Club Moss vs Guayusa

Side-by-side comparison of medicinal herbs

Herb

Club Moss

Huperzia serrata

Nootropic

Ilex guayusa

Nootropic

Club Moss

❌ Not recommended in pregnancy

❌ Not recommended while nursing

Guayusa

❌ Not recommended in pregnancy

❌ Not recommended while nursing

Description

TCM moss plant containing huperzine A, a potent acetylcholinesterase inhibitor for Alzheimer research.

An Amazonian holly tree related to yerba mate, traditionally used by Kichwa for lucid dreaming and sustained energy.

Active Compounds

huperzine A, huperzine B, serratinine, lycopodine, alkaloids

Caffeine, L-theanine, Theobromine, Chlorogenic acids

Traditional Uses

TCM memory and fever herb, Qian Ceng Ta in Chinese medicine

Energy and focus, Lucid dreaming, Hunting preparation, Digestive aid

Modern Uses

Alzheimer disease research, memory enhancement, cognitive function, acetylcholine preservation

Antioxidant, Cognitive enhancement, Sustained energy

Adult Dosage

50-200mcg huperzine A daily

2-4g dried leaves as tea 1-3x daily

Contraindications

anticholinesterase medications, Alzheimer drugs, seizures, heart rate disorders, pregnancy

Anxiety disorders, Insomnia, Heart arrhythmias

Side Effects

nausea, diarrhea, insomnia, slow heart rate, seizures

Insomnia, Nervousness, GI upset

Drug Interactions

0 known interactions

Reviewed by: HerbAlly Editorial Team, Medical herbalists and healthcare professionals

Sources: WHO Monographs · NCCIH · PubMed · Commission E