Evidence supporting the use of: Oregon grape
For the health condition: Gall Bladder (sluggish or removed)

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Synopsis

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

Oregon grape (Mahonia aquifolium) has a history of use in traditional herbal medicine, particularly in North America, for a variety of digestive complaints, including those related to the gallbladder. Traditional herbalists have used Oregon grape root as a "bitter tonic," believed to stimulate bile flow from the liver and gallbladder, thereby supporting digestion and potentially counteracting "sluggish" gallbladder function. This use is primarily based on the plant's content of berberine and other alkaloids, which are thought to stimulate digestive secretions. In cases where the gallbladder has been removed (cholecystectomy), some herbal traditions include Oregon grape among the herbs recommended to assist with fat digestion, by promoting bile flow from the liver through the bile ducts directly into the intestine.

However, clinical evidence supporting its effectiveness for these specific uses is limited. There are no high-quality human studies directly evaluating Oregon grape for gallbladder dysfunction or after gallbladder removal. The evidence that does exist is mostly anecdotal or based on traditional practices rather than rigorous scientific trials. Thus, while Oregon grape's use for gallbladder support is rooted in herbal tradition, its efficacy has not been conclusively validated by modern research. Anyone considering its use for these purposes should consult a qualified healthcare provider, especially if they have significant gallbladder or liver disease.

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