The FDA is not always thorough in their approval of drugs or herbs! They don't always make sure that pharmaceutical and herbal supplement companies perform thorough studies. They often let them rush to put their products on the market. Consequently this results in the banning of products later on. Such was the case with Ephedra.
Ephedra is a botanical that has many uses and purposes in the medicinal field. There are more uses for ephedra available today, however, science has not yet developed it into its full potential. Science, herbs and medication do go hand in hand when combined properly. To eliminate any of these would be a major mistake. To invest in further development is a wise thing to consider especially when the future of our health is at stake.
Any medicine, scientific drug, natural or man made or herb that causes a rapid heartbeat is a risky substance for the body. This is the primary reason the FDA placed a ban on Ephedra in the first place. Now that we have established some basics, let's take a further look at what the FDA did regarding Ephedra and why?
Lets look at Ephedra through the eyes of the Consumer Advisory Board and the US Food and Drug Administration, FDA. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) advises consumers to stop using any dietary supplements containing ephedra. In order to protect consumers, the FDA published a final ruling on April 12, 2004 that bans the sale of dietary supplements containing ephedrine alkaloids. This was the active ingredient in Ephedra.
After careful review of evidence about the risks and benefits of Ephedra in supplements, the FDA did find that these particular supplements present an unreasonable risk of illness and or injury to the consumers. The information showed little evidence of Ephedra's effectiveness, except in short-term weightloss use. This evidence also confirmed that this substance raises blood pressure and stresses the heart. The increased risk of heart problems and the risk of strokes negates any benefits of short-term weightloss.
This information is correct and very much on target to help and prevent heart as well as nervous system conditions. So we can see how the FDA does intervene and take action against botanicals that can have harmful effects on the body when consumed, especially in high quantities.
Ephedra and its uses need to be reconsidered. What its purpose is. What it can safely be used for. And most importantly, what it should not be used for. These issues and more are currently being addressed with research.
Disclaimer - The information presented here should not be interpreted as or substituted for medical advice. Please talk to a qualified professional for more information about Ephedra.
[Copyright © 2007, Heather Colman. Find more of Heather's articles at eBook Palace. Her articles are available for syndication. Reprinting individual articles is permissible provided no changes are made.]
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