A nootropic combination for increasing cognitive functioning. The combination includes a phosphodiesterase 4 inhibitor and a cyclic adenosine monophosphate increasing agent. In some versions, the phosphodiesterase inhibitor is a flavonoid such as luteolin, and the cyclic adenosine monophosphate increasing agent is a labdane diterpene such as forskolin. The combination can also include one or a combination of L-phenylalanine, L-carnitine, acetyl-L-carnitine, and vitamin B6. In some versions, plant extracts, such as artichoke extract can be used as a source of the PDE4 inhibitor. Methods of using the combination to increase cognitive functioning are also included.
