EPHEDRA

EPHEDRA

(Ephedra sinica)

Synonyms :-

Mahuang, Herba Ephedrae, Cao mahuang (Chinese ephedra) Zhong mahuang (Intermediare ephedra) and Muzei mahuang (Mongolian ephedra).

Ephedra is a dried stems and roots separated from Chinese ephedra Ephedra sinica stapf and other Ephedra spp. (Ephedraceae).

Chemical constituents :-

Srems contains 1-2% alkaloids composed mainly of l-ephedrine and d-pseudoephedrine.

      Other compounds present include glycans (ephedrans A, B, C, D AND E), Catechin, gallic acid and condensed tannins, flavonoid glycosides, insulin, dextrin, starch, pectin and other common plant constituents, including plant acids (citric, malic, oxalic etc.)

Health Food :-

Used in diet formulas for its appetite suppressive effect and in “energy” formulas for its central nervous system stimulant action; also used in cold and flu remedies. Usually in tablet, capsule and tea forms.