Ephedra Guide | The Benefits & Side Effects

Ephedra is a stimulant herb that comes from the stem and branches of Ephedra Sinica. Most Ephedra species contain the chemical ephedrine, which is banned in the U.S.

Ephedra dilates the bronchial tubes in the lungs, elevates blood pressure and increases the heart rate thereby providing a large boost of energy.

The pure form of Ephedra is illegal, Ephedra Extract is legal.

What is the Difference Between Ephedra & Ephedra Extract?

Ephedra, in its pure form (ma huang), is illegal in the U.S. Ephedra Extract is legal in the U.S.

How Long Does Ephedra Stay in Your Body?

Ephedra can stay in your system form anywhere between 3 - 6 hours.

What is Ephedra Used For?

Ephedra is most commonly used for weight loss purposes, increased energy and enhanced athletic performance.

Can You Buy Ephedra Over the Counter?

Some medications that contain ephedrine are still available over the counter, though rules and regulations regarding ephedra can vary by state.

What Plant Does Ephedra Come From?

Ephedra is a shrub that is native to Pakistan, China & Northwestern India. Some ephedra species grow in the Southwest desert of the U.S. The Ephedra plant is a perennial evergreen. They are collectively known by their Chinese name Ma Huang.

Ephedra Sinica

Ephedra Sinica is one of the three species of Ephedra, the other two are called Ephedra Equisetina & Ephedra Intermedia.

Why Did the FDA Ban Ephedra?

The FDA banned Ephedra due to users abusing the product.

Does Ephedra Show Up in a Urine Test?

Supplements containing ephedra may produce a positive amphetamine reaction.

What Are the Side Effects of Ephedra?

Ephedra stimulates the heart, lungs, and nervous system. Ephedra can also cause high blood pressure, irregular heartbeat, dizziness, dry mouth, headache & nausea.

What Works Like Ephedra?

Other Ephedra alternatives include; green tea extract, caffeine, guarana, garcinia & old fashioned fiber.

Where Does Ephedra Grow?

There are 4 known ephedra species among the arid & semiarid regions of Asia, Europe, Northern Africa, Western North America & South America. They can grow from sea level up to 5,000 meters high in the Himalayan & Andes Mountains. Twelve species of Ephedra are found in North America, ranging from the Southwestern U.S. to Central Mexico.

Where is Ephedra Still Legal?

Ephedra is still legal in Canada, Japan, Australia, New Mexico & England up to 180mg.

How Much Ephedra to Take

The recommended dosage is between 20 - 40mg.

Ephedra Tea

Ephedra tea, also known as Mormon Tea, is made from the plant, Ephedra Nevadensis. This is the dried branches, boiled in water to make tea. It is commonly used as a beverage and as a medicine. Mormon tea does not contain ephedrine.

Does Ephedra Burn Fat? Support Weight Loss? Provide Energy?

Ephedra is most commonly used for weight loss, fat burning and energy boosting purposes.

Is Ephedra Addictive?

It is possible to become addicted to ephedrine, though ephedrine is banned in the U.S.