The History of Ephedrine

           Ephedrine was discovered in China, roughly 5,000 years ago even though it was not known as ephedrine.  Back then, it was called Ma Huang.  It was used for asthmatic symptoms, as well as colds and other minor health issues.  When America was discovered, the sailors were recorded using it for multiple purposes.  One purpose was to cure minor health issues.  Another was to stay up all night for long voyages.  The other use of it during colonial times in America was to help give the user an affect equivalent to viagra today.  Its nicknames were "Morman Tea", "Bringham Tea", and "Whorehouse Tea".  I believe that it served as a "placebo", for the third use, because that has been disproved that it will work like that.

Dates

1887 - Ephedrine was extracted entirely out of Ma Huang and supplemented for weight loss.

1924 - Pure ephedrine was introduced to the U.S. and used to help with asthma.

2003 - the height of the ephedrine era.  There were a reported 100+ deaths linked to ephedrine, not to mention 17,000+ serious side affects reported.  This excludes minor side affects, causing harm to everyday schedules.

 

Stories Surrounding Ephedrine and Stats

Ephedrine was made completely illegal in Illinois after the death of a 16 year old football player due to overdose of the herb. 

Probably the most horrific story surrounding the herd, in February 2003, Baltimore Orioles pitcher Steve Bechler died from a heart attack caused by the ephedrine he was taking to enhance his performance as an athlete.  Although illegal is the Olympics and NFL, it is not illegal in MLB.

 

 
http://www.myanmar-narcotic.net/2000drug/Mar/mar4.html

           Quick Fact -  In Mandalay, on the 15th of February, 12 large bags massing over 150 kilos each were seized from two men riding a bus.  Apparently, the two men that were found guilty of smuggling illegal substances were not even trying to hide it.  In fact, for the past six months, they had been openly selling it.  I guess this just proves sometimes the biggest disguise is no disguise at all!