Ephedra is a naturally occurring substance that comes from the plants of the Ephedraceae family. Ephedra substance includes the ephedrine alkaloids that can stimulate the human system. Similar to Ma huang, which is a popular dietary supplement in the United States and has been used for thousands of years in Chinese medicine.

Manufacturers state that these ephedrine alkaloids in Ephedra act as a mild stimulant, with effects similar to those of caffeine. Ephedra products can enhance energy and, when used in conjunction with a healthy diet, they can also lead to weight loss and are therefore extensively promoted in recent years.
Ephedra dietary supplements generally contain standardized extracts that have 6 to 8 percent ephedrine alkaloids. Manufacturers are required by law to declare the amount of ephedrine alkaloids in each serving.

These days you're hearing rumors about risks while using Ephedra / Ephedrine alkaloids, but manufacturers say that it is safe if you take Ephedra as directed. If you stick to the serving limits and follow the warnings and precautions adopted by the Industry. It's very important that you read products labels, warnings and cautions, and follow the directions, according to manufacturers.

Despite industry's efforts, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) determines that Ephedra presents an unreasonable risk of illness or injury and that it has been linked to significant adverse health effects, including heart attack and stroke.

Therefore, on April 12, 2004, a final rule went into effect prohibiting the sale of dietary supplements containing ephedrine alkaloids (ephedra).

Top of this Ephedra info page.

Atkins Diet Menu Plan
Info on diet plans of Atkins.