Overview
Acetylcholinesterase inhibitor from club moss — potent cholinergic enhancer.
- Endogenously produced or biosynthesized molecule
- Standardized pharmaceutical- or food-grade supplement
- Combined with cofactors that improve absorption or activity
- Capsule or softgel
- Powder
- Sublingual or buccal
- Liposomal liquid
Mechanism of action
Reversibly inhibits AChE, raising synaptic acetylcholine; mild NMDA antagonist.
- · Reversibly inhibits AChE, raising synaptic acetylcholine
- · mild NMDA antagonist
Effects on the body
Organ system effects
Huperzine A acts on central nervous system targets implicated in attention, memory, and neuroprotection.
Evidence-based benefits
Improves cognition in Alzheimer's (Chinese trials)
Moderate evidencePotential side effects
- · GI upset
- · Vivid dreams
Drug interactions
Supplement interactions
- Omega-3 (EPA/DHA)Membrane fluidity and neuronal signaling support.
- Alpha-GPC or CDP-cholineProvides choline substrate for acetylcholine synthesis.
No specific avoidances listed.
Dosing & bioavailability
Where to buy
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Third-party testedIndependently verified Huperzine A — look for USP, NSF, or Informed Sport seals on the label for purity and dose accuracy.Huperzine A third party tested NSF
CapsulesPre-measured Huperzine A capsules — easiest for travel and consistent daily dosing without scoops or scales.Huperzine A capsules
PowderBulk unflavored Huperzine A powder — best cost-per-gram and flexible dosing for stacking or mixing into drinks.Huperzine A powder unflavored
Best sellersMost-purchased Huperzine A products on Amazon — a quick way to see what's reviewed widely before you commit.Huperzine A best sellerScientific evidence8Show studiesHide studies
Huperzine A for Alzheimer's disease
Yang G, et al.
Meta-analysis of Huperzine A trials in AD.
Improvements in MMSE and ADL scores.
PubMed: Huperzine A — Improves cognition in Alzheimer's
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PubMed: Huperzine A — randomized controlled trial
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PubMed: Huperzine A — meta-analysis
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PubMed: Huperzine A — pharmacokinetics
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PubMed: Huperzine A — safety adverse events
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PubMed: Huperzine A — dose response
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Google Scholar: Huperzine A — clinical evidence
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Cross-database citation index for Huperzine A as it relates to "clinical evidence".
Includes preprints, theses, and journal articles. Useful for tracking citation counts and follow-on work.