MA HUANG (Ephedra sinensis): This plant contains ephedrine and pseudoephedrine which are used in over the counter medications for asthma (ephedrine) and as a nasal decongestant such as Sudaphed (pseudoephedrine). Ma huang is also sold as a stimulant and weight loss product. Like caffeinated beverages, ephedrine-containing products apparently can be consumed safely in moderate amounts by healthy people. Ma huang is included in some diet formulae where it functions as an appetite suppressant. Its mechanism of activity in this use is the same as the only FDA approved over the counter appetite suppressant, phenylpropanolamine (ppa). PPA lacks the central nervous stimulation exhibited by the Ephedra alkaloids but has the same contraindications and is subject to the same cautions. Ephedra contains both pseudoephedrine and ephedrine, collectively referred to as Ephedra alkaloids. Most people have heard of the abuse of amphetamines as diet pills prescribed by doctors in the 1960's and '70's. Like amphetamines, Ephedra (ma huang), and the chemical compound ephedrine, can be dangerous if abused. While the cautions for ephedra and caffeine are similar, ephedra has greater cardiovascular activity than caffeine. Ephedra is often combined in diet or energy products with caffeine or a natural caffeine source such as kola nut, guarana, or tea. The combination of these two different types of stimulants can be especially powerful.

1 ounce pure extract (30-50 average doses)

CURRENTLY UNAVAILABLE...OUR APOLOGIES

Ephedra can cause insomnia, anxiety, and high blood pressure in high doses. Do not use if you have high blood pressure, heart or thyroid disease, prostate enlargement, diabetes, or are taking any prescription drugs.

201081