Ma huang

Clinical Notes. Typically contains 2.5-3% total alkaloids TCM=Releases wind cold external pathogens, releases damp conditions thru diaphoresis, stimulates qi and reduces stagnation in lung/urinary bladder channels, used to release exterior through diaphoresis for exterior-excess conditions and wind-cold conditions, ventilates lung and is commonly used to treat conditions characterized by chills, aversion to cold, fever, absence of perspiration, headache, body aches, nasal obstruction and a superficial, tight pulse, relieves wheezing, dyspnea & cough, helps regulate water circulation and relieves ed Discontinue use if rapid heartbeat, dizziness, severe headache, shortness of breath

indications. Ma huang is traditionally indicated for: Sinusitis, Cough (wheezing), Rhinitis, Bronchoconstriction, Upper respiratory infection, Congestion (respiratory), Allergies, Weight management, Hay fever, Bronchitis, Congestion (sinus), Asthma, Bronchospasm, Inflammation, Infection, and 6 further conditions.

dose-reference. Reference preparation/dosing for Ma huang: Decoction=1-2 tsp/c TID; Tincture (1:3-1:5)=1-2 ml TID; Max dose=300 mg total alkaloids/d for adult, don't start at this dose (only short term use at this dose for weight loss); Crude herb=1.5-9 g/d

safety-cautions. Ma huang - Contraindications: Heart disease, Hypertension, Insomnia, Anxiety, Prostatic enlargement, Benign prostatic hyperplasia, Glaucoma, Thyrotoxicosis, Renal failure, Diabetes | Side effects: Greater than or equal to 150 mg ephedrine alkaloids/day=some pts experience side effects, Insomnia, Irritability, Restlessness, Anxiety, Headache, Nausea, Vomiting | Safety flags: not considered safe in pregnancy; not considered safe during lactation; low-dose / narrow therapeutic window (use caution).