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

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Ephedra, also known as Ma Huang, has a long history of use in traditional Chinese medicine, primarily for treating respiratory conditions such as cough, asthma, and symptoms resembling influenza (fever, chills, nasal congestion). Traditional texts, such as the "Shang Han Lun," reference Ephedra as a key component in formulations like Ma Huang Tang, which is used to manage early-stage febrile illnesses characterized by chills, fever, and lack of sweating—symptoms that overlap with influenza. Its primary active compounds, ephedrine and pseudoephedrine, are known for their bronchodilator and decongestant effects, which can provide symptomatic relief for respiratory tract infections. However, direct scientific evidence supporting Ephedra’s efficacy specifically for influenza is limited. While its sympathomimetic effects may relieve congestion and improve airflow, there is little high-quality clinical research demonstrating that Ephedra can reduce the duration, severity, or complications of influenza. Most modern studies focus on its cardiovascular and central nervous system effects, as well as safety concerns about adverse events. In summary, Ephedra's use for influenza is justified primarily by traditional practices rather than robust scientific validation. It is mainly used for symptomatic relief of respiratory symptoms rather than as an antiviral or curative agent for influenza itself.

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AHCC
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Alliin
alpinia galangal
Alstonia scholaris
American Liverleaf
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baicalin
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balloon flower
balsam
Basidiomycota
bee propolis
benegut perilla (proprietary)
black garlic
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black pepper
black seed
boneset
borage
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bupleurum falcatum
camu camu
carvacrol
catechins
caterpillar mushroom
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chaga mushroom
Chondrus
chrysanthemum
cineole
Cistus
Clerodendrum phlomidis
Clerodendrum trichotomum
coconut oil
Coptis chinensis
cordyceps
coriolus mushroom
currant
dog rose
Echinacea
echinacea purpurea
Elder
elderberry
elk antler
Embelia
Ephedra
eucalyptus
Euphorbia
European Elder
fat liver oil
flavanones
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flowering quince
frankincense
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ganoderma
ginger
Glehnia littoralis
glehnia root
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goldenseal
gooseberry
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green chiretta
green tea
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honey loquat syrup
honeysuckle
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Hyperoside
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iridoids
L-cysteine
labrador tea
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Lactoferrin
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lichen
licorice root
little ironweed
liverwort
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Products containing Ephedra

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