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Does Ephedra Cause Hair Loss?

Ephedra is an herbal supplement commonly used for cold symptoms, weight loss and energy enhancement. Ephedra stimulates the brain, increases heart rate and expands bronchial tubes to give you more energy. It also increases body heat that increases your metabolism. It can be consumed in many different forms including pills, teas and drinks.

  1. Side Effects

    • Common side effects associated with ephedra include dizziness, nervousness, headache, insomnia, vomiting and tremors. If it is abused, it can cause you to have high blood pressure, heart attack, addiction and seizures. Ephedra does not cause you to lose your hair.

    Precautions

    • Short-term consumption is recommended and counteractions with some medications may occur. Ephedra is not recommended for people younger than 18 years old.

    History

    • Ephedra is used in traditional Chinese medicine for relieving asthma and bronchitis symptoms. Known as ma huang, the Chinese have been using ephedra for more than 5,000 years.

    Identification

    • Ephedra grows in the tundra and rocky areas of Europe, Asia and the Americas. Ma huang is a 1-foot tall evergreen.

    Facts

    • Ephedra is used in many major over-the-counter medicines to relieve symptoms associated with the common cold and the flu. Pseudoephedrine is the synthetic form of ephedra.

    News

    • In 2004, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) banned ephedra as a dietary supplement. The ban was overturned in court after the FDA failed to provide evidence proving that low dosages below 10 mg are a health risk. Ma huang continues to be banned as a dietary supplement since a 2006 appeals court ruling.

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