| |
Mahonia repens Creeping Oregon grape Evergreen shrub (1 Page of 5) The Mahonia repens plant species is found in Western N. America. It is a member of the Berberidaceae family. Common gardeners may know the plant as Creeping Oregon grape. Some home gardeners know the variety as M. nana. Berberis nana. B. repens. Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses Medicinal | Edible Uses Latin Name: Mahonia repens Common Name: Creeping Oregon grape Family: Berberidaceae Author: (Lindl.)D.Don. Known Hazards: None known Mature Height: 0.3 Mature Width: 2 Habitat: Hills and slopes, often in partial shade[85], usually on dry slopes[155].
Medicinal Information: The root and root bark is alterative, anaphrodisiac, antiseptic, cholagogue, depurative, diuretic, expectorant, febrifuge, laxative and tonic[4, 238]. It improves the digestion and absorption and is taken internally in the treatment of coughs, fevers, psoriasis, syphilis, haemorrhages, stomach complaints, kidney problems and impure blood conditions[4, 238, 257]. Externally, it is used as an antiseptic and healing wash or poultice on wounds and rheumatic joints[257]. The roots are harvested in late autumn or early spring and dried for later use[238].
A poultice of the fresh berries has been applied to boils[257].
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]. The root and rootbark are best harvested in the autumn[213].
For further Mahonia repens 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

| |