Substance Directory
57 compounds with evidence-graded safety profiles, dosage guides, and stacking interactions.
5-Amino-1MQ
A small molecule inhibitor of NNMT (Nicotinamide N-Methyltransferase) — an enzyme that degrades NAD+ precursors and promotes fat cell differentiation. Inhibiting NNMT simultaneously raises cellular NAD+ and reduces adipogenesis without stimulating the CNS.
9-Me-BC (9-Methyl-β-Carboline)
A β-carboline alkaloid that promotes dopaminergic neuron survival and proliferation while inhibiting MAO-A/B enzymes. Strong animal data for reversing dopamine depletion and stimulant-induced tolerance. No human clinical trials exist.
Acarbose
An FDA-approved alpha-glucosidase inhibitor that slows dietary carbohydrate absorption, blunting postprandial glucose spikes. The Interventions Testing Program (ITP) demonstrated significant lifespan extension in male mice. Now used in longevity protocols as a glucose-lowering complement to Rapamycin.
AICAR (Acadesine)
A nucleotide analogue that directly activates AMPK - the master metabolic sensor - independently of AMP levels. Dubbed the 'exercise in a pill' in landmark Salk Institute research, AICAR increased running endurance by 44% in sedentary mice without any exercise training. Currently prohibited by WADA.
Alpha-GPC (Alpha-Glycerylphosphorylcholine)
The most bioavailable form of choline, crossing the blood-brain barrier efficiently. Uniquely supports both acetylcholine synthesis for cognitive function and growth hormone secretion — making it one of the few nootropics with dual cognitive and physical performance benefits.
AOD-9604
A modified C-terminal fragment of human growth hormone (hGH176-191) that retains fat-burning properties without the anabolic or IGF-1-stimulating effects of full HGH. The most targeted peptide for lipolysis with one of the best safety profiles in peptide research - backed by Phase 3 clinical trial data.
Ashwagandha (KSM-66)
The most clinically studied adaptogen. KSM-66 is the highest-concentration ashwagandha root extract, backed by 12+ RCTs demonstrating significant cortisol reduction, testosterone support, and sleep quality improvement.
Astaxanthin
A red carotenoid from Haematococcus pluvialis — in 2023 became the first agent in the NIH ITP's 20-year history to exceed 10% lifespan extension in genetically heterogeneous mice (12% median male lifespan, Harrison et al. GeroScience 2024). Crosses the blood-brain and blood-retina barriers. Mechanism: Nrf2 activation, not direct scavenging.
Bacopa Monnieri
An Ayurvedic herb with the strongest human evidence base for memory enhancement. Bacosides improve synaptic communication and reduce anxiety through multiple neurotransmitter pathways. Effects accumulate progressively over 8–12 weeks of continuous use.
Berberine (Liposomal)
An isoquinoline alkaloid that activates AMPK - the same pathway as metformin. Liposomal delivery overcomes berberine's poor bioavailability, making it one of the most powerful natural interventions for glucose management, lipid control, and metabolic longevity. Often called 'nature's metformin'.
Boron (Calcium Fructoborate)
A trace mineral with significant hormonal effects at low doses. A landmark RCT demonstrated that 10mg/day boron for 7 days increased free testosterone by 28%, reduced SHBG by 9%, and lowered inflammatory markers including hsCRP. Highly underrated and dramatically under-consumed in modern diets.
Bovine Colostrum
The first milk produced after birth, rich in immunoglobulins, growth factors (IGF-1, TGF-β), lactoferrin, and proline-rich peptides. Clinical evidence supports gut barrier repair, immune modulation, and athletic recovery benefits. One of the most evidence-backed natural gut repair agents.
BPC-157 (Body Protection Compound)
A pentadecapeptide derived from human gastric juice with remarkable tissue-healing properties. Acts locally and systemically to repair tendons, ligaments, muscles, and the gastrointestinal tract.
Cerebrolysin
A purified porcine brain-derived neuropeptide mixture containing low-molecular-weight peptides that mimic endogenous neurotrophic factors including BDNF, NGF, and CNTF. The most studied neuropeptide complex with over 30 years of clinical use for stroke, traumatic brain injury, and age-related cognitive decline.
CJC-1295 (without DAC)
A modified analogue of Growth Hormone Releasing Hormone (GHRH) that stimulates the pituitary to produce and release growth hormone. The 'without DAC' form produces physiological GH pulses rather than sustained elevation, making it the preferred variant for anti-ageing and recovery protocols. Always used alongside a GHRP (typically Ipamorelin) for synergistic GH amplification.
Coenzyme Q10 (Ubiquinol)
Essential component of the mitochondrial electron transport chain required for ATP production in every cell. The Q-SYMBIO trial (420 patients, 2 years) showed 43% reduction in major cardiovascular events and 50% reduction in all-cause mortality with 300mg/day. The 2024 meta-analysis of 11,372 patients confirmed 5.6% absolute ejection fraction improvement. Critical for the ~200 million people on statin therapy worldwide.
Creatine Monohydrate
The most evidence-backed sports supplement, now recognised as a significant cognitive enhancer and neuroprotective agent. Creatine's role in cerebral energy metabolism makes it relevant far beyond athletics — with growing evidence for depression, TBI recovery, ageing brain, and neurodegenerative disease protection.
Dihexa
A synthetic hexapeptide derived from angiotensin IV that potently promotes synaptogenesis — the formation of new neuronal connections. Approximately 7 orders of magnitude more potent than BDNF in hippocampal synaptogenesis assays. Human data is extremely limited.
DSIP (Delta Sleep-Inducing Peptide)
A naturally occurring nonapeptide that specifically promotes slow-wave (delta) sleep - the deepest, most restorative sleep stage. Unlike pharmaceutical sleep aids, DSIP does not cause dependence, sedation, or next-day impairment. The most targeted intervention for deep sleep quality.
Epithalon (Epitalon)
A synthetic tetrapeptide (Ala-Glu-Asp-Gly) derived from the pineal gland extract Epithalamin. The only peptide with published human data on telomere elongation. Considered one of the most significant longevity compounds in peptide research.
Fadogia Agrestis
A West African shrub traditionally used as an aphrodisiac. Modern research shows it stimulates luteinizing hormone (LH) secretion, driving endogenous testosterone production. The most popular natural LH secretagogue in biohacking — typically stacked with Tongkat Ali.
Fisetin
A flavonoid found in strawberries with the most potent senolytic activity among all tested compounds. Selectively eliminates senescent cells that accumulate with age and drive systemic inflammation — the SASP effect.
GHK-Cu (Copper Peptide)
A naturally occurring copper-binding tripeptide (Gly-His-Lys) found in human plasma, saliva, and urine that declines dramatically with age. Activates over 4,000 genes involved in tissue repair, collagen synthesis, anti-inflammatory response, and stem cell activation. The most extensively researched regenerative peptide for skin, hair, and systemic tissue repair.
Ipamorelin
A selective growth hormone secretagogue peptide that stimulates GH release from the pituitary with the highest selectivity of any GHRP - without raising cortisol, prolactin, or ACTH. The cleanest GH-stimulating peptide available, typically paired with a GHRH analogue (CJC-1295) for synergistic GH pulse amplification.
KPV (Lys-Pro-Val)
A tripeptide fragment of alpha-MSH (alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone) that exerts potent anti-inflammatory effects in the gut and systemically. Primary use: inflammatory bowel conditions, leaky gut, and post-antibiotic gut repair. Strong mouse IBD data.
Lion's Mane (Hericium erinaceus)
A medicinal mushroom with unique ability to stimulate Nerve Growth Factor (NGF) synthesis in the brain. The only known natural compound that promotes myelination and neurogenesis in the adult nervous system.
Lithium Orotate
A low-dose form of lithium bound to orotic acid for enhanced cellular uptake. At microdose levels (1–5 mg elemental lithium), lithium orotate demonstrates neuroprotective, anti-ageing, and mood-stabilising effects distinct from pharmaceutical lithium carbonate used in psychiatry.
Magnesium L-Threonate
The only form of magnesium that reliably crosses the blood-brain barrier. Developed at MIT, it uniquely elevates cerebrospinal magnesium levels, supporting synaptic density, memory consolidation, and sleep architecture.
Methylene Blue
A synthetic phenothiazine dye and the world's oldest synthetic drug (1876). Acts as an alternative electron carrier in the mitochondrial electron transport chain, bypassing Complex I and III dysfunction. At nanomolar doses, it enhances mitochondrial respiration, ATP production, and demonstrates remarkable neuroprotective effects in neurodegenerative disease models.
MOTS-c
A 16-amino acid peptide encoded within mitochondrial DNA - one of the first mitochondria-derived peptides ever discovered. Regulates glucose metabolism, activates AMPK, and mimics the metabolic effects of exercise at the cellular level. A defining longevity compound of 2026 research.
Nicotinamide Riboside (NR)
A naturally occurring NAD+ precursor and vitamin B3 variant — the most clinically studied NAD+ booster with multiple human RCTs demonstrating safe and effective NAD+ elevation. Marketed as Niagen by ChromaDex, NR has accumulated more peer-reviewed human safety and pharmacokinetic data than any other NAD+ precursor.
NMN (Nicotinamide Mononucleotide)
A nucleotide precursor that replenishes cellular NAD+ levels, which decline significantly with age. Among the most-researched longevity compounds with human clinical trial data.
Omega-3 (EPA + DHA)
The most evidence-backed essential fatty acid supplementation. DHA is the primary structural fatty acid of the brain and retina. EPA drives anti-inflammatory eicosanoid production. Multiple meta-analyses confirm cardiovascular protection, cognitive support, and anti-inflammatory effects. The REDUCE-IT trial demonstrated 25% cardiovascular event reduction with high-dose EPA.
Oxytocin
The brain's primary bonding and trust hormone. Endogenously released during physical touch, intimacy, and social bonding. Exogenous intranasal oxytocin enhances emotional connection, reduces social anxiety, modulates the stress response, and amplifies the subjective quality of sexual experience.
Pentosan Polysulfate Sodium (PPS)
A semi-synthetic polysaccharide sulphate derived from beech wood that mimics endogenous glycosaminoglycans. The most evidence-backed pharmaceutical intervention for cartilage protection and joint repair, with over 30 years of clinical use in veterinary orthopaedics and growing human data. Approved in multiple countries for osteoarthritis.
PQQ (Pyrroloquinoline Quinone)
A redox cofactor and potent antioxidant that uniquely stimulates mitochondrial biogenesis - the growth of new mitochondria. Works synergistically with NMN to comprehensively support cellular energy production. Where NMN improves existing mitochondria, PQQ creates new ones.
PT-141 (Bremelanotide)
The only peptide approved by the FDA for hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD) in premenopausal women (as Vyleesi). Unlike PDE5 inhibitors (Viagra, Cialis), PT-141 works centrally via melanocortin receptors in the brain - enhancing desire and arousal in both men and women regardless of cardiovascular input.
Quercetin
The most researched natural senolytic. As the 'Q' in the Mayo Clinic's Dasatinib + Quercetin (D+Q) protocol, Quercetin has been validated in multiple human clinical trials for senescent cell clearance — diabetic kidney disease, pulmonary fibrosis, and Alzheimer's feasibility studies. Daily low-dose use provides potent antihistamine, anti-inflammatory, and mitochondrial biogenesis support.
Rapamycin (Sirolimus)
An FDA-approved macrolide compound that inhibits mTOR Complex 1, extending lifespan in every model organism tested. The most evidence-backed pharmacological intervention for longevity currently available. Prescription-only in most jurisdictions.
Resveratrol
A polyphenolic stilbenoid found in red wine and grape skins that activates SIRT1 and AMPK pathways. Requires NAD+ co-factors for maximal sirtuin activation, making it synergistic with NMN.
Retatrutide (GLP-1/GIP/Glucagon Triple Agonist)
A once-weekly injectable peptide that simultaneously activates GLP-1, GIP, and glucagon receptors — producing greater fat loss than semaglutide or tirzepatide while preserving lean mass better than single-agonist agents. Currently in Phase 3 trials (Eli Lilly).
Selank
A synthetic heptapeptide analogue of tuftsin with anxiolytic, nootropic, and immunomodulatory properties. Developed in Russia as a dependence-free alternative to benzodiazepines. Reduces anxiety without sedation, enhances memory consolidation, and stabilises mood under stress.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy)
The most clinically validated pharmacological weight loss agent available. A synthetic GLP-1 analogue with 94% homology to human GLP-1, modified for extended half-life. STEP trials demonstrate 15–17% body weight reduction; the SELECT trial demonstrated 20% reduction in cardiovascular events. Increasingly used in longevity protocols for metabolic optimisation.
Semax
A synthetic heptapeptide analogue of ACTH(4-7) developed in Russia. Increases BDNF and NGF expression, enhances dopaminergic and serotonergic neurotransmission, and has demonstrated neuroprotective effects in stroke recovery. Fast-acting via nasal administration.
Sodium Butyrate
A salt of butyrate — the primary short-chain fatty acid produced by colonic fermentation of dietary fibre. The main energy source for colonocytes, a potent HDAC inhibitor, and an anti-inflammatory agent with independent lifespan extension in model organisms. Supplementation delivers butyrate directly to the colon, bypassing fermentation variability.
Spermidine
A naturally occurring polyamine found in high concentrations in wheat germ, aged cheese, and mushrooms. The most potent food-derived inducer of autophagy - the cellular self-cleaning process that removes damaged proteins and organelles. Spermidine levels decline 40-50% between ages 20 and 80, making supplementation a compelling longevity intervention.
SS-31 (Elamipretide / MTP-131)
A synthetic tetrapeptide that binds to cardiolipin in the inner mitochondrial membrane, stabilising cristae structure and restoring electron transport chain efficiency. Phase 2 clinical trial data in heart failure and mitochondrial disease.
Taurine
A sulphur-containing amino acid abundant in youth that declines with age. A landmark 2023 Nature study demonstrated taurine supplementation extends lifespan by 10–12% in mice and reverses multiple hallmarks of ageing. One of the most compelling longevity molecules with an exceptional safety profile.
TB-500 (Thymosin Beta-4)
A synthetic analogue of Thymosin Beta-4, a naturally occurring peptide present in virtually all human cells. Regulates actin polymerisation, enabling rapid cell migration to injury sites and systemic tissue repair throughout the body.
Tesofensine
A potent triple monoamine reuptake inhibitor (serotonin, dopamine, noradrenaline) originally developed for Parkinson's and Alzheimer's disease. Repurposed as a weight loss agent after Phase 2 trials showed 10.6% body weight reduction in 24 weeks — among the highest ever recorded for a non-surgical intervention. The most talked-about metabolic compound of 2026.
Thymalin
A natural peptide extract of the thymus gland developed by Professor Vladimir Khavinson. Restores thymic function that declines with age, normalises T-cell immunity, and shows remarkable longevity data in long-term human studies. Often paired with Epithalon in the most comprehensive anti-ageing peptide protocols.
Thymosin Alpha-1 (Tα1 / Zadaxin)
A 28-amino acid peptide produced naturally by the thymus gland that modulates both innate and adaptive immunity. FDA-approved investigational drug. Approved in 40+ countries for hepatitis B/C and cancer adjuvant therapy. Uniquely modulates rather than broadly suppresses or stimulates the immune system.
TMG (Trimethylglycine / Betaine)
A methyl donor derived from beets that supports the methylation cycle, reduces homocysteine, and helps maintain methyl group availability when supplementing NAD+ precursors like NMN or NR.
Tongkat Ali (Eurycoma longifolia)
Southeast Asian medicinal root with the strongest human evidence base for testosterone support. Standardised extracts (Physta®, LJ100) show consistent improvements in free testosterone, LH, and stress hormone ratios across multiple RCTs.
Turkesterone (Ajuga turkestanica Extract)
The most potent natural ecdysteroid, derived from Ajuga turkestanica. Promotes lean muscle protein synthesis through a non-androgenic mechanism — no testosterone suppression, no virilisation, no HPTA disruption. Limited but promising human data.
Urolithin A
A gut microbiome metabolite produced from ellagitannins in pomegranate and walnuts. The most clinically validated mitophagy inducer — clears damaged mitochondria and drives mitochondrial biogenesis. Phase 2 clinical trial data demonstrates improved muscle endurance in older adults.
Zinc (Bisglycinate)
An essential trace mineral involved in over 300 enzymatic reactions. Critical for testosterone synthesis, immune function, wound healing, and DNA repair. Zinc deficiency - extremely common in Western diets - directly suppresses testosterone production and impairs immune response. Bisglycinate is the most bioavailable and gut-friendly form.