Ephedra distachya

Ephedra distachya
Family:Ephedra distachya; Antiasthmatic; Antispasmodic; Antitussive; Antiviral; Diaphoretic; Diuretic; Febrifuge; Miscellany; Nervine; Tonic; Vasoconstrictor.
Common name:Sea grape
Members of this genus contain various medicinally active alkaloids (but notably ephedrine) and they are widely used in preparations for the treatment of asthma and catarrh. 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. The plant also has antiviral effects particularly against influenza. The stems are a pungent bitter warm herb that dilates the bronchial vessels whilst stimulating the heart and central nervous system. The stems are also antitussive diuretic diaphoretic febrifuge hypertensive nervine tonic and vasoconstrictor. They are used internally in the treatment of asthma hay fever and allergic complaints. They are also combined with a number of other herbs and used in treating a wide range of complaints. This herb should be used with great caution preferably under the supervision of a qualified practitioner. It should not be prescribed to patients who are taking monoamine oxidase inhibitors or suffering from high blood pressure hyperthyroidism or glaucoma. Ephedrine is seen as a performance-boosting herb and as such is a forbidden substance in many sporting events such as athletics. The stems can be harvested at any time of the year and are dried for later use.

Herbal Database

01.01.2005 03:02 []