Supplement · Nootropics & cognition
Huperzine A
A potent acetylcholinesterase inhibitor for memory that acts more like a drug.
- Evidence
- Silver· human data
- Sources cited
- 1
- Last reviewed
- 22 July 2026
Huperzine A, from a club moss, inhibits acetylcholinesterase — the same broad mechanism as some Alzheimer's drugs — raising acetylcholine and so marketed for memory.
Some studies, largely from China, suggest cognitive benefit in age-related memory decline, but methodology is variable. Its drug-like potency means it can cause cholinergic side effects and interact with medications, so it is not a casual daily nootropic and warrants caution.