EPHEDRACEAE

The Ephedraceae or Mormon-tea family is an ancient gymnosperm (non-flowering plant) which comprises of a single genus, Ephedra, with some 60+ species of subtropical shrubs. They are easily recognised by long photosynthetic stems, inconspicuous alternate leaves, rhizomatous roots, and minute cones . The herb Ephedra or ‘’Ma-Huang’’ (Ephedra sinica) has a long history of use in traditional Chinese medicine to treat respiratory ailments. This is due to the presence of phenethylamine alkaloids such as ephedrine and pseudoephedrine, which produce decongestant and stimulant effects on the body. 

The ephedra alkaloids are structurally similar to amphetamines. Pseudoephedrine is sourced by clandestine chemists to synthesise methamphetamine, a highly addictive illegal drug of abuse. For this reason, ephedrine and pseudoephedrine are becoming highly restricted in many countries. The dried herb Ephedra is marketed as a health supplement or slimming product due to its mild stimulant (amphetamine-like) effect. However, Ephedra is currently banned in sports and consumer products following fatal instances of overdose or life-threatening cardiovascular side.

The dried herb Ma-Huang 麻黄 (Ephedra sinica) is available on prescription as a traditional Chinese medicine. It is indicated for the symptomatic treatment of upper respiratory ailments.