Germinating Gum Arabic (Acacia senegal), Green Ephedra (E. viridis)

Could you provide me with some advice on germinating Gum Arabic and Green Ephedra? I had some seeds but none of them germinated, so I am curious as to the techniques you have used to get them to germinate successfully.

Gum Arabic needs to have the seed coat pierced before it can take up water and then germinate. Rub the seeds between sandpaper until the seed interior is visible.
Green Ephedra should not cause any trouble. Some species of this genus require darkness to germinate and some take a long time. Most germinate best at room temperature. Try covering the seed flat with black plastic and be patient.