Table 4. Other Substances Added to Ephedra Products
| Herb | Effect |
|---|---|
| Caffeine (kola nut, guarana) | - Augments the release of catecholamines, resulting in stimulation of CNS
and CV system. - Competitively antagonizes the receptors for adenosine causing vasoconstriction. |
| Citrus aurantium | Natural source of adrenergic agonists synephrine and octopamine which can elevate mean arterial pressure. |
| Willowbark | Reduces renal clearance of ephedrine due to salacin content. |
| Amino Acids | Reduces renal clearance of ephedrine. |
| Uva Ursi | ↓ body fluids to increase likelihood of ↓ clearance of ephedrine. |
| Senna and Cascara | Anthraquinone glucosides which can increase ephedrine levels. |