PROPER NAME:	E. sinica Staph, E. equisetina Bunge, E. shennungiana Tang [Fam. Ephedraceae] and others (approx. 40 species)
COMMON NAMES:	Ephedra, Ephedrine, Ma Huang, Tsaopen-Ma Huang, Ephedrae herba
PARTS USED:	green stems, young branches, and dried roots
FORMS:	Internal: crushed herb, tincture (alcohol solution), liquid extract
CLAIMS:	Nasal decongestant, central nervous system stimulant, treatment for bronchial asthma for adults and children over 6 years, weight loss, enhanced athletic performance, mild respiratory disorders, and various allergic disorders.
DOSAGE:	Tea: 1-4 grams of crushed Ephedra; 3 times daily Tincture (1:1): 5 grams (1 teaspoon), one time daily Tincture (1:4): 6-8 ml (1 to 1 1/2 teaspoons), 3 times daily Liquid extract: 1-3 ml (1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon), 3 times daily Doses of more than 100g (3oz) can be life threatening.
SIDE EFFECTS:	Increased heart rate, increased blood pressure (both systolic and diastolic), heart palpitations, nervousness, headache, insomnia, dizziness, restlessness, irritability, nausea, vomiting, urinary disorders, tolerance and dependence. Contraindications include diabetes, high blood pressure, thyroid disease, pregnant or nursing, anorexia, bulimia, glaucoma, impaired circulation of the cerebrum, adenoma of prostrate with residual urine accumulation, pheochromo-cytoma, or thyrotoxicosis. Ephedra has potential drug interactions that can lead to serious problems. When taken with heart drugs such as digitalis or digoxin (Lanoxin) it may disturb the rhythm of the heart; when taken with the blood pressure medicine guanethidine (Ismelin) or MAO-inhibitor’s, it can dangerously exaggerate the herb’s simulative effects; and when taken with ergot-based drugs such as migraine remedies Ergomar and Wigraine, it can result in increased blood pressure. The FDA is currently reviewing information on Ephedra safety.

EPHEDRA REFERENCES:
Foster, S., Tyler, V. (1999). Tyler’s Honest Herbal: A Sensible Guide to the Use of Herbs and Related Remedies. 4th ed. The Haworth Herbal Press, New York.

Selected Monographs from The Complete German Commission E Monographs- Therapeutic Guide to Herbal Medicines (on-line, accessed 3/04/2001). http://216.171.56.188/commission e/ephedra.html

Group presents data of Ephedra safety to FDA (on-line, accessed 3/04/2001). http://www.heartinfo.org/reuters2000/001221elin022.htm

Consumer Guide to Ephedra (on-line, accessed 3/04/2001). http://www.mothernature.com/cg/ephedra.asp#source

Disclaimer:
This article is intended to provide basic information only. It is not a recommendation for use or endorsement of any product listed, by the Southeastern Michigan Dietetic Association. Please consult your physician or a health professional before taking any medications or supplements.

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