Keith Epstein, formerly an investigative reporter for the Cleveland Plain Dealer, is a freelance writer in Virginia. WHAT IT IS Also known as ma huang, the herb is derived from the plant ephedra sinica, which grows in Mongolia and China. An active component, ephedrine, is a strong stimulant related to methamphetamine. In traditional Chinese medicine, for relief of cold, flu and asthma symptoms. Many other Americans use ephedra for weight loss and an energy boost, especially when combined with caffeine.
More definitive studies are underway.
Instances of mania, psychosis and seizures have also been reported. Between 1993 and 1996, the FDA collected nearly 700 reports of adverse reactions and 39 deaths. Last month, the FDA implicated ephedra in 134 cases. More cases have been collected by state health departments. The FDA may resume efforts to limit ephedra dosages.