Ephedra vs. Ephedrine: What's The Difference?

Unsure what the difference is between ephedra vs. ephedrine? Well, you’re not alone. Many are also puzzled about what makes these two different from one another. We’ll end that confusion today as we identify the two, along with their differences and similarities.

 

What is Ephedra?

Ephedra is a plant. It is a shrub-like pollen-producing herb that grows in many parts of the world but is generally of Chinese origin. It is also known as Ma Huang or Ephedra sinica which has been grown and used for centuries as a traditional medicine for treating asthma, sinus, breathing issues and even common cold.

 

What is Ephedrine?

Ephedrine is the key and active component present in ephedra sinica plant responsible for fat and weight loss. It is also referred as an alkaloid. It aids in stimulating the brain’s adrenaline receptors to cause different health benefits. 

*Anything that says “ephedra extract” doesn’t have any ephedrine. It has been obtained from an ephedra plant that is either empty of ephedrine completely.

 

Benefits

Ephedrine has a number of benefits. It can help you lose weight and burn fat. It can also increase your body’s internal core temperature which allows you to burn more calories. Ephedrine works like an adrenaline as it releases hormones into the body which targets fat stores as these hormones become fatty acids which work as a fuel to help you lose weight, gain muscle and lose fat at the same time (beneficial for bodybuilders during contest season).

Additionally, ephedrine also curbs appetite reducing hunger pangs making it easier to stick to your diet.

 

Side Effects

Ephedra and ephedrine have the same side effects. They can stimulate cardiac muscle increasing heart rate and blood pressure. They ease smooth muscle opening up bronchial tubes. They can also cause anxiety, muscle aches, loss of appetite, insomnia, nausea, tremors and vertigo. Major side effects include depression, seizure and stroke. Ephedra and ephedrine supplements containing caffeine can increase chances of these lethal side effects.

 

Ephedra vs. Ephedrine Availability

Ephedra and its plants components are banned to date because of the reported deaths and side effects experienced by users. On the other hand, you can still buy ephedrine. But, it’s manufactured as a drug, not a dietary supplement. Click here to buy ephedra diet pills.

In retrospect, ephedra vs. ephedrine are somewhat similar though weight loss results may vary. Make sure to seek medical help before taking any of these.