Phosphatidylserine

Table of Contents

Other names

PS
Serine Phospholipid
Soy-Derived Phosphatidylserine
Sunflower Phosphatidylserine

Synopsis

Phosphatidylserine (PS) is a phospholipid found in high concentrations in the brain, where it plays a critical role in cell membrane structure, nerve signal transmission, and cognitive function. It is a vital component of neuronal cell membranes, supporting synaptic plasticity, neurotransmitter release, and cell-to-cell communication. Though the body synthesizes PS in small amounts, dietary and supplemental sources are often used to enhance brain performance, memory, and stress resilience.

PS is commonly derived from soy, sunflower lecithin, or formerly bovine brain tissue (now largely avoided due to safety concerns). It is used medicinally to support cognitive function, particularly in age-related memory decline, early-stage Alzheimer’s disease, attention-deficit disorders, and chronic stress.

One of PS’s most studied effects is its ability to lower cortisol levels in response to stress, making it beneficial for people with HPA axis dysregulation, adrenal fatigue, or burnout. It also helps improve focus, mental clarity, and recall, and may support athletic performance by buffering stress-induced fatigue.

Phosphatidylserine is often included in nootropic (brain-enhancing) supplements, neuroprotective protocols, and functional medicine programs targeting brain aging, cognitive recovery, or neuroinflammatory conditions. It is generally well tolerated and safe, with typical doses ranging from 100–300 mg per day.

Historical Use in Medicine
Phosphatidylserine was first isolated in the mid-20th century and studied in depth in Italy and Europe during the 1970s and 1980s, particularly in relation to memory disorders and senile dementia. Early versions were extracted from bovine brains and used in European clinical trials, where PS showed strong effects on cognitive performance, mood, and behavior in elderly individuals with cognitive decline.

Due to concerns about prion diseases (e.g., mad cow disease), bovine-derived PS was phased out in the 1990s and replaced by plant-based sources, primarily soy-derived PS. Research continued with these sources, confirming comparable benefits in improving memory, enhancing attention, and slowing cognitive deterioration, particularly when used early in age-related decline.

While PS is not part of traditional herbal systems like Ayurveda or TCM, its food-based precursors (e.g., lecithin-rich foods) have long been used to support brain health and nervous system strength. In modern wellness approaches, PS is a cornerstone nutrient in cognitive support formulas, especially when paired with omega-3 fatty acids, B vitamins, and antioxidants.

Uses: Health Conditions

Down Syndrome (Neither)
Memory and Brain Function (Scientific)
Attention Deficit Disorder (Scientific)
Autism (Neither)
Alzheimer's Disease (Scientific)
Anxiety (Scientific)
Anxiety Disorders (Scientific)
Depression (Scientific)
Dementia (Scientific)
Parkinson's Disease (Scientific)
Stress (Scientific)

Body Systems

Adrenal Glands (Traditional)
Adrenal Medulla (Traditional)
Arteries (Traditional)
Acetylcholine (Traditional)
Adrenal Cortex (Traditional)
Brain (Traditional)
Cortisol (Traditional)
Dopamine (Traditional)
Glandular System (Traditional)
Hypothalamus (Traditional)
Immune System (Traditional)
Nerves (Traditional)
Parasympathetic Nervous System (Traditional)
Pituitary (Traditional)
Serotonin (Traditional)
Specific Neurotransmitters (Traditional)
Sympathetic Nervous System (Traditional)
Senses (Traditional)