What is Cat’s Claw and Where it Grows?
- Health benefits of Cat’s Claw. It strengthens the brain and boosts its functions. ...
- Origin of Cat’s Claw and Interesting Facts. Cat’s claw belongs to family Rubiaceae. ...
- Cat’s Claw as a Cognitive Booster. ...
How does cat’s claw work?
Cat’s claw seems to work both by boosting your immune response and calming an overactive immune system ( 3, 5 ). Its anti-inflammatory properties could be responsible for its immune benefits ( 6 ). Despite these promising results, more research is needed.
What are the health benefits of Cat's Claw extract?
The same anti-inflammatory effect could ease symptoms for a variety of digestive conditions including IBS, colitis, leaky gut syndrome, gastritis, and diverticulitis. Specific extracts of cat's claw (such as AC-11®) help support DNA repair.
Can cat’s claw help lower blood pressure?
Cat’s claw is considered a treatment for lowering blood pressure in Traditional Chinese Medicine. Another variety of cat’s claw called Uncaria Rhynchophylla prevents platelet aggregation and blood clotting. With a mechanism similar to blood thinners, it can help lower blood pressure and improve circulation.
Can Cat's Claw help with arthritis?
As with osteoarthritis, clinical trials indicate cat's claw can help relieve symptoms of Rheumatoid Arthritis due to its anti-inflammatory effects. The smallest dose used in the studies was 60 mg of cat's claw extract per day alongside participants' standard prescription medication.
How long does it take cat's claw to work?
around eight weeksHow long does cat's claw take to work? To see effects of taking cat's claw you'll need to take it for around eight weeks, although there is some evidence suggesting that symptoms of knee pain, for example, can be relieved within a week or so of taking cat's claw.
What are the side effects of taking cat's claw?
Cat's claw appears to be safe when used orally for short periods of time. However, it can cause headache, dizziness, and vomiting in some people. Cat's claw might make the immune system more active, which could increase symptoms of autoimmune diseases.
Can I take cat's claw daily?
If you decide to take cat's claw, note that dosage guidelines have not been established. However, WHO says that an average daily dose is 20–350 mg of dried stem bark for extracts or 300–500 mg for capsules, taken in 2–3 separate doses throughout the day (21).
Is Cat's Claw an anti-inflammatory?
Cat's claw is commonly used in South America and more recently in Western nations, as an anti-inflammatory agent in treating arthritis and gastrointestinal inflammation. Cat's claw is the bark of a vine, Uncaria tomentosa, that is prepared as a tea or taken in capsule form.
Is Cat's claw good for arthritis?
Conclusion: Cat's claw is an effective treatment for osteoarthritis. The species, U guianensis and U tomentosa are equiactive. They are effective antioxidants, but their anti-inflammatory properties may result from their ability to inhibit TNFalpha and to a lesser extent PGE2 production.
Is Cat's claw good for liver?
Despite being widely used, cat's claw has not been implicated in cases of clinically apparent liver injury and, in prospective studies, has had no effect on serum enzyme levels. In vitro studies have demonstrated antioxidant activity of cat's claw extracts which may be hepatoprotective.
How long should I take cats claw for?
Cat's claw has most often been used by adults in doses of 60-300 mg by mouth daily for 8-24 weeks. Cat's claw extract is also used in gels and sprays. Speak with a healthcare provider to find out what type of product and dose might be best for a specific condition.
Does cat's claw thin the blood?
Cat's claw might slow blood clotting. Taking cat's claw along with medications that also slow clotting might increase the chances of bruising and bleeding in some people.
Is Cat's claw an antibiotic?
Its antibacterial, antifungal and antiviral effects have proven particularly effective in combating persistent infections such as Lyme disease, Candida, Eppstein-Barr (glandular fever), herpes, bladder infections, hepatitis, prostatitis, gastritis and Crohn's disease.
Does cats claw help with fatigue?
In modern herbal medicine, Cat's Claw is recommended for chronic illnesses such as fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue, mononucleosis, as well as arthritis.
What medications does cat's claw interact with?
Other medications -- Cat's claw may interact with the following medications:Anticoagulants (blood-thinning medication)Diuretics (water pills)Estrogens or progestins, including birth control pills.Antihypertensive (blood pressure) medication.
Does cats claw help with muscle pain?
A plant called cat's claw demonstrates powerful effects in alleviating pain and inflammation, stimulating immunity, fighting cancer, and promoting DNA repair.
Why do people use cat claws?
They choose cat’s claw because it has been shown to strengthen the immune system. In Southern Africa, HIV and AIDS are major health problems with an estimated 25.5 million people living with HIV in sub-Saharan Africa.
What is the traditional use of cat claws?
The traditional use of cat’s claw was to make a tea from the inner bark of the vine. You can use a store-bought tea, or you can buy the loose bark and make tea from that yourself.
What Is Cat’s Claw?
What’s the plant origin? Cat’s claw is a tropical woody vine belonging to the Rubiaceae plant family. It clings to the sides of trees as it grows by using its claw-shaped thorns. The trees are typically 100 feet or taller. At least 20 plants with sharp, curved thorns are considered to be cat’s claw or uña de gato.
What is the most commonly used cat claw?
Uncaria tomentosa is the more heavily researched and used form when it comes to medicinal use and immune modulation. Uncaria guianensis is traditionally used for wound healing. Uncaria tomentosa makes up most of the cat’s claw imported to the U.S.
How long does cat claw extract last?
In one animal study, researchers gave subjects a water-soluble extract of cat’s claw ( Uncaria tomentosa) for eight weeks. They found that this supplementation significantly elevated subjects’ infection-fighting white blood cell count. Researchers also observed a repair of DNA, both single and double strand breaks.
How tall are cat claw trees?
The trees are typically 100 feet or taller. At least 20 plants with sharp, curved thorns are considered to be cat’s claw or uña de gato. Uña de gato, its Spanish namesake, is native to the South and Central American tropical rain forests. Two species of cat’s claw are commonly used in North America and Europe.
What are the nutrients in a cat's claw?
It’s said to contain over 30 known constituents, including at least 17 alkaloids, along with glycosides, tannins, flavonoids, sterol fractions and other compounds. All of these phytonutrients can do amazing things in the body, like the benefits listed above.
Why is cat claw sacred?
It was used to eliminate disturbances between the spirit and the body that were thought to be the reason for physical ailments.
How long does it take for cat claws to work?
Cat’s claw is one of those nootropics that take a bit of time to show effects. Some studies indicate it takes up to eight weeks for cat’s claw to yield its full effects. Some others show that managing symptoms of conditions like knee pain, for instance, may provide relief within a week of starting supplementation.
What is Cat’s Claw (Uncaria Tomentosa)?
The botanical name for cat’s claw is Uncaria. Uncaria has two prominent species, uncaria tomentosa and uncaria guianensis.
Which is better, cat claw or uncaria?
Of the two, cat’s claw (uncaria tomentosa) is the better-researched species and seems to offer more health benefits than uncaria guianensis. The plant gets its name as its thorns resemble a cat’s claws. The outer bark of the plant has long fissures, whereas the inner bark has fibers.
Where does cat claw come from?
Cat’s claw is one of the medicinal herbs from the Amazon rainforest and other South and Central America. This ancient plant enjoys a long history of yielding curative properties for joint disorders, treating viral infections, and improving immune function. Some indigenous tribes of South America even consider cat’s claw a sacred plant ...
Is cat claw good for OA?
Given its history of treating inflammatory diseases by the tribal people of South America, the practice carried over and is considered a non-pharmacological way of improving rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis symptoms. A few preliminary studies have investigated the effects of using cat’s claw for both RA and OA.
Is cat claw good for arthritis?
Conclusion. Cat’s claw is one of the best natural treatments for boosting immunity, fighting infections, treating arthritis, and lowering blood pressure. It is a time-honored remedy with minor side effects unless you have health issues that conflict with its use.
What is cat claw used for?
Speed Healing. In traditional uses, cat’s claw was often used to help speed healing of wounds and for people who were ill. Now, given our knowledge of the powerful antioxidant compounds found in cat’s claw, it comes as no surprise that they are able to help prevent infection of wounds and stimulate a rapid recovery from illness, ...
Why do cats claw?
It can help to reduce inflammation, thereby reducing pain and preventing accidents from occurring. If you suffer from irritable bowel syndrome or “leaky” bowels, it might be perfect for you. It helps to cleanse the entire digestive tract, eliminating dangerous bacteria and restoring a healthy microenvironment in your gut so your digestion is efficient and your bowels are regulated. [7]
What is the vine of a cat's claw?
If you’ve ever been walking through the jungles of Central South America, then perhaps you’ve pushed a cat’s claw vine out of your way, but you may not have realized what a powerful and important vine it actually is. With the scientific name Uncaria tomentosa, it has been used for thousands of years as a traditional herbal remedy for many different ailments. The common name of cat’s claw comes from the unique shape of the thorns, which look like the claws of a cat. In Spanish-speaking countries, the common name is uña de gato. [1]
What is the scientific name for cat claws?
With the scientific name Uncaria tomentosa, it has been used for thousands of years as a traditional herbal remedy for many different ailments. The common name of cat’s claw comes from the unique shape of the thorns, which look like the claws of a cat. In Spanish-speaking countries, the common name is uña de gato. [1]
Does cat claw affect the immune system?
Immune System. The most concrete evidence on the effects of cat’s claw relates to its impact on the immune system. The powerful range of alkaloids found in it can help to stimulate the immune response of the body, namely increasing the white blood cell count and stimulating antioxidant action throughout the body.
Does cat claw help with pain?
This can help to speed healing and reduce overall pain. [4]
Can you get kidney problems from cat claws?
In some rare cases, kidney problems may arise, but they shouldn’t be overly serious unless compounded by another ailment. In general, as with all herbal remedies, it is wise to speak with a trained medical professional before adding something as powerful as cat’s claw to your daily or weekly health routine.
Why is the cat claw plant important?
The anti-aging phytonutrients provided by the cat's claw plant may have supported health and unusual longevity in these Amazonian tribes despite their inadequate diet. For these reasons, scientific researchers traveled to the Amazon to study cat's claw, which eventually led to its commercial sale worldwide.
What is the antioxidant in cat claw?
Epicatechin: Cat's claw contains epicatechin, a powerful antioxidant supporting heart health that may also reduce our risk of developing diabetes.
What is the best supplement for cats claws?
Cat's claw vitamin supplements are now widely available in capsules, powders, teas, and liquid extracts. There are several varieties of cat's claw, but the two most commonly used in dietary supplements are Uncaria tomentosa and Uncaria guianensis. [1] Cat's Claw Benefits.
How did the Amazon tribes use cat claws?
For hundreds of years, Amazon tribes have had uses for cat's claw as medicine by extracting phytochemicals from the roots and bark of the cat's claw vine. The most common method of extraction was a simple boiling technique that resulted in a tea.
What is a cat's claw?
Traditionally, cat's claw uses are vast. It is believed to support good health, relieve a variety of medical conditions, and even treat specific diseases. However, only some of these cat's claw benefits are supported by scientific evidence.
Where is Cat's Claw vine native to?
What is Cat's Claw? Cat's claw vine, known scientifically as Uncaria tomentosa, is a tropical vine native to the Amazon rainforest and other Central and South American regions.
Does cat claw help with cancer?
May Help Fight Cancer. Lowers High Blood Pressure. Boosting Your Immune System. Several studies have shown that cat's claw may have the potential to increase your quantity of white blood cells [2] and therefore boost your immune system response to fight infections and viruses.
What is cat claw good for?
Cat’s claw is also incredible at fighting viruses such as Epstein-Barr virus (almost everyone has at least one of the over 60 varieties of EBV–find out more in Medical Medium Thyroid Healing: The Truth behind Hashimoto's, Graves', Insomnia, Hypothyroidism, Thyroid Nodules & Epstein-Barr. Eventually medical research will discover a group of antiviral adaptogens, and scientists will realize that cat’s claw is at the top of that list. The herb is the ultimate secret weapon for battling PANDAS (pediatric autoimmune neuropsychiatric disorders associated with streptococcal infections), ALS, strep throat, MS, mystery aches and pains, and more.
What is a cat's claw?
Cat’s claw is a tropical woody vine whose bark has been harvested for hundreds of years for medicinal purposes. Cat’s claw can aid in alleviating almost any symptom, from neurological to digestive. While cat’s claw has gotten some attention for its healing properties, it is as yet unknown to science that the herb contains bioactive pharma-compounds that supersede synthetic pharmaceuticals. All too often, antibiotics are employed against certain illnesses such as Lyme disease. The world would be a different place if cat’s claw took the place of antibiotics; the rate of illness would reduce, and recovery would quicken, regardless of the diagnosis for a given illness. Of course, pharmaceutical antibiotics have their place and purpose. Cat’s claw is unique, though, in that pathogens such as bacteria cannot become resistant to it, as they sometimes can to antibiotics. For more than three decades, I’ve espoused the miraculous healing benefits of cat’s claw because it is such an essential support for so many conditions and symptoms.
What would happen if cats claws were replaced with antibiotics?
The world would be a different place if cat’s claw took the place of antibiotics; the rate of illness would reduce, and recovery would quicken, regardless of the diagnosis for a given illness. Of course, pharmaceutical antibiotics have their place and purpose. Cat’s claw is unique, though, in that pathogens such as bacteria cannot become resistant ...
Does cat claw cause cancer?
Most cancers and tumors are caused by viruses such as EBV. Cat’s claw knocks down viruses while strengthening the immune system, making it a powerful support for cancer and tumors. To understand more about the true cause of cancers, you can read the chapter on Liver Cancer in Medical Medium Liver Rescue: Answers to Eczema, Psoriasis, Diabetes, Strep, Acne, Gout, Bloating, Gallstones, Adrenal Stress, Fatigue, Fatty Liver, Weight Issues, SIBO & Autoimmune Disease. It’s also a powerful anti-inflammatory.
Is cat claw a pharma compound?
While cat’s claw has gotten some attention for its healing properties, it is as yet unknown to science that the herb contains bioactive pharma-compounds that supersede synthetic pharmaceuticals. All too often, antibiotics are employed against certain illnesses such as Lyme disease. The world would be a different place if cat’s claw took ...
Can you take cat claws while pregnant?
Note that if you’re pregnant or trying to conceive, keep cat’s claw out of your medicinal regimen.
Can bacteria become resistant to cat claws?
Cat’s claw is unique, though, in that pathogens such as bacteria cannot become resistant to it, as they sometimes can to antibiotics. For more than three decades, I’ve espoused the miraculous healing benefits of cat’s claw because it is such an essential support for so many conditions and symptoms.
What is cat claw?
Cat’s claw has a long history of medicinal use, dating back to the Inca civilization in South America. In fact, this powerful herb boasts antiviral, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties. It offers wide ranging benefits.
Does cat claw help arthritis?
Treats Arthritis. Studies have shown that cat’s claw health benefits include the ability to treat osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis symptoms. For example, in a 2001 study, researchers found that cat’s claw was able to significantly reduce pain in patients suffering from osteoarthritis, without posing the risk of any harmful side effects.
Does cat claw extract help DNA repair?
Cat’s claw health benefits include the ability to repair DNA. In another 2001 study, researchers studied the effects of cat’s claw extract on patients who had received chemotherapy. There, they found that the herb significantly decreased DNA damage and increased DNA repair. ( 4)
Does cat claw bark help cancer?
May Help Fight Cancer. Studies suggest that cat’s claw health benefits may include the ability to help kill tumor and cancer cells. For instance, in a 2001 in vivo study, cat’s claw bark prevented the growth of a human breast cancer cell line, thanks to the antimutagenic and antiproliferative effects it had on the cancer cells. ( 3)
Does cat claw help with blood pressure?
Cat’s claw health benefits include the ability to naturally lower high blood pressure. In particular, Traditional Chinese Medicine practitioners often look to cat’s claw to help reduce blood pressure and increase circulation. Additionally, studies have shown that cat’s claw can also help prevent heart attacks and strokes by inhibiting the formation of plaque in the arteries, brain and heart. ( 5)
Does cat claw help with Crohn's disease?
( 9) 8. Improves Digestive Problems. Cat’s claw health benefits include the ability to provide relief from digestive problems, including Crohn’s disease.
What is cat claw used for?
Cat’s claw is a medicinal herb traditionally used to stimulate the immune system. Research has shown it may boost immune function, reduce inflammation, and even help with chemotherapy. Read on to discover the potential health benefits and adverse effects associated with this herb.
What is a cat's claw?
Cat’s claw can refer to Uncaria tomentosa and Uncaria guianensis. Most commercial preparations such as teas, tablets, and capsules contain U. tomentosa [ 3, 4, 2 ]. The two different types of cat’s claw contain different active compounds and have different medicinal properties.
Why is the cat's claw called that?
Indigenous cultures of South America used cat’s claw for inflammation, cancer, viral infections, ulcers, and to stimulate the immune system [ 1, 2 ]. It gets its name from its thorns, which resemble the claws of cats. Cat’s claw can refer to Uncaria tomentosa and Uncaria guianensis.
How much cat claw for knee pain?
In another trial on 95 people, a dietary supplement with 300 mg cat’s claw and 1500 mg maca improved joint pain, stiffness, and function as effectively as the more common supplement glucosamine sulfate [ 31 ].
Why should pregnant women not take cat claws?
Nausea. Diarrhea. Pregnant women should avoid using cat’s claw because of the herb’s potential to cause abortion [ 2 ]. Because cat’s claw seems to enhance the immune response by increasing the activity of immune cells, this supplement may increase the symptoms of autoimmune disorders.
What compounds are found in cat claws?
Specific compounds found in cat’s claw include: Mitraphylline: an alkaloid usually found in older leaves. It has potential anticancer effects, causing cell death in sarcoma and breast cancer cells [ 4, 8 ]. Rhynchophylline: an alkaloid isolated from the bark.
How to report cat claws?
In the US, you may report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch. In Canada, you may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345. Cat’s claw is generally considered safe.