Description :
The dark green, shiny leaves are reminiscent of holly and grow on opposite sides of the stem from each other. The leaves are darker green on the tops than on the bottoms. The stems are thin but tough. Oregon Grape grows natively throughout the west. Various species can be found as far south as northern Mexico and as far east as the Great Lakes region. The plant can grow to between two and six feet in height and produces blackish-blue berries that resemble tiny grapes. Externally, Oregon Grape was used by Indigenous North Americans to aid with skin irritation. Internally, it was used as a bitter tonic and as an antimicrobial.
History and Folklore:
Oregon grape was used by many Native American Tribes, who also introduced it to European colonists, for a wide variety of healing purposes.
Cultivation and Harvest:
Harvest the root and main stems at any time. Dry the roots and stems before attempting to grind. They can be difficult to grind.
Precautions:
Do not take if pregnant or nursing. Do not use in combination with prescription liver medications.
Traditional Herbal Actions:
Antibacterial, Bitters, Antipyretic
Other Names:
Holy Grape, Rocky Mountain Grape Root, Creeping Barberry, Yerba de Sangre
Related Species:
Mahonia aquifolium, M. fremontii, M. haematocarpa, M. nervosa, M. pinnata, M. repens, M. trifoliolata, M. wilcoxii
Ingredients: Oregon grape (Mahonia repens)
None of these items or statements are approved by FDA. Consult your physician before taking any supplement. Do not take herbs or tinctures during pregnancy without consulting your healthcare provider. This product is not intended to diagnose or treat any disease. All information here is for entertainment and educational purposes only.
*This statement has not been verified by the FDA and is only referenced here as a fun fact and/or for historical commentary, is not to be used as medical advice in any way. Consult your doctor before ingesting any herbal product.
Greyson –