Berberis,
which is also called Oregon Grape Root, is derived from Mahonia
Aquifolium, a small evergreen that grows wild on mountains in the Pacific
Northwest. Early settlers first learned of the therapeutic use of Berberis from
native American Indians who made a bitter brew from the yellow root (or
rhizome) of this small shrub. Used in small doses, Berberis tonic was
believed to be an effective treatment for heartburn, stomach upset, ulcers, and
to stimulate appetite.
Current herbal literature commonly recommends Berberis tinctures as a treatment for liver problems such as hepatitis and jaundice. It is also considered effective in lowering blood pressure, reducing heart rate and respiration, reducing bronchial constriction, and as a 'palliative' for menstrual irregularities. It is also used as a topical antiseptic.
Researchers studying Berberis have determined that it does contains a number of physiologically active alkaloids, chief among them 'berberine', 'berbamine', and 'oxyacanthine'. Berberine has been found to exhibit some antibacterial activity, accounting for its traditional uses as an antiseptic when applied to the skin. Berberis is also known to possess sedative qualities, and can act to lower blood pressure and stimulate the uterus.
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