Huperzine A and Vinpocetine are two Nootropics growing in popularity among Nootropics users looking to improve their memory and mental energy. This article compares the benefits, recommended dosages and side effects of both Nootropics to help you pick the right one.
Huperzine A is a natural supplement which is normally extracted from the herbs of the Huperziceae family.
“Huperzine A is a memory-enhancing supplement that has recently taken the market by storm.”
Historically, Huperzine A has been used to treat Alzheimer’s disease, dementia and other forms of neurological impairments. Huperzine A works by inhibiting an enzyme that breaks down Acetylcholine, which is a very important neurotransmitter involved in a number of cognitive processes, including learning, memory and focus.
Huperzine A has been shown to decrease loss of memory and improve concentration. Interestingly only small dosages of Huperzine A are required to benefit from the supplement. With that said, dosages should be monitored closely as overdoses have been shown to result in mild side effects. Huperzine A not only improves memory ability but also protects against a future damage of brain tissues.
Typical Huperzine A dosage:
A typical daily dose of Huperzine A taken orally is between 50 to 200 mcg. It is recommended that this is split into two equal administrations throughout the day.
After oral ingestion it appears in the blood in around 15 minutes and peaks in around 70 minutes. Huperzine A is water soluble so it does not have to be ingested with a meal. Also, it is recommended to take Huperzine A on a cycle basis, e.g. two weeks followed by a break.
Huperzine A side effects:
There have been few mild side effects reported after taking this supplement. Some of the worst side effects include nausea, sweating, muscle twitches, and diarrhea. However, these side effects are common after overdosing Huperzine A.
Vinpocetine and its benefits:
Vinpocetine has recently become one of the most popular herbal nootropics. Vinpocetine is a natural compound derived from another nootropic called Vincamine that was first found in the Periwinkle plant (Vinca Minor).
Studies have shown that it is safe and more potent than its predecessor. As a natural nootropic Vinpocetine is able to increase the blood flow to neuronal tissues by causing the vasodilation of blood vessels.
“An improved blood circulation in the brain brings important nutrients and removes unwanted toxins.”
In addition to its nootropic effects, Vinpocetine has a number of medical functions. For example, there is evidence to suggest that Vinpocetine plays a role in neuroprotection and can reduce neural inflammation. Therefore it acts as an anti-inflammatory agent that promotes an overall health of neurons.
Due to its neuroprotective benefits, Vinpocetine is usually given to people who have recently suffered a stroke as well as elderly individuals with dementia.
Typical Vinpocetine dosage:
The recommended daily dosage is between 15 – 60 mg taken in 3 equal doses with meals over the course of a day. Vinpocetine has a bioavailability of around 7%. After ingestion Vinpocetine quickly enters the brain and exerts a number of aforementioned functions.
However, maximum benefits can only be expected only if it is taken every day over a long period of time. This Nootropic is only safe when taken in dosages up to 60 mg/day. It is important to note that Vinpocetine potency may be lost if overdosed. In other words, taking large doses of Vinpocetine could potentially lead to the same results as taking too little.
Vinpocetine side effects:
No adverse side effects are reported in the literature following the recommended dosage of oral Vinpocetine ingestion (see above).
Prices:
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Huperzine A vs. Vinpocetine: Summary
Huperzine A is a natural supplement that has a number of cognitive benefits. It has the greatest positive effect on memory by influencing Acetylcholine neurotransmitter that plays a very important role in the central nervous system, relating to memory and cognitive function.
Vinpocetine is a Nootropic for a healthy mind. It improves mental functions, including memory and increases energy in the brain. Additionally, Vinpocetine demonstrates promising neuroprotective benefits that may help to protect the brain from damage in a list of possible scenarios.
Both, Huperzine A and Vinpocetine can be taken with other supplements. For example, it is common to take them with a supplement called Ginkgo Biloba for increased benefits.