Ephedra - scientifically called Ephedra sinica and often referred to as Ma Huang – is an evergreen plant with a pine-like scent, growing mostly in the arid areas of northern China and Inner Mongolia and used as the main natural source of ephedrine alkaloids.

It is a 5000 years old herb used in medicinal purposes, with proven effects in reducing the symptoms of asthma, bronchitis, flu and cold, as well as in improving one’s physical appearance by trimming down fats and sustaining muscle growth.

In ancient Chinese medicine, the plant was mostly used for providing fast relief from respiratory problems due to its powerful decongestant properties. Secondary applications of this plant included the short-term treatment of eczema, edemas, hay fever, various allergies and narcolepsy.

Ephedra is a powerful stimulant that contains the alkaloids ephedrine and pseudoephedrine as main ingredients and acts on the nervous, respiratory and cardiovascular systems. It is an effective weight-loss agent, a strong energizer and metabolism booster included in fat-burning and dieting products.