Feature Stories

Ephedra: What Our Experts Say

Several University of Maryland Medical System experts discuss the pros and cons of ephedra.

Marcos Y. Hsu, N.D., L.AC
Licensed Acupuncturist, University of Maryland Center for Integrative Medicine

"The best use of ephedra (Ma Huang) is as part of a traditional Chinese medicine formula in which it is only one of several botanicals. Ma Huang is mostly used in Chinese medicine for the common cold, asthma, coughs, and wheezing.

"Ma Huang is a stimulant that should be used in moderation. Careful consideration should be applied when Ma Huang is being mixed with other substances, since mixing it with other stimulants could significantly increase the chance of side effects."

Lixing Lao, Ph.D., L.AC.
Associate Professor of Family Medicine
Director of Traditional Chinese Medicine Research, University of Maryland Center for Integrative Medicine

"Some people can take it safely and some shouldn't. I would suggest someone first consult with a physician as well as a knowledgeable herbalist. Check with your doctor to make sure ephedra is not contraindicated with another medicine you're taking."

Alan Shuldiner, M.D.
Professor of Medicine
Physician, University of Maryland Joslin Diabetes Center
Head of the Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Nutrition at the University of Maryland School of Medicine

"Ephedra does seem to be effective in weight loss but there's also a lot of risk. There's a marked risk of fatal cardiovascular events, so I don't recommend using it.

"The other issue with ephedra, regarding benefits and risks, is that it is not an FDA regulated medicine. Various preparations vary in their potency. That's why the safety is questionable. There are a lot of variables in potency in ephedra, so that's another danger."

This page was last updated on: January 22, 2009.

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