Ephedra sinica vs Glycyrrhiza Glabra Var Persian

Side-by-side comparison of medicinal herbs

Herb

Ephedra sinica

Respiratory

Glycyrrhiza glabra var. typica

Respiratory

Ephedra sinica

❌ Not recommended in pregnancy

❌ Not recommended while nursing

Glycyrrhiza Glabra Var Persian

❌ Not recommended in pregnancy

❌ Not recommended while nursing

Description

An ancient Chinese herb containing ephedrine; used for respiratory conditions; now regulated due to cardiovascular risks.

Root variety of licorice native to the Middle East and Persia, used in Unani and Persian medicine for respiratory, digestive, and adrenal conditions.

Active Compounds

ephedrine, pseudoephedrine, tannins, flavonoids

glycyrrhizin, glabridin, liquiritin, isoliquiritin, phytosterols

Traditional Uses

Asthma treatment, Respiratory congestion, Weight loss (historical)

respiratory infections, adrenal fatigue, digestive ulcers, liver conditions, anti-inflammatory

Modern Uses

Pharmaceutical ephedrine source, Bronchodilator research

anti-inflammatory, adaptogen, antiviral, hepatoprotective

Adult Dosage

1-6g dried herb daily (regulated)

200–400mg deglycyrrhizinated extract or 1–5g root tea

Contraindications

Cardiovascular disease contraindicated, Hypertension contraindicated, Pregnancy contraindicated, Regulated substance

hypertension, kidney disease, heart failure, pregnancy high doses, potassium-depleting diuretics

Side Effects

Hypertension, Palpitations, Stroke risk

hypertension, hypokalemia, edema with long-term use

Drug Interactions

0 known interactions

Reviewed by: HerbAlly Editorial Team, Medical herbalists and healthcare professionals

Sources: WHO Monographs · NCCIH · PubMed · Commission E