This is a typical harvest of ephedra plants seeds.
Ephedra is a large genus of shrubs that live in dry places. Many of them have medicinal value and are often used by herbalists. These plants contain ephedrine and work as amphetamines and decongestants. Asthma, hay fever and sufferers of the common cold all benefit from ephedra seeds. Ephedrine levels vary according the age of the plants and where they grow. The older the seeds are, the more potent they are.
Green Ephedra
Chinese and Western herbal medicine use this source of ephedra especially for its action on the respiratory system. Referred to as Ma Huang in Chinese medicine, many users know this species by the common names, green ephedra, ephedra viridis and green Mormon tea. It is a native shrub in the western United States, made up of many erect bright green twigs. The twigs turn yellow somewhat with age. Nodes along the twigs mark the tiny brown beginnings of the plant's leaves. Male centimeter long pollen cones at the nodes. Female plants produce slightly larger seed cones which contain two acorn-like seeds each.
Ephedra Nevadensis
Ephedra nevadensis is a striking plant with foliage that resembles the horsetail plant. E. nevadensis makes a tasty tea that contains small amounts of ephedrine, a nerve stimulant resembling adrenaline. Sufferers of kidney problems can use E. nevadensis as a tonic, as it is said to improve kidney function and relieve asthma in some people. It grows as a perennial plant in zones 4 through 9. E. nevadensis plants produce four acorn-shaped seeds.
Ephedra Sinica
The seeds of Ephedra sinica are twins and appear either black-red or grayish brown. Users widely take them for asthma and other bronchial problems. The shrub is small and grows on the plains and mountain slopes. If used in its traditional herbal form, it is not dangerous. However, concentrates of this species are unsafe and can cause damage to your health.
Ephedra Trifurca
Ephedra trifurca goes by the common name long leaf joint fir and is most commonly found in Arizona. The seeds of Ephedra trifurca come in pairs and appear either black-red or grayish brown. Native Americans used trifurca for stomach problems, venereal disease and kidney infections.
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