Oregon Grape - Yes you can grow it in the southern states. Testing done by the NIH showed that the Berberine found in the Oregon Grape was strong enough to regulate cells, kill colorectal cancer cells, chondrosarcoma ( a rare form of cancer that usually starts in the bone or near the bones), and breast cancer cells. It also made them more easy to treat with chemotherapy. It also prohibits cells from growing and spreading.

It killed cancer cells, in the liver, colon and in acute lymphoblastic leukemia. It appears that it didn’t matter the delivery method. Meaning it doesn't matter if it was a tea or an extraction.

It also works on a protein that releases enzymes to regulate cells, this protein will program the cell to die when it is not working correctly. It was tested on breast cancer cells and showed that it could program the cells to die when cancer was present. Preventing tumor growth. It also will prevent metastasis of breast and colon cancer cells. The Berberine in the Oregon Grape regulates the microenvironment of cells to keep them from reproduction with antiinflammatory properties that will also be helpful in the treatment of other non cancerous diseases.

All the testing they did and they came to the conclusion that extracts of Oregon Grape should be studied more for use in tumor immunotherapy.

Care should be used because of the berberine though as too much may not be good. Overuse could lead to jaundice.

Oregon Grape Root Tea

1/2 ounce of dried and crushed roots

1 quart of water.

combine the roots and water into a pot and cover tightly. Bring to a boil and turn the heat down to a low simmer. Simmer for 10-15 minutes. Strain out the root.

no effective dosage has been evaluated but general recommendations are .2-1 gram daily for up to 3 months