Mormon Tea
Also known as: Ephedra viridis, Mormon tea, Brigham tea, Squaw tea, Ephedra nevadensis
Overview
Mormon tea is a medicinal beverage made from the dried branches of the *Ephedra nevadensis* and *Ephedra viridis* plants, native to North America. These plants are characterized by their leafless, broom-like appearance and are used traditionally for ailments such as colds and kidney disorders. Unlike other species of ephedra, such as *Ephedra sinica*, Mormon tea does not contain the stimulant ephedrine, and it is noted for its high tannin content, which provides astringent properties. However, scientific evidence to support these traditional uses is very limited and largely anecdotal, with no comprehensive studies or systematic reviews focused on these specific ephedra species.
Benefits
Currently, there are no reliable scientific studies demonstrating the health benefits of Mormon tea for any specific condition. While traditional usages include treatment for colds, its efficacy remains speculative and unverified by robust clinical trials. The tannins in Mormon tea may provide some degree of astringency that could theoretically assist in reducing mucus production, which aligns with its traditional applications, yet this lacks concrete evidence.
How it works
The primary potential mechanism of action for Mormon tea appears to be its high tannin content, which may provide an astringent effect. This could potentially reduce body secretions, such as mucus, although the exact biological pathways and interactions within the body remain poorly understood and have not been extensively studied.
Side effects
Mormon tea is likely safe when consumed in food-like amounts, such as in a beverage; however, safety data regarding medicinal amounts is insufficient. Common side effects may include stomach complaints, but this is not well documented. Uncommon side effects could include kidney and liver damage and constipation, but evidence is limited. Importantly, there is no documented information on drug interactions, and the use of Mormon tea is generally advised against during pregnancy and breastfeeding due to a lack of safety data. Caution is recommended for all users due to limited information regarding its safety profile.
Dosage
There are no established minimum effective doses or optimal dosage ranges for Mormon tea, and maximum safe doses are also not determined. The tea is typically consumed as an infusion of dried branches, but there are no guidelines on specific timing or absorption factors. Because of the lack of scientific information, recommended dosages cannot be accurately provided.
FAQs
Is Mormon tea safe?
Mormon tea is likely safe in food amounts, but there’s insufficient data about its safety in medicinal amounts.
How should Mormon tea be taken?
There are no specific guidelines for timing or how to administer Mormon tea.
What health benefits can be expected from Mormon tea?
There is no scientific evidence supporting any health benefits from Mormon tea.
Is Mormon tea the same as other ephedra species?
No, Mormon tea does not contain ephedrine like other ephedra species, which can be mistaken for it.
Research Sources
- https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-569/mormon-tea – This source provides an overview of the traditional uses and potential side effects of Mormon tea, highlighting the absence of scientific evidence supporting its uses.
- https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/pharmacology/articles/10.3389/fphar.2024.1397247/full – This paper reviews various ephedra-containing supplements and discusses safety and efficacy, particularly noting the lack of data specific to *Ephedra nevadensis*.
- https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=EPVI – The article describes the characteristics of the *Ephedra viridis* plant but does not provide clinical evidence or studies.
