Description
Huperzine A is an alkaloid extract derived from the Chinese club moss Huperzia serrata. It is an acetylcholinesterase inhibitor. This means it helps promote higher levels of acetylcholine in the brain. Higher levels of acetylcholine support ones ability to perform cognitive tasks such as learning new things, memorizing information, and focusing at the task at hand. Huperzine A is considered to be a nootropic supplement because it supports cognitive function. It is considered a focus and memory nootropic similar to alpha gpc, bacopa, phosphatidylcholine, cdp choline, sulbutiamine, and uridine. It is also considered a brain booster as it is used for brain health and support.
Huperzine A for many years has been widely used in traditional Chinese medicine to enhance memory and to treat fever and inflammation. In the United States it is commercially available as a food supplement, but has not been approved by the FDA as a treatment for AD or other cognition disorders.
Occurrence
The herbs of Lycopodium serratum.
Uses
Huperzine A is used for dementia in Alzheimer's disease and for muscle weakness in myasthenia gravis. In Alzheimer's disease, Huperzine A leads to significant improvements in memory and cognitive and behavioral function.
Application
(+/-)-Huperzine A is an NMDA antagonist. It has been used in anti-acetylcholinesterase bioautographic assay.
benefits
Huperzine A can help support learning and memory by protecting acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter that acts as a messenger molecule in the brain. Huperzine A may be used for both short-term "brain boost" needs, such as preparing for a test, as well as more long-term needs, such as reducing the mild memory loss associated with normal aging.
ACETYLCHOLINESTERASE INHIBITOR - Huperzine A acts as a reversible Acetylcholinesterase inhibitor meaning it supports levels of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine which plays a key role in cognitive function.
SUPPORTS COGNITIVE FUNCTION - Supports working memory, motivation, and problem solving ability.
SUPPORTS ENERGY AND STAMINA - Huperzine A supports mental energy, stamina, and sustained focus.
Biological Activity
Huperzine A is an effective acetylcholinesterase inhibitor and can cross the blood-brain barrier. Huperzine A is known to prevent cognitive defects, glutamate-induced nerve cell death.It is recognized for its use in the treatment of Alzheimer′s disease and organophosphate poisoning.
Side effects
When taken at recommended doses Huperzine A is well tolerated and presents few side effects. Rarely, side effects including nausea, diarrhea, and loss of appetite may occur. Adverse side effects are more likely when exceeding the recommended dosage.
Huperzine A is not recommended for people suffering from heart conditions, consult your physician before taking this product.
Mode of action
Huperzine A is a reversible acetycholinesterase inhibitor that can cross the blood-brain barrier. This constituent can inhibit the activity of acetycholinesterase in the brain for several hours, which allows for increased levels of acetylcholine in different areas of the brain. Because of its effects on acetylcholine, Huperzine A is considered a beneficial therapuetic agent in the treatment of memory impairment, myasthenia gravis, and dementia.
Herbs and Nutrients for the Mind A Guide to Natural Brain Enhancers By Chris D. Meletis, Jason E. Barker · 2004
Dosage forms
Huperzine A supplementation tends to be in the range of 50 - 200 mcg daily. Our tablets are 200 mcg each, but can be easily broken into halves or quarters for those wishing to take smaller doses.
Huperzine A has a long half-life (10-14 hours), so cycling this product is often recommended. We recommend taking it no more than 2-3 times per week, or if using it daily we recommend taking a 1 week break for every 2 weeks of use.
