Botanical Overview
Mahonia aquifolium, commonly known as Oregon grape, holly grape, or Mahonia, is a member of the Berberidaceae family native to North America, especially the Pacific Northwest, Western United States, and Canada. The plant’s root, root bark, stem bark, and leaves are utilized medicinally.
Energetics
The energetics of Mahonia aquifolium are characterized as cooling and drying with a bitter and astringent taste. Its directionality tends to be descending, and it is considered tonifying to the qi.
Primary Actions
- Antimicrobial
- Anti-inflammatory
- Cholagogue (promotes bile flow)
- Hepatoprotective
- Bitter tonic
Indications
Western
- Digestive sluggishness
- Liver congestion
- Skin inflammations, such as psoriasis and acne
- Fungal and bacterial infections
- Constipation
Syndromes
- Dyspepsia
- Cholestasis
- Hepatitis
- Biliary sludge
- Dermatitis
TCM
No traditional Chinese medicine uses identified.
Ayurveda
No documented Ayurveda uses identified.
Unani
No documented Unani uses identified.
Constituents & Mechanisms
The main phytochemicals include berberine, alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins, and quaternary ammonium compounds, which contribute to the herb’s antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and cholagogue effects.
Dosage & Preparations
- Tincture (1:5, 40% ethanol) 2-5 mL three times daily
- Infusion of 1-2 g dried root bark up to three times daily
- Standardized extracts containing 200-300 mg berberine daily
Safety & Contraindications
Recommended doses are generally safe. Mild gastrointestinal upset may occur. Caution advised during pregnancy and lactation due to limited safety information. Avoid use in cases of gastrointestinal obstruction. Potential interactions with antibiotics and other cholagogues exist.
Astrological Correspondences
No reliably sourced planetary or elemental rulers found in the literature.
Selected References
- Mahonia aquifolium – Oregon grape, Ken Fern, Plant For A Future Database (2012)
- World Health Organization Monographs on Selected Medicinal Plants, Vol. 2, WHO (2002)
- Herbal Medicine: Biomolecular and Clinical Aspects, I. F. Fugh-Berman (2011)
- European Medicines Agency HMPC Assessment Report on Berberis aquifolium (2010)