Ephedra californica
- Origin
- North America
- Part used
- See detailed notebook
- Tradition
- Traditional ethnobotany
On the arid soils of the American Southwest, Ephedra californica, which settlers sometimes called "desert tea" or "Mormon tea," was infused by Indigenous peoples and the first thirsty travelers of the great expanses. Its thread-like, yellow-green stems, lacking true leaves, made it a discreet but valuable resource in the driest regions of California and Nevada. It differs from its Asian cousin, Ephedra sinica, by a generally lower content of stimulant alkaloids, which explains its more common use as an everyday drink.
Traditional uses
A traditional thirst-quenching drink
The dried stems were infused to prepare an everyday drink, reputed to ease mild digestive trouble and accompany meals in the traditions of the peoples of the American desert.
Traditional support for the urinary tract
This plant was used in certain folk traditions to support urinary comfort, although this use is less documented than that of the Asian species.
An occasional use for the airways
In a few local traditions, the infusion was drunk for mild congestion, in a use notably more moderate than that historically attributed to ephedrine-rich Ephedra species.
A tonic drink of the desert
Regularly consumed by nineteenth-century travelers and prospectors, this tea was seen as a light tonic against the fatigue of long, arid crossings.
Before you use it
The Ephedra genus contains alkaloids (ephedrine, pseudoephedrine) that can have stimulant effects on the cardiovascular and nervous systems; the exact content varies by species and harvest, hence the need for professional advice before any use. Formally discouraged during pregnancy, breastfeeding, in children, and for people with high blood pressure, heart disease, glaucoma, or thyroid disorders. Do not combine with stimulant medications, MAOIs, or heart and blood-pressure treatments without medical advice, due to the risk of interactions. Certain Ephedra species are subject to regulatory restrictions in several countries; check the legal status before any harvesting or use.
The detailed notebook
- Prepared as a paste or decoction
- Traditional duration of use
- Known contraindications
- Related species and their uses
Where to find it
Partner herbalists — available with the detailed notebook.
Sources
PFAF