BRIGHAM TEA
(Ephedra viridis)
desert tea, squaw tea, joint fir, Mormon tea

Description: Shrub, broom-like, resembling horsetail grass. The jointed green stems and branches of some species reach the height of 7 ft. although most are smaller. Two or three scale-like leaves grow at joints in stem and branches. Male and female cones appear on different plants, male cones, having yellow pollen sacs. Found in arid areas of the Northern Hemisphere, especially deserts of the southwest.

Edible, Medicinal: Most commonly used as a pleasant beverage by steeping 5 min. The whole herb is used as a decongestant, and stimulant to the sympathetic nervous system. Frequent use of the tea may result in nervousness and restlessness. It should only be used with medical supervision, particularly if suffering from high blood pressure, heart disease, diabetes or thyroid trouble.

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