The ephedra herb is harvested from a low-growing shrub, which is more inclined to thrive in northern China and Mongolia, where the deserts are colder and windy. The plant consists of long, narrow stems and miniscule foliage, and all of its parts can be beneficial regarding herbal medicine. Chinese records can date ephedra all the way back to the first century, and consider the herb a significant part of the basis of the country’s healing methods.

The treatment of asthma is ephedra’s most prominent use. The herb is capable of passing through the blood-brain barrier, and once inside the nerve tissue, it enhances certain brain activities. Specifically, it causes the brain to increase its stimulation of the alpha- and beta-adrenergic receptors, and perform in the same fashion as adrenaline. This has various effects, causing the bronchial tubes to dilate, the blood pressure to elevate and the heart rate to speed up. All of these actions together relieve respiratory conditions. Beyond asthma, ephedra can also improve the symptoms of colds, emphysema, hay fever or influenza.

Despite the significant effect ephedra can have on respiratory problems, it is most likely people would prefer the knowledge that this herb can also contribute to weight loss. Ephedra curbs the need to constantly search the kitchen cabinet, as well as increases one’s metabolism. A suppressed appetite coupled with a faster metabolic rate is a successful team against weight gain. Furthermore, the herb boosts thermogenesis, which prevents the body from turning excess amounts of food into fat. Of course, the best and safest method of weight loss will always be a healthy diet and a good amount of consistent exercise. There are regulations made on the sale of ephedra in various states, so one must learn the specific laws of their area. It is important to consult with a doctor on this subject.

Anyone with prostate enlargement, high blood pressure, heart, liver or kidney disease, diabetes, lupus, hardened arteries, glaucoma, hyperthyroidism, or anxiety disorders should not use ephedra. Never administer the herb to children or women who are pregnant or nursing. Should you develop rapid heart rate, increased blood pressure or insomnia, either lower your dosage or cease usage.

Also, make sure to drink ample amounts of water (the recommended daily amount or more) while taking the herb to avoid kidney stones. Lastly, I cannot stress strongly the need to learn everything about ephedra if you are considering using it to assist in weight loss. Regardless of use, constructing a healthier diet and partaking in exercise are still necessary, not only in weight loss, but in a better lifestyle.

Anyone who’s even dabbled with alcohol knows what it’s like to have a hangover:  the dizziness, the nausea, the headaches…the horror!