Native to the American West; Native Americans and early settlers used a tea made from the branches to treat venereal diseases, rheumatism, stomach, kidney, and bladder disorders, and as a tonic. Containing little ephedrine, it is still reputedly a mild broncho-dilator, expectorant, stimulant and diuretic. Slow growing outside of it's native desert habitat, it needs a rich, well drained soil.