| Ma huang weight loss products contain the herb | | | | become controversial, as high doses of the herb |
| ephedra. Ephedra (Chinese name- Ma huang) has | | | | have been linked to grave health problems like |
| been used in traditional Chinese medicine since the | | | | stroke, seizures, cardiac arrest, and death. While |
| 3rd century BC. Ephedra (Ephedra sinica) over the | | | | some people experience no ill effects at all their |
| centuries was added in small quantities to tea to | | | | number is far lesser than those who complain of |
| help ease congestion and to cure various illnesses | | | | adverse side effects. Increased heart rate for |
| like, colds, asthma and respiratory disorders. The | | | | instance is common even at recommended levels |
| active component of Ephedra is an alkaloid. | | | | of dosage. Conditions such as nervousness, |
| Research has shown the effects of this alkaloid to | | | | anxiety and insomnia are common at high doses |
| be interestingly similar in effect to the hormone | | | | or prolonged use. |
| adrenaline. This herb speeds up heart rate and | | | | Among the less common side effects are loss of |
| also has a diuretic effect. The Chinese always | | | | appetite, nausea and vomiting, headache, kidney |
| used the herb in small quantities and advocated a | | | | stones, problematic and/or painful urination, and |
| regulated use of the herb. | | | | muscle cramps. The prevalence of these side |
| Ephedra of late has been found to promote | | | | effects led the FDA to introduce some control |
| weight loss although concrete proof is not yet | | | | measures. Research into Ephedra was also |
| available. Ma Huang products are available in the | | | | undertaken. The first step taken by the FDA was |
| following forms- tablets, dried herb/tea, capsules | | | | to ensure that only natural Ephedra was used in |
| and tincture. This helps in fat reduction and also | | | | weight loss products. Finally in 2003 products |
| enhances athletic performance. Though beneficial | | | | containing Ephedra were totally banned. |
| in certain cases the consumption of Ephedra has | | | | |