Cat's Claw

What is Cats Claw? 

Otherwise known as the ‘Healing Vine of Peru’, Cat’s claw has become very popular with herbalists because of its many therapeutic effects. The plant grows naturally in Peru and is a protected plant there. Cat’s claw is a native of the Amazonian rainforests and is found in tropical climates. The peculiar name is indicative of the hook like thorns growing along the vine that looks very much like a cat’s claw. 

Cat’s claw is a woody vine, the roots of which can grow to be as big as a watermelon. The plant is difficult to cultivate though it is grown in large quantities in Peru. It is easier to grow the plant from cuttings than from seeds.

Can I use Cats Claw?

Indigenous people have been using the herb traditionally for a variety of health problems like fevers, arthritis, sexually transmitted diseases and even cancer. The herb was supposed to aid family planning because large doses of the herb were believed to cause temporary infertility in women.

As more and more benefits of the herb began pouring in, some research has been conducted into the medicinal value of this plant. One of the primary findings is that the herb does contain substances that help to boost the immune system of the body. This is attributed to the presence of alkaloids in the herb. These substances also have a soothing effect and are supposed to reduce blood pressure and thus reduce the occurrence of heart attacks and high levels of cholesterol in the blood. It also helps improve blood circulation and is therefore considered healthy for the heart. Research also shows that Cat’s claw can effectively scavenge free radicals and may help in destroying cancerous growth.

Traditional herbalists are now recommending the use of this herb to treat disorders of the immune system like HIV/AIDS. Inflammatory disorders like viral diseases, ulcers, Crohn’s Disease and gastrointestinal illnesses can be controlled using Cat’s claw.

Homeopathy uses Cat’s claw to treat patients suffering from Leaky Bowel Syndrome and colitis. It is commonly believed that because of its ability to stimulate the immune system, Cat’s claw may also help the body fight viral infections. Some people even go so far as to consider Cat’s claw as important to good health as garlic and ginseng.

Different forms of Cats Claw 

Because of its various medicinal properties, Cat’s claw is available in various forms. It can be taken as a supplement, where its roots and/or stem are cut, dried and sifted. It is also available in the form of capsules, tinctures and tablets. It is also possible to make a tea of the bark of the plant by boiling it with water for about 10-15 minutes.

Cats Claw cautions 

Since there is no study into its possible side effects, it is advised that children, pregnant women and nursing mothers avoid taking Cat's claw. Due to this herbs ability to stimulate the immune system, people suffering from immune disorders should avoid it as well. Thus patients with tuberculosis and multiple sclerosis need to stay away from Cat's Claw. The tannins in this herb may also cause mild gastrointestinal discomforts and diarrhea.