You can't be interested in herbal medicine and not have heard a lot of controversy in the last few years over the use of the herb, ephedra, or ma huang, as it is known in China.  The term "ma huang" translates literally to "hemp yellow".  Ephedra is considered a part of the horsetail family, and Western herbalists frequently refer to the herb as "Mormon tea" or "Brigham tea."  It is a grass, and looks a little like the bristles on the end of a broom.  A good quality is considered to be light green in color.

The Chinese have used this herb for centuries in respiratory disorders, common colds and body aches, and to induce perspiration and urination, while decreasing edema.  Western herbology reports similar effects for ma huang, including the action of raising blood pressure.

Ma Huang is considered to have a bitter, slightly acrid taste and has a warming quality.  The Chinese believe that it enters the lung and the urinary bladder and has anti-viral properties.  Its use is centuries old.  The debate about its safety is pretty recent.

Ma Huang
Ephedra Controversy
Governmental Intervention
Effective Uses of Ma Huang
Personal Notes on Ma Huang