Scientific name
Ephedra sinicaFamily
EphedraceaeOrigin
ChinaSynonyms
Ma HuangParts Used
A drug consisting of the aerial parts of the plant
Chemical constituents
- Alkaloids (ephedrine and pseudoephedrine).
Ephedra in Herbal Medicine: Properties of Ephedra
Ephedra is a plant known in the West also by the Chinese name of Ma Huang, used as a tonic for the neuromuscular system and to enhance the performance of athletes (it is considered a doping substance).
The plant, together with caffeine, is also used for anorectic and slimming purposes, despite the known and documented side effects on the cardiovascular system and the nervous system, the possible interference with other drugs or plants, and the numerous contraindications.
