Gerard's Ephedra, Himalayan Ephedra, Ma-Huang, Somlata
Ephedra gerardiana
🌿 Morphology
🌞 Growing conditions
🌍 Origin and family
🌾 Uses
Warning: Despite the care taken in writing this sheet, it is essential to cross-reference sources before using or consuming any plant. When in doubt, consult a qualified professional
Permaculture uses
Himalayan Ephedra is used medicinally for respiratory ailments, coughs, asthma, and as a stimulant. The plant contains ephedrine, a compound with bronchodilator and vasoconstrictor properties. It can be grown in xeriscaping designs for soil stabilization in arid environments. Young shoots are sometimes eaten but can be bitter.
Permapeople description
A species of Ephedra native to the Himalayas. Used in traditional medicine.
Botanical description
Ephedra gerardiana is a small, much-branched shrub typically growing to a height of 1 meter. It is dioecious, meaning that male and female flowers are borne on separate plants. The stems are slender, green, and photosynthetic, resembling horsetail. Leaves are reduced to small, scale-like structures at the nodes. Cones are small and inconspicuous, with reddish or yellowish color. The fruits are fleshy, red or orange, and contain one seed.
Companion planting
Ephedra thrives in dry, rocky environments and is a good companion plant for other drought-tolerant species. It can also act as a windbreak for more sensitive plants. Avoid planting near plants that require consistently moist soil.
Propagation methods
Propagation is generally from seed, but stem cuttings can also be used. Seeds should be scarified or soaked in water before sowing to improve germination rates. Cuttings should be taken from semi-hardwood growth in summer and rooted in a well-draining medium.
History and traditions
Ephedra species have a long history of medicinal use in traditional Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine. Ephedra gerardiana specifically has been used in the Himalayas for centuries to treat respiratory issues. The plant's stimulant properties have also made it a traditional remedy for fatigue and altitude sickness. It is associated with the mythical 'Soma' plant in Vedic traditions, although this identification is debated.
Usage calendar
Flowering occurs in spring. Fruits ripen in late summer to early autumn. Planting is best done in spring or autumn. Pruning, if necessary, can be done in late winter to remove dead or damaged stems.