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Oregon Grape Herb - Uses And Side Effects

Oregon grape comes from the bark of the roots and stems of Mahonia aquifolium, a bushy shrub that grows in thickets and pastures In the western United States. The herb gets its name from its use as a food and medicine along the Oregon trail. The shrub's fruits are used in wines and brandies.

Oregon Grape is also known by the names Oregon Grape Root, Mountain Grape, and Holly-Leaved Barberry ( because it is a relative of the barberry plant ). This plant is native to the west coast of North America, and is cultivated elsewhere for ornamental purposes. The plant grows quickly, and reaches a height of six feet, producing yellowish-green flowers and purple berries. Both the rhizome and the root are used medicinally.

Common doses of Oregon Grape

Oregon grape comes as:

• capsules (400 milligrams)
• powder
• tincture.

Some experts recommend the following doses:

• As a tincture, 2 to 4 milliliters taken orally three times daily.
• As a powder, 0.5 to 1 gram taken orally three times daily.

Uses of Oregon Grape herb

Oregon Grape liquid herb is suspended in an all-natural glycerin base, which adds its own nutritional properties. Liquid herbs are highly concentrated and easily assimilable. Specifically, oregon grape may help to:-

• Arthritis
• As an expectorant
• Bloodstream infection
• Bronchitis
• Diarrhea
• Eczema (a type of skin inflammation)
• Fever
• Hepatitis
• Herpes
• Kidney stones
• Painful urination
• Psoriasis (scaly, raised skin patches)
• Rheumatism
• Syphilis
• To stimulate bile production
• Vaginitis

Side effects of Oregon Grape

Seek medical help immediately if you get sick after taking Oregon grape. Excessive doses of berberine, an alkaloid in this herb, have caused poisoning and death.

Interactions

Combining certain herbs with drugs may alter their action or cause unwanted side effects. Tell your health care practitioner about any prescription or nonprescription drugs you're taking.

Important points to remember

• Don't use Oregon grape if you're pregnant or breast feeding.
• Don't take this herb if you've experienced an allergy to it or a related plant.
• Avoid getting Oregon grape in your eyes. If you do, flush your eyes well with water.
• Be aware that skin contact with Oregon grape may cause intense pain.
• Don't confuse Oregon grape with the common barberry (Berberis vulgaris).

What the research shows

Studies suggest Oregon grape may be useful in treating psoriasis (scaly, raised skin patches). However, researchers know little about the herb's safety and effectiveness. More studies on people are needed.

Other names for Oregon Grape

Other names for Oregon grape include holly-leaved barberry, Mahonia repens , Mahonia nervose , Mahonia pinnata , and mountain grape.

Products containing Oregon grape are sold under such names as Mountain Grape and Oregon Grape Root.