Evidence supporting the use of: Huperzine
For the health condition: Dementia

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3

Huperzine A, a compound extracted from the Chinese club moss Huperzia serrata, has been investigated for its potential cognitive benefits, particularly in the treatment and support of dementia, including Alzheimer's disease. The interest in Huperzine A stems from its role as a reversible acetylcholinesterase inhibitor; this means it increases the levels of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter associated with memory and learning, which is typically deficient in Alzheimer's patients. Several small-scale randomized controlled trials, mainly conducted in China, have reported that Huperzine A can improve cognitive function, memory, and daily living activities in patients with Alzheimer's disease and vascular dementia when compared to placebo. These studies, however, often suffer from methodological limitations, such as short duration, small sample sizes, and potential bias. Systematic reviews and meta-analyses acknowledge some positive effects but caution that the quality of evidence is moderate to low and that larger, high-quality trials are necessary to confirm the benefits. International guidelines do not currently recommend Huperzine A as a standard treatment for dementia. In summary, while early scientific evidence supports a possible role for Huperzine A in dementia management, it is not yet robust or conclusive, and its use remains investigational outside of some traditional and supplementary medicine practices.

More about Huperzine
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Other health conditions supported by Huperzine

Alzheimer's Disease
Dementia
Memory and Brain Function

Products containing Huperzine

We currently have no products on Vitabase that contain this ingredient.