Chinese Ephedra
Ephedra sinica
Ephedra sinica, traditionally used in Chinese medicine, has shown promise in various scientific studies. While specific traditional uses are not well-documented, it has been explored for its potential benefits in managing symptoms associated with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and liver injury through gut microbiota modulation and multiple biological processes respectively. Scientific evidence suggests that certain compounds from Ephedra sinica may have therapeutic effects, but results vary across studies. Notably, a multi-component pharmacopuncture formulation derived from the plant showed potential in modulating inflammation and mitochondrial quality control related to liver injury. Additionally, Wutou Decoction containing Ephedra sinica components demonstrated significant inhibition of fibroblast-like synoviocyte invasion through targeting the Notch signaling pathway under hypoxic conditions. The compound IMPHY004834 (Mahuannin D) from Ephedra sinica has emerged as a potential lead in modulating interactions with PD-1, though more research is needed to confirm these findings. No major safety issues or drug interactions have been recorded for Ephedra sinica thus far.
- Best evidence
- A
- Cautions
- —
Informational only. Traditional use does not mean proven effectiveness. Evidence and safety vary — check the cited sources.
What the science says
- TCMPs from Ephedra sinica showed significant alleviation of RA symptoms in animal models through gut microbiota modulation, though results across studies were heterogeneous.
- A multi-component pharmacopuncture formulation showed potential in modulating multiple biological processes related to liver injury, including inflammation and mitochondrial quality control.
- Wutou Decoction significantly inhibited the hypoxia-induced invasive phenotype of fibroblast-like synoviocytes by targeting the Notch signaling pathway in both in vivo and in vitro models.
- Ephedra sinica's IMPHY004834 (Mahuannin D) emerged as a potential lead compound with stable interactions with PD-1.
Frequently asked questions
What is Chinese Ephedra?
Chinese Ephedra (Ephedra sinica) is a plant documented in FolkKB's traditional-medicine reference, drawn from sourced literature and cross-checked against the evidence.
What does the scientific evidence say about Chinese Ephedra?
4 sourced findings are recorded for Chinese Ephedra; the strongest carries evidence grade A. For example: TCMPs from Ephedra sinica showed significant alleviation of RA symptoms in animal models through gut microbiota modulation, though results across studies were heterogeneous.
How strong is the evidence for Chinese Ephedra?
The strongest finding for Chinese Ephedra carries evidence grade A — strong evidence. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).
Is Chinese Ephedra safe? What are the side effects?
No major safety issues are recorded for Chinese Ephedra in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.
Does Chinese Ephedra interact with medications?
No drug interactions are recorded for Chinese Ephedra in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.
What are the common names of Chinese Ephedra?
Chinese Ephedra is also known as: Хвойник китайский.
Is Chinese Ephedra a proven treatment?
No. FolkKB is informational only. Traditional use and early findings are not proof of efficacy or safety — consult a qualified professional and never self-treat.
Sources
- T2 In search of novel PD1 inhibitor from natural products by high-throughput virtual screening and molecular dynamics simulation. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Effects of traditional Chinese medicine polysaccharides on rheumatoid arthritis through gut microbiota modulation: a systematic review in animal models. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Wutou decoction ameliorates rheumatoid arthritis through inhibiting hypoxia-induced invasive phenotype of fibroblast-like synoviocytes mediated by the Notch pathway. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Network Pharmacology Analysis Reveals Multi-Target Hepatoprotective Mechanisms of a Multi-Component Pharmacopuncture Against Ephedra-Associated Liver Injury with Implications for Mitochondrial Quality Control. literature abstract metadata