Ephedraceae

Ephedraceae is a family of gymnosperms in the division Gnetophyta. It contains a single extant genus, Ephedra, comprising approximately 40–70 species of woody shrubs and small trees. Members are adapted to dry environments and are widespread in arid and semi-arid regions of the world, including parts of North America, North Africa, the Middle East, and Central and East Asia. They are characterized by slender, jointed stems that are green and photosynthetic, with leaves reduced to tiny scales. Most species are dioecious, producing separate male and female plants with cones. Male strobili shed pollen, while female cones develop into fleshy, seed-bearing structures that may attract animals for dispersal.

Ephedra species contain alkaloids such as ephedrine and pseudoephedrine; the best known is Ephedra sinica, used in traditional Chinese medicine as ma huang and as a source of decongestants. Because of safety concerns and potential for misuse, ephedrine-containing preparations are heavily regulated or banned in several countries.

Habitat loss and overharvesting threaten some populations, and sustainable harvesting and cultivation are important for remaining wild populations. The Ephedraceae family, through Ephedra, represents a distinctive lineage within gymnosperms, notable for its drought tolerance, photosynthetic stems, and historical use in traditional medicine.