Huperzine A: with roots in traditional Chinese medicine
Huperzine A, extracted from a Chinese club moss (Huperzia serrata), is used in traditional Chinese medicine. Its nootropic effects include supporting brain health and memory.
How it works:
Huperzine A acts as an acetylcholinesterase inhibitor, a protein that breaks down the naturally occurring brain chemical acetylcholine (ACH).
What it can do:
- As it blocks acetylcholinesterase, huperzine A could potentially increase ACH levels; this can be beneficial for patients with Alzheimer’s disease, as their ACH levels tend to be low.
- It is an approved medication in certain countries. However, the FDA has not approved huperzine A as a prescription product in the United States” (Very Well Health). Nonetheless, it may be found in over-the-counter dietary supplements that are not subject to FDA review.
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