Plant Stimulants: Amphetamines and Convulsants-Amphetamines

Question 1

Ephedra

BOTANICAL INFORMATION:

Answer 1

• Shrub
• Asia
• Stiff twigs and highly reduced leaves-adaptions to grow in dry, desert-like habitats

Question 2

Ephedra

HISTORY AS A MEDICINAL PLANT:

Answer 2

• Chinese used in tonics and teas
  
  • Improve circulation, increase blood pressure, promote perspiration, reduce fever
• Antihistamine-treat asthma and allergies, decongestant, cough remedy
• Ancient Greeks and Romans
  
  • Pliny-cure coughing and alleviate hemorrhaging
• Traditional Chinese medicine