Mechanism of Ephedrine

July 5, 2008

Ephedra is one of the popular herb grown in China and is often used in weight loss products. Many traditional medicines usually contain ephedrine as an ingredient along with other drugs. Ephedrine is derived from a Chinese herb Ma Huang which commonly grows in desert areas. The active ingredient of this plant is called as Ephedra which has a similar action to the hormone Adrenaline which is produced in the body. The alkaloids which can be semi-synthesized from this plant are ephedrine, pseudo-ephedrine (one of the content of over-the-counter flu combinations) and others.

Adrenaline or Epinephrine is secreted more when our body is in stress or injury. When we run or are anxious, epinephrine is secreted in much more quantity to control the autonomic nervous system of the body.

Similarly when ephedra fat burner products are taken, they increase metabolic rate of the body. It increases the catabolic (break down) rate of the body, which in turn increases heat production in our body, burns fat and suppresses appetite. But it also increases blood pressure and causes tachycardia, so heart disease patients should avoid or take medicine under supervision. There are various other contraindications too, so take the advise of your doctor before starting this product. Here is an interesting article on how to buy legal ephedra pills!

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