Ephedra Extract

Ephedra is a gymnosperm shrub found in various parts of the world such as Central Asia, South America, North Africa and Southwestern North America. This herb was widely used in traditional Chinese medicine to cure a number of illnesses. In western countries, ephedra extract was greatly promoted as a dietary supplement for weight loss. However, owing to its health hazards, FDA banned its usage. Ephedra extract has vanished from the markets and is now replaced with ephedra alkaloids. However, many people mistake ephedra alkaloids for ephedra and steer clear of products containing ephedra alkaloids. Here is a truth about ephedra and ephedra alkaloids.

Ephedra Extract Benefits

As mentioned above, ephedra was widely used in traditional Chinese medicine and other branches of alternative medicine. Ephedra is particularly effective in improving the bronchial tubes or airways, thus it can successfully cure colds, hay fever, allergic rhinitis, asthma and other respiratory disorders. The weight loss applications of ephedra are mainly due to its thermogenic properties. This means, it has the ability to produce a lot of heat inside the body. This heat is beneficial in burning more calories. The increased metabolic rate allows you to transform more calories into energy. This is mainly the reason you manage to burn a few calories even at rest. The thermogenic properties of ephedra were harnessed to produce weight loss pills and diet supplements. Eventually, ephedra extract side effects were discovered, which forced the FDA to ban these 'magic pills'.

Ephedra Extract Side Effects

Ephedra has severe side effects on human body due to its ability to interfere with the metabolism of the body. It prevents the body from losing heat which may result in heat stroke. Given below are some other side effects of ephedra extract, leaves and supplements.

• Anxiety, psychosis
• High blood pressure
• Irregular or rapid heart rhythms, heart damage
• Headache, dizziness
• Tremors
• Irritation of the stomach, diarrhea
• Nausea
• Kidney stones
• Decreased appetite
• Dry mouth
• Restlessness, nervousness, insomnia
• Flushing, sweating
• Increased urination

People with existing heart, kidney disorders show more potential for ephedra side effects. People with metabolic disorders like anorexia nervosa or bulimia should avoid the use of ephedra, as it interferes with normal metabolism. Similarly, pregnant women, children and nursing mothers should also refrain from consuming ephedra in any form. Moreover, the consumption of ephedra extract should be discontinued two weeks prior and after the surgery.

Ephedra Alkaloids

Ephedra alkaloids which is commonly known as ephedrine is a synthetic derivative of ephedra. It is not pure ephedra, but contains ephedra herb along with an array of other natural and synthetic ingredients. Ephedrine is often used in weight loss pills as some manufacturers still believe in the immense benefits of ephedra in losing weight. You may also find ephedrine in many medications for cardiovascular disorders. It is often marketed as sulfate and hydrochloride. It can also be formulated using natural ingredients to get 'natural ephedrine'. These ingredients include caffeine, green tea etc. Thus, ephedrine allows you to enjoy the benefits of ephedra sans its side effects. Since, ephedrine is not pure ephedra, it can be sold over the counter. Thus, you are no longer required to produce your doctor's prescription while buying ephedrine. However, it is best to consult your doctor before you decide to cure yourself with ephedrine.

Thus, ephedra extract, by itself is dangerous to your health. However, its derivative ephedrine is much safer for consumption. Yet, it is recommended that you execute fair amount of caution while consuming ephedra.