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.
Whilst few may be familiar with Ephedra, it is a medicinal plant from which the drug Ephedrine is derived, a common constituent in decongestant sprays. Its value in treating breathing disorders is reflected by its long history of cultivation in China, estimated at over 5000 years.