Huperzine A: is a plant extract from club moss that was traditionally used by the Chinese for its medicinal value.

Its main element is acetyl cholinesterase which is an enzyme that synthesizes acetylcholine in a synaptic cleft.

This compound is responsible for mental improvement and is the only Alzheimer’s drugs approved in the US. The Huperzine extracts have also been proposed for preventing the normal bouts of forgetfulness.

Huperzine A extract work perfectly well when combined with cholinesterase inhibitors (drugs that work in a similar way to reduce instances of memory loss associated with Alzheimer’s disease). The acetylcholine plays an important role in the cognitive function of the mind as it enables the delivery of messages; one neuron to the other and to the brain.

Users of Huperzine A extract should be careful to use only the purified extracts as crude extracts of the moss are toxic and have sedative effects.

The substance may affect the heart rate thus not recommended for people suffering from hypertension. People with respiratory diseases such as asthma and pregnant women should use the substance with caution.

The common side effects of using Huperzine A include muscle cramps, headache, diarrhea, vomiting and nausea. The recommended dosage is still under review.