Evidence supporting the use of: Oregon grape
For the health condition: Hepatitis

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 1

Oregon grape (Mahonia aquifolium) has a long history of use in traditional herbal medicine, particularly among Native American and Western herbalists. Its root contains several alkaloids, including berberine, which is believed to possess antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and hepatoprotective properties. In traditional medicine, Oregon grape was sometimes used to support liver health, improve bile flow, and address conditions associated with the liver, such as jaundice and hepatitis-like symptoms. However, while these historical practices exist, the use of Oregon grape specifically for hepatitis is based primarily on tradition rather than robust scientific evidence.

Modern research has identified berberine as a bioactive constituent with potential liver-protective effects, but most studies focus on berberine itself rather than whole Oregon grape extract, and the research is largely preclinical (animal or cell studies). There is a lack of high-quality clinical trials demonstrating that Oregon grape, or its constituents, are effective in treating hepatitis in humans. Therefore, while its traditional use for liver support is documented, scientific validation for its use in hepatitis is minimal.

In summary, Oregon grape’s use for hepatitis is rooted in traditional medicine, with some theoretical support based on its alkaloid content. Currently, the scientific evidence is insufficient to recommend it for hepatitis treatment beyond traditional or supportive roles.

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