Tribal people in the regions where cat's claw
grows have used medicines prepared from the root bark for at least 2,000 years.
They've used it to treat so many illnesses that it sounds like an amazing
superdrug. For example, sexually transmitted diseases, arthritis, ulcer, and
cancer are all reported to be cured by cat's claw.
After these claims got the attention of
scientists in Europe, tests were able to show that ingredients in cat's claw do
have some potentially powerful qualities. These ingredients together are able to
reduce inflammation, destroy certain viruses, and stop the spread of some cancer
cells. Much more research needs to be done on this plant and its medicinal
properties. Still, cat's claw ranked among the top 10 herbs sold in American
natural food stores by 1997.
Plant Description
Cat's claw is a climbing shrub with thick vines growing as long as 100 feet.
It is found in the Amazon rainforest and in tropical countries in South America
and Central America. Much of the cat's claw available in the United States, as
well as information about it, comes from Peru.
Curved, claw-like thorns grow on the stem—that's how cat's
claw got its name. Bitter, water-like liquid collects inside the stem. People in
South and Central America reportedly drink this on occasion to stop hunger,
thirst, and fatigue.
What's It Made Of?
Cat's claw preparations are made by scraping the bark off the root of the
vine. The root contains many types of plant chemicals. Some tannins also occur
in the root (tannins are also found in tea). Quinovic acid glycosides help
reduce inflammation and fight against some types of viruses.
Because collecting the root to get the bark kills the plant, herbalists look
for other sources of these important ingredients. Right now, the inner bark of
the vine seems to be a good alternative.
Available Forms
Both standardized and crude bark cat's claw are available. Crude bark is
crushed and used to make tea. Standardized liquid or dried products are usually
preferable: standardization is the quality control of herb manufacture.
How to Take It
Cat's claw reportedly has immune stimulant and anti-inflammatory actions.
Most likely, if you or your provider have decided to add cat's claw to your
daily therapy, it is probably because your immune system could use a little push
or because your digestive tract is a little off kilter. You may have frequent
colds or other viruses, or you may be trying to relieve irritable bowel
syndrome, diverticulitis, or even Crohn's disease.
If you've decided to take cat's claw, choose between one of the preparations
listed below and take as directed by your health care provider or the product
packaging.
Remember that because cat's claw has not been extensively researched, it is
extremely important to get it from a reputable manufacturer.
Conventional Use
For treating mild stomach pains, sore throats, and colds; immune function;
and minor injuries).
- Tea: 1 g root bark to 250 ml water, boil 10 to 5 minutes, cool,
and strain. Drink 1 cup, three times daily
- Tincture (solution made from herb and alcohol, or herb, alcohol,
and water): 1 to 2 ml two to three times daily
- Dry, encapsulated standardized extract: 20 to 60 mg
daily
Precautions
The people who live where cat's claw grows say that it is very safe and
nontoxic. However, until science has proven this, there are some precautions to
keep in mind.
The American Herbal Products Association (AHPA) gives cat's claw a class 4
safety rating. This means that the AHPA doesn't have enough evidence to base a
clear rating on. AHPA does, however, believe that the tannin content of cat's
claw taken in high doses might cause some abdominal pain or gastrointestinal
problems. Some researchers say that cat's claw should not be used in skin grafts
or patients receiving organ transplants, or in patients with HIV, AIDS, or
tuberculosis.
It is not to be used in children who are under three years of age.
Breastfeeding and pregnant women also should not take cat's claw.
You might notice loose stools or diarrhea while taking cat's claw. This side
effect is mild and tends to go away with continued use of cat's claw.
Possible Interactions
Cat's claw may increase the effects of some nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory
drugs (NSAIDs). If you are currently taking any of these medications, consult
with your health care provider before taking cat's claw.
Because cat's claw can affect your immune system, do not take this herb if
you are on any immunosuppressive therapies.
Supporting Research
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from Uncaria tomentosa
and Guettarda platypoda. J Nat Prod. 1989;52:679–685.
Aquino R, De Simone F, Vincieri FF, Pizza C,
Gacs-Baitz C. New polyhydroxylated triterpenes from Uncaria tomentosa. J Nat
Prod.
1990;53: 559–564.
Blumenthal M, ed. The Complete German Commission E Monographs.
Boston, Mass: Integrative Medicine Communications; 1998.
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Magazine.
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Blumenthal M, Riggins C. Popular Herbs in the U.S. Market: Therapeutic
Monographs. Austin, Tex: The American Botanical Council; 1997.
Davis BW. A "new" world class herb for
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Uncaria tomentosa
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Copyright © 2000 Integrative Medicine
Communications
The publisher does not accept any responsibility for the
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contraindications before administering any drug, herb, or supplement discussed
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