Home
Licencing - Pricing/Terms
Health Guides
A-Z of Herbs
Expert Panel
Ask an Expert
BMI Calculator
Products
Architecture
Project Management
Site Management
Marketing
Web Design
Doctors
Dentists
Pharmacists
Optometrists
Physios
How to contact us
Your New Zealand
Web Site Directory |
|
|
All articles are commissioned by and represent the sole copyright of, The Health Network Company (NZ) Ltd. Reproduction, duplication and/or transfer by any means electronic or otherwise is strictly prohibited. Breach of copyright will be pursued to the full extent of any applicable laws. Disclaimer If you are concerned about your health or treatment, always see your own doctor.
These health guides are no substitute for proper diagnosis and treatment from your own health professional.
Ephedra (Joint fir)
|
Ephedra sinica
There are about 40 species of ephedra shrubs and climbers, growing in Asia, America, Europe and Africa.
E.Trifuca, an American variety, known as Mormon Tea, has diuretic properties. Another species, Catha Edulis, from the Middle-East and Ethiopia, contains a stimulant used in geriatric medicines, which is similar to ephedrine and is known as norpseudoephedrine or cathine.
Ephedra Sinica, or "ma huang" is one of the world's oldest medicines. It has been used by the Chinese for well over 5000 years, to treat asthma, colds and hayfever. The major constituents present are ephedra and pseudoephedrine, which have a very effective decongesant action.
This herb dilates bronchial vessels, promotes perspiration, stimulates the heart and central nervous system, and it also has a diuretic effect. Ephedra is taken for the relief of asthma, hayfever,and allergic conditions, colds and flu.
The decongestion in the Chinese ephedra can also increase basal metabolic rate (BMR) that is the rate the body burns calories. So this may help thoses who are seriously obese but should be done under strict medical supervision.
Ephedra may cause insomnia and dry mouth. Do not take if you are hypretensive, suffering from glaucoma or hyperthyroidism, and persons who are geneally weak, have breathing difficulty or have night sweats should avoid this herb.
References
- Tierra M.The Way of Herbs. New York. Pocket Books. 1990.
- Black P. The Illustrated Herbal. Hamlyn. 1987
- Boxer A, Black P.The herb Book. Reed International Books Limited. 1980.
- Burch E (N.D.).The Complete Herbal Companion.Harper Collins 2000
- L’Orang D.The Herbal Healing Secrets of the Orient.Prentice Hall 1998
- Tierra M.The ways of Chinese Herbs.Pocket Books. 1998.
- Liu HC.Chinese System of Food Cures.Pelandok Publication.1989.
- Dr.Hong YH, PhD, Hsu CS, PhD. Commonly Used Chinese Herbs.Oriental Healing Arts Institute, 1980.
- Dr.Hong YH, PhD. How to Treat Yourself with Chinese Herbs.Oriental Healing Arts Institute. 1993.
- Murray M, Pizzorno J.The Encyclopaedia of Natural Medicines. Prima Pub. 1998.
- Tierra L.The Herbs of Life.Freedom, CA. Crossing Press. 1992.
- Dr.Walker M.Olive leaf extract. Kensington books. 1997
- Kloss J, Promise M.Back to Eden, revised version. Mass Market Paperback. 1989.
- Prevention Magazine (editors).The complete book of natural & medicinal cures. Health books. Berkley Publishing Group, 1996.
|
|
|
