- Region
- North America
- Origin
- North America
- Other names
- Oregon-druifwortel
North America · Herb · № 370
Mahonia aquifolium
Herb · North America
Oregon grape
Mahonia aquifolium
Traditionally attributed effects: cleansing, purifies the blood, tonic, stimulating, supports the liver; improves appetite and digestion, promotes liver and bile secretion, purifies the blood, helps with skin problems, sudden diarrhoea and chronic constipation.
Safety notes
Caution with liver medication. Use for a maximum of one week, then at least a 7-day break. Not in pregnancy or with diarrhoea. Traditional use is no proof of effectiveness; if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, taking medication or have a medical condition, consult a doctor or pharmacist.
Cautions by tradition (2)
- Western herbalism: Caution with liver medication.
- Herbs for viral infections: Use for a maximum of one week, then at least a 7-day break. Not in pregnancy or with diarrhoea.
Preparation
Decoction of the root: 1–2 tsp per cup, 12 min covered, 3 cups a day or as needed; tincture 1 dropperful 1–3 times a day.
Use in traditions
Indigenous peoples of north-western North America ate the sour blue berries and dyed baskets yellow with the root. A decoction of the root was used for skin conditions, fever and digestive complaints. The root contains berberine, like goldenseal and European barberry.
Applications
Use by tradition
How different herbal traditions describe this herb. Amounts are traditional guidelines checked for obvious errors; they are not medical advice. For poisonous plants no dosage is given on purpose.
Western herbalism
Attributed effects
Cleansing, purifies the blood, tonic, stimulating, supports the liver; improves appetite and digestion, promotes liver and bile secretion, purifies the blood, helps with skin problems, sudden diarrhoea and chronic constipation.
Preparation and amount
Decoction of the root: 1–2 tsp per cup, 12 min covered, 3 cups a day or as needed; tincture 1 dropperful 1–3 times a day.
Caution: Caution with liver medication.
Herbs for viral infections
Attributed effects
Antiviral (berberine, hydrastine); especially for cytomegalovirus, HPV and herpes simplex; further for urinary tract infections, eczema, psoriasis, acne, cold sores, stomach ulcers, reflux.
Preparation and amount
Cream or capsules; tea (simmer 1–2 tsp coarsely cut root gently for 10–15 min).
Caution: Use for a maximum of one week, then at least a 7-day break. Not in pregnancy or with diarrhoea.
- Ways to prepare herbs
- Tea (infusion)DecoctionTinctureSalve and balmPowder and kitchen