Ephedra

Species Name:  Ephedra, Ephedra Sinica.

Also known as: Ma huang, Chinese jointfir, and Indian jointfir.

The herb was used in Chinese medicine as far back in history as 5,000 years ago.

The current controversy over its safety is because of those wishing to use it for weight control instead of the purpose for which it was originally used safely.

What is Ephedra: Ephedra is comprised of the alkaloids ephedrine and pseudoephedrine, the latter of which is used in over-the-counter decongestants. Though ephedrine is still used to treat low blood pressure, alternatives that have reduced risks to the heart have replaced in medications for asthma treatment.

Ephedrine is considered a drug that has performance-enhancing qualities, and because of this, it is prohibited for use in most competitive sports.

Some of the species’ within the Ephedra genus have no alkaloid content, but Ephedra sinica is the most commonly used species and contains 1-3% dry weight alkaloid content.

The alkaloid content is 40-90% ephedrine with pseudoephedrine and the demethylated forms making up the remainder.

Home remedies using ephedra:

Benefits of Ephedra:

Because of its classification as both a stimulant and a thermogenic, it works to stimulate the brain, increase heart rate, constrict blood vessels, and expand the bronchial tubes.

The thermogenic properties cause an increase in the metabolism, which can be seen by an increase in body heat.

In traditional Chinese herbal medicine, ephedra is included in many of the herbal formulas that are used to treat colds and flu and to regulate proper lung function.

Uses of Ephedra:

• To treat asthma, hay fever, flu, and colds
• To regular proper functioning of the lungs
• Treatment of low blood pressure

In some countries, ephedra is banned. Prior to that time, it was found in diet pills or capsules, over the counter decongestants, and as a constituent in bodybuilding and performance enhancing products.

Its safety has been questioned by the FDA in the United States, thus the reasoning behind it being banned in that country.

Side Effects of Ephedra:

Some of the side effects related to ephedra use include the following:

• Allergic reaction such as itching or hives, swelling in your face of hand, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, breathing difficulty, or rash
• Chest pain, shortness of breath, rapid or irregular heartbeat, increase in blood pressure
• Dizziness, fainting, severe headache
• Emotional or behavioral changes such as depression, hallucinations, severe mood swings or hysteria
• Heart attack, stroke, seizures
• Nausea
• Difficulty urinating
• Insomnia
• Weight loss