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Mahonia japonica Evergreen shrub (1 Page of 5) The Mahonia japonica plant species is found in E. Asia - China, Taiwan. It is a member of the Berberidaceae family. Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses Medicinal | Edible Uses Latin Name: Mahonia japonica Family: Berberidaceae Author: (Thunb.)DC. Known Hazards: None known Mature Height: 2 Mature Width: 3 Habitat: Damp woodlands in upland areas[147, 200]. Not found in a truly wild situation, this species is possibly only a cultigen.
Medicinal Information: The leaf is febrifuge and is used as a tonic in cases of cancer[218].
The seed is febrifuge and tonic[218].
The roots and stems are antirheumatic, antitussive, depurative, expectorant and febrifuge[147, 218]. A decoction is used in the treatment of bone-breaking fevers, dizziness and tinnitus, backache, weak knees, dysentery and enteritis[147]. The root and rootbark are best harvested in the autumn[213].
Berberine, universally present in rhizomes of Mahonia species, has marked antibacterial effects[218] and is used as a bitter tonic[213]. Since it is not appreciably absorbed by the body, it is used orally in the treatment of various enteric infections, especially bacillary dysentery[218]. It should not be used with Glyccyrriza species (Liquorice) because this nullifies the effects of the berberine[218]. Berberine has also shown antitumour activity[218].
For further Mahonia japonica gardening information click on one of the blue links below Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses Medicinal | Edible Uses
The information above has been supplied solely via the hard work and dedication of the team at 'Plants for a Future'. View their bibliography

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