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Oregon Grape (Berberis aquifolium syn. Mahonia aquifolium)

Botanical Information

  • Family: Berberidaceae
  • Common Names: Oregon Grape, Mountain Grape, Holly-leaved Barberry
  • Parts Used: Root, bark, berries

Description

Berberis aquifolium is an evergreen shrub native to North America, particularly the Pacific Northwest. It is well known for its high berberine content, making it a valuable antimicrobial, liver-supporting, and skin-healing herb. Oregon Grape is commonly used as a bitter tonic to aid digestion and detoxification.

Historical and Traditional Uses

  • Used by Native American tribes for digestive disorders, infections, and skin conditions.
  • Traditionally employed in Western herbal medicine as a liver tonic and antimicrobial remedy.
  • Applied externally for eczema, psoriasis, and other inflammatory skin issues.

Constituents

  • Berberine (alkaloid)
  • Palmatine
  • Jatrorrhizine
  • Tannins
  • Flavonoids

Actions

  • Antimicrobial
  • Bitter tonic
  • Hepatoprotective (liver-supporting)
  • Cholagogue (stimulates bile flow)
  • Anti-inflammatory
  • Astringent

Medicinal Uses

1. Digestive and Liver Support:
Oregon Grape is commonly used to stimulate digestion, enhance bile production, and support liver detoxification.

2. Antimicrobial and Immune Support:
The berberine content makes it effective against bacterial, viral, and fungal infections, particularly for the digestive tract and skin.

3. Skin Conditions:
Traditionally used to treat psoriasis, eczema, and acne due to its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.

4. Blood Sugar and Metabolic Support:
Studies suggest berberine may help regulate blood sugar levels and improve metabolic function.

5. Gut Health:
Helps address dysbiosis, SIBO (small intestinal bacterial overgrowth), and infections such as H. pylori.

Preparation and Dosage

Decoction:

  • Simmer 1-2 tsp of dried root or bark per cup of water for 15-20 minutes. Drink up to 2 times daily.

Tincture:

  • 2-5 ml of tincture taken up to 3 times daily.

Poultice or Cream:

  • Applied externally for inflammatory skin conditions.

Precautions and Contraindications

  • Pregnancy and Lactation: Avoid use due to berberine’s potential effects on the uterus and newborns.
  • Gallbladder Issues: Should be used cautiously in individuals with gallbladder obstruction.
  • Long-Term Use: Prolonged use of berberine-containing herbs should be monitored to avoid gut microbiome imbalances.

Energetics (Traditional Medicine Perspectives)

  • Traditional Western Herbalism: Cooling and drying; supports liver function and clears heat from the body.

Combinations

  • For Liver Detoxification: Combine with dandelion root and milk thistle.
  • For Skin Conditions: Combine with burdock and calendula.
  • For Digestive Support: Combine with gentian and ginger.

Harvesting and Storage

  • Harvesting: Roots and bark are collected in autumn for medicinal use.
  • Drying: Air dry in a well-ventilated area.
  • Storage: Store dried material in an airtight container away from moisture and light.

Modern Research

Studies confirm Berberis aquifolium’s antimicrobial, liver-supporting, and skin-healing properties, reinforcing its traditional uses in herbal medicine.

Oregon Grape remains a highly valued herb in traditional and modern herbal medicine, particularly for liver health, digestion, and skin conditions.