Evidence supporting the use of: Oregon grape
For the body system: Gall Bladder

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Synopsis

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

Oregon grape (Mahonia aquifolium) has a long history of traditional use among Native American and Western herbalists for supporting liver and gall bladder function. The root contains alkaloids such as berberine, which are believed to have antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and mild cholagogue properties (stimulating bile flow). In traditional herbal medicine, Oregon grape is sometimes used to promote digestion and relieve symptoms thought to be associated with sluggish gall bladder activity, such as indigestion or poor fat metabolism. However, while there are some preliminary scientific studies on berberine (a constituent) for liver and metabolic health, there is a lack of direct clinical research specifically validating Oregon grape root for gall bladder support in humans. Most recommendations for its use for the gall bladder are based on empirical traditional knowledge rather than robust modern clinical evidence. Thus, its use for this purpose remains primarily traditional, with limited scientific backing.

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