Scientific Name: Ephedra trifurca
?Shrub native to the Sonoran Desert.
?Also known as Mormon Tea and Longleaf Jointfir.
?Grows from 2-5 feet
?Stems contain caffeine and ephedrine: both are stimulants.  Ephedrine is synthesized and used in asthma and cold medicines. 
?A tea made from dried stems has been used medicinally to treat syphilis, pneumonia, and diabetes.

Photo: Taken at Jewel of the Creek at Cave Creek on September 29, 2007. For more photos, click on camera icon.

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