EPHEDRA (Ephedra sinica, intermedia, equisetina)

• Source:
  • Ephedra, also called ma huang, is found in a plant that grows in deserts throughout the world. The Asian species are what supplies the medicinal formulas and have been used by the Chinese for over 5000 years. The alkaloids ephedrin and pseudoephedrin are the active components of Ephedra.
• Effects:
  • They stimulate the central nervous system causing vasoconstriction, which increases blood pressure and heart rate as well as dilating the bronchial tubes. Pseudoephedrin is an over-the-counter remedy for nasal congestion.
• Dosage:
  • Over-the-counter drugs with ephedrin can be used safely at doses of 12.5mg to 25mg every 4 hours, with no more than 150mg every 4 hours being taken.
• Side Effects:
  • The side affects include insomnia, dry mouth, muscle disturbances, heart palpitations, nervousness, and high blood pressure. Individuals with heart conditions, diabetes, glaucoma, thyroid disease, those taking MAO-inhibiting antidepressants, and hypertension should not use the herb. It should also not be used during pregnancy and lactation or with children under the age of six.