Medicinal Plants : Berberis aquifolium

Name

Oregon Mountain Grape

Biological Name

Berberis aquifolium
Berberidaceae

Other Names

Oregon Mountain Grape, wild Oregon grape, holly-leaved barberry, mahonia, California barberry, mountain grape

Parts Used

Rhizome and root

Active Compounds

Alkaloids of the isoquinoline type; berberine, berbamine, hydrastine, oxycanthine.

Remedies For

Alterative, cholagogue, laxative, anti-emetic, anti-catarrhal, tonic.

Oregon Grape is similar in action to Golden Seal and Barberry. If is mainly used in the treatment of chronic and scaly skin conditions such as psoriasis and eczema. Also useful for stomach and gall-bladder conditions, especially where there is associated nausea and vomiting. As a laxative it may safely be used in chronic constipation.

Combinations : For skin problems it will combine well with Burdock Root, Yellow Dock and Cleavers. For gall-bladder problems it may be used with Black Root and Fringe Tree Bark.

Dosage

Decoction: Put 1-2 teaspoonfuls of the root in a cup of water, bring to boil and simmer for 10-15 minutes. Drink three times a day.

Tincture: 1-4 ml of the tincture three times a day.

Safety

No information available. Some herbs are known to react with your medication. Please consult your physician before starting on any herb.