May require a master's degree and must be a graduate of an accredited physician assistant program. Must meet any state requirements pertaining to a physician assistant. Familiar with standard concepts, practices, and procedures within a particular field. Relies on experience and judgment to plan and accomplish goals.
home / medterms medical dictionary a-z list / ephedra definition Medical Definition of Ephedra Ephedra: A medicinal herb, known scientifically as Ephedra sinica and Ephedra equisetina, also known as mahuang and herbal ecstasy. Ephedra comes from the dried rhizome and root of the plant. The main active ingredients in ephedra are ephedrine and pseudoephedrine which account for the medicinal properties of the herb. Both ephedrine and pseudoephedrine are central nervous system stimulants that act as decongestants but, in high doses, can raise the blood pressure.
Ephedra reduces appetite and stimulates fat metabolism, making it very effective as weight-loss supplement. The active compound in Ephedra (Ma Huang) is ephedrine. Ephedrine increases the metabolic rate, so that your body burns fats and sugar more efficiently. By mobilizing stored fat and carbohydrate reserves, ephedrine reduces your appetite. An example of such a product is Hydroxycut by Muscletech which markets their product as a pharmaceutical quality dietary supplement.