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Ephedra

Botanical Name(s): Ephedra Vulgaris
Kingdom: Plantae
Division: Gnetophyta
Class: Gnetopsida
Family: Ephedraceae
Genus: Ephedra
Species: Ephedra distachya L
Popular Name(s): Somlatha
Parts Used: Dried Branch
Habitat: Drier regions of temperate zone and alpine Himalayas at altitude of 2700m to 3600m.

Description
Ephedra is a shrub that grows about 25 cm to 50 cm high. It belongs to the family Ephedraceae and is found on sandy seashores, in temperate climates of both hemispheres. The plant has stamens and pistils on separate flowers. Its fruit has two carpels, with a single seed in each one of them. They are erect, with small leaves. The herb has green stems belonging to a range of species that is native to Central Asia.

Plant chemicals
The active compound contained in ephedra is ephedrine (naturally occurring amphetamine like compound), which works to stimulate fat burning in the body and provides more energy.

Uses & Benefits of Ephedra
Caution: