Latin Name: Uncaria tomentosa

Uses:

• Cat’s claw has been used for centuries in South America to prevent and treat disease.
• It has been used for a variety of health conditions, including viral infections (such as herpes and HIV), Alzheimer’s disease, cancer, and arthritis.
• Cat’s claw has been used to support the immune system and promote kidney health, as well as to prevent and abort pregnancy.

Preparations: The inner bark of cat’s claw is used to make liquid extracts, capsules, and teas. Preparations of cat’s claw can also be applied to the skin.

What the Science Says

• There is not enough scientific evidence to determine whether cat’s claw works for any health condition.
• Small studies in humans have shown a possible benefit of cat’s claw in osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, but no large trials have been done. In laboratory studies, cat’s claw stimulates part of the immune system, but it has not been proven to reduce inflammation or boost the immune system in humans.
• The National Institute on Aging funded a study that looked at how cat’s claw may affect the brain. Findings may point to new avenues for research in Alzheimer’s disease treatment.

Side Effects and Cautions

• Few side effects have been reported for cat’s claw when it is taken at recommended dosages. Though rare, side effects may include headaches, dizziness, and vomiting.
• Women who are pregnant or trying to become pregnant should avoid using cat’s claw because of its past use for preventing and aborting pregnancy.
• Because cat’s claw may stimulate the immune system, it is unclear whether the herb is safe for people with conditions affecting the immune system.
• Cat’s claw may interfere with controlling blood pressure during or after surgery.
• Tell all your health care providers about any complementary and alternative practices you use. Give them a full picture of what you do to manage your health. This will help ensure coordinated and safe care.

In Australia, it is a violation of TGA regulations to list any therapeutic claims for any medication, natural or orthodox prescriptive, without TGA approval. For further information about this herb, we recommend doing your own thorough research, such as using any links provided or reliable researched websites

http://www.rain-tree.com/plistbot.htm

http://www.australiannaturaltherapistsassociation.com.au/

http://www.herbmed.org/

Disclaimer:  The information contained here is intended for educational purposes only. It is not provided in order to diagnose, prescribe, or treat any disease, illness or injured condition of the body and the author, publisher, printer and distributors accept no responsibility for such use. All herbs should be taken with care whether topically or internally. Please skin test if using it topically and discontinue use in cases of rnegative reactions. Unless taken as a food/tea, please always take internally under proffesional supervision & consult your practitioner if symptoms persist or you have any concerns including drug/herb interactions. Please consult with a proffesional herbalist or your doctor if you are taking any medications to check for herb/drug interactions.