Family:
Gnetaceae
Genus:
Ephedra
Common names:
Mormon Tea, Brigham Tea, Cowboy Tea, Whorehouse Tea, Squaw Tea, Canyon Tea,Desert tea, Brigon tea, fiddle flower, ipecacuana, itamo real, redbird flower
Spanish names:
Itamo real,Popotillo,Tepopote,Canutillo,Pingo pingo
Indian names:
Tuttumpin (Paiute), Tutupivi (Kawaiisu)
Distribution:
All of the southwestern United States and Mexico. Found in deserts and on dry mountain sides.
Description:
a branched broom like shrub growing up to 4 feet tall, with slender, jointed stems. The leaves are reduced to scales and grow in opposite pairs or whorls of three and are fused for half their length. Male and female flowers, blooming in March and April, are borne on separate plants in cone like structures. They are followed by small brown to black seeds.
Itamo Real Graphic
Itamo Real Link
Itamo Real Properties Used by Aztec's
Cures Bronchial and Lung infections(such as:bronchitis,laryngitis,
breathing difficulties and swollen or inflamed Trachea.
Favors Digestion
and
Used to Fight Whooping Cough in Children
Aztec Method of Use