Quick Verdict
The Brain-Heavy Formula Makes Sense
Heart & Soil Mood, Memory & Brain does something most organ supplements don't: it tells you exactly what's in it, and the formula actually aligns with the claims. Two-thirds of the 3,000mg daily dose is bovine brain tissue — rich in DHA, EPA, phosphatidylserine, and sphingomyelin — all with real published research on cognition. No proprietary blend. No hidden math. Informed Sport certified. NZ regenerative sourcing. Glass bottles. This is the premium option done right. The two knocks: no product-specific clinical trial, and $72/month is steep. But for transparency and formulation logic, this is the strongest brain-focused organ supplement we've reviewed.
Key Strengths
- Full dose transparency — all amounts disclosed
- 2000mg brain is a serious, purposeful dose
- Informed Sport certified (rare in this space)
- NZ regenerative sourcing, glass packaging
Key Concerns
- $72/month is premium pricing
- No product-specific clinical trial
- 500mg liver is low (but liver isn't the focus)
- Prop 65 PFAS notice (Nov 2025) needs monitoring
Best For: Health Goal Ratings
Based on Heart & Soil Mood, Memory & Brain's specific ingredients, doses, and clinical evidence, here's how the formula maps to common health goals. Only goals supported by ingredients in the formula are rated.
Health goal ratings are derived from the specific ingredients, doses, and clinical evidence in this product's formula. They reflect formula suitability for each goal — not guaranteed outcomes. A high rating means the formula contains clinically-relevant ingredients at meaningful doses for that goal. Always consult a healthcare provider for specific health conditions.
What Is Heart & Soil Mood, Memory & Brain?
Mood, Memory & Brain is a brain-focused beef organ supplement from Heart & Soil, the company founded in 2020 by Dr. Paul Saladino, MD — a board-certified psychiatrist and prominent carnivore diet advocate. Unlike the female-specific organ supplements we've reviewed (like Primal Queen or Ancestral Supplements FEM), this is a unisex cognitive supplement designed for anyone seeking brain health support.
The formula is straightforward: three organs, fully disclosed amounts, with brain tissue making up two-thirds of the daily dose. The capsules are freeze-dried and come in glass bottles — a packaging choice that avoids potential plastic leaching and signals the premium positioning of the brand.
Heart & Soil sources all organs from 100% grass-fed and finished regenerative cattle in New Zealand. The company grew to approximately $50 million in revenue within three years, largely through organic growth and Dr. Saladino's significant social media following.
Unlike many competitors that hide behind proprietary blends, Heart & Soil discloses the exact amount of every ingredient: 2,000mg brain, 500mg liver, 500mg bone marrow. This is the standard every supplement should meet, and it allows us — and your doctor — to evaluate exactly what you're consuming.
Ingredient Analysis
Mood, Memory & Brain contains three beef organ ingredients with fully disclosed amounts. The total daily dose across six capsules is 3,000mg — competitive with other premium organ supplements like Ancestral Supplements FEM (also 3,000mg). Here's what matters about each ingredient.
The Brain-First Formula
Brain tissue is the most relevant organ for cognitive health claims — and Heart & Soil puts 66% of the formula there. Bovine brain is naturally rich in DHA (docosahexaenoic acid), EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid), phosphatidylserine (PS), sphingomyelin, and choline. These aren't theoretical — DHA and PS both have published clinical evidence supporting cognitive function, memory, and mood regulation.
Ingredient Breakdown
| Ingredient | Key Nutrients | Daily Dose | Formula Share | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| NZ Grass-Fed Brain (Bovine) | DHA, EPA, phosphatidylserine, sphingomyelin, choline | 2,000 mg | 66% of formula | Strong — aligns with claims |
| NZ Grass-Fed Liver (Bovine) | Vitamin A, B12, folate, iron, copper, riboflavin | 500 mg | 17% of formula | Low — but liver is supporting, not the focus |
| NZ Grass-Fed Bone Marrow (Bovine) | Alkylglycerols, adiponectin, collagen, stem cell factors | 500 mg | 17% of formula | Moderate — supports immune and inflammation |
Analysis Notes
Brain (2,000mg) — This is where the formula shines. Bovine brain tissue is one of the richest natural sources of DHA and phosphatidylserine. A meta-analysis of PS supplementation has shown benefits for cognitive function in older adults at doses of 100–300mg/day. While 2,000mg of whole brain tissue doesn't equate to 2,000mg of pure PS, it provides a meaningful concentration of these bioactive compounds alongside other brain-specific lipids like sphingomyelin and plasmalogens.
Liver (500mg) — At 500mg, this is well below the 3,000–6,000mg doses seen in standalone liver supplements. However, liver isn't the star here — it's the supporting cast, providing B12, folate, and riboflavin to support the methylation pathways that are critical for neurotransmitter production. Think of it as the nutritional co-factor.
Bone Marrow (500mg) — Bone marrow contributes alkylglycerols, which have been studied for immune modulation, and adiponectin, which plays a role in inflammation regulation. At 500mg, the dose is modest, but bone marrow complements the brain tissue by addressing the neuroinflammation component of cognitive decline.
The only other ingredient is bovine gelatin for the capsules. No fillers, stearates, lubricants, flow agents, or binders. This is as clean a formula as you'll find in the organ supplement space.
Does It Work? Clinical Evidence
Let's be direct: there is no product-specific randomized controlled trial on Heart & Soil Mood, Memory & Brain. However, the evidence picture is more nuanced than for most organ supplements we've reviewed.
What the Research Says About the Ingredients
The key nutrients found in bovine brain tissue have a stronger evidence base than most organ supplement ingredients:
- DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) — The most studied omega-3 for brain health. Multiple meta-analyses support DHA's role in cognitive function, particularly in older adults. DHA makes up 40% of polyunsaturated fatty acids in the brain.
- Phosphatidylserine (PS) — FDA-qualified health claim: "Phosphatidylserine may reduce the risk of dementia and cognitive dysfunction in the elderly." Clinical trials have shown benefits at 100–300mg/day for memory, attention, and processing speed.
- EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) — Studied for mood regulation and depression. Several RCTs show EPA supplementation can reduce depressive symptoms, supporting the "mood" component of this product's claims.
- Choline — Essential nutrient for acetylcholine synthesis, the neurotransmitter critical for memory and learning. The Institute of Medicine has established adequate intake levels because of choline's importance for brain function.
- B12 and Folate — From the liver component. Both are essential for methylation and homocysteine metabolism. Elevated homocysteine is a recognized risk factor for cognitive decline.
Important Caveats
- Whole tissue vs. isolated nutrients. The clinical evidence is for isolated DHA, PS, and EPA — not for whole brain tissue. The bioavailability and concentration of these nutrients in freeze-dried bovine brain hasn't been directly studied in an RCT.
- No product-specific study. Heart & Soil references general studies (numbered 1–6 on their product page) but has not conducted a clinical trial on this specific product.
- Dose uncertainty. While we know the formula contains 2,000mg of brain tissue, we don't know the exact PS, DHA, or choline concentrations in that tissue. This varies by animal, diet, and processing.
The bottom line: the scientific logic connecting bovine brain tissue to cognitive benefits is real and substantially stronger than the "like supports like" claims behind reproductive organ supplements. But this is inference from nutrient research, not direct product evidence.
Side Effects & Safety Concerns
Based on customer reviews, Reddit discussions, and community feedback, side effects from Mood, Memory & Brain are relatively uncommon and mostly mild. Here's what's been reported:
Reported Side Effects
- Initial nausea — The most common complaint, particularly in users who start at the full 6-capsule dose immediately. Heart & Soil recommends starting with 1–2 capsules and increasing gradually, which most users who report nausea did not follow.
- Large capsule size — Six capsules per day is a lot. Some users find this challenging, particularly those new to organ supplements. This is a common issue across all 6-capsule organ supplement brands.
- Occasional headaches — A small number of users report headaches during the first week, which typically resolve as the body adjusts.
- Shipping delays — Not a side effect, but a recurring customer complaint. Some Trustpilot reviews describe delayed deliveries.
The Prion Question
Bovine brain tissue raises a legitimate question about prion disease (BSE). Here's the context: New Zealand has never had a confirmed case of BSE. The country maintains some of the strictest biosecurity protocols in the world for cattle. Heart & Soil sources exclusively from NZ regenerative farms. While no supplement can guarantee zero risk, the NZ sourcing significantly mitigates this concern compared to brain tissue from countries with BSE history.
In November 2025, Environmental Research Center filed a Proposition 65 notice alleging the presence of PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) chemicals in a Heart & Soil product. This does not confirm contamination — Prop 65 notices are allegations that require further investigation. However, it warrants monitoring. We will update this review when more information becomes available.
Anyone on blood-thinning medications (brain tissue contains omega-3 fatty acids that affect clotting), pregnant or nursing women (insufficient safety data for brain supplements specifically), those with known allergies to beef products, and anyone with a history of gout (organ meats are high in purines).
What Customers Are Actually Saying
Heart & Soil Mood, Memory & Brain has 341 reviews on Amazon with a 4.4/5 average rating. The company also claims 156,000+ happy customers across all products. Here's what the feedback looks like:
Positive Themes
- Brain fog clearance — The most frequently cited benefit. One reviewer (Chelsea G.) stated: "My brain fog is completely gone!" Multiple users describe feeling sharper and more focused within the first few weeks.
- Mood improvements — Graham M. described "mood and energy at an all time high." Mood stabilization and reduced anxiety are recurring themes across positive reviews.
- Focus and mental clarity — Users in cognitively demanding jobs frequently report improved sustained concentration and fewer afternoon energy crashes.
- Quality perception — Customers consistently praise the glass packaging, NZ sourcing, and clean ingredient list as differentiators from cheaper alternatives.
Negative Themes
- Price — The most common criticism by far. At $72 for a 30-day supply, many reviewers feel it's difficult to justify long-term, regardless of effectiveness.
- Capsule quantity — Six capsules per day is a commitment. Some users find it burdensome, especially those taking multiple supplements.
- No noticeable effects — A subset of users report completing a full bottle with no discernible cognitive benefit.
- Shipping and delivery issues — Several Trustpilot reviews describe delayed shipping, though this appears to be a general Heart & Soil logistics issue rather than specific to this product.
Pricing & Value Analysis
At $72/month (or ~$64–66 on subscription), Mood, Memory & Brain is the premium option in the organ supplement space. For context, Heart & Soil's own Skin, Hair & Nails formula is $59 — making the brain product one of the most expensive in their lineup. Ancestral Supplements' general brain product is priced at $38–$45 with similar NZ sourcing.
What you're paying for: Informed Sport certification, NZ regenerative sourcing, full dose transparency, glass bottle packaging, and a brain-heavy formula (2,000mg) rather than a general organ blend. Whether that premium justifies a 60–90% price increase over competitors depends on how much you value the certifications and sourcing standards.
Heart & Soil offers stacks like the "Mood Stack" (Mood, Memory & Brain + Bone Marrow & Liver + Firestarter) with bundled pricing. Free US shipping on orders over $100. Subscriptions offer ~10% savings and can be managed without the cancellation difficulties reported by some competitors.
Heart & Soil vs. Alternatives
How does Mood, Memory & Brain compare to other organ supplements and brain-focused products?
| Feature | Heart & Soil Mood, Memory & Brain | Ancestral Supplements Brain | Generic Brain Supplements |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price (Monthly) | $72 ($64–66 sub) | $38–$45 | $25–$40 |
| Ingredient Transparency | Fully disclosed | Fully disclosed | Varies widely |
| Brain Tissue Dose | 2,000mg | ~500–1,000mg | Varies / unknown |
| Sourcing | NZ Regenerative, Grass-fed | NZ Grass-fed | Varies |
| Third-Party Testing | Informed Sport | Yes | Rarely |
| Capsules/Day | 6 | 6 | 1–4 |
| Packaging | Glass bottle | Plastic bottle | Plastic bottle |
| Clinical Study | None (individual nutrients studied) | None | Rarely |
| Our Rating | 7.0/10 | 7.5/10 | 3–5/10 |
Heart & Soil commands the highest price in this category, but also delivers the highest brain tissue dose (2,000mg vs. ~500–1,000mg for competitors), the strongest third-party certification (Informed Sport), and premium packaging. Ancestral Supplements offers a strong alternative at a lower price point with the same NZ sourcing and dose transparency — though with less brain-specific focus and without Informed Sport certification.
For female-specific formulas that include reproductive organs, see our reviews of Ancestral Supplements FEM and Goddess Vitality. Mood, Memory & Brain is a fundamentally different product — it's brain-focused, unisex, and makes no hormonal or reproductive claims.
Full Pros & Cons
Pros
- Full dose transparency — every ingredient amount disclosed
- Brain-heavy formula (2,000mg) aligns with cognitive claims
- Informed Sport certified — meaningful third-party testing
- NZ regenerative sourcing, 100% grass-fed and finished
- Glass bottle packaging (no plastic leaching)
- Clean formula: no fillers, stearates, or binders
- Brain tissue nutrients (DHA, PS) have real clinical evidence
- Founded by a board-certified psychiatrist
Cons
- $72/month is the most expensive option in this category
- No product-specific clinical trial or RCT
- 500mg liver is low compared to standalone liver supplements
- Six capsules per day is burdensome for some users
- Prop 65 PFAS notice filed against the brand (Nov 2025)
- Dr. Saladino's carnivore diet advocacy is scientifically controversial
- Some shipping delay complaints on Trustpilot
- Exact DHA/PS/choline concentrations in brain tissue are not specified
Frequently Asked Questions
There is no product-specific clinical trial, but the formula has a stronger scientific foundation than most organ supplements. Bovine brain tissue is naturally rich in DHA, EPA, phosphatidylserine, and choline — all nutrients with published research supporting cognitive function, memory, and mood. The 2,000mg brain dose provides meaningful amounts of these compounds. Customer reviews frequently cite brain fog clearance, improved focus, and mood improvements. However, results vary individually, and the strongest evidence is for the individual nutrients rather than the whole brain tissue product itself.
Side effects are relatively uncommon and mostly mild. The most common is initial nausea, particularly when starting at the full 6-capsule dose (the brand recommends starting with 1–2 and increasing gradually). Some users report headaches during the first week and digestive discomfort. Regarding prion disease (BSE) concerns with brain tissue — Heart & Soil sources from New Zealand, which has never had a confirmed case of BSE and maintains strict biosecurity protocols. If you experience persistent side effects, reduce the dose or discontinue and consult your healthcare provider.
Both are strong choices — it depends on your priorities. Both brands offer full dose transparency and NZ grass-fed sourcing. Heart & Soil differentiates with Informed Sport certification (third-party banned substance testing), glass packaging, and targeted organ formulas (brain-specific, skin-specific, etc.). Ancestral Supplements offers a broader product range, a massive customer base (33,000+ reviews on their FEM product alone), and lower prices ($38–$68 vs. $59–$72). For brain-specific support, Heart & Soil's 2,000mg brain formula is more targeted than anything in Ancestral's lineup. For general organ nutrition or value, Ancestral Supplements is harder to beat. Note: Ancestral Supplements' founder Brian "Liver King" Johnson admitted to steroid use in 2022 while promoting a natural lifestyle — a credibility concern similar to, though different from, the controversies around Dr. Saladino's dietary claims.
Yes. Heart & Soil is a well-established supplement company with approximately $50 million in annual revenue, founded by Dr. Paul Saladino (board-certified psychiatrist), based in Austin, TX, with CEO Dean Brennan. They provide full ingredient transparency, hold Informed Sport certification, source from NZ regenerative farms, and have over 156,000 claimed customers. The product is legitimate and well-made. Caveats: Dr. Saladino's carnivore diet advocacy is considered fringe by mainstream nutrition science, though his medical credentials are real. In November 2025, Environmental Research Center filed a Prop 65 notice alleging PFAS chemicals in a Heart & Soil product — this is an allegation, not a confirmed finding, but it deserves monitoring.
The formula contains three fully disclosed ingredients per daily serving (6 capsules): 2,000mg of New Zealand Grass-Fed Brain (Bovine), 500mg of New Zealand Grass-Fed Liver (Bovine), and 500mg of New Zealand Grass-Fed Bone Marrow (Bovine) — totaling 3,000mg. Capsules are made from bovine gelatin. There are no other ingredients — no fillers, stearates, lubricants, binders, or flow agents. Key naturally occurring nutrients include DHA, EPA, choline, vitamin B12, folate, and riboflavin. The organs are freeze-dried to preserve nutrient content.
Our Final Verdict
Heart & Soil Mood, Memory & Brain is the most transparent and scientifically logical brain-focused organ supplement we've reviewed. The formula does what too many competitors won't: it tells you exactly what's inside, and the math actually adds up. Two-thirds of the 3,000mg daily dose is bovine brain tissue — the organ most relevant to the product's cognitive claims — and the nutrients in that tissue (DHA, phosphatidylserine, EPA, choline) have real published research behind them.
Informed Sport certification adds a layer of third-party validation that's rare in the organ supplement space. The NZ regenerative sourcing, glass packaging, and clean formula (no fillers or binders) round out a genuinely premium product.
The gaps are real, though. At $72/month, this is the most expensive option in its category — nearly double some competitors with similar sourcing and transparency. No product-specific clinical trial means we're extrapolating from nutrient research, not product evidence. The 500mg liver dose is low, the Prop 65 PFAS allegation warrants monitoring, and six capsules a day is a commitment.
We land at 7.0 out of 10. For brain-specific organ supplementation with maximum transparency, this is the strongest option available. For general organ nutrition or budget-conscious buyers, Ancestral Supplements delivers strong value at a lower price. Either way, both brands demonstrate what the supplement industry should look like: disclosed doses, clean sourcing, and third-party testing. That's a standard the proprietary blend products in this space have yet to meet.