Reference

AM-02™ Energy + Focus

AM-02™ Energy + Focus
Overview
Formulation
Directions for Use
Key Ingredients
Ingredient-Specific Benefit Studies
Testing
Interactions
Reference Library — AM-02™
Overview
Formulation
Directions for Use
Key Ingredients
Ingredient-Specific Benefit Studies
Testing
Interactions

AM-02™ Energy + Focus enhances focus, sharpens attention, and fights fatigue with clinically studied nootropics. Powered by Seed’s ViaCap® delivery system to target the gut-brain axis, AM-02™ works with the body and gut microbiome to deliver energy that’s steady, resilient, and biologically aligned—without caffeine.*

Gut-Energy Connection

Emerging science reveals that the gut microbiome plays  a critical role in cognitive function—shaping how we think, feel, and perform throughout the day.

This relationship, known as the gut-brain axis, involves complex interactions between gut bacteria and the central nervous system, influencing neurotransmitter product and energy metabolism.

Formulation

Thiamine [Vitamin B1] (as thiamine hydrochloride)

Riboflavin [Vitamin B2] (as free riboflavin)

Niacin [Vitamin B3] (as nicotinic acid)

Folate [Vitamin B9] (as MAGNAFOLATE® PRO methylfolate [L-5-MTHF Ca])

Vitamin B12 (as adenosylcobalamin and methylcobalamin)

Cereboost® American ginseng (Panax quinquefolius) extract (root) [10% Ginsenosides Rb1, Re, Rc, Rd, Rb2, and Rg1]

Methylliberine (as SoWell™)

Theacrine (as TeaCrine®)

GABA [Gamma-aminobutyric acid] (Lactobacillus brevis-derived postbiotic)

Japanese wasabi (Wasabia japonica) extract (root) [2% isothiocyanates]

Japanese pagoda tree (Sophora japonica) extract (flower) [95% quercetin]

Coenzyme Q10 [Ubiquinone] phytosome phospholipid complex

Coenzyme PQQ [Pyrolloquinoline quinone] disodium salt

Vitamin K2 MK-7 [Menaquinone-7] (Bacillus subtilis var. natto-derived postbiotic)

Directions for Use

Take 1 capsule daily within 2 hours of waking up.

AM-02™ can be enjoyed with your morning cup of coffee—there are no contraindications with caffeine. If you're especially sensitive to caffeine, you might even prefer taking AM-02™ on its own for more steady, focused energy.*

AM-02™ is designed for continuous use with benefits augmenting over time. It’s formulated with nootropic ingredients that help you reach and sustain your mental peak. These ingredients build in your system over time, increasing your resilience to stress and supporting focused energy that lasts.*

Key Ingredients

Cereboost™ is a clinically validated extract of American Ginseng, known for enhancing mental and cognitive well-being. Cereboost™ supports key aspects of cognitive function, including mood, attention, energy, and memory, as demonstrated in four clinical trials. Its robust scientific backing has earned multiple health benefit claims for cognitive performance.* American Ginseng, the core ingredient in Cereboost™, is distinguished by its unique profile of active compounds called ginsenosides—often referred to as its "fingerprint." This distinctive profile is what drives its dual benefits: promoting calmness and enhancing mental focus.

Emerging research suggests Cereboost™ may also support the gut-brain axis. Ginsenosides, the bioactive compounds in ginseng, are metabolized by gut microbiota into smaller, more bioavailable derivatives, including Compound K (20-O-β-D-glucopyranosyl-20(S)-protopanaxadiol). Mechanistically, Compound K has been demonstrated to exhibit potent inflammatory-balancing, antioxidative, and immunomodulatory effects by modulating key signaling pathways like NF-κB and AMPK.*

In vitro studies indicate that it may promote beneficial gut microbes, along with increased production of short-chain fatty acids linked to cognitive health. These gut-mediated effects may contribute to memory and mood benefits by influencing neurotransmitter levels and activating the prefrontal cortex, a key region for executive function.*

TeaCrine® (theacrine) is chemically identical to a naturally occurring alkaloid found in certain teas, recognized for its versatility in supporting energy, performance, and cognitive function. Backed by both preclinical and human clinical research, TeaCrine® delivers sustained energy and focus without the typical stimulant side effects like jitters or crashes—it’s well-tolerated without common stimulant side effects in clinical studies.* It’s an ideal solution for those seeking a complement to caffeine or an enhancement to pre-workout routines. 


TeaCrine® exerts its multi-faceted effects by influencing two key neural pathways: dopaminergic and adenosinergic. By modulating these pathways and supporting neurotransmitter activity, TeaCrine® enhances energy levels without inducing irritability, a common side effect of caffeine. This unique profile makes it ideal for competitive athletes, active individuals, and high-performing professionals seeking to optimize mental performance.*


Beyond modulating dopamine, TeaCrine® is believed to inhibit adenosinergic activity, which plays a critical role in regulating fatigue, sedation, and relaxation. By blocking A1 and A2a receptors, TeaCrine® may help reduce perceived fatigue, offering sustained energy without overstimulation.˚ TeaCrine®’s plasma concentration peaks between 2-3 hours, compared to caffeine which peaks between 45-90 minutes. Preliminary research suggests that repeated use of TeaCrine® may not lead to the same level of tolerance as caffeine, meaning users could potentially experience sustained effects over time without needing to increase dosage.

SoWell™ (methylliberine) is chemically identical to a naturally occurring purine alkaloid, with a molecular structure similar to theacrine (TeaCrine®). Both compounds are thought to function similarly in the body without acting as traditional stimulants. However, they pair exceptionally well with caffeine to amplify cognitive and physical performance (based on combinatorial clinical studies involving caffeine, TeaCrine®, and methylliberine.)

One key difference is that SoWell™ is fast-acting, compared to the slower onset of theacrine. When combined with caffeine, this results in a unique synergy: SoWell™ is quickly metabolized, TeaCrine® offers sustained effects, and caffeine bridges both for a balanced, long-lasting sensory experience—without the typical crash associated with stimulants. Research suggests that the combination of caffeine, SoWell™, and TeaCrine® can improve working memory, cognitive control, and reaction time, making it an ideal trio for those facing mentally and physically demanding challenges.* SoWell™’s plasma concentration peaks between 30-60 minutes, compared to that of caffeine, which peaks between 45-90 minutes.

This B-vitamin complex (B1, B2, B3, B9, B12) was selected for its ability to act as critical cofactors in microbial metabolism, and to simultaneously support human cellular function and energy-related functions within the body. For example, vitamin B1 has been shown to support butyrate-producing bacteria like Ruminococcaceae, which play key roles in gut and cognitive health. Folate and B12—only included in the AM-02™ formula—are tied to cellular energy and mental clarity.

Wasabi (standardized to 2% isothiocyanates) is derived from Wasabia japonica, a plant traditionally consumed in Japan for over a millennium. The pungent compounds responsible for wasabi's characteristic heat are isothiocyanates—bioactive sulfur-containing molecules also found in cruciferous vegetables like broccoli and mustard. Preclinical research has demonstrated that specific wasabi-derived isothiocyanates, including 6-methylsulfinylhexyl isothiocyanate (6-MSITC), possess broad-spectrum properties, capable of favoring the growth of beneficial microbes over unwanted microbial populations. These effects are believed to be mediated through modulation of bacterial quorum sensing and disruption of microbial cell membranes. In vitro and animal studies also suggest potential inflammatory-balancing, antioxidant, and detoxification-supporting properties, attributed to activation of phase II enzymes via the Nrf2 pathway, a key cellular defense mechanism.* 

Ingredient-Specific Benefit Studies

BenefitStudies
Fast Acting + Sustained EnergyScholey et al. Psychopharmacology (Berl). 2010
Bell et al. Eur J Nutr. 2022
Non-Habit Forming (TeaCrine®)Taylor et al. J Int Soc Sports Nutr. 2016
Supports Cognitive Function; Focus & AttentionScholey et al. Psychopharmacology (Berl). 2010
Bell et al. Eur J Nutr. 2022
Supports Cognitive Function; Mental AgilityScholey et al. Psychopharmacology (Berl). 2010
Bell et al. Eur J Nutr. 2022
Reduces Mental FatigueBell et al. Eur J Nutr. 2022
Activates Prefrontal Regions of the BrainWhite et al. Hum Psychopharmacol. 2020
NeuroprotectionShin et al. Regul Toxicol Pharmacol. 2016
Rudakewich et al. Planta Med. 2001
Microbiome & the Gut-Brain AxisBell et al. Eur J Nutr. 2022
Thomaz et al. J Funct Foods. 2020
Mi et al. Front Microbiol. 2022
BenefitStudies
Fast Acting + Sustained EnergyScholey et al. Psychopharmacology (Berl). 2010
Bell et al. Eur J Nutr. 2022
Non-Habit Forming (TeaCrine®)Taylor et al. J Int Soc Sports Nutr. 2016
Supports Cognitive Function; Focus & AttentionScholey et al. Psychopharmacology (Berl). 2010
Bell et al. Eur J Nutr. 2022
Supports Cognitive Function; Mental AgilityScholey et al. Psychopharmacology (Berl). 2010
Bell et al. Eur J Nutr. 2022
Reduces Mental FatigueBell et al. Eur J Nutr. 2022
Activates Prefrontal Regions of the BrainWhite et al. Hum Psychopharmacol. 2020
NeuroprotectionShin et al. Regul Toxicol Pharmacol. 2016
Rudakewich et al. Planta Med. 2001
Microbiome & the Gut-Brain AxisBell et al. Eur J Nutr. 2022
Thomaz et al. J Funct Foods. 2020
Mi et al. Front Microbiol. 2022

** Preclinical substantiation

Testing

Microbiological DataDescriptionUnit of MeasureTesting Frequency
Yeasts and molds≤100 CFU/gEach batch
Enterobacteria≤100 CFU/gEach batch
Total coliforms≤3 MPN/gEach batch
E. coliAbsent/1 gEach batch
SalmonellaAbsent/25 gEach batch
Staphylococcus coagulase positive≤10 CFU/gEach batch
Listeria monocytogenesAbsent/25 gEach batch
DescriptionUnit of Measure (LOQ)Testing Frequency
Yeasts and molds≤100 CFU/gEach batch
Enterobacteria≤100 CFU/gEach batch
Total coliforms≤3 MPN/gEach batch
E. coliAbsent/1 gEach batch
SalmonellaAbsent/25 gEach batch
Staphylococcus coagulase positive≤10 CFU/gEach batch
Listeria monocytogenesAbsent/25 gEach batch
Chemical Contaminants
Heavy Metals [Inorganic]		DescriptionUnit of Measure (LOQ)Testing Frequency
Arsenic<0.15 ppm (parts per million)Every lot
Lead<0.50 ppmEvery lot
Cadmium<0.05 ppmEvery lot
Mercury<0.30 ppmEvery lot
Chemical Contaminants
Heavy Metals [Inorganic]		DescriptionUnit of Measure (LOQ)Testing Frequency
Arsenic<0.15 ppm (parts per million)Every lot
Lead<0.5 ppmEvery lot
Cadmium<0.05 ppmEvery lot
Mercury<0.30 ppmEvery lot
Chemical Contaminants
[Organic]		DescriptionTesting Frequency
AMPA (breakdown product of glyphosate)Quarterly
GlyphosateQuarterly
Pesticides/Biocides [500+ different chemicals]Quarterly
DescriptionTesting Frequency
AMPA (breakdown product of glyphosate)Quarterly
GlyphosateQuarterly
Pesticides/Biocides [500+ different chemicals]Quarterly
AllergenUnit of Measure (LOQ)Testing Frequency
Almond<0.1mgQuarterly
Brazil Nut<0.1mgQuarterly
Cashew<0.05mgQuarterly
Celery<0.07mgQuarterly
CornRun and report*Quarterly
Gluten (wheat protein) [across barley, rye, oats + wheat] <20 ppmQuarterly
Crustacean (shrimp protein)<26.2mgQuarterly
Egg<0.2mgQuarterly
Fish<2.6mgQuarterly
Hazelnut<0.1mgQuarterly
Lupin<2.9mgQuarterly
Macadamia Nut<0.1mgQuarterly
Milk<0.2mgQuarterly
MollusksRun and report*Quarterly
Mustard<0.07mgQuarterly
Peanut<0.2mgQuarterly
Pecan<0.03mgQuarterly
Pine Nut<0.1mgQuarterly
Pistachio<0.05mgQuarterly
Sesame<0.1mgQuarterly
Soy<0.5mgQuarterly
Sulfiting Agents<10 ppmQuarterly
Walnut<0.03mgQuarterly
AllergenUnit of Measure (LOQ)Testing Frequency
Almond<0.1mgQuarterly
Brazil Nut<0.1mgQuarterly
Cashew<0.05mgQuarterly
Celery<0.07mgQuarterly
CornRun and report*Quarterly
Gluten [across barley, rye, oats + wheat] (wheat protein)<20 ppmQuarterly
Crustacean (shrimp protein)<26.2mgQuarterly
Egg<0.2mgQuarterly
Fish<2.6mgQuarterly
Hazelnut<0.1mgQuarterly
Lupin<2.9mgQuarterly
Macadamia Nut<0.1mgQuarterly
Milk<0.2mgQuarterly
MolluscsRun and report*Quarterly
Mustard<0.07mgQuarterly
Peanut<0.2mgQuarterly
Pecan<0.03mgQuarterly
Pine Nut<0.1mgQuarterly
Pistachio<0.05mgQuarterly
Sesame<0.1mgQuarterly
Soy<0.5mgQuarterly
Sulfiting Agents<10 ppmQuarterly
Walnut<0.03mgQuarterly

‡Maximum daily doses are clinically-derived from oral food challenge studies and reflect the most recent advancements in food allergy research.  The reference dose, also termed ED01, is the dose at which 1% of the allergic population would be predicted to experience any objective allergic reaction (i.e., 99% of the allergic population does not experience any objectively measurable reaction).

*Inadequate number of clinical studies using low dose oral challenges with this allergen.

Most supplements, fruits, vegetables, milk-derived proteins, and natural products carry some level of heavy metals. These can be very difficult to completely eliminate from the diet, due to their uptake from the surrounding air, water, and soil. In California, food and natural products are regulated under Proposition 65 (the Safe Drinking Water and Toxic Enforcement Act of 1986), which sets ‘safe harbor levels’ for chemicals known to the state to potentially cause cancer or reproductive toxicity.

Seed abides by these stringent regulations and tests all products for the four main categories of heavy metals: Arsenic, Cadmium, Lead, and Mercury.

AM-02™ is tested for over 500 pesticide residues using gas chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry at third-party accredited laboratories. AM-02™ is intentionally subjected to testing for the ubiquitous pesticide, glyphosate, as well as its breakdown product, AminoMethylPhosphonic Acid (AMPA), using liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry. This rigorous testing protocol ensures adherence to our strict quality standards.


The full list of pesticides AM-02™ is tested for may be viewed here.

Interactions

Can I take AM-02™ with other supplements?

AM-02™ is safe to take with other supplements and there are no known contraindications with medications. We recommend consulting your physician about your current prescription medications, so they can advise you with full knowledge of your health history.

Can I take AM-02™ with DS-01®?

Yes, you can take AM-02™ with DS-01®—and they’re a great pairing that works together to support different aspects of your health, including your cognition and digestive health. 

AM-02™ is designed to enhance energy, focus, and mental clarity with fast-acting nootropic ingredients that support cognitive performance throughout the day.*

DS-01® is a broad-spectrum synbiotic formulated with clinically studied probiotic strains to improve your gut microbiome and support whole-body health—including digestion, skin, heart, immunity, and the gut-brain axis.*

Can I take AM-02™ if I’m sensitive to stimulants or caffeine?

AM-02™ is formulated without caffeine or traditional stimulants, so it’s safe to take even if you're sensitive to things like coffee or energy drinks. AM-02™ uses clinically studied nootropic ingredients that support mental energy, focus, and attention through more balanced, brain-supportive pathways, which can help you feel sharper and more alert without the jitters or crashes that some people experience with caffeine.*

You can also take AM-02™ alongside caffeine if you choose, but it's not necessary to feel the effects. If you're especially sensitive, you might even prefer taking AM-02™ on its own for more steady, focused energy.