If you have been in bodybuilding circles or have read about weight loss products, you might very easily have heard of ephedra, or the extract of its active principle, known as ephedrine. And if you look around on the our online store, you will see ephedra products offered at crazy prices. But what's all the fuss about ephedra about? Why is ephedra so good for weight loss? And what is ephedra anyway?

Ephedra is the common name used to refer to Ephedra sinica, Ephedra distacha, Ephedra trifurca, Ephedra viridis, Ephedra nevadensis, Ephedra Americana and Ephedra geradiana. To make things even more confusing, you may also hear it called being ma huang, mahuang, Squaw Tea or Mormon Tea. But these are all different species of Ephedra, which is a small, unassuming bush that likes to grow in rocky desert conditions.

Ephedra was originally used in traditional Chinese medicine for treating asthma and other respiratory problems, and it still is used in this way today. However, ephedra is also used as a weight loss aid that is VERY effective. This is because ephedra is a thermogenic substance. A thermogenic substance is key when it comes to losing weight, as it will raise your metabolism. A raised metabolism uses calories more efficiently, along with a slightly raised core body temperature. Thermogenics almost literally burn fat, making them an excellent tool for managing a healthy body weight and losing stubborn fat, such as love handles. Ephedra is often mixed or "stacked" with other thermogenics such as green tea extract or caffeine for the synergistic effect, leading to even more effective and fast fat loss.

The use of ephedra for losing weight has been controversial at times. Like any diet pill, ephedra can be abused, and the results of this can be very detrimental or even fatal. The same, however, can be said of nearly every dietary aid or nutritional supplement. However, when used according to the instructions, ephedra can be a very effective and beneficial part of a weight loss management program. Some users of ephedrine products report a sensation of jitteriness after taking these weight loss pills, not realising that it is this jitteriness that helps lose weight. Did you know that fidgeting can burn calories? It does! And many people find that this jittery feeling drives them to hit the gym or go for a jog - which, combined with a raised metabolism - is a great way to lose weight fast and safely!