Member-only story
What The Heck is Huperzine A?
A Bite-Size Read for Your Health and Your Waistline
This herb might be new to you but it’s certainly not new! First identified for medicinal use by scientists at the Chinese Academy of Sciences in the 1980s, Huperzine A appears to increase levels of a chemical called acetylcholine which is important for learning and memory. Moreover, increased acetylcholine seems to help treat diseases that interfere with memory and learning and supports your mind-body connection.
Huperzine A, is a naturally occurring compound derived from an herb called Chinese Club Moss. In function, it prevents the breakdown of acetylcholine (cholinesterase inhibitor) which is, in fact, the mechanism in many medications used to treat conditions related to memory.
Huperzine A supposedly has some antioxidant capabilities. As such, it seems to protect neurons against oxidative injury, may ameliorate mitochondrial malfunction, reduce iron in the brain and more. In fact, it is a licensed anti-Alzheimer’s drug in China.
Other studies show Huperzine A is effective in improving memory! It may also be used to protect against age-related cognitive decline and is sometimes used to boost energy, increase alertness, and aid in the treatment of myasthenia gravis, an autoimmune disorder that affects the muscles. Again, we need more research but it’s interesting.
