Uses
What is Oregon grape used for?
Oregon grape is a plant. It is used for these following conditions, including:
- Stomach ulcers
- Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
- Stomach upset
Some people use it as a bitter tonic, to treat infections, and to cleanse the bowels.
Oregon grape is applied to the skin for a skin disorder called psoriasis and as a disinfectant.
Oregon grape may be prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.
How does it work?
There are not enough studies about how this herbal supplement works. Please discuss with your herbalist or doctor for more information. However, there are some studies showing the chemicals in Oregon grape might help fight bacterial and fungal infections. Oregon grape may also slow the overproduction of skin cells in diseases such as psoriasis.
Precautions & warnings
What should I know before using Oregon grape?
Consult with your doctor or pharmacist or herbalist, if:
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding. This is because, while you are expecting or feeding a baby, you should only take medicines on the recommendation of a doctor.
- You are taking any other medicines. This includes any medicines you are taking which are available to buy without a prescription.
- You have allergy with any substances of Oregon grape or other medications or other herbals.
- You have any other illnesses, disorders, or medical conditions.
- You have any other types of allergies, such as to foods, dyes, preservatives, or animals.
The regulations for an herbal supplement are less strict than the regulations for a drug. More studies are needed to determine its safety. The benefits of taking this herbal supplement must outweigh the risks before use. Consult with your herbalist or doctor for more information.
How safe is Oregon grape?
Children:
It might be unsafe to give Oregon grape to children, especially newborns. The berberine in Oregon grape can cause brain damage in newborns, particularly premature newborns who have jaundice.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding:
Because berberine in Oregon grape may cross the placenta and might cause harm to the fetus, Oregon grape is likely unsafe to use in pregnancy.
Berberine can also be transferred to the infant through breast milk, so you should avoid using Oregon grape if you are breastfeeding.
Side effects
What kind of side effects may I have from Oregon grape?
Oregon grape cream can cause some side effects such as itching, burning, irritation, and allergic reactions.
There is not enough information to know if Oregon grape is safe when taken by mouth in medicinal amounts.
Not everyone experiences these side effects. There may be some side effects not listed above. If you have any concerns about side effects, please consult your herbalist or doctor.
Interactions
What interactions may I have with Oregon grape?
This herbal supplement may interact with your current medications or medical conditions. Consult with your herbal healer or doctor before using.
Taking Oregon grape along with some medications that are broken down by the liver can increase the effects and side effects of some medications.
These medications include cyclosporine (Neoral, Sandimmune), lovastatin (Mevacor), clarithromycin (Biaxin), indinavir (Crixivan), sildenafil (Viagra), triazolam (Halcion), and many others.
Dosage
The information provided is not a substitute for medical advice. ALWAYS consult your herbalist or doctor before using this medication.
What is the usual dose for Oregon grape?
Oregon grape bark extract cream:
Apply to affected areas 2-3 times daily for psoriasis.
Oregon grape root tea:
- Boil 5 to 15 grams of chopped roots in 500 ml of water for 15 minutes.
- Strain and cool.
- Drink up to 750 ml daily.
Oregon grape tincture:
Take 3 ml three times a day.
The dose for this herbal supplement may be different for every patient. The dose that you take depends on your age, health, and several other conditions. Herbal supplements are not always safe. Please discuss with your herbalist or doctor for your appropriate dosage.
What form does Oregon grape come in?
This herbal supplement may be available in the following dosage forms:
- Capsule
- Tincture
- Ointment
- Cream
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