Ma huang is a shrub that grows naturally in China and Mongolia. The plant, also known as Ephedra sinica, contains stimulant compounds that have been used to induce weight loss, treat cough and asthma and even reduce symptoms of the common cold. However, the dangers of the product led the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to ban dietary supplements containing ephedra. If you are considering the use of any product containing ma huang or ephedra, you should consult with a qualified medical professional.
Traditional Asian Medicine
Ma huang, also known as ephedra, has long been used by practitioners of oriental medicine. It is available in teas and powders and is valued for its ability to treat asthma and persistent cough. The chemicals ephedrine and pseudoephedrine, which are in ma huang, act as bronchodilators and expand the airways. This herb is also used to treat symptoms of upper respiratory infections because of its decongestant properties. According to the New York Times, use in this setting is generally limited to small amounts for a short period of time, often in conjunction with other herbs.
Modern Western Usage
Ma huang and ephedra became common in weight-loss supplements in the United States. The combination of ephedra and caffeine is effective in promoting weight loss, according to MayoClinic.com. However, this use is not recommended due to safety concerns.
Adverse Effects
The stimulants found in ma huang may have profound effects on the central nervous, cardiovascular and gastrointestinal systems. Anxiety, dizziness, headache, trouble sleeping and agitation may be seen. Increased blood pressure and heart rates are common. Additionally, abnormal rhythms of the heart or heart attack may prove fatal. Severe allergic reactions which disrupt breathing could also be life threatening. Stomach upset, diarrhea and liver damage may result from using ma huang. Other side effects like difficulty passing urine, abnormal blood sugar, breathing problems and uterine contractions my occur. The active ingredients in ma huang pass through the placenta and breast milk and pose risks to mother and child.
Interactions
Any stimulant may increase the side effects of ma huang and ephedra. Namely, caffeine in herbal or other products, pseudoephedrine or phenylephrine decongestants, prescription or illicit amphetamines and ergot medications could prove particularly dangerous. In addition, certain psychiatric medications such as monoamine oxidase inhibitors or MAOIs, tricyclic antidepressants and phenothiazine antipsychotics interact with ma huang in an adverse way.
The FDA ban on ma huang pertains to compounds deemed dietary supplements, but other products containing ephedra may be available. Use of these is strongly discouraged, and if considered, should be discussed with qualified, trained professionals.
References
- American Family Physician. Common Dietary Supplements for Weight Loss; Saper RB, Eisenberg DM, Phillips RS; Nov 2004.
- MayoClinic.com: Ephedra/Ma Huang
- Drugs.com: Ma Huang
- The New York Times. Despite FDA Ban, Ephedra Won't Go Away. Duenwald, M; February 2004.
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration: FDA Acts to Remove Ephedra-Containing Dietary Supplements From Market
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