesterase activity, allowing for healthy oxygen distribution to cells. Vinpocetine may also support oxygen release from hemoglobin, providing cells easier access to the oxygen they need. Furthermore, studies have reported that vinpocetine may provide neuroprotection via its antioxidant properties. In a double blind placebo-controlled clinical trial, 84 elderly subjects were given vinpocetine or a placebo over a period of 90 days. Results indicated that those supplementing with vinpocetine experienced positive cognitive function. An additional placebo-controlled, randomized, double blind, multicenter trial of 203 individuals suggested that vinpocetine significantly enhanced cognition and other subjective measures. Vinpocetine has the potential to support healthy memory, as indicated by a randomized, double blind, crossover study.*
Food First!
Although this article discusses supplements in detail, don’t forget that we are absolutely committed to the “Food First” approach to nutrition. When it comes to your health, the totality of your eating habits far surpasses the impact of individual nutrients or any single supplement you consume. Even though this article doesn’t delve into the broader picture of your overall diet, it’s crucial to keep this element at the forefront of our minds. Food is one of the “Pillars of Health”. Your food needs to provide all the vitamins, minerals, fiber, and phytochemicals to nourish your body systems down to the cellular level.
Food choices, rather than supplements, are the most critical factors for a healthy gut microbiome. These trillions of tiny inhabitants in your gut affect your brain waves; they orchestrate your immune system. They possess the power to create molecules that can switch genes on or off and are even capable of synthesizing neurotransmitters. Opting for organic foods and steering clear of plastic packaging (including those labeled BPA-free) is a smart move to limit toxin exposure. The sum of all these parts leads to a powerful conclusion: the ultimate key to your health lies in the quality and balance of the food you consume. Supplements are secondary.
To Sum It Up
Vinpocetine supplements, derived from the periwinkle plant, offer a range of health benefits. They are primarily known for enhancing cognitive functions, potentially improving memory, focus, and mental clarity through improved blood flow to the brain. Beyond cognitive support, vinpocetine’s neuroprotective properties, stemming from its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, are valuable in safeguarding brain cells. This makes it a notable option for those interested in brain health and cognitive maintenance.
This Article is Not a Substitute for Medical Advice
This information is provided for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice. Supplement Sciences does not provide medical care and cannot ensure the safety or effectiveness of any product for your personal use. Always consult your physician before starting any supplement, especially if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or managing a serious health condition such as cancer, liver disease, or kidney disease. Dietary supplements are not designed to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
* These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration.
Labs
Supplements
Log in
Register
Scan Me!
