Synopsis

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

Mahonia species, particularly Mahonia aquifolium (Oregon grape), have a long history of use in traditional herbal medicine, especially within North American indigenous and European herbal practices. The plant is most commonly used for skin conditions such as psoriasis, eczema, and minor wounds, but it has also been traditionally applied as a topical or internal remedy for various infections, including those suspected to be caused by Staphylococcus species (“Staph” infections).

The rationale behind this use is partly due to Mahonia’s notable content of berberine, an isoquinoline alkaloid also found in goldenseal and barberry. Berberine has demonstrated a range of antimicrobial activities in vitro, including some inhibitory effects against Staphylococcus aureus and related bacteria. However, the evidence supporting Mahonia’s use specifically for Staph infections remains largely traditional and anecdotal. Clinical studies directly evaluating Mahonia extracts for the treatment or prevention of Staph infections in humans are lacking. Most of the supporting data are derived from laboratory (in vitro) studies of berberine, rather than whole-plant Mahonia preparations, and do not directly translate to clinical efficacy.

In summary, Mahonia's use for supporting or treating Staph infections is justified by traditional use and some laboratory evidence, but robust clinical validation is absent. The overall evidence level is modest (2/5), reflecting a reliance on traditional use and indirect scientific support rather than strong, direct clinical research.

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