Oregon Grape (Berberis aquifolium) is known as ‘herb of the blood’, indicating its widespread use as a blood purifier. It is a good source of berberine one of the active ingredients in golden seal; it has an anti-inflammatory effect; is a bitter and stimulates the production of hydrochloric acid in the stomach; as well as the production of digestive and liver secretions. It stimulates bile secretions, promotes liver function and also is a purifier of the blood, spleen and lymphatic. It can be substituted for golden seal. Because of its ability to release iron stored in the liver, it works like Yellow Dock in treating anemia. Unlike any other herb known, Oregon grape has what seems like an almost direct effect on the skin. It has been used to restore the complexion of the skin to a smooth, clear velvet-like texture, following any kind of skin disease or other illness that may have dried out the skin or produced sores.