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The stems of Ephedra (Ma Huang) are long, narrow, and sprawling with tiny leaves and small greenish yellow flowers. Tiny nodes called joints can be found on the stalks.
Many species of Ephedra are found in deserts or arid regions throughout the world. They can be colored green, gray, or red, depending on the species. Ephedra (Ma Huang) is the only species of the plant that is native to Asia and it is the species with the most number of health benefits.
Ephedra (Ma Huang): Medicinal Values
The use of Ephedra (Ma Huang) as a medicinal plant dates back to approximately 2800 B.C. in China. It is only in 1923, that the West began to take interest in Ephedra (Ma Huang) when their medical practitioners discovered its many uses. Subsequently, the substance ephedrine has become widely used as a nasal decongestant, a central nervous system stimulant, and a treatment for asthma in America.
A substantial amount of prescription drugs and over-the-counter decongestants used the isolated alkaloid elements, including ephedrine and pseudoephedrine, obtained from Ephedra (Ma Huang). Ephedrine is a successful bronchodilator if taken orally. It can be used in the treatment of mild to moderate asthma and hay fever.
Ephedra (Ma Huang) can also suppress the appetite. In fact, this is one of its most popular uses. Most diet drugs contain ephedrine to act as appetite-suppressants while increasing the body’s metabolic rate and aiding in fat breakdown. Ephedra (Ma Huang) has thermogenic properties which help in the breakdown of fats into energy. If taken with caffeine, substance found in Coffea arabica, Camellia sinensis, and Cola nitida, its thermogenic capabilities can be intensified. Ephedra (Ma Huang) has also been used by people who are trying to quit smoking because it contains substances that can reduce cigarette-craving. It can also promote uterine contraction and menstruation.
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