Oregon Grape Root

Botanical: Mahonia aquifolium  (also known as Mahonia nervosa)
Family: Berberidaceae (barberry-barley)

Other common names:  Mountain Grape, Oregon Grapeholly, Oregon Barberry, Alegrita, Holly-leaved Barberry, California Barberry, Mahonia, Mountain Holly, Pepperidge, Sourberry, Sowberry, Yellow Root

Oregon Grape Root is similar in action to Goldenseal and Barberry (they all contain berberine).  This herb acts as a tonic on the liver and gall bladder and can be useful in chronic and scaly skin problems such as psoriasis and eczema.  Oregon Grape is also known to be helpful for stomach and gallbladder conditions, especially where there is associated nausea and vomiting.

Disclaimer:
The information presented herein by Viable Herbal Solutions is intended for educational purposes only. These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA and are not intended to diagnose, cure, treat or prevent disease. Individual results may vary, and before using any supplements, it is always advisable to consult with your own health care provider.

History and Uses:
Oregon Grape is one of several barberry plants, which contain the active and powerful ingredient, barberry).  This plant is native to the west coast of North America, and is cultivated elsewhere for ornamental purposes.  The plant grows quickly and may reach a height of six feet, producing yellowish-green flowers and purple berries.  Both the rhizome and the root are used medicinally.  The genus name, Mahonia, is named after Bernard McMahon, an American horticulturist.  Mahonia is an evergreen and has prickly leaves, but the stems lack thorns, and it has been used for hundreds of years to treat infections because of its powerful antibiotic properties.  The roots are used in herbology as a nutritional aid to the digestive and circulatory systems.  The plant contains the alkaloid, berberine, which is also found in Goldenseal, for which it is often substituted.  Berberine is highly antibacterial, amoebicidal and trypanocidal.  In one clinical trial, Oregon Grape was found to be mildly effective for reducing skin irritation, inflammation and itching in people with mild to moderate psoriasis.  Oregon Grape extracts were shown in one pharmacological study to reduce inflammation (often associated with psoriasis) and to stimulate the white blood cells known as macrophages.  In this study, isolated alkaloids from Oregon Grape did not have these actions, which suggests that something besides alkaloids are important to the properties of Oregon Grape's ability to reduce inflammation. 

Recommended Dosage:
Take two (2) to three (3) capsules, one (1) time each day with water at a morning or mid-day mealtime.  Do not exceed recommended dosage.

Contraindications:
Berberine-containing plants (Barberry, Goldenseal and Oregon Grape, etc.) should not be used by pregnant or nursing women. Those who suffer from hyperthyroid conditions should not take Oregon Grape, and diabetics should use Oregon Grape only under the supervision of a physician. There is some evidence that berberine may interfere with the efficacy of tetracycline medications. High doses (many times the recommended amount) may cause vomiting, lowered blood pressure and lowered heart rate, lethargy, nose-bleed, skin, eye and kidney irritation. Do not take Oregon Grape Root if you have chronic diarrhea, a duodenal ulcer or excessive stomach acid, as it could make these conditions worse.  Oregon Grape root is not recommended for prolonged use.

Capsule Information:
Our Oregon Grape Root supplements are encapsulated in 100% Gluten-free, Vegetable Cellulose, Certified Kosher, size "00" Capsules. (click here for size comparison) Each capsule contains approximately 600 mgs.