Oregon Grape - Side Effects and Health Benefits

Botanical Name of Oregon Grape: Berberis aquifolium, Mahonia aquifolium.

Other Common Names:
Oregon Mountain Grape, wild Oregon grape, holly-leaved barberry, mountain grape, California barberry and mahonia.

Habitat:
Oregon grape is a fruit bearing evergreen that grows throughout the northwestern portion of the North American continent.

Description:
The Oregon grape plant grows from two to six feet high and makes an excellent choice for a barrier plant. Its spiny leaves and thick growth discourage intrusion by animals. Its leaves occasionally turn from green to a decorative bronze color. It is less particular about its growing environment than its close cousin the barberry and may be used in treatment of the same ailments. While the blue purple berries of the Oregon grape may resemble grapes, it is not related to the grape. The berries can be eaten and are rich in vitamin C but it is the root part of the Oregon grape that is used in herbal medicine.

Plant Parts Used:
Root.

The Oregon Grape Plant
(Berberis aquifolium)
(Click on image to enlarge)
Attribution:Wikipedia

Oregon Grape Extracts, Root and Tincture

Oregon Grape Root by Starwest Botanicals Oregon Grape Extract by Eclectic Institute Inc

Therapeutic Uses, Benefits and Claims of Oregon Grape

• Like the barberry, Oregon grape contains berberine, berbamine, canadine and hydrastine which are alkaloids. It is believed that these alkaloids inhibit the ability of bacteria, such as E. coli, to attach to human cells and thus prevent the spread of infection.

The Medicinal Herb Oregon Grape
(Berberis aquifolium)
• There is some evidence that as an ointment Oregon grape may alleviate the symptoms of psoriasis. It is also used in small doses to treat diarrhea and in larger doses to treat constipation.
• One of the primary actions of Oregon grape is improvement of blood flow to the liver. It also stimulates intestinal secretions and bile flow. It may be used in the treatment of jaundice, hepatitis, cirrhosis and general digestive problems.
• Laboratory tests have shown that Oregon grape can kill or suppress the growth of Candida and other fungal infections, staphylococcus, streptococcus, E. coli, Entamoeba histolytica, Trichomonas vaginalis, Giardia lamblia, Vibrio cholerae and other harmful microbes. Animal studies have indicated that Oregon grape may enhance the performance of some antibiotics. No results from clinical trials are available at this time.
• A tincture of Oregon grape has been used traditionally as both oral and topical herbal remedy to treat eczema, acne, conjunctivitis and herpes. Additional historical and traditional use includes the treatment of gall bladder disease, hemorrhage and few forms of cancer.
• Oregon grape was used by native American tribes as a treatment for fungal infections, skin problems and dysentery. These early Americans were aware of the anti inflammatory properties of the herb.
• Oregon grape is most thoroughly researched in the treatment of skin irritations and disorders but studies of the effectiveness of the herb as a treatment for fungal infections, acne and eczema are very preliminary and inconclusive.
• Oregon grape show promise as a treatment for auto immune diseases of the skin, but there are currently no conclusive clinical results. An herbalist or physician can provide advice on whether this treatment is suitable for an individual patient.
• In addition to berberine and other alkaloids found in barberry and goldenseal, Oregon grape contains phytochemicals including jatrorrhizine, hydrastine, columbamine, tetrahydroberberine, tannins and oxyacanthine. Barberry contains more nutrients and vitamins than Oregon grape. It is thought that both barberry and Oregon grape help boost the immune system and create a barrier to bacteria in the lining of the intestines and the mucus membranes.

Dosage and Administration

Oregon grape tea: Boil 1–3 teaspoons (5–15 grams) of chopped roots in 2 cups (500 ml) of water for fifteen minutes. Strain and cool. Drink up to 3 cups (750 ml) per day.
Oregon grape tincture: Take 1/2–3/4 teaspoon (3 ml) 3 times per day. To use topically, use an ointment with 10% Oregon Grape extract applied 3 or more times daily.
Oregon grape ointment: To use topically, use an ointment with 10% Oregon grape extract applied 3 or more times daily.

Side Effects and Possible Interactions of Oregon Grape

Oregon Grape root is generally regarded as safe when taken in the recommended amounts but it should not be used during pregnancy or breast feeding because like other herbs containing berberine it can worsen jaundice in infants. Overdose can cause diarrhea, kidney inflammation, and a feeling of haziness and stupor. Oregon grape root may also interact with other herbs and certain pharmaceutical drugs and reduce the effectiveness of antibiotics such as doxycycline and tetracycline and as with any herbs and supplements it is always a good idea to discuss the use and side effects of Oregon grape with a professional health care provider.

Leave a Comment or Tips on Oregon Grape

Please leave a comment if you have any additional information, advice, or if you want to share your experience using Oregon grape. This is not a forum so do not submit any questions or start any conversations.

Your name and email address are required. Your email address will not be displayed with the comment if you choose to keep it private. (Privacy Assured - We don't share your email address with anyone!)

"What is Paradise? But a Garden, an Orchard of Trees and Herbs, full of pleasure, and nothing there but delights."
William Lawson