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THISTLE (EPHEDRA)
Ephedra sinica / vulgaris
Actions
Asthma, bronchitis, sinusitis, dry cough, hoarseness, circulatory disorders, fever, hay fever, nettle rash (hives), Depression ...
Description
Composition :
Capsule, 100% Ephedra sinica/vulgaris herba
Part used :
Stems
Thistle (Ephedra sinica / Ephedra vulgaris), also known as Ephedra or Sea Grape, is a shrub in the Ephedra family (Ephedraceae), native in the entire northern hemisphere, including southwestern North America, Europe, northern Africa and southwest and central Asia. There are almost 5 dozen Ephedra species, 21 of which are native in Asia (14 in China alone) and 12 of which are native in the US (5 also in Mexico); only one species grows in Argentina and Chile.
The Thistle shrub looks a little like a Horsetail in that the leaves radiate from a single point on the stem (whorl); it grows about 30 – 50 cm (12-20in) tall. In fall, when the bioactive ingredients of the plant are most readily available, the young twigs are collected and gently dried in the shade.
The use of Thistle (Ephedra) may be beneficial with asthma, asthma-like attacks, bronchitis, whooping cough, various infectious diseases, hay fever and other allergies. Thistle also regulates blood pressure. The most important bioactive ingredient of the plant is Ephedrin, a type of alkaloid which stimulates the nervous system and soothes the muscles of the bronchial tract (reducing or alleviating asthma attacks). Taken over extended period of time, Thistle may actually reduce the incidence of astma attacks.
Thistle is also consumed as a aphrodisiac, since Ephedrin has properties comparable to amphetamins, i.e. it produces a comfortable feeling and a increase in physical performance.
History: Plants of the Ephedra genus, including Ephedra sinica and others, have traditionally been used by indigenous people (e.g. China) for a variety of medicinal purposes, including treatment of asthma, hay fever, and the common cold. Pollen of Ephedra was found in the Shanidar IV burial site in Iraq, suggesting its use as a medicinal plant dates to over 60‘000 years ago.
Counter Indications: Not recommended with heart disease patients, as any overdose may cause irregular heart beat. Not recommended for patients using MAO inhibitors (monoaminooxidase ; e.g. Yohimbine and Nardil) as anti-depressants and patients suffering from high blood pressure (hypertension), coronary thrombosis or glaucoma. Do not use within 24 hours before surgery.
Note: Thistle (Ephedrin) shows positive in doping tests.
Dosage
Take 2-6 capsules daily, with plenty of water.