Parts used and where grown: Cat’s claw grows in the rain forests of the Andes Mountains in South America, particularly in Peru. The two species of the plant used most commonly are U. tomentosa, which makes up most of the cat’s claw imported to the U.S., and U. guianensis, which is more widely used in Europe. In South America, both species are used interchangeably. The root bark is used as medicine.
Cat’s claw has been used in connection with the following conditions (refer to the individual health concern for complete information):
| Rating | Health Concerns |
|---|---|
 |
HIV
support Immune function Osteoarthritis Rheumatoid arthritis |
Reliable and relatively consistent scientific data showing a substantial health benefit. Contradictory, insufficient, or preliminary
studies suggesting a health benefit or minimal health benefit. An herb is primarily supported by traditional use,
or the herb or supplement has little scientific support and/or minimal health benefit. |
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Historical or traditional use (may or may not be supported by scientific studies): Cat’s claw has been reportedly used by indigenous peoples in the Andes to treat inflammation, rheumatism, gastric ulcers, tumors, dysentery, and as birth control.1 Cat’s claw is popular in South American folk medicine for treating intestinal complaints, gastric ulcers, arthritis, and to promote wound healing.
Active constituents: According to test tube studies, oxyindole alkaloids in cat’s claw stimulate immune function.2 Alkaloids and glycosides in cat’s claw have also demonstrated anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activity.3 4
Although clinical trials are lacking, cat’s claw has become very popular in North America and is sometimes recommended for people with cancer or HIV infection. A cigarette smoker who took a freeze-dried extract of cat’s claw root bark for one month showed a sharp decrease in one urinary cancer marker.5 This finding, however, does little to support the use of the herb in persons with cancer and points toward the need for actual clinical studies to determine its effectiveness.
A standardized extract of cat’s claw has been tested in preliminary trials in people infected with HIV, showing some benefits in preventing CD4 cell counts from dropping and preventing opportunistic infections.6 7 Further study is needed to determine if cat’s claw is truly of long-term benefit in people with HIV infection or AIDS.
Cat’s claw has not been studied for relieving osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis, though it is considered a traditional remedy for these conditions.
How much is usually taken? Cat’s claw tea is prepared from 1/4 teaspoon (1 gram) of root bark by adding 1 cup (250 ml) of water and boiling for ten to fifteen minutes. Cool, strain and drink one cup three times per day. Alternatively, 1/4–1/2 teaspoon (1–2 ml) of tincture can be taken up to two times per day, or 20–60 mg of a dry standardized extract can be taken once per day.8
Are there any side effects or interactions? Although no serious adverse effects have been reported for cat’s claw, there is little known about its safety because most reports have been based on anecdotal evidence. Cat’s claw should be used with caution in people with autoimmune illness, multiple sclerosis, and tuberculosis. Until proven safe, cat’s claw should not be taken by pregnant or breast-feeding women.
References:
1. Foster S. Herbs for Your Health. Loveland, CO: Interweave Press, 1996, 18–9.
2. Keplinger H. Oxyindole alkaloids having properties stimulating the immunologic system and preparation containing same. US Patent no. 5,302,611, April 12, 1994.
3. Aquino R, De Feo V, De Simone F, et al. Plant metabolites, new compounds and antiinflammatory activity of Uncaria tomentosa. J Nat Prod 1991;54:453–9.
4. Rizzi R, Re F, Bianchi A, et al. Mutagenic and antimutagenic activities of Uncaria tomentosa and its extracts. J Ethnopharmacol 1993;38:63–77.
5. Rizzi R, Re F, Bianchi A, et al. Mutagenic and antimutagenic activities of Uncaria tomentosa and its extracts. J Ethnopharmacol 1993;38:63–77.
6. Keplinger UM. Influence of Krallendorn extract on retroviral infection. Zürcher AIDS Kongress Zurich, Switzerland, Oct 16–7, 1992 [abstract] [in German].
7. Keplinger UM. Therapy of HIV-infected individuals in the pathological categories CDC A1 and CDC B2 with a preparation containing IMM-207. IV. Österreichischer AIDS-Kongress, Vienna, Austria, Sept 17–8, 1993, 45 [abstract].
8. Foster S. Herbs for Your Health. Loveland, CO: Interweave Press, 1996, 18–9.
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The information presented in VitaminLore Online is for informational purposes only. It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro), clinical experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may not necessarily occur in all individuals. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with prescription or over-the-counter medication is also available. Consult your doctor, practitioner, and/or pharmacist for any health problem and before using any supplements or before making any changes in prescribed medications. Information expires December 2006.
