Linda,
Ephedra contains ephedrine, a stimulant, decongestant compound, similar
to pseudoephedrine, but much stronger.  It can overstimulate the heart,
causing arrythmias and other cardiac dysfunction.  I have read reports of
deaths from overdoses of this drug.  The lack of dose standardization in
many herbal preparations makes this a real risk.  Ephedra is found in the
Chinese herb Ma Huang.  While this herb is an effective medication, it
can be a dangerous one.
--
Catherine Watson Genna, IBCLC  NYC  [log in to unmask]