Description
Latin Name : Mahonia Aquifolium
Origin Country: USA
Mahonia aquifolium, the Oregon grape or holly-leaved barberry, is a species of flowering plant in the family Berberidaceae, native to western North America.
Plants of this family have been extensively used in traditional Chinese medicine in the treatment of various conditions.
European folklore mentions mahonia used as a form of spiritual protection; three branches were placed over a threshold to keep enemies away, and a small piece would be carried on a person as a talisman, providing defense against negative energies and promoting positivity.
The fruit is almost as large as a blackcurrant and is produced in large bunches so it is easy to harvest. It has an acid flavour, but it is rather nice raw and is especially good when added to a porridge or muesli. Unfortunately, there is relatively little flesh and a lot of seeds, though some plants have larger and juicier fruits. The cooked fruit tastes somewhat like blackcurrants. The fruit can also be dried and stored for later use. They can also be used to make a lemonade-like drink.
Oregon grape is used for stomach ulcers, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), stomach upset, as a bitter tonic, to treat infections, and to cleanse the bowels.
