Effects and uses The
stimulant and
thermogenic effects of
Ephedra sinica and other Ephedra species are due to their ephedrine and pseudoephedrine content.
[2] These compounds stimulate the brain, increase
heart rate, constrict blood vessels (increasing
blood pressure), and expand bronchial tubes (making breathing easier). Their thermogenic properties cause an increase in metabolism, evidenced by an increase in body heat.
In traditional
Chinese herbology,
E. sinica is included in many herbal formulas used to treat cold and flu such as 麻黃湯
ma huang tang (ephedra decoction) or 麻杏石甘湯
ma xing shi gan tang (ephedra, apricot kernel, gypsum, and licorice decoction). Ephedra is used therapeutically as a
diaphoretic to help expel exterior pathogens and regulate the proper functioning of the lungs.
[13]
Ephedra is widely used by athletes
[14] despite a lack of evidence that it enhances athletic performance.
[15][16] Ephedra may also be used as a precursor in the illicit manufacture of
methamphetamine.
[17]
Ephedra has also been used for weight loss, sometimes in combination with
aspirin and
caffeine. Some studies in regulated and supervised environments have shown that ephedra is effective for marginal short-term weight loss (0.9 kg/month more than the placebo), although it was unclear whether such weight loss is maintained.
[18] However, several reports have documented a number of
adverse events attributable to unregulated ephedra supplements.
[19]
Adverse effects of ephedra consumption may include severe skin reactions, irritability, nervousness, dizziness, trembling,
headache,
insomnia, profuse perspiration,
dehydration, itchy scalp and skin, vomiting,
hyperthermia,
irregular heartbeat,
seizures,
heart attack,
stroke, or
death.
[20]
The sale of ephedra-containing dietary supplements remains illegal in the United States.[7]
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Originally Posted by Undercover Brother
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