ephedra

ephe·dra

noun \i-ˈfe-drə, ˈe-fə-drə\

Definition of EPHEDRA

1

: any of a genus (Ephedra of the family Ephedraceae) of jointed nearly leafless shrubs of dry or desert regions with the leaves reduced to scales at the nodes

2

: an extract of ma huang containing ephedrine and related alkaloids and used as a dietary supplement

Origin of EPHEDRA

New Latin, genus name, from Latin, equisetum, from Greek, from ephedros sitting upon, from epi- + hedra seat — more at sit

First Known Use: circa 1889