Scientific Name: Ephedra trifurca
? Shrub native to the Sonoran Desert.
? Also known as Mormon Tea 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 Creek Cave Creek on September 29, 2007. For more photos, click on camera icon.

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