Ephedra sinica

Ephedra sinica is a plant species native to Mongolia, Russia (Buryatiya, Chita, Yakutiya), and northeastern China (Hebei, Heilongjiang, Jilin, Liaoning, Inner Mongolia). It is commonly known as Ma Huang and has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for thousands of years.

Description

Ephedra sinica is a perennial, evergreen shrub that grows up to 0.4 m (1ft 4in) by 0.4 m (1ft 4in). The plant prefers light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils, requires well-drained soil and can grow in nutritionally poor soil. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It requires dry or moist soil and can tolerate drought.

Uses

Ephedra sinica is used in traditional Chinese medicine. The stems are used to treat asthma, hay fever, and the common cold. They are also used for their diuretic, antipyretic, antitussive, and anti-asthmatic properties.

Side Effects

The use of Ephedra sinica can lead to serious health problems such as heart attack, stroke, seizures, psychosis, and even death. It is not recommended for use in individuals with heart disease, hypertension, thyroid disease, diabetes, or prostate enlargement.

Legal Status

In many countries, including the United States, the sale of dietary supplements containing ephedrine alkaloids, which come from Ephedra sinica, is illegal due to the health risks associated with its use.

See Also

• Traditional Chinese Medicine
• Herbal Medicine
• Ephedrine

References

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