There are millions of Americans suffering from Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Recent years, Huperzine A is introduced to treat Alzheimer’s disease, memory and learning enhancement, and age-related memory impairment. Huperzine A (pronounced HOOP-ur-zeen) is a natural compound extracted from the Chinese club moss Huperzia serrata.
In traditional Chinese medicine, Huperzia serrata has been used for treatment of injuries, wounds, bleeding, swelling, pain, inflammation, burns, ulcers and bone fracture. In 1980s, Chinese researchers, at Zhejiang Academy of Medical Sciences and the Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica Chinese Academy of Sciences, isolated Huperzine A from the herb.
Studies have shown that Huperzine A supports learning and memory by protecting acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter that acts as a messenger molecule in the brain. Clinical trials in China have shown that huperzine A has similar effects as the drugs on the market to treat Alzheimer’s Disease (AD), and it may be even safer in terms of side effects. In the US, in the clinical trial from the spring of 2004 by the National Institute on Aging, results show some promise as a treatment for mild to moderate Alzheimer’s disease.
Huperzine A now is available in the market sold as dietary supplements.
Precautions & Warnings:
1. Though there are some data from studies shown that the effectiveness of huperzine A may be similar to approved drugs for Alzheimer’s disease, and according to those studies, Huperzine A seems to have some benefit to cognitive function, behavioral problems and overall performance, with no recorded serious side effects for those with Alzheimer’s disease, but more large studies are still needed that are randomized and done in multiple locations.
2. Heart disease: Huperzine A can slow the heart rate. This could cause a problem if the patient has a slow heart rate (bradycardia) or related heart conditions.
3. Pregnancy, breast-feeding and other health conditions: There is no enough data regarding the side effects of Huperzine A on pregnancy, breast-feeding and other health conditions. It is better to stay on the safe side and avoid use it. Consult with your healthcare provider before you use huperzine A.
