Background Information
Ephedra (ma huang) is a natural herb containing ephedrine and pseudoephedrine. Ephedrine is an alkaloid isolated from several species of Ephedra a genus of herbs found in China. The stems of the herb contain the active ingredient.

Dietary supplements containing ephedrine or ephedra are widely used in the United States. Ephedra is promoted as a weight loss/energy enhancing agent. Ephedrine is a central nervous stimulant and a decongestant, used for treatment of bronchial asthma.

Ephedrine containing supplements are marketed in a variety of forms: capsules, tablets, powders, and liquids. They occur in some products as a single ingredient, but are also combined with other ingredients such as vitamins, minerals, amino acids and caffeine. Products with ephedra are marketed to athletes for weight loss, body building, increased energy, increased mental concentration and increased sexual sensations.

 Effects on Health
Since 1993, FDA has received more than 1000 reports of adverse effects associated with ephedrine. Signs and symptoms included rapid and irregular heart beat, increased blood pressure, chest pain, anxiety, acute hepatitis, nervousness, tremors, hyperactivity, insomnia, nephrolithiasis, heart attack, stroke, and seizure. Several deaths have been linked to dietary supplements containing ephedrine.

According to FDA, 92 percent of the adverse effects were related to the use of ephedrine marketed for weight loss or energy purposes, and 5 percent were related to products promoted for enhancing athletic performance or body building. Seventy-five percent of the adverse effects were reported in females (for weight loss); 59 percent occurred within the first four weeks of use.

Data suggest that ma huang toxicity results from overdoses often prompted by exaggerated off-label claims and a belief that all natural products are safe.

 Effects on Performance
There are no data to support the claims that ephedra (ma huang) increases endurance, strength, training intensity, and mental concentration.

 Recommendation
Ephedra (ma huang) and ephedrine are prohibited by the USOC and the IOC. Ephedrine is an active ingredient in a variety of over-the-counter drugs and dietary supplements. Before taking any medication or supplement, it is an athlete's responsibility to find out if any substance in the product is prohibited or restricted.