Ephedra / Ma Huang Diet Pills

By Jenna Thomas:

Ephedra, also called Ma Huang, comes from an herb. This herb contains alkaloids and has been called a miracle fat burner and wonder herb when it comes to weight loss. The Chinese have used this herb in a variety of herbal medications for more than a thousand years, and this herb can be quite strong in effect. Ephedra acts as a speed or amphetamine, and speeds up the metabolism and fat burning processes in the body. Just like any other amphetamine, Ephedra can be addictive, and withdrawal problems may be experienced after using this herb for an extended period of time.

Ephedra has been in the news in the last few years at the center of a large controversy. This herb has many side effects which can be serious or even fatal. Because of this the Federal Drug Administration, known as the FDA, even banned this herb for a short period of time, but the ban was eventually lifted. Many health and professional organizations, including the American Heart Association, the American Medical Association, and the Center For Science in the Public Interest, support a complete ban on products containing Ephedra unless there is a prescription from your doctor for it. Many states have placed restrictions on these products, such as limits on the amount bought, and logs of buyers who must show identification to identify people buying large quantity. Even with these precautions, Ephedra products are legal in most of the United States and the rest of the world.

PLEASE NOTE: Article update - Ephedra is no longer legal for purchase in the US. In August 2006 the FDA Ban was reinstated and the Supreme Court declined to hear it, thereby making the ban permanent. ( Read Ban Here )

One problem with diet pills which contain Ephedra are the side effects, many of which can be serious or even deadly. Most individuals who take this herb have no side effect, and Millions of Americans take these every year, but there are some who can experience a wide range of adverse effects from this herb. These can include addiction, dependence, tolerance, withdrawal symptoms after stopping the herb, mood swings, cold sweats, heart palpitations, a fast or irregular heartbeat, dizziness, headaches, stroke, chest pain, high blood pressure, seizures, and even heart attack and death. Most of these are caused by an incorrect dosage or taking the herb too often. There are certain individuals who should not take this herb, because of the risks involved. These include pregnant women, anyone with heart problems, diabetes, or high blood pressure, and anyone who takes prescription medication regularly.

Ephedra offers many benefits, as well as side effects, and each individual must weigh the benefits against the possible risks and make a personal decision concerning this herb. This herb helps your body to break down fat more effectively, keeps you from feeling hunger, and increases your energy and makes you more active. Ephedra also makes your body produce more heat, and this makes it burn more calories. This process is called thermogenesis, and it can be a powerful ally in a weight loss attempt. This herb will also stop coughing and help relax the bronchi in the lungs, so that asthma sufferers can find relief and breathe again. This herb also has a beneficial effect on edema, which is where excess fluid builds up in the body. Ephedra helps to promote the urination process, eliminating fluids that may be built up in the system.

Ephedra is safe for most users, but it is a good idea to consult your physician before using this herb if you have any medical conditions or have any questions. Pregnant women should never use this herb under any circumstances. The same is true for anyone with heart problems or who has ever had a heart attack or a stroke. If you are extremely overweight or obese the you should consult your doctor before starting any herbal supplement or exercise plan. This herb should be safe for all other users, but it is important to remember that a small percentage of the population may be allergic to any given substance, so if any allergic symptoms develop it is essential that you stop using the herb immediately and contact a doctor.

Ephedra is banned in the US and should not be available from any US based manufactures. Since it is not illegal in much of the world, it is still available in other countries.