Huperzine A
Silver· human dataA potent acetylcholinesterase inhibitor for memory that acts more like a drug.
Huperzine A, from a club moss, inhibits acetylcholinesterase — the same broad mechanism as some Alzheimer's drugs — raising acetylcholine and so marketed for memory.
Some studies, largely from China, suggest cognitive benefit in age-related memory decline, but methodology is variable. Its drug-like potency means it can cause cholinergic side effects and interact with medications, so it is not a casual daily nootropic and warrants caution.
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Written and reviewed by Mathew Beale, MSc Biotechnology, University of Reading.
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