Cats claw is a vine that grows up high in the canopy of the Amazon rainforest, and gets its name from the claw-like thorns which protrude from its woody stems. It is also found in Peru, Colombia, Ecuador and other parts of South America. The bark from the roots is used in herbal medicine.
Medicinal Properties of Cats claw
Cats claw contains oxyindole alkaloids which have immune stimulating action. It also has Antioxidant, anti-inflammatory properties and potential cancer fighting ability.
Cats claw Herbal Remedies
Our herbalists recommend Cats claw for the following disorders
Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
Tired All The Time (TATT)
Other Cats claw Information
Cats claw is often used for general immune support, and in inflammatory conditions such as arthritis. It may have tumour and leukaemia-fighting benefits too.
As yet there is no definitive evidence of its benefits in the treatment of HIV, AIDS or cancer, but it is certainly worth trying as an adjunct to conventional therapy, although you should discuss this with your specialist first.
Side Effects of Cats claw
Cats claw should not be taken during pregnancy or when breastfeeding.
Generally, there are no side effects or other contraindications from using Cats claw.
When this article was written there were no well-known negative drug interactions with the herb Cats claw.
Leave a reply to Herb Cats claw (Uncaria tomentosa)