Botanical Overview
Ephedra sinica, commonly called Chinese ephedra or Ma huang, is a member of the Ephedraceae family. The medicinal part used is primarily the stem. It is native to China and Northeast Asia and has a long history of use in traditional Chinese medicine as a stimulant and bronchodilator.
Energetics
This herb is considered warming and drying in nature, with bitter and pungent tastes. Its actions are ascending and outward in directionality, tonifying in effect, and primarily influence the Qi aspect.
Primary Actions
- Bronchodilator
- Decongestant
- Sympathomimetic
- Stimulant
- Diaphoretic
- Diuretic
Indications
Western
- Nasal congestion
- Bronchospasm
- Hypotension
- Fatigue
Syndromes
- Asthma
- Allergic rhinitis
- Orthostatic hypotension
TCM
- Aversion to cold
- Headache
- Nasal congestion
- Shortness of breath
- Profuse sweating
Syndromes
- Exterior cold invasion
- Lung Qi deficiency with cold obstruction
Ayurveda
No well-documented traditional uses established.
Unani
No well-documented traditional uses established.
Constituents & Mechanisms
Ephedra sinica contains alkaloids such as ephedrine and pseudoephedrine, which are responsible for its stimulant and bronchodilator effects. Flavonoids are also present.
Dosage & Preparations
- Decoction 3-9 g daily (traditional preparation)
- Standardized extract to 20-30 mg ephedrine daily
- Tincture 1:5 45% ethanol 2-5 mL 1-3x/d
Safety & Contraindications
Ephedra sinica is a potent sympathomimetic herb and should be used with caution. It is contraindicated in pregnancy, lactation, cardiovascular disease, hypertension, hyperthyroidism, and in those taking MAO inhibitors. It can cause serious adverse effects including hypertension, tachycardia, CNS stimulation, stroke, and myocardial infarction if misused.
Astrological Correspondences
No clearly established planetary or elemental rulers supported by authoritative sources were found.
Selected References
- WHO Monographs on Selected Medicinal Plants. Volume 2. 2002.
- European Medicines Agency (EMA) Herbal Monograph on Ephedra herb. 2017.
- Bensky, D., Clavey, S., Stoger, E. Chinese Herbal Medicine Materia Medica. 2004.
- WebMD: Ephedra