Phosphatidylserine
Also known as: PS, Sharp-PS, SerinAid, sunflower phosphatidylserine, soy phosphatidylserine
Phosphatidylserine is a phospholipid concentrated in neuronal membranes where it supports receptor function, neurotransmitter release, and signaling. Modern PS is made enzymatically from soy or sunflower lecithin, replacing older bovine-cortex material. A six-month RCT in older adults with memory complaints used 100 and 300 mg daily, and it is a standard ingredient in memory, focus, and cortisol-management formulas. Sunflower-derived PS avoids soy allergen labeling.
Research summary
Structural membrane phospholipid that supports acetylcholine release, membrane fluidity, and glucose metabolism in neurons.
Dosage
Daily amounts, of compound.
| Lowest studied | Typical range | Highest studied | Upper limit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 100 mg | 100–300 mg | 300 mg | — |
100–300 mg daily, often split with meals; 100 mg three times daily is the classic regimen. Benefits in trials appeared over several months. Fat-soluble; take with food.
Standardization: 20–70% phosphatidylserine (by assay) on a lecithin or carrier base
Source material: soy or sunflower lecithin, enzymatically converted
As supplied: Assumes a 50% PS powder (2 mg raw material per 1 mg PS). 20% grades require 5 mg per mg; 70% grades about 1.4 mg per mg.
Format suitability
- Capsule
- Powder
- Tablet
- Softgel
- Gummy
- Liquid
Hygroscopic, sticky powder; carriers such as silica are used. Softgels (in oil) and capsules are most common. Not suited to gummies.
Formulation notes
Soy-derived grades require soy allergen labeling; sunflower grades do not. May add to anticholinergic-drug interactions in theory.
- Allergen: soy
Sources
Related ingredients
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NootropicAn extract of a creeping wetland herb from traditional Indian practice, standardized to bacosides, that is one of the better-studied botanical nootropics for memory.
Typical: 300–450 mg
Magnesium L-Threonate
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Typical: 100–144 mg
American Ginseng Extract
BotanicalThe root of a ginseng species native to North America, used in focus and calm-energy formulas.
Typical: 200–400 mg
L-Theanine
Amino acidAn amino acid found naturally in green tea that promotes a calm, focused state without sedation.
Typical: 100–200 mg
Lion's Mane (Hericium erinaceus)
MushroomLion's mane is an edible tooth fungus whose fruiting body and mycelium contain hericenones and erinacines alongside beta-glucan polysaccharides.
Typical: 500–1,000 mg