Before May 2004 many types of weight loss pills contained a mixture of ephedra and caffeine. Individuals hoping to lose weight fast would consume ephedra in an attempt to shed pounds without realizing the potentially harmful effects of the herb. After May 2004 all dietary supplements containing ephedra were banned in the Unites States by the Food and Drug Administration.
What is Ephedra?
According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, ephedra is an herb also known as ma huang. Its health benefits were discovered by the Chinese and it has been used to treat a number of medical illnesses for thousands of years. When used correctly it can serve many positive medical purposes. The stimulant nature of ephedra however often leads to its misuse or overuse.
Medical Benefits of Ephedra
Ephedra is used in Traditional Chinese Medicine as a remedy for respiratory problems. The most common use of ephedra in Traditional Chinese Medicine is for asthma or bronchitis. Ephedra also can help ease discomfort of minor illnesses like colds, allergies, and nasal congestion.
A number of common cold and sinus medications in the United States use a synthetic form of ephedra called pseudoephedrine. Since the banning of ephedra as a dietary supplement most products containing pseudoephedrine are no longer available in a pharmacy aisle but are located behind the pharmacy counter so individuals have to ask for them if they desire to purchase them.
Other Uses of Ephedra
While ephedra can be used for true medical issues its stimulating effect has led to its being misused for other purposes. Individuals may take ephedra to stay awake, improve physical performance, or to lose weight, much like illegal amphetamines are used. When an individual uses the herb for these purposes he ventures into a very dangerous area in which his health could be negatively affected.
Dangers of Ephedra
Ephedra use can lead to a number of harmful side-effects that can potentially be fatal. These side effects include:
- Irritability
- Restlessness
- Anxiety
- Insomnia
- Headaches
- Nausia
- Vomiting
- Urinary Problems
- High Blood Pressure
- Rapid Heartbeat
- Irregular Heartbeat
- Strokes
- Seizures
- Addiction
- Death
When used as directed by a physician these effects are minimized and the patient can be monitored to make sure she is not having problems. The same can not be said for an individual's use of ephedra for other purposes.
The ban of ephedra by the Food and Drug Administration may have displeased individuals who relied on the drug for its stimulant effects but it was justified. Ephedra is a powerful and dangerous herb that needs to be regulated and should not be abused or used for anything other than a real medical illness.
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