Cat's Claw

Cat's claw is derived from a woody vine native to South America. The leaves of the vine grow small thorns at the base that resemble the claws of a feline. Extract of the herb come from the bark, leaf or root. The plant grows primarily in the Amazon and thrives in Peru where over twenty species of the vine are evident. Not all of these are safe for consumption.
How can I get cat's claw?

Cat's claw is packaged in many different ways including powders, liquids, tinctures, teas and pills. The bark and leaves themselves are available for purchase in some specialty herb shops.

A common oral dose is 500-1000 milligrams taken three times a day. Teas come with separate instructions.

Why should I take cat's claw?

People commonly take cat's claw to combat stomach inflammation. It eases the symptoms of Crohn's disease, ulcers and dysentery. Some herbalists prescribe cat’s claw as a contraceptive but its effectiveness in this arena is under debate. Aches and pains resulting from arthritis and rheumatism can be eased with cat's claw.

Preliminary studies show cat's claw may soon prove useful in fighting leukemia, cancer, herpes and even HIV. Researchers are developing new studies to test the veracity of this belief.

Does cat's claw have any dangers?

Cat's claw thins the blood and can cause fatigue and dizziness. Under no circumstances should you combine cat's claw with commercial blood thinners. Further, avoid using cat's claw before a skin graft, organ transplant, or if you suffer from hemophilia and other blood clotting disorders.

Pregnant or breast feeding women should not take cat's claw.

If bruising or rash occurs while using cat's claw, discontinue use and consult a doctor.

Cat's claw should not be used as birth control without a second contraceptive.

How much about cat's claw is certain?

While further research and testing may lead to having cat's claw become an essential part of treatment for serious diseases such as cancer and HIV, these hypotheses have not yet been proven. Until studies show exactly how effective it is, stick to mainstream remedies for such serious conditions. That said, cat’s claw has been proven effective against inflammation.