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"In science fiction one can say a great many things that are unpalatable, … because it's expressed as science fiction you can slip it past their defenses."
- Frederik Pohl

Sapho Juice  
  Unique substance enhanced the cognitive performance of Mentats.  

"Thou shalt not make a machine in the likeness of a human mind." So we read in the Orange Catholic bible. But how will human beings pick up the slack? Cognitive enhancement is always appreciated - by Mentats.

High-energy liquid extracted from barrier roots of Ecaz. Commonly used by Mentats who claim it amplifies mental powers. Users develop deep ruby stains on mouth and lips.
Technovelgy from Dune, by Frank Herbert.
Published by Putnam in 1965
Additional resources -

Use of sapho caused noticeable changes in appearance:

Paul looked at his father, back to Hawat, suddenly conscious of the Mentat's great age, aware that the old man had served three generations of Atreides. Aged. It showed in the rheumy shine of the brown eyes, in the cheeks cracked and burned by exotic weathers, in the rounded curve of the shoulders and the thin set of his lips with the cranberry-colored stain of sapho juice.

In the 1984 movie version of Dune, there is a little saying that goes with its use (not present in the book):

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  More Ideas and Technology from Dune
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