Evidence supporting the use of: Ephedrine
For the health condition: Congestion (lungs)

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 4

Ephedrine is a well-established sympathomimetic agent that has been used for decades to treat respiratory congestion, especially in conditions such as asthma and bronchitis. Its use is primarily supported by scientific evidence, although it also has a long history of traditional use in Chinese medicine (as part of Ma Huang). Ephedrine works by stimulating alpha and beta-adrenergic receptors, which leads to bronchodilation and reduced swelling of the respiratory tract mucosa. This results in easier breathing and relief of congestion. Several clinical studies from the mid-20th century supported its efficacy as a bronchodilator and decongestant. However, the use of ephedrine has diminished in many countries due to concerns about side effects, such as increased heart rate, hypertension, and potential for misuse. Safer alternatives, such as pseudoephedrine and other selective beta-agonists (e.g., albuterol), are now preferred. Nevertheless, the scientific basis for ephedrine’s efficacy in alleviating lung congestion is strong, and it remains a component of some over-the-counter decongestant formulations in certain regions. Regulatory restrictions have reduced its prevalence, but its pharmacological effect on airway smooth muscle and mucosal blood vessels is well-documented.

More about ephedrine
More about Congestion (lungs)

Other ingredients used for Congestion (lungs)

Abies spectabilis
Aconite
Adenophora
Agastache
Alantolactone
Allicin
Allium tuberosum
Allspice
Allyl isothiocyanate
Aloe vera
alpha-pinene
alpinia galangal
ambergris
Amor seco
andrographolide
Angelica
anise
Ardisia
Arisaema
asafoetida
Asarum heterotropoides
Asarum sieboldii
aster root
atractylodes
atractylone
Baccharoides anthelmintica
bael
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balsam
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Barleria
basil
bayleaf
bee hive
bee products
Belamcanda
benegut perilla (proprietary)
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beta-pinene
Bidens pilosa
bisabolene
bishop\'s weed
bitter grass
black cumin
black currant
black pepper
black salt
black seed
blackboard tree
Blepharis
Bombax
boneset
borage
borneol
Boswellia
Boswellic Acid
Buddha\'s hand
Bupleurum
bupleurum falcatum
bасора
cajuput
calamus
Camellia sinensis
capsaicinoids
capsicum
cardamom
Carthamus
cayenne pepper
chamomile
chen pi
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Chinese salvia root
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Chondrus
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cineole
cinnamaldehyde
Cistus
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Clerodendrum trichotomum
clove
coltsfoot
Coptis chinensis
cowherb
culvers Root
curcumen
curry leaf
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Echinacea
echinacea purpurea
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Elder
elderberry
elecampane
Ephedra
ephedrine
essential oil blend
eucalyptus
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Evodia
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fat liver oil
ferula assafoetida
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forsythia
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Heartsease
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vitamin C
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Yerba buena
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zanthoxylum
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Products containing ephedrine

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