Ephedraceae

Ephedraceae consists of 1 genus Ephedra with 65 species. Ephedra sinica belongs to the Ephedraceae family. Ephedra sinica has a long history in traditional Chinese medicine with uses in the treatment of allergies, nasal congestion, bronchial asthma, coughs, and flu. The drug is known under the name of “Ma-huang” which was traditionally obtained from the dry stems of Ephedra sinica. The plant contains many bioactive components such as alkaloids.