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eBay Ephedra Sinica Also known as: Ma-Huang, Mormon Tea An evergreen perennial shrub, native to the steppes of Northern China where it is considered to be one of the 50 most fundamental herbs. Growing only up to 12"-16" tall. It doesn't have leaves, instead it only produces rigid, narrow, blue-green branches making an ever-widening mat. It is in flower from May to June, and the seeds ripen from Aug to September. The flowers are dioecious (individual flowers are either male or female, but only one sex is to be found on any one plant so both male and female plants must be grown if seed is required) The plant is not self-fertile. It has high concentrations of the various Ephedrine alkaloids and it has them in the naturally balanced state. Its a whole herb, and can be used in the form of the dried "stems" as a tea. The tea is used as a bronchial dilator--very helpful for asthmatics, and like coffee, gently stimulating to the central nervous system. Its not dangerous when used at a reasonable dosage (a cup or two) as an herbal tea. When the Ephedrine is concentrated (made into a drug, no longer an herb) then it can certainly be dangerous. It is suggested not to be used as a white powdered concentrate that can overstimulate the heart! In any form, Ma-huang is not a good herb to use if you are pregnant, nursing, very young, very old, or with a preexisting heart condition. **We can not take any responsibility for any adverse effects from the use of any plant or seed. Always seek advice from a professional before using a plant medicinally. This strange-looking conifer forms a great specimen in the hot, dry, rock garden. Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: acid, neutral and basic (alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers dry or moist soil and can tolerate drought. USDA Hardy Zone: 5a to 8b Choose from packs of 10, 50, 100, 250, and 500 seeds above.We are The Plant Attraction. We are a registered nursery with the Florida Department of Agriculture, and have been offering plants and seeds here now for a number of years with many returning customers, making many gardening friends along the way. Feel free to email us with any questions you may have. Please only one payment via Paypal if you would like us to discount your items for shipping, just email us right before paying. Be sure to add us to your favorites list!Check out our other items!Thank you for looking!