 |
|
© Steven Foster
|
Botanical name: Berberis aquifolium
Parts of Oregon Grape used and where is Oregon Grape grown
Oregon grape is an evergreen shrub which grows throughout the American northwest. It is
somewhat misnamed, as the fruit are not actually grapes. It is, however, grown in Oregon (it
is the official state flower). Oregon grape is a close relative of barberry (Berberis vulgaris), and shares
many common uses and constituents. The root is used medicinally.
Historical or traditional use of Oregon Grape (may
or may not be supported by scientific studies)
Before European colonists arrived, the indigenous peoples of North America treated all
manner of complaints with Oregon grape.1 The berries were used for poor appetite. A
tea made from the root was used to treat jaundice, arthritis, diarrhea, fever, and many other health problems.
Active constituents of Oregon Grape
Alkaloids, including berberine, berbamine, canadine, and hydrastine, may account for the
activity of Oregon grape.Isolated berberine has been shown to effectively treat diarrhea in patients infected with E.
coli.2 One of the ways berberine may ease diarrhea is by slowing the transit
time in the intestine.3 Berberine inhibits the ability of bacteria to attach to
human cells, which helps prevent infections,
particularly in the throat, intestines, and
urinary tract.4 These actions, coupled with berberine’s ability to
enhance immune cell function,5 make
Oregon grape possibly useful for mild infections although clinical trials are lacking on the
whole root.
In one clinical trial, an ointment of Oregon grape was found to be mildly effective for
reducing skin irritation, inflammation and itching in people with mild to moderate psoriasis.6 Whole Oregon grape extracts
were shown in one pharmacological study to reduce inflammation (often associated with
psoriasis) and stimulate the white blood cells known as macrophages.7 In this
study, isolated alkaloids from Oregon grape did not have these actions. This suggests that
something besides alkaloids are important to the properties of Oregon grape responsible for
reducing inflammation.
The bitter-tasting compounds as well as the alkaloids in Oregon grape root are thought to
stimulate digestive function.
How much Oregon Grape is usually taken?
A tea can be prepared by boiling 1–3 teaspoons (5–15 grams) of chopped roots in
2 cups (500 ml) of water for fifteen minutes. After straining and cooling, 3 cups (750 ml) can
be taken per day. Tincture, 1/2–3/4 teaspoon (3 ml) three times per day, can be used.
Since berberine is not well absorbed, Oregon grape root might not provide adequate amounts of
this compound to treat significant systemic
infections. A physician should be consulted in the case of infection before attempting to
use Oregon grape. An ointment made with 10% Oregon grape extract applied three or more times
daily may be useful for psoriasis.
Are there any side effects or interactions with Oregon Grape?
Oregon grape is thought to be safe in the amounts indicated above. Long-term (more than two
to three weeks) internal use is not recommended. Berberine alone has been reported to
interfere with normal bilirubin metabolism in infants, raising a concern that it might worsen
jaundice.8 For this reason, berberine-containing plants should be used with caution
during pregnancy and breast-feeding.
Are there any drug
interactions?
Certain medicines may interact with Oregon grape. Refer to drug interactions for a list of those medicines.
|
|
|
CranStat Extra by Vitanica
"This was recommended for treating my bladder infection. I get several a year and can usually cure them myself with CranStat Extra and rest ..." |
|
|
| SHOP For Oregon Grape By Category |
| |
Like eVitamins? Become A Fan Today!
Copyright © 2004 Healthnotes, Inc. All rights reserved.
www.healthnotes.com
Learn more
about Healthnotes, the company.
Learn more
about the authors of Healthnotes.
The information presented in Healthnotes is for informational
purposes only. It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in
vitro), clinical experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article.
The results reported may not necessarily occur in all individuals. For many of
the conditions discussed, treatment with prescription or over the counter
medication is also available. Consult your doctor, practitioner, and/or
pharmacist for any health problem and before using any supplements or before
making any changes in prescribed medications.
References:
Click
here to view references
| 
Cart: 0 items 
Checkout
