Evidence supporting the use of: Oregon Barberry
For the health condition: Colds (decongestant)

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Synopsis

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

Oregon Barberry (Mahonia aquifolium), also known as Oregon grape, has traditional use in herbal medicine among Native American tribes and later, European settlers in North America. It has been used to support the immune system, as a general tonic, and for various infections, including those of the respiratory tract. The root and bark contain the alkaloid berberine, which has antimicrobial properties and is present in related plants like goldenseal. Folk medicine sometimes included Oregon Barberry as a remedy for colds, with the belief that it could help "clear" infections and promote recovery. However, its use specifically as a decongestant is not well documented in traditional sources, nor is there robust scientific evidence supporting decongestant effects. Modern studies on berberine do show antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, but clinical trials on Oregon Barberry for cold symptoms, especially nasal or chest congestion, are lacking. Thus, while there is a traditional basis for its use in treating colds and infections in general, the evidence for its effectiveness as a decongestant is limited and not supported by rigorous research.

More about Oregon Barberry
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Products containing Oregon Barberry

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