EPHEDRACEAE: Main Substances and Pharmacological Applications

This study aims to analyze the relationships among various species of Ephedraceae, such as Ephedra sinica Stapf , Ephedra intermedia Schrenk & C.A.Mey. and Ephedra gerardiana Wall. ex Klotzsch & Garcke, regarding their medicinal and pharmacological uses, revisiting their history in ancient Traditional Chinese Medicine, as well as their current applications in treating respiratory tract diseases and analyzing studies on their use in various applications. Platforms such as Google Scholar, Scielo, and PubMed were used for the search, using the following keywords: Ephedraceae; Ephedra and obesity; Ephedra and pharmacology; ephedrine and risks. Additionally, this study seeks to highlight and disseminate information about the dangers associated with the indiscriminate and non-prescribed use of products and substances with a high content of ephedrine alkaloids, by investigating bibliographies addressing such topics, thus highlighting the benefits and risks associated with the pharmacological use of these plants. Due to its medicinal compounds, Ephedraceae plants have been used in traditional Chinese medicine for thousands of years. Research is being conducted to identify these compounds and their application in medicine. Yet, ephedrine is indiscriminately used for weight loss and supplementation, with serious side effects. It is crucial that the dosage and use of these compounds be supervised by a medical professional.