Evidence supporting the use of: Ephedra
For the health condition: Congestion

Links: Go back one page, Tool main page, Ingredients list, Health conditions list, Body systems list

Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 3

Ephedra, also known as Ma Huang, has a long history of traditional use in Chinese medicine for the treatment of respiratory conditions, including nasal congestion and bronchial asthma. The active compounds in Ephedra, primarily ephedrine and pseudoephedrine, are known to have sympathomimetic effects, leading to bronchodilation and vasoconstriction. This pharmacological action can reduce swelling in the nasal passages, thereby alleviating congestion. In traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), Ephedra is often combined with other herbs to treat symptoms of colds, flu, and allergies. While these traditional uses are well-documented, modern scientific research on the efficacy and safety of Ephedra for congestion is limited due to concerns over adverse cardiovascular effects, which led to regulatory restrictions in many countries. Ephedrine, isolated from Ephedra, has been used pharmaceutically as a decongestant, lending some indirect scientific support to its traditional use. However, the risk of serious side effects, such as hypertension and arrhythmias, outweighs its benefits for most patients, and safer alternatives are available. Thus, while the traditional basis for using Ephedra to treat congestion is strong and partially supported by its pharmacological activity, clinical evidence is limited and its use is generally discouraged in modern practice.

More about Ephedra
More about Congestion

Products containing Ephedra

We currently have no products on Vitabase that contain this ingredient.