Also Known As:
Ma Huang
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Variations:
Ephedrine
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Related
Items:
Ephedrine
Caffeine |
Type:
Fat Loss
Energy Enhancer |
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WHAT IS EPHEDRA?
Ephedra, the naturally occuring herbal form of ephedrine, has actually been
used in chinese medicine for over 5000 years. Ephedrine is a naturally occuring
sympathomimetic amine found in plants of the genus Ephedra, including the
familiar Chinese herb Ma Huang. Structurally, ephedrine is similar to adrenaline
and amphetamines, and holds the same benefits and disadvantages of both. Used in
chinese medicine for use in respiratory ailments due to it's broncholidating
effects and for giving the sick more energy.
WHERE DOES IT COME FROM?
Ephedrine, as stated, is the main active chemical component of the herb
however there are a no of different varieties growing in many different
geographical locations, even variations within the same plant, containing
varying concentrations of ephedrine. It is very important to use correctly
standardized herb to around 20 - 25 mg of ephedrine per dose. For example 400mg
of Sida Cordifolia (Country Mallow) standardized at 6% gives us 24mg of
ephedrine. It is also important to use only the 'L' form of ephedrine. Like
amino acids and many other substances with biochemical applications, ephedrine
exists in various forms called isomers, which are labeled according to their
structure or rotation around the central axis. When only two isomers exist they
are usually mirror images of each other and rotate clockwise (L) or
anti-clockwise (D). In most cases humans have evolved to utilize the 'L' forms,
and such is the case with Ephedrine. Most reputable supplement companies state
their standardized dose and use the L form of ephedrine.
Besides natural and modified forms, concetrated extracts of ma huang are also
available. These products are far more powerful than natural ma huang, and often
contain a mixed blend of different ephedrine isomers. Pseudoephedrine being
probably the most widely used and highly popular in modern day cold and flu
remedies.
For more detailed information on the effects of the chemical ephedrine
see......
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