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Ephedra equisetina
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Latin Name: Ephedra equisetina
Family: Ephedraceae(Click to Search)
Author: Bunge.
Known Hazards: None known
Habitat: Mountains in central and middle Asia[74].
Mature Height: 1.5
Mature Width: 1
Habit: Shrub
Medicinal Uses: Members of this genus contain various medicinaly active alkaloids (but notably ephedrine) and they are widely used in preparations for the treatment of asthma and catarrh[238]. The whole plant can be used at much lower concentrations than the isolated constituents - unlike using the isolated ephedrine, using the whole plant rarely gives rise to side-effects[254]. Ephedrine has an adrenaline-like action in the body[176]. The plant also has antiviral effects, particularly against influenza[238].
The stems are a pungent, bitter, warm herb that dilates the bronchial vessels whilst stimulating the heart and central nervous system[238]. They are also diaphoretic, diuretic, febrifuge, hypertensive, nervine, pectoral, tonic, vasoconstrictor and vasodilator[165, 176, 238]. They are used internally in the treatment of asthma, hay fever and allergic complaints[238]. They are also combined with a number of other herbs and used in treating a wide range of complaints[238]. This herb should be used with great caution, preferably under the supervision of a qualified practitioner[238]. It should not be prescribed to patients who are taking monoamine oxidase inhibitors, or suffering from high blood pressure, hyperthyroidism or glaucoma[238]. Ephedrine is seen as a performance-boosting herb and, as such, is a forbidden substance in many sporting events such as athletics[K].
The stems can be harvested at any time of the year and are dried for later use[238].
The root is antihydrotic, it lowers blood pressure and dilates the peripheral blood vessels[176]. It is used in the treatment of night sweating and spontaneous sweating[176].
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