Ma Huang (Ephedra sinica)

Part Used Herb
Main function Herb for Exterior Wind Cold/Warming Sudorific
Thermal qual. Warm
Taste Spicy, slightly bitter
Meridians Entered Lu, UB
Functions
  • Relieves/Disperses Exterior Cold; acts by inducing sweating.
  • Circulates Lung Qi; relieves cough and asthma.
  • Promotes urination and relieves edema.
  • Cautions
  • Avoid or use cautiously in Deficiency conditions characterized by excessive sweating.
  • Long term use can deplete Kidney Qi. Support with tonic herbs.
  • Can aggravate high blood pressure and cause restlessness/tremors.
  • Toxicity
  • Even small amounts can cause cardiac arrhythmias, for which atropine is the antidote
  • Such reactions are common if the contraindications are not observed, otherwise the herb is relatively safe for medium term use
  • Phyto-chemicals
  • Ephidrine alkaloids
  • Western Properties
  • Sudorific, stimulant, diuretic, decongestant, broncho-dilator, hypertensive anti-viral, anti-allergenic, anti-bacterial, anti-enuretic, sympathetic nervous system stimulant
  • Notes
  • Used for bronchial asthma, wheezing, bronchitis
  • Used for low blood pressure and fatigue

  • Copyright © 2001 John Freeman. All rights reserved.