Cat's Claw

Overview – Not from any affinity to feline paws was this herb named. Instead, it is a vine,
originating from the Brazilian Amazon and other surrounding South and Central American areas,
shaped like a claw. Cat’s Claw (Uncaria tormentosa or Uncaria guianensis) is one of the most
diverse herbs in terms of the ailments it can treat and is an ancient remedy that dates back to the
American pre-Columbian societies.

It has powerful antioxidant properties and it is especially recommended for those with ailments of
the intestinal tract since it also has a detoxifying effect on the body. It is also a potent anti-
inflammatory. A study conducted by The University of Tennessee found that Cat’s Claw “exerts
anti-inflammatory activity through mechanisms involving inhibition of the pro-inflammatory
transcription factor kappa B.” Thus, it can be used to treat Rheumatoid Arthritis and ostroarthritis
since symptoms of both of these ailments include inflammation.

In regards to its anti-cancerous properties, the Austrian Medical University of Graz showed that
Uncaria tormentosa had “antiproliferative and pro-apoptotic effects…these promising results
indicate the growth-restraining and apoptotic potential of plant extracts against neuroendocrine
tumors, which may add existing therapies for cancer.”

What Cat’s Claw Can Treat – HIV, Cancer, Autoimmune Disorders, Inflammation, Ulcer, Tumor,
Fatigue, Lyme Disease, Bacterial Infections, Viral Infections, Herpes, Alzheimer’s Disease,
Arthritis, Osteoarthritis, High Blood Pressure (Hypertension), Knee Pain, Chron’s Disease, Celiac
Disease, Cirrhosis, Hemorrhaging

Treatment and Dosage – Cat’s Claw is commonly found as a supplement in capsule or liquid
form, as well as tea. In capsule form it is recommended to take a supplement containing 1,000-
1,200 mg per day. Do not exceed this dosage because Cat’s Claw is a very powerful herb.

To make the tea, boil one gram of the root bark in water and drink one to three mugs per day.

How it Works – Cat’s claw works to open up blood vessels so that blood can flow more freely,
thus benefiting those with hypertension. It also is an antioxidant that fights free radical cells,
preventing cancerous or tumor-inducing cells from spreading.

Cat’s Claw, as an added bonus, has an enzyme that is vital for the conversion of saturated fats to
unsaturated fats. This herb also contains other substances such as tannins and sterols

Toxicity – Pregnant or nursing women should not take Cat’s Claw. Do not take this herb for at
least 14 days before surgery since it can thin the blood.

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