Compositions and methods are provided that enhance cognition in a human to which the composition is orally administered. Remarkably, clinical studies have proven that contemplated compositions achieved the desired effects using a minimal number of active ingredients at or near threshold active dosages, wherein such compositions almost exclusively comprise huperzine A, vinpocetine or rhodiola, and acetyl-L-carnitine, and optionally further include alpha lipoic acid, rhodiola, and biotin.