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Mahonia japonica

Mahonia japonica

Mahonia japonica is a plant species used within various traditional medicine systems. It has been historically applied to address conditions such as cough, fever, dysentery, enteritis, backache, vertigo, tinnitus, and phlegm, as well as for sedative or alexiteric purposes. Scientific evidence regarding its therapeutic efficacy remains limited, though some studies suggest that the compound isotetrandrine may block NMO-IgG binding to AQP4. Other research focuses on floral volatile emissions and enzymatic functions rather than clinical outcomes. No major safety issues or notable drug interactions have been recorded in the available data.

At a glance
Traditionally for
alexiteric · backache
Traditions
TCM
Best evidence
D
Cautions
—

Informational only. Traditional use does not mean proven effectiveness. Evidence and safety vary — check the cited sources.

Traditional use

What the science says

  • Isotetrandrine from Mahonia japonica can block NMO-IgG binding to AQP4 without affecting AQP4 function. D PMID
  • Females of Drosophila suzukii prioritized thermally optimal oviposition sites over nutritionally favorable ones, even when temperatures were suboptimal. D PMID
  • Mahonia japonica emitted more floral volatiles during daylight than at night, with maximum rates occurring in the middle of the light period. D PMID
  • Mutations and deletions affecting the 9-epi-caryophyllene synthase enzyme activity were identified, enhancing understanding of its function. D PMID

Frequently asked questions

What is Mahonia japonica?

Mahonia japonica (Mahonia japonica) is a plant documented in FolkKB's traditional-medicine reference, drawn from sourced literature and cross-checked against the evidence.

What is Mahonia japonica traditionally used for?

Traditional sources record Mahonia japonica for: alexiteric, backache, cough, dysentery, enteritis, fever. This reflects traditional use, not a proven medical treatment.

Which traditions use Mahonia japonica?

Mahonia japonica appears in these traditions in our sources: TCM.

What does the scientific evidence say about Mahonia japonica?

4 sourced findings are recorded for Mahonia japonica; the strongest carries evidence grade D. For example: Isotetrandrine from Mahonia japonica can block NMO-IgG binding to AQP4 without affecting AQP4 function.

How strong is the evidence for Mahonia japonica?

The strongest finding for Mahonia japonica carries evidence grade D — preliminary or traditional. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).

Is Mahonia japonica safe? What are the side effects?

No major safety issues are recorded for Mahonia japonica in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.

Does Mahonia japonica interact with medications?

No drug interactions are recorded for Mahonia japonica in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.

What are the common names of Mahonia japonica?

Mahonia japonica is also known as: Магония японская, Mahonia du Japon.

Is Mahonia japonica a proven treatment?

No. FolkKB is informational only. Traditional use and early findings are not proof of efficacy or safety — consult a qualified professional and never self-treat.

Sources

  1. T3 Dr. Duke's Ethnobotanical Database public domain (USDA ARS — attribute Dr. Duke's)
  2. T2 Emission of floral volatiles from Mahonia japonica (Berberidaceae). literature abstract metadata
  3. T2 Isotetrandrine Reduces Astrocyte Cytotoxicity in Neuromyelitis Optica by Blocking the Binding of NMO-IgG to Aquaporin 4. literature abstract metadata
  4. T2 Study on the Functional Characterization of 9‑epi-Caryophyllene Synthase from Lavandula x intermedia (Lavandin). literature abstract metadata
  5. T2 Temperature overrides nutritional cues for optimal oviposition decision in a polyphagous invasive insect. literature abstract metadata

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