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Huperzine A is an alkaloid compound extracted from Chinese club moss, a plant from the Huperziceae family. Based on research, Huperzine A acts as a cholinesterase inhibitor. It helps prevent the breakdown of a chemical that’s essential to learning and memory called acetylcholine. [1] Moreover, it’s used in some of the best supplements to treat certain medical conditions.
One of those conditions is Alzheimer’s Disease, according to a research review conducted in 2013. [2] Another study also showed Huperzine A to be more effective than placebo in improving the cognitive function, functional performance, and behavioral disturbance of Alzheimer’s patients. [3]
What’s more, the consumption of Huperzine A may help in enhancing memory. A study concluded that Huperzine A improves memory abilities significantly in contrast with inactive placebo treatment among high school students. [4]
Moreover, it may also help reduce cognitive disruptions during depression, and act as a neuroprotective. However, there’s insufficient evidence for these claims. Currently, more studies are still being conducted to get conclusive data about the extent of Huperzine A’s health benefits.
Quick Summary
Best Huperzine A Powder Supplement: Bulk Supplements Huperzine A 1%
Most Affordable Huperzine A Capsules: Double Wood Supplements Huperzine A
Best Added Value: Natural Factors, 3 Brains, Ultimate Neuro Complex
| Brand | Choline Content Per Serving | Price/Number of Capsules | Dosage Recommendation |
| Double Wood Supplements Huperzine A | 200 mcg | ~$20/120 | Take 1 tablet with or without food |
| Source Naturals Huperzine A | 200 mcg | ~$25/120 | Take 1 tablet daily |
| Life Extension Huperzine A | 200 mcg | ~$30/60 | Take 1 capsule one to four times daily |
| Bulk Supplements Huperzine A 1% | 150 mcg | ~$79/25 grams (0.9 oz) | Take 1 capsule up to two times daily with food |
| Natural Factors, 3 Brains, Ultimate Neuro Complex | 100 mcg | ~$33/120 | Take 4 capsules daily with food |
Best Huperzine A Supplements
Double Wood Supplements Huperzine A
HUPERZINE A CONTENT PER SERVING:
200 mcg
PRICE/NUMBER OF CAPSULES:
~$20/120
DOSAGE RECOMMENDATION:
Take 1 tablet with or without food
Pros
- Non-GMO
- Gluten-free
- Soy-free
- Affordable
- Money back guarantee
Cons
- Few users of the product reported feeling some side effects
Double Wood is a trusted brand that puts its products through third-party testing to guarantee the quality of its products. Additionally, the brand shares the results of those findings via its website. Its Huperzine A supplement has a Certificate of Analysis and is GMP certified, which speaks volumes of its commitment to meeting industry standards.
When it comes to its impact on treating certain conditions, this supplement aims to act as a reversible Acetylcholinesterase inhibitor. As such, it helps to support neurotransmitter acetylcholine levels.
This Huperzine A supplement can also be consumed to support cognitive functions such as one’s problem-solving ability, working memory, and motivation. Furthermore, it may boost energy, stamina, and sustained focus.
According to the brand, the tablets can be broken into quarters or halves if any user needs to take smaller doses. Double Wood also recommends that it’s best if users take a 1-week break for every 2 weeks of use daily.
As for the feedback, there are thousands of ratings on Amazon, and most are positive. Many users mentioned that taking the supplement resulted in the improvement of their memory. On top of that, plenty of them said it helps retain their focus throughout their activities. However, some experienced side effects like headaches and nausea.
Source Naturals Huperzine A
HUPERZINE A CONTENT PER SERVING:
200 mcg
PRICE/NUMBER OF CAPSULES:
~$25/120
DOSAGE RECOMMENDATION:
Take 1 tablet daily
Pros
- Suitable for vegetarians
- No artificial color, fragrance, or flavor
- Gluten-free and soy-free
- No yeast, dairy, and wheat
Cons
- A bit pricier compared to other brands with the same number of capsules
- Some users felt side effects
Since its inception in 1982, Source Naturals continues to formulate products that result in boosting the well-being and health of an individual. Its Huperzine A supplement is no exception, as it offers quality, purity, and potency to anyone who takes it.
Moreover, users can take this supplement if they need a “brain boost”, according to the brand. And thanks to its support of acetylcholine, it may also help improve or maintain healthy cognitive functions. It may also lower the risk of memory loss due to aging.
The reviews for this Huperzine A supplement are mostly positive. Plenty of them are happy with how it boosts their memory and helps them keep their focus. Consequently, they’ve become more productive throughout the day. It also improves their overall mood. Although, some mentioned that it might cause some side effects like nausea.
Life Extension Huperzine A
HUPERZINE A CONTENT PER SERVING:
200 mcg
PRICE/NUMBER OF CAPSULES:
~$30/60
DOSAGE RECOMMENDATION:
Take 1 capsule one to four times daily
Pros
- Non-GMO
- Vegetarian Capsules
- Gluten-free
Cons
- It’s quite pricey for the number of capsules in one bottle
Life Extension is a leading brand in the industry known for its quality supplements and scientifically-validated formulations. Plus, a complimentary and personalized guidance system is in place for its customers to provide solutions in reaching optimal health.
Taking this Huperzine A supplement may aid in boosting memory retention and staying focused throughout different activities. It may also improve other cognitive functions by supporting the metabolism of acetylcholine. As such, it makes this supplement a powerful neuroprotector according to the brand.
When it comes to feedback, there aren’t a lot of reviews available on different platforms. However, based on what’s obtainable, the consensus is still positive. Many are content with how taking the capsules helps them with concentration, focus, and motivation. They also mentioned that it aids in removing the “brain fog”, which boosts their memory.
Bulk Supplements Huperzine A 1%
HUPERZINE A CONTENT PER SERVING:
150 mcg
PRICE/SIZE:
~$79/25 grams (0.9 oz)
DOSAGE RECOMMENDATION:
Take 15 mg once or twice daily
Pros
- Free of additives or sugar
- Gluten-free and dairy-free
- No dairy and yeast
- May be easier to consume since it’s in powder form
Cons
- It is very expensive
- Not a lot of feedback
Bulk Supplements is one of the leading brands in the industry known for its wide array of selection of health and wellness products. Its Huperzine A powder is a highly concentrated supplement that’s lab-verified and third-party tested to guarantee quality. It was also inspected and manufactured to meet cGMP standards.
In addition, it aims to protect brain health and improve cognitive abilities. Taking this might also help users to boost their memory. On top of that, anyone purchasing this supplement has several choices regarding how many grams the users want.
Feedback for this Huperzine A supplement is scarce, but from what’s available, more reviewers are happy with this product. They mentioned that it helps with their memory and focus. Also, someone said it helps improve coherence.
Natural Factors, 3 Brains, Ultimate Neuro Complex
HUPERZINE A CONTENT PER SERVING:
100 mcg
PRICE/NUMBER OF CAPSULES:
~$33/120
DOSAGE RECOMMENDATION:
Take 4 capsules daily with food
Pros
- Non-GMO
- No sweeteners, preservatives, and artificial colors
- Free of dairy, gluten, and soy
- Vegetarian capsules
- Additional nutrients and vitamins
Cons
- Not a lot of reviews
This specific product from Natural Factors comes from the brand’s “Three Brains” line of supplements. It focuses on offering a formulation that supports the head, heart, and gut. Additionally, it contains several ingredients that stimulate the synergy between those 3 parts of the body.
What’s more, the aforementioned “three brains” support improving cognitive function and maintaining a healthy mind. Also, consuming this supplement may aid in promoting mental clarity and stimulate healthy neuron activity, which leads to optimal health.
Aside from Huperzine A, some of the ingredients included in this supplement are Acetyl-L-carnitine (HCI), N-acetyl-cysteine (NAC), Phosphatidylserine, Vinpocetine, Ginkgo Biloba, and Huperzia Serrata extract.
There are only over 150 ratings at iHerb for this supplement, and the majority are positive. Many said it helps them boost their memory and keep their concentration intact. Some are also happy that it improves their sleep and makes them feel energized. Overall, users are content with the supplement’s health benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Is it OK to take Huperzine A every day?
This will have to depend on the brand’s recommendation or based on what your doctor tells you. However, since Huperzine A can remain in the body for a long time, cycling can be used as a supplement.
This means you’ll take Huperzine A capsules for a set period and then stop for a set period. [5] As such, to reduce the risks of experiencing side effects, it’s best to consult a healthcare professional to understand better how often you need to take the supplement. The decision may also depend on what you’re using it for.
Who should take Huperzine A?
Based on its impact and health benefits, those with Alzheimer’s Disease or who need to enhance their memory can take the best Huperzine A supplements. Additionally, those who have difficulty concentrating can also take advantage of this substance.
Although, it’s still best to consult a doctor since research is still limited.
Can you take too much Huperzine A?
Many Huperzine A supplement manufacturers have recommended dosages that you can follow. Generally, the dose is between 50-200mcg daily. However, there seem to be different suggested doses for different conditions.
- Dementia – 0.2 to 0.4 mg per day [6]
- Alzheimer’s Disease – 0.4 mg twice per day [7]
- Memory Booster – 100 mcg twice daily
Furthermore, you need to be wary of some side effects after taking Huperzine A. Some may feel nausea, vomiting, constipation, sleep deprivation, cramping, and restlessness among other things. If you’re unsure, the best action is to speak to your doctor.
How long does it take for Huperzine A supplements to work?
This will vary depending on the user. Based on the feedback from the best Huperzine A supplements we listed, some users immediately feel the benefits while others have to wait a little longer.
Bottomline: Best Huperzine A Supplements
Huperzine A helps increase acetylcholine levels, affecting memory and other cognitive functions. It is therefore included in many manufacturers’ supplements. This article has compiled a list of the best Huperzine A supplements. There is a wide variety of choices, ranging from price points to dosages. However, since research is still limited, it’s best to consult your doctor or a healthcare professional before medicating yourself.
Disclaimer: This article is only a guide. It does not substitute the advice given by your own healthcare professional. Before making any health-related decision, consult your healthcare professional. We have assembled this article through in-depth research based on the information available at the date of publishing. We may receive a small commission for purchases you make through our links, but this comes at NO extra cost to you. This commission allows us to continue doing what we love through Health Plugged, which is delivering evidence-based health information to our readers worldwide.
Editorial References And Fact-Checking
- Xing, S. H., Zhu, C. X., Zhang, R., & An, L. (2014). Huperzine A in the Treatment of Alzheimer’s Disease and Vascular Dementia: A Meta-Analysis. Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 2014, 1–10. https://doi.org/10.1155/2014/363985
- Yang, G., Wang, Y., Tian, J., & Liu, J. P. (2013, September 23). Huperzine A for Alzheimer’s Disease: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Clinical Trials. PLoS ONE, 8(9), e74916. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0074916
- Li, J., Wu, H. M., Zhou, R. L., Liu, G. J., & Dong, B. R. (2008, April 23). Huperzine A for Alzheimer’s disease. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews. https://doi.org/10.1002/14651858.cd005592.pub2
- Sun, Q. Q., Xu, S. S., Pan, J. L., Guo, H. M., & Cao, W. Q. (1999). Huperzine-A capsules enhance memory and learning performance in 34 pairs of matched adolescent students. Zhongguo yao li xue bao = Acta pharmacologica Sinica, 20(7), 601–603.
- Zhang H. Y. (2012). New insights into huperzine A for the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease. Acta pharmacologica Sinica, 33(9), 1170–1175. https://doi.org/10.1038/aps.2012.128
- Li, J., Wu, H. M., Zhou, R. L., Liu, G. J., & Dong, B. R. (2008). Huperzine A for Alzheimer’s disease. The Cochrane database of systematic reviews, (2), CD005592. https://doi.org/10.1002/14651858.CD005592.pub2
- Rafii, M. S., Walsh, S., Little, J. T., Behan, K., Reynolds, B., Ward, C., Jin, S., Thomas, R., Aisen, P. S., & Alzheimer’s Disease Cooperative Study (2011). A phase II trial of huperzine A in mild to moderate Alzheimer disease. Neurology, 76(16), 1389–1394. https://doi.org/10.1212/WNL.0b013e318216eb7b
