Huperzine A, is a naturally occurring sesquiterpene alkaloid found in the extracts of the firmoss <i>Huperzia serrata</i>. The botanical has been used in China for centuries for the treatment of swelling, fever and blood disorders. Recently in clinical trials in China, it has demonstrated neuroprotective effects. It is currently being investigated as a possible treatment for diseases characterized by neurodegeneration – particularly Alzheimer’s disease. [Wikipedia] (en)
# Li WM, Kan KK, Carlier PR, Pang YP, Han YF: East meets west in the search for Alzheimer's therapeutics - novel dimeric inhibitors from tacrine and huperzine a. Curr Alzheimer Res. 2007 Sep;4(4):386-96. "Pubmed":http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17908041 (en)
Huperzine A has been found to be an inhibitor of the enzyme acetylcholinesterase. This is the same mechanism of action of pharmaceutical drugs such as galantamine and donepezil used to treat Alzheimer's disease. (en)