Ephedra (Ma Huang)
Ephedra sinica
麻黄
Pinyin: Má Huáng
Plant Family
Ephedraceae
Part Used
Stem (herbaceous)
Origin
Inner Mongolia, Shanxi, Gansu, China
Safety Level
Restricted
Overview
Ephedra is a small, shrub-like plant with green, jointed stems that grows in arid regions. It is one of the most powerful herbs in Chinese medicine and also one of the most controversial. Ephedrine, the primary active compound, was the first plant alkaloid isolated as a pharmaceutical drug. It is strictly regulated in many countries.
Traditional Chinese Medicine Properties
Nature (四气)
warm
Flavors (五味)
acrid / pungent, bitter
Meridians (归经)
lung, bladder
Health Benefits
Traditional Uses
- Induces sweating and releases the exterior (for wind-cold with no sweating)
- Facilitates the lung and stops wheezing
- Promotes urination and reduces edema
- Opens nasal passages
- Joint pain (wind-damp bi syndrome)
Active Constituents
The key compounds responsible for this herb's therapeutic effects:
Usage & Dosage
How to Use
Used in decoctions, powders, and pills in Chinese medicine. In the West, ephedra supplements were banned by the FDA in 2004 due to safety concerns. Only use under professional supervision.
Suggested Dosage
Decoction: 2-10g (cooked 5-10 min first to reduce volatility). Should only be used by qualified practitioners.
Quality & Storage
Harvest Season
Autumn, when stems turn green and sturdy
Quality Indicators
Long, green, sturdy stems with nodes, bitter taste
Storage
Airtight container, cool dry place
Safety Information
Contraindications
High blood pressure, heart diseaseGlaucomaProstate enlargementHyperthyroidismAnxiety or panic disordersPregnancy and breastfeedingChildrenDiabetes
Possible Side Effects
- Increased heart rate and blood pressure
- Palpitations, arrhythmias
- Insomnia, anxiety, nervousness
- Headache, dizziness
- Nausea
- Dangerous: heart attack, stroke, death (with abuse/overdose)
Drug Interactions
- Stimulants (caffeine, amphetamines) - dangerous combination
- MAO inhibitors (hypertensive crisis)
- Antidepressants
- Blood pressure medications
- Diabetes medications
- Decongestants
- Beta-agonists
Note: Always consult with a qualified healthcare practitioner before starting any herbal supplement, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, have medical conditions, or take medications.
References & Research
Information on this page is based on traditional herbal knowledge and modern scientific research. For a comprehensive list of references, please refer to our full citations page.
ℹ️ Disclaimer
This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. The FDA has not evaluated these statements. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before using herbal supplements.
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