Ephedra is a weight loss herb originally discovered in China and Mongolia. Its native homeland is China. Ephedra occupies major share in the herbal weight loss medicine. It shares about 64% of herbal weight loss medicine market. It is most saleable over the counter weight loss herb. Ephedra is not usually sold singly most of its preparations contain caffeine in them in various combinations. Ephedra effects a large obese population as it is most widely used herbal weight loss supplement.

Active Ingredients of Ephedra

Active ingredient of a preparation is that chemical which causes desired effect on the body. In Ephedra there are certain alkaloids present in the herb which actually cause weight loss. Alkaloids are not simply effective weight loss agents. They are potentiated by inclusion of plant extracted caffeine or other caffeine sources.

Weight loss mechanism of Ephedra

Mechanism of action of a drug is the way by which a drug acts on the body to get the desired effects. Ephedra acts on the body to reduce weight by promoting energy expenditure of the body. It causes an potential increase in the energy utilization of body. This increased energy expenditure results in loss of weight. Caffeine assists Ephedra in its action as it speeds the process. Increased rate of energy utilization produces the hastened results.

Side effects of Ephedra

Ephedra is not safe choice for herbal weight loss process. It is guilty of producing many unwanted effects in the body. These undesired effects include

• Heart problems
• Stroke
• Hypertension
• Psychiatric complications
• Confusion
• Fits

Even in severe cases it can be a cause of death. Efficacy of Ephedra in weight loss is also a issue of concern. FDA does not approve the sale of this drug due its unwanted effects.

In general Ephedra is not a good choice for herbal weight loss. The major area of concern is safety of Ephedra. Present combinations of Ephedra are not satisfactory , there should be more research on it to put it to effective use or to discard it. In present situation it is not recommended for weight loss particularly.