Mahonia Aquifolium (also known as Oregon Grape Root) is the remarkable plant extract used in our range of M-Folia skincare. It is native to the Himalayas, Eastern Asia, Central America and North America. Traditionally used by tribal medicine men in North America to help treat a variety of ailments, scientists have since discovered that the extract taken from the leaves and bark contains high proportions of Berberine and Oxyacanthine which are strong anti-microbial agents. The potent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial, anti-fungal and anti-proliferative alkaloids found in this natural extract helps to promote clear, healthy skin.
How can Mahonia Aquifolium Help?
Psoriasis is characterised by the build-up of skin cells. Mahonia Aquifolium has been proven in clinical studies to slow down the overproduction of skin cells in patients with psoriasis and reduce the disease progression. Tests by US and Canadian researchers revealed that Mahonia aquifolium is one of the top five most powerful herbal anti-fungal agents, this amazing plant extract is one of only eight herbal remedies recommended by The National Psoriasis Foundation who describe it as a powerful antimicrobial herb that plays an important role in immune response.
The first clinical study of Mahonia Aquifolium used for the treatment of psoriasis was reported in 1992.7 In a multi-centre, randomised, double-blind study involving 93 patients with mild to moderately severe psoriasis, topical application of Mahonia Aquifolium ointment was compared with oral treatment of Mahonia aquifolium. At the end of the treatment, significant improvement had occurred in more than 70 per cent of patients in both groups. (source: Positive Health)
Up to 42% of psoriasis sufferers will experience psoriatic arthritis – the pain, swelling and stiffness that is caused by the inflammation of the joints. Mahonia Aquifolium’s anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties are capable of reducing inflammation in joints affected by psoriatic arthritis.
Find out more about our unique range of Mahonia Aquifolium skincare products.