She was taking the herbal formula every hour, and because the formula contained high doses of theophylline, she was actually suffering from toxic blood levels. It isn't often that I see a case like that, but it does indicate a need for caution and supervision. I recommend herbs because, in general, they are gentler than drugs and often contain many active ingredients that work synergistically to improve health. This herb is cultivated in China and has been used for centuries as an herbal remedy. It contains ephedrine, the chemical used in much greater amounts in asthma medications like Tedral.
Ephedrine is a nervous system stimulant.
Ma huang can reduce swelling in the mucous lining of nasal passages and sinuses. It is a potent bronchodilator. I like to use it for cough associated with asthma because of the soothing effect of the warm tea as it is swallowed and because the ephedra can go right into the mucous membranes. This herb can be found in most health food stores and in herbal tea formulas for asthma. This should not be used in individuals with high blood pressure or heart disease.