Ephedra (Ma Huang)

Description: Ephedra is considered the world's oldest medicine. It has been a part of Chinese medicine for thousands of years. This herb is found in many over-the-counter cold medicines but so few realize it. Ephedra is known in the U.S. as Mormon tea because the Indians introduced it to the settlers of the west back in 1847.

Parts Used: Herb, stems, leaves

Common Use: Ephedra works wonders as a decongestant. It is used to treat colds, flu, asthma, and nasal and chest congestion. This herb contains ephedrine which stimulates the central nervous system, increasing basal metabolism causing more calories to be burned. This leads to a reduction in weight

Origin: China, India, Middle East

Active Substances: Ephedrine, pseudo-ephedrine, norephedrine, methylephedrine, tannins, saponin, flavone, catechins, terpenol.

Standard: 5.5-6.5% alkaloids

Pharmacology:

Active Properties:

Directions For Use:1g per day dried herb or 200mg of extract. Or place 1 teaspoon of dried Ephedra in 1 cup water, boil, then simmer for 10-15 minutes. Drink 2 cups a day. Before taking any herbal product, you are advised to consult with a trained health care professional.

Processing:

Bio-Enhancing:

Toxicity, Cautions, Contra-Indications:High doses to result in irregular heart beats. Pregnant women should avoid taking this herb because it causes uterine contraction. Before taking any herbal product, you are advised to consult with a trained health care professional.

Scientific References:Balch, J. and Balch, P., (1997) Prescription for Nutritional Healing. Garden City Park, New York: Avery Publishing Group. Castleman, M., (1991) The Healing Herbs. Emmaus, Pennsylvania: Rodale Press. Chopra, D., (1993) Alternative Medicine. Fife, Washington: Future Medicine Publishing, Inc. Flynn, R. and Roest, M., (1995) Your Guide to Standardized Herbal Products. Prescott, Arizona: One World Press. Murray, M., (1996) Encyclopedia of Nutritional Supplements. Unites States of America: Prima Publishing. Murray, M. and Pizzorno, J., (1998) Encyclopedia of Natural Medicine. United States of America: Prima Publishing. Null, G., (1998) The Complete Encyclopedia of Natural Healing. New York, New York: Kensington Publishing Corp. Werbach, M., (1993) Nutritional Influences of Illness. Tarzana, California: Third Line Press.

Historical Uses:This herb has been used as an bronchodilator and anti-allergic for thousands of years. Ma Huang works as an appetite reducer and diuretic as well.

Analysis:Type standardized extract, Standardization 5.5-6.5% alkaloids, Method DAB 9 German Pharmacopoiea method HPLC, Color fine mid-brown powder, Flavor bitter and aromatic, pH 5.2-5.5, Storage sealed in a cool dry, dark place.