Aerial parts of shrub are used. It contains ephedrine, pseudoephedrine and flavonoids. Indications after Commission E of German Ministry of Health: respiratory condition associated to broncho-spasm on children older than 6 y. Do not use for longer than one week. Do not exceed 300 mg of ephedra alkaloids (24 mg Ma-Huang) every day. Ephedrine and pseudoephedrine may produce irritability, tachycardia and other effects on CNS (See ephedrine). They may also reduce production of breast milk. They are often misused to lose body weight and as a “tonic psycho-stimulant” as well.