Drugs with better activity and fewer side effects are more commonly used. Ephedra is the plant from which ephedrine was originally isolated. Ephedra, also called ma huang, is used in many herbal products including supplements promoted for weight loss . To prevent potentially serious interactions, people taking ephedrine or pseudoephedrine should avoid using ephedra-containing drug products and should read product labels carefully for ma huang or ephedra content. Native North American ephedra, sometimes called Mormon tea, contains no ephedrine.
Tannins are a group of unrelated chemicals that give plants an astringent taste.
Herbs containing high amounts of tannins may interfere with the absorption of ephedrine or pseudoephedrine taken by mouth. Foods that alkalinize the urine may slow the elimination of ephedrine from the body, potentially increasing the actions and side effects of the drug. Brinker F. Interactions of pharmaceutical and botanical medicines. Inc. The information presented in Healthnotes Online is for informational purposes only. The results reported may not necessarily occur in all individuals.