I'd blame sleep dep first and foremost.I've taken ginseng for some time, and I'm not aware of any performance related issues, but I can't say I could rule it out either.
One thing I definitely believe helps beforehand -- maca, zinc, arginine, at the same time. All can be found in powdered or supplement form. And I do gingko for good measure, tho not convinced it helps.
I have a theory, unproven of course, that blood thinners also can contribute to performance issues. Therefore, I try to avoid aspirin/ibuprofen beforehand.
Then there's caffeine. For me, a LITTLE caffeine can help, but more than a cup of coffee or more than 50 mg of caffeine supplement seem to hurt more than help.
Be the change
you wish to see