Mormon Tea

Ephedra nevadensis, commonly known as Nevada ephedra, gray ephedra, Mormon tea and Nevada jointfir, is a species of gymnosperm native to dry areas of western North America. Its range extends west to California, east to Colorado, north to Oregon and south to Baja California, including the Great Basin, the Colorado Plateau and the desert Southwest. It is found in rocky and sandy soils, generally in areas without trees, and predominantly in desert climates. It was used for food and medicine by Native Americans and for tea by Mormons. Its biggest current use is as forage for sheep and cattle, and for habitat restoration. Among the Zuni people an infusion of the whole plant, except for the root, is taken for syphilis, and they also use it to make a tea-like beverage. Typically the stems are harvested for their health effects, which include helping combat fluid build-up and purifying blood. Although other Ephedra species contain ephedrine, Ephedra nevadensis does not contain significant quantities of the stimulant.