Ma huang

Ma Huang (also known as Ephedra sinica) is a plant species native to Mongolia, China, and parts of Russia. It has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for over 5,000 years and is commonly used in dietary supplements for weight loss and energy.

History

The use of Ma Huang in traditional Chinese medicine dates back to the Han Dynasty (206 BC – 220 AD). It was used to treat a variety of ailments, including asthma, hay fever, and the common cold. The plant's stems are typically dried and brewed into a tea, which is then consumed for its medicinal properties.

Uses

Ma Huang is most commonly used in dietary supplements for weight loss and energy. The plant contains ephedrine, a stimulant that can increase heart rate and blood pressure. It is also used in traditional Chinese medicine to treat asthma, hay fever, and the common cold.

Side Effects

The use of Ma Huang can lead to a number of side effects, including increased heart rate, high blood pressure, nervousness, insomnia, and potentially severe cardiovascular complications. Due to these risks, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) banned the sale of dietary supplements containing ephedrine alkaloids in 2004.

See Also

• Ephedrine
• Traditional Chinese Medicine
• Dietary Supplement

References

Ma huang Resources
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