Introduction to Huperzine-A
Huperzine-A is an interesting supplement.
Sometimes called “hup-a” or just Huperzine, depending on what website you’re on.
It’s a naturally occurring sesquiterpene alkaloid compound extracted from the firmoss Huperzia serrata.
(Essentially it’s a moss extract they turned into a supplement.)
It’s gotten a LOT of attention for its potential benefits, particularly in the realm of cognitive functions, especially memory, learning enhancement and neuroprotection.
This is mostly due to the growing body of research highlighting its potential to improve cognitive functions, especially noted in individuals with neurodegenerative conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease.
The chemical structure of Huperzine-A allows it to act as a reversible inhibitor of acetylcholinesterase, an enzyme responsible for the breakdown of acetylcholine.
Acetylcholine (as we covered in the post on Alpha-GPC) is a crucial neurotransmitter involved in learning and memory processes.
By inhibiting this enzyme, Huperzine-A increases acetylcholine levels in the brain, thereby enhancing cognitive functions.
Additionally, Huperzine A’s neuroprotective properties are often a peripheral subject of discussion.
It has been shown to protect neurons from oxidative stress and excitotoxicity, both of which are implicated in the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative diseases.
The best analogy I can give to describe excitotoxicity is that you imagine you’re flipping a light-switch on and off continuously. At some point, you’re going to burn out the lightbulb by doing this.
The same concept applies to our neurotransmitters.
As a result of the prevention, Huperzine A not only aids in cognitive enhancement but also offers a protective effect against cognitive decline to some degree.
This dual action makes it a compelling candidate for application in cognitive health.
Also, before continuing, please note that there will be affiliate links where I may receive compensation for any products listed in this blog post. (I also have an affiliate discloure for the blog, but I like to be upfront.)
Mechanism of Action: How Huperzine A Works
This is where we get more into the benefits of the increased acetylcholine.
Huperzine-A has been found to increase circulating levels of acetylcholine.
Higher levels of acetylcholine may significantly enhance cognitive functions.
One of the primary cognitive benefits observed with increased acetylcholine levels is improved memory.
Enhanced levels of acetylcholine activity supports the consolidation of new information and retrieval of stored memories.
Focus and mental clarity are also impacted, since acetylcholine is critical for attention and the ability to process information efficiently.
Scientific studies have provided substantial evidence supporting these claims.
For instance, a study published in the journal Neuropsychopharmacology demonstrated that Huperzine A administration in animal models resulted in improved performance in memory-related tasks.
These findings may show the potential of Huperzine A in enhancing cognitive function through its inhibition of acetylcholinesterase and subsequent elevation of acetylcholine levels.
The compound’s ability to bolster memory, focus, and mental clarity seems its a promising candidate for cognitive enhancement and possibly even for therapeutic applications in neurodegenerative conditions where acetylcholine levels are compromised.
Further in line with these findings, An article by the frontiers in aging neuroscience investigated numerous claims and functions regarding the effects of Huperzine A.
Inside you’ll find numerous suspected mechanisms of action as well as a slew of information regarding it’s utilization on the brain. They also examined individuals with mild to moderate Alzheimer’s disease.
Overall the paper had many things to say about the outcomes of it’s use being promising in the short-term for early stages of Alzheimer’s, but needing far more research for anything that has progressed significantly. As they noted, most trials are considered too short-term and require more longitudinal studies for their safety and efficacy to be concretely determined.
Collectively, these research findings indicate that Huperzine A holds promise as a potent cognitive enhancer, with potential applications ranging from improving everyday mental performance to even possibly treating serious neurodegenerative conditions. (As noted in the above article it is utilized in China as an Anti-Alzheimer’s Drug, but it is only a nutraceutical in the USA. Huperzine-A is NOT intended to be used as a medication in the US for prevention, cure, or treatment of Alzheimer’s.)
Based on consistency of results across diverse populations, it seems Huperzine-A’s efficacy warrants further exploration into its long-term benefits and mechanisms of action.
Optimal Dosages for Cognitive Enhancement?
As I will always harp on this point: It is CRITICAL to understand the appropriate dosages that have been shown to be effective.
The lowest effective dose that has demonstrated benefits for cognitive enhancement in literature typically ranges from 50 to 200 micrograms per day.
This range is often sufficient for individuals seeking mild cognitive improvements, such as enhanced memory and mental clarity.
Starting at the lower end of this spectrum can be particularly useful for those new to Huperzine A, allowing for a gradual assessment of its effects.
(Like I say, I personally always start low and titrate up slow.)
In clinical studies, higher dosages are commonly employed to explore the full potential of Huperzine. These studies generally use doses ranging from 200 to 400 micrograms per day.
These amounts are aimed at achieving more pronounced cognitive benefits, especially in research settings focused on conditions like Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia.
However, it is essential to note that these higher dosages may also increase the likelihood of side effects, underscoring the importance of professional guidance.
Given the variability in individual responses to supplements consulting a healthcare professional before starting any new regimen is paramount.
If you’re asking me “Well, WHY? i’ve done my own research!”
A healthcare provider can offer personalized advice based on one’s health status, existing medications, and specific cognitive goals.
The internet doesn’t know your medical history, specific prescriptions, genetics, or lifestlye.
(Especially me.)
That’s why all of these posts say: Always seek professional medical advice to determine the most appropriate dosage for individual needs and health conditions.
Anyways, enough of me stressing that portion!
Onto the FAQ.
Frequently Asked Questions About Huperzine A
What are common side effects of Huperzine-A
Some of the commonly reported side-effects seen are as follows:
- Nausea
- Diarrhea/Vomiting
- Sweating
- Insomnia
- Muscle cramps
- Increased saliva production
- Strong Headaches and or Dizziness
These could potentially be dose dependent or due to not being able to tolerate the supplement.
It is likely that by taking too many huperzine a capsules at once that an individual may experience more intense side-effects at once.
It could also be the case someone is allergic to the supplement while being unaware or is extra sensitive.
While a large majority of people report little to no drastic or mild side effects, every body is different.
Who should NOT take Huperzine?
It is HIGHLY ADVISED that the following groups do not take Huperzine-A
- Pregnant or breastfeeding women (As always)
- Individuals with asthma or respiratory issues
- Those with heart conditions or irregular heartbeats
- People with a history of seizures or epilepsy
- Individuals scheduled for surgery (due to potential interaction with anesthesia)
- Those taking certain medications (e.g., anticholinergic drugs)
- Individuals with known allergies to huperzine A or its source materials.
This is precisely why it is HIGHLY recommended to always consult with a healthcare professional before taking a brand new supplement.
Can I Take Huperzine on an empty stomach or with food?
As was the case with Alpha-GPC, Huperzine can be taken on an empty stomach or with food.
Taking it with food may enhance absorption for some individuals, (Dependent on your gut health and dietary intake at the time, anecdotally, it just helps some people to take supplements with food.)
How much Huperzine-A should I take?
As discussed above, it has been regarded to be effective from a point as low as 50mcg to having clinical applications at upwards of 400mcg.
Anecdotally, most individuals take 200mcg (myself included in that anecdote.)
This is all highly variable on your personalized plan (that you discussed with your healthcare provider, obviously.)
How Long does Huperzine stay in your system?
Huperzine-A’s Half-life ranges from 10 to 12 hours, however; effects may last longer due to accumulation in the body from consistent use of the supplement.
Prolonged use can influence the build-up from remaining half-lives and require longer for degradation.
On top of that, your Individual metabolism can influence the duration it will circulate.
It is hard to say for certain on HOW long it will stay, but a general rule of thumb is to examine the half-life x5 to get most of the compound cleared.
This would mean taking the most conservate route at the longest end: 60 hours.
Without knowing other factors like age, weight, sex, or peripheral supplements/medication:
Huperzine-A stays in your system, on average for roughly 2.5 days.
Hopefully that is helpful!
Now onto where you can purchase yourself or a loved one some!
Affiliate Link: Where to buy Huperzine A
*as always, please note that by clicking on links to products on this website I do receive a small commission as a result of your purchase, at NO additional cost to you.*
As with almost ALL supplements on this website, I default to DoubleWood supplements.
You are more than welcome to browse Amazon for Huperzine-A supplements; INFACT I’ll make it very easy for you here to price-match with Amazon’s Best-Sellers for Huperzine-A.
Not only does DoubleWood almost ALWAYS have some kind of sale going on, but you also can buy more to save more!
That means if you or your household regularly take a supplement, you can stock up and save bigtime!
Additionally, you can forget the need to pick-up your supplements or making a special order.
They automate it for you!
For this example, look at the STEAL you can get for $15.
or better yet get yourself THREE full bottles for UNDER $50!!
If you subscribe to save, you can even get it for LESS at under $40!
That’s essentially a FULL YEARS worth, taking a tablet a morning, for roughly a DIME a day.
If you do the cost average between two purchases, this would cost LESS than a bag of regular sized chips.
(I’m not one to get between a person and their snacks, hitting that craving feels GREAT, but if you’ve been looking for an excuse to cut back on them, this could be a decent option for you if you’re on the fence.)
Wrapping up and Citations
Anywhoo, I have probably blabbed on longer than you feel is necessary about this and you’re likely done with my portion of writing.
As always, below are some of the studies I believe would further benefit your continued research on the subject.
I also recommend going to the citations at the bottom of these articles to find even more interesting available research. They often vary in range from different compounds or pathways that may be of note to you in the topic.
Acetylcholine, aging, and Alzheimer’s disease – PubMed
Huperzine A: Is it an Effective Disease-Modifying Drug for Alzheimer’s Disease? – PMC
A phase II trial of huperzine A in mild to moderate Alzheimer disease | Neurology
Also! If you are looking for more supplements in general, feel free to look here!
If you were particularly looking for cognitive enhancement, check it out at that previous blue hyperlink!
(thats the specific use supplements category hard at work!)
Have a great rest of your day and if you have any questions, feel free to pop them down in the comments or email me at damon@howeverysupplementworks.com