Huperzine A is the name given to a traditional medicine or substance which has been used for centuries in China. Chinese has used the medicine to treat various health problems such as inflammation, fever, muscle strain and arthritis (rheumatological conditions). The substance huperzine A is a moss, an alkaloid, extracted from a plant called huperaine serrata. It was only in 1948 that Chinese scientists began to examine the substance in-depth.
The name of the substance is pronounced HOOP-ur-zeen. However, there are other names that are associated to huperzine A which are: Chinese clubmoss, Hup A, Huperzia serrata, Qian Ceng or Shuangyiping. Huperzine A has some interesting components just like cholinesterase inhibitors. This similar substance has recently promoted the popularity of huperzine A in the western world. It is potent to act as a therapy or a treatment for Alzheimer disease at an early stage. This has launched expert research.
Research on Huperzine A
Huperzine A was primarily been tested on animals. The guiding conclusion was that it helped to enhance the memory capabilities of animals.
The outcome promoted an eventual extension of the research, and it was subsequently tested on human beings. The main focus on the research was towards treating Alzheimer’s disease with huperzine A. It was also concluded later that it acted as cognitive enhancer for people who do not suffer from any diseases as well.
The various tests that were performed, found that huperzine A helped to treat people with dementia. The substance was also effective in alleviating other memory disorders. The increasing trials carried out on different groups established confusing results. The significance of the results was not strong, as the trials themselves were poorly designed. It led to consistency among results and its precise function was not certain. However, what was made certain was that Huperzine A does improve memory in people who are in a healthy condition.
Mechanism of Huperzine A
Huperzine A works in a specific way. It does provisionally hinder an enzyme which is named acetylcholinesterase to damage the functioning of the brain. Acetylcholinesterase is found in the spinal cord and in red blood cells.
Acetylcholinesterase is commonly known as cholinesterase and is found inside the brain. It does actually split down acetylcholine, neurotransmitters. These neurotransmitters are responsible for the internal communication between nerve cells. The breaking down of acetylcholine decreases cognitive abilities, leading to memory loss and other related mental disorders.
Huperzine A is beneficial as it hinders the breaking down process of neurotransmitters. While huperzine A protects the acetylcholine, memory is enhanced as a result. The neurotransmitters do also remain more active and present in the brain.
The drug is being recommended as a treatment for both general memory enhancement and even dementia.
Huperzine A Precautions
It is always necessary to contact a doctor for professional advises before consuming the substance. It is necessary to properly inform your doctor about your actual conditions. These may include a discussion about actual treatments, allergies, pregnancy issues, hypertension, or any other diseases that may have encountered in life. The revelation of critical information will help the physician to give valuable advice whether or not to take huperzine A.
Dosage and Storage of Huperzine A
This substance can be taken in various dosages. The doctor or caregiver will assign the amount that should be consumed. The medicine itself should be kept away from children. It should even be placed away from the exposure of direct sunlight. It should be kept in normal room temperature if not colder.
Side effects of Huperzine A
The substance can evoke some side-effects. It is important that you cease to consume the medicine if ever you encounter health concerns such as chest pain, experience breathing issues and if rash appears on your body. Huperzine A can also provoke effects such as diarrhea, insomnia and even hyperactivity. These can all be causing some slight harm to the patient. Although the occurrence of the impacts is infrequent, patients should know the symptoms to be able to evaluate whether the medicine is appropriate for them.
General information about Huperzine A
Huperzine is a single natural substance which is extracted from plants. The NIA (National Institute on Aging) has been performing tests on this substance since 2004. They are concentrating on making it a mild treatment for Alzheimer. It has already shown positive results.
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Patrick Kihara is a weight loss enthusiast and fitness blogger. He holds a Bachelor's Degree in Mass Communication and Journalism and several health and fitness certifications.
