Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Mahonia, particularly Mahonia aquifolium (Oregon grape), has a long history of traditional use in herbal medicine, especially by Native American and traditional herbalists, for treating various skin conditions, including boils. The roots and bark of Mahonia species contain alkaloids such as berberine, which exhibit antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory actions. These properties made Mahonia preparations popular in folk remedies for skin infections, including boils, which are typically caused by bacterial pathogens like Staphylococcus aureus.

However, while laboratory studies have demonstrated that berberine and related alkaloids have antibacterial effects in vitro, there is limited direct clinical evidence supporting the use of Mahonia specifically for boils in humans. Most modern herbal references and ethnobotanical sources cite its traditional application rather than controlled clinical validation. There is some indirect support from studies showing Mahonia’s general usefulness for inflammatory skin diseases (like psoriasis), but not for boils specifically. Therefore, the evidence is best rated as weak to moderate based on tradition with some pharmacological rationale, but without robust scientific trials.

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Other ingredients used for Boils

Other health conditions supported by Mahonia (unspecified)

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