Mormon Tea
Ephedra nevadensis
PLANT NAME
Mormon Tea
COMMON NAMES
Brigham Tea, Desert Tea, Jointfir.
BOTANICAL NAME
Ephedra nevadensis
IDENTIFICATION
A drought-tolerant desert shrub with seemingly leafless, jointed, green-to-gray-green stems. It is a gymnosperm that produces small cones rather than flowers. Leaves are reduced to tiny scales at the joints.
IDENTIFICATION IMAGE
AI ART TO BE GENERATED
PARTS TRADITIONALLY USED
Dried aerial stems.
CULINARY USES
Traditionally brewed as a beverage tea (decoction) by pioneers and Native Americans.
TRADITIONAL USES
Used primarily as a mild tonic, diuretic, and for treating colds, urinary tract conditions, and kidney issues. Also used as a blood purifier and an alternative to coffee or black tea by early Mormon settlers.
GROWING / HARVESTING
Native to the arid regions of southwestern North America. Stems are typically harvested year-round, chopped, and dried.
SAFETY / CAUTION
Unlike Asian Ephedra (Ma Huang), American species (like E. nevadensis) generally contain little to no ephedrine and lack the strong stimulant and cardiovascular risks, but should still be used in moderation. Always consult your doctor before using this or any herbal remedy.
RELATED PLANTS
Ephedra viridis (Green Mormon Tea), Ephedra sinica (Ma Huang - contains ephedrine).