American Ephedra

(Mormon tea; Desert tea; Joint-fir) Native to the desert regions of the Southwestern U.S., this herb has an unusual appearance, with twig like leafless stems resembling horsetail. Can be brewed into an energizing tea as a replacement for coffee. As opposed to the Chinese herb, Ephedra sinica, this variety does not contain ephedrine, a potent and potentially dangerous nerve stimulant. Instead, it has been used as a general tonic as well as kidney disorders and colds. Plant in dry alkaline soil. Height 1-1.5 feet.