Ephedra diet supplements have been used centuries to treat asthma and bronchitis. Ephedra has the ability to increase metabolism and burn fat, according to millions of consumers, so it became a popular ingredient used in diet pills.

Ephedra refers to several related species of herbs that commonly grow in desert areas. It is best known as a botanical source of the alkaloids ephedrine, pseudoephedrine and others. Ephedra species also contain many other constituents. Ephedra (Ephedra sinica) has been used in recent years in products marketed for weight loss, body building and increased energy. The main chemical compound in Ephedra is an ephedrine and it was first isolated and used pharmaceutically about 100 years ago. Chinese Ephedra or Ma-Huang is a powerful herb that has been used in Chinese medicine for at least 5.000 years. Ephedrine is the active ingredient in many diet pills and supplements. Many use the name "thermo", "lean" or "fat burner."

Ephedra is effective component of many herbal formulas, over-the-counter (OTC) medications, and weight loss product on the market. Although it has been banned by the FDA in the past, Ephedrine, and herbal versions such as Ma-Huang are still widely used in many supplements. Ephedra assists with weight loss and a variety of ailments.

How Ephedra Works?

The main active ingredient of Ma-Huang, ephedrine, falls into a therapeutic category of "Adrenergic bronchodilators." Ephedrine can shrink congested mucous membranes, helping to dry up the watery discharge and open the stuffed nasal passages which so often accompany the common cold or some flu. The primary constituents of ephedra, ephedrine and pseudoephedrine, are plant alkaloids responsible for ephedra's medicinal action.

These alkaloids stimulate the central nervous system by interacting with neurotransmitter receptors which dialate bronchial tubes, elevate blood pressure, and increase heart rate. Because these processes increase thermogenesis product that increases your metabolism and stimulates weight loss as well. In dietary supplements, Ephedra is often combine with caffeine, guarana, and other ingredients to improve it's effectiveness.

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Ephedra Side-Effects

Traditional contraindications for ephedra include general weakness, high blood pressure, nervousness, sleeping difficulties, cardiac arrythmias, poor digestion and heart disease. Ephedra's side effects may be even more pronounced in people with anxiety and restlessness, high blood pressure, glaucoma, impaired circulation, prostate adenoma, pheochromocytoma, and thyrotoxicosis. Additionally, excessive levels of Ephedra produce even more problems. It may also contract the uterus, which means it should not be used during pregnancy.

Consumer Warnings products containing ephedra or ephedrine alkaloids

U.S. Federal Trade Commission Warning for products containing ephedra or ephedrine. Taking more than the recommended serving may result in heart attack, stroke, seizure or death. Consult a health care practitioner prior to use if you have high blood pressure, heart or thyroid disease, diabetes, difficulty urinating, prostate enlargement, or glaucoma, or are using any prescription drug. Do not use if you are taking a MAO inhibitor or any allergy, asthma, or cold medication containing ephedrine, pseudoephedrine, or phenylpropanolamine. Discontinue use if dizziness, sleeplessness, loss of appetite, or nausea occurs.

American Herbal Products Association (AHPA). Recommendations for consumer products containing ephedra.

Warning

Not intended for use by anyone under the age of 18. Do not use this product if you are pregnant or nursing. Consult a health care professional before using this product if you have heart disease, thyroid disease, diabetes, high blood pressure, depression or other psychiatric condition, glaucoma, difficulty in urinating, prostate enlargement, or seizure disorder, if you are using a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) or any other prescription drug, or you are using an over-the-counter drug containing ephedrine, pseudoephedrine or phenylpropanolamine (ingredients found in certain allergy, asthma, cough/cold and weight control products).

Exceeding recommended serving will not improve results and may cause serious adverse health effects. Discontinue use and call a health care professional immediately if you experience rapid heartbeat, dizziness, severe headache, shortness of breath, or other similar symptoms. Texas law requires the following statement: Products that contain ephedrine group alkaloids in the form of herbal extracts may cause serious adverse health effects. Read the label and follow directions.

Ephedra used in diet products and over-the-counter Ephedrine-based products have been known to cause false positives in drug testing.

Additional Recommendations

With any products containing ephedra or ephedrine alkaloids, it's advised that you start with less than the recommended dosage. Take it with a meal to test your tolerance of this product before increasing to the recommended dosage. Do not take more than one product at a time containing any central nervous system stimulants. Do not take with any prescription drugs or over the counter medicine. Check with you physician prior to use. If you experience bad side effects, discontinue use immediately and consult a physician.