Family Name: Ephedraceae
Botanical Name(s): Ephedra sinica
Popular Name(s): Mahuang, Ma Huang, Desert Tea, Mormon Tea,
American Ephedra, Chinese Ephedra, European Ephedra, Pakistani Ephedra,
Ephedra.
Habitat: It grows mainly in Mongolia and the bordering regions
of China and is also found on the Tundra and rocky and sandy slopes.
Description: The Ephedra plant is a perennial evergreen that
reaches a height of four feet. The plant is nearly leafless, and has
cylindrical, slender yellow-green branches and under-runners.
Uses: Ephedra is useful in the treatment of mild to moderate hay
fever, asthma, common cold and as a weight loss aid.
