While the Western World has only recently begun to use the ephedra plant for certain purposes, the Chinese have been using Ma Huang for over 5,000 years. Their uses have included the treatment of respiratory problems and bronchial spasms, as the ephedra plant has powerful decongestant properties that aid the body in the elimination of fluids. There is also an American form of the ephedra plant, but the Chinese version is said to be stronger, containing more of the active alkaloids.
With its decongestant properties, the ephedra sinica plant aids in relieving all bronchial conditions such as asthma, bronchitis, wheezing, emphysema and the whooping cough. The Chinese give the ephedra herb to those suffering from colds that are accompanied by a headache, chills and body pain.
In America, the powerful stimulant properties of the ephedra sinica herb are what have gained it so much attention. The active compound ephedrine, acts on the Central Nervous System of the body and produces a powerful increase in energy and helps to improve mental alertness and clarity.
Ephedrine also stimulates cardiac function of the body, increasing the heart rate and the metabolism.
These stimulant and metabolic increasing aspects of ephedrine have made the herb a much sought after aid in the battle against body fat. Millions of bottles of ephedra are sold every year by those individuals who desperately want to improve the way they look, in as little time as possible.
Ephedra can provide a great boost to those who are in a battle to improve the way they look and feel. However, as the past has shown us, use of the ephedra sinica plant does not come without caution. No stimulant should be taken lightly, and with its’ checkered past,
ephedra use should be used wisely. With common sense, a healthy nutrition plan and proper exercise, ephedra can make that body you’ve been dreaming about a reality.