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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
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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
Useful Edible Plants Future

 


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