Ma Huang

Ephedra sinica · herb

Also known as: Mahuang, Chinese ephedra, ephedra

Parts used: Stem (aerial parts)

Active compounds

Ephedrine alkaloids (ephedrine, pseudoephedrine), tannins, flavonoids

Pharmacology

Sympathomimetic bronchodilator. Ephedrine alkaloids stimulate beta-2 adrenergic receptors, producing bronchodilation similar in mechanism (though not in selectivity) to modern beta-agonist asthma medications. Also raises heart rate, blood pressure, and cardiac output.

General dosage

In TCM decoctions, 1.5-9 g/day under practitioner supervision only.

Contraindications

Hypertension, heart disease, hyperthyroidism, glaucoma, pregnancy, breastfeeding, prostatic hypertrophy. Do NOT combine with MAOIs, stimulants, or other sympathomimetics.

Interactions

Many interactions including caffeine, decongestants, MAOIs, antihypertensives, cardiac medications.

Safety notes

FDA banned ephedra-containing dietary supplements in the US in 2004 due to cardiovascular events; whole-herb use in licensed TCM practice is legally distinct but still requires practitioner oversight. Not for self-administration.

How traditions use Ma Huang

Ma Huang Tang for asthma (TCM) — Traditional Chinese Medicine