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Ephedrine
1. What is it and
where does it come from?
Ephedra, a stimulating herb that grows in arid regions of the world, goes by
such names as: Mormon Tea, Ma Huang, Squaw Tea, and Herbal Ecstasy. The Chinese
have been using ephedra for more than 5,000 years to treat the afflictions of
the lungs. The main active chemical component of ephedra is ephedrine, a beta-adrenergic
agonist (increases heart rate and body temperature.)
Different strains of the herb contain different
concentrations of ephedrine. The Chinese version is the more potent of the
strains. Supplements of high quality ephedra are available from Bodybuilding.com.
2. What does it do and what scientific studies give evidence to support this?
Ephedra is a powerful stimulator that increases metabolism. Ephedra has been
used widely to treat many conditions such as the common cold, asthma, and
congestion of the bronchial tubes. Research conducted on this herb has shown
that it has awesome implications for bodybuilders, weight-trainers, and
athletes. Some of the incredible effects are weight loss, metabolizing (burning)
fat, and muscle maintenance.
3. Who needs it and what are some symptoms of deficiency?
Athletes have taken ephedra for a number of years to enhance performance.
Bodybuilders can benefit from supplementation of ephedra in many ways. The herb
not only promotes the breakdown of fat cells, but also stimulates the
biochemistry of muscles, while enhancing performance.
It is also a very important ingredient in cold medicines and can help asthmatics
and those who suffer from bronchial ailments such as congestion or cough. All
this and it helps people with obesity to lose weight!
4. How much should be taken? Are there any side effects?
Ephedra has been the subject of FDA scrutiny in recent years. A few states have
banned it, and others have tried to ban it because it has a molecular structure
closely resembling methamphetimine. Moreover, some irresponsible adults and
young people have exploited it in mass quantities trying to sustain a natural
"high." When people take it in mass quantities, it is not good on the
circulatory system because it is a stimulant and it increases blood pressure. It
is not recommended to supplement your diet with ephedra if you suffer from high
blood pressure, heart problems, or thyroid problems. Many experts recommend
taking 400 mg of 6% ephedrine-containing ephedra three times per day about one
half hour before each meal. Research has also found ephedra has even better
results when stacked with guarana and white willow bark.