Evidence supporting the use of: Ma Huang
For the health condition: Cough (spastic)

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Synopsis

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

Ma Huang, also known as Ephedra sinica, has a long history of use in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) for the treatment of respiratory conditions, including spastic coughs, asthma, and bronchitis. In TCM, Ma Huang is classified as a warm, acrid herb that releases the exterior and disperses cold. It is commonly used in classic herbal formulas such as Ma Huang Tang, which is indicated for conditions characterized by the presence of cough and wheezing due to cold pathogens obstructing the lungs.

The active compounds in Ma Huang are ephedrine and pseudoephedrine, which are known to have bronchodilator effects and can stimulate the sympathetic nervous system. These properties provide a plausible pharmacological basis for its traditional use in alleviating bronchospasm and cough. Historical materia medica texts, such as the “Shennong Bencao Jing,” document its use for these purposes.

While traditional use is well-established, modern clinical studies on Ma Huang for spastic cough are limited and often complicated by concerns regarding safety, especially cardiovascular and central nervous system side effects. Regulatory restrictions in many countries have further limited research. Thus, while there is strong traditional support and some pharmacological rationale, robust scientific clinical validation is lacking, resulting in a moderate evidence rating.

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