Ma-huang (Ephedra)

Ephedra sinica


Family: Ephedraceae
Perennial, primitive shrub.  Native to the steppes of north and northwestern China.  Rare offering of the main official species.  Dried stem is used as a source of natural ephedrine for stimulating the central nervous system and as a bronchiodilator.  Use with caution.  FDA regulatedCultivation: Easy.  Sow in spring.  Plant prefers full sun and dry, sandy soils.


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