Cat’s Claw
Cat’s Claw (Uncaria tomentosa), also known as hawk’s claw, is a tropical vine that grows in the rainforest areas of South America. In Peru, the plant is protected as it is considered a valuable medicinal resource. The natives of South America have been using Cat’s Claw for hundreds of years for a broad spectrum of conditions, including all types of infection, but also as a cure for cancer. Modern scientific studies suggest that Cat’s Claw may be beneficial in the treatment of arthritis, allergies, bursitis, chronic fatigue syndrome, diabetes, herpes, intestinal disorders, menstrual irregularities, organic depression, and as an adjunctive treatment for cancer and AIDS.
Cat’s Claw Constituents
The active substances in Cat’s Claw are alkaloids of which there are two groups, indole and quinoline. Other constituents are catechin, campesterol, flavones, phytosteroids, quercetin, and rutin. Some of these constituents have shown to lower blood pressure and thus reduce the risk of stroke and heart attack, increase circulation, reduce heart rate, and control cholesterol. Other constituents have immune-stimulating, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer properties. Cat’s Claw is also often combined with other herbs to increase its absorption and bioavailability.
Cat’s Claw Medicinal Uses
Cat’s Claw is being used for the treatment of intestinal ailments, such as gastric ulcers, Crohn’s disease, parasites, colitis, diverticulitis, gastritis, leaky bowel syndrome, and tumors. It is also effective in the treatment of viral and respiratory infections, arthritis, allergies, bursitis, chronic fatigue syndrome, diabetes, herpes, menstrual irregularities, organic depression, and as a complementary medicine for cancer and AIDS.
Cat’s Claw Products and Dosage
For medicinal uses, the inner bark and the roots of Cat’s Claw are used. It comes in powder, tea, liquid extract, tablet, and capsule form. Generally, for immune and prevention benefits, 1 g of Cat’s Claw in tablet or capsule form is recommended, for digestive problems and arthritis, 3 – 5 g daily can be taken. Alternatively, a vine bark decoction can be made.
Cat’s Claw Side Effects and Risks
In large dosages, Cat’s Claw has been reported to cause gastrointestinal problems, such as diarrhea and abdominal pain. There are no other side effects known. Because of its immune-stimulating properties, Cat’s Claw should not be taken by patients who have to take immunosuppressive drugs. Some chemicals in Cat’s claw can thin the blood, therefore it should not be used by patients who have to take other blood-thinning drugs. It is further advised to avoid taking Cat’s Claw together with antacids.
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