Cat’s claw is a woody vine from the Amazon rainforest, named for the small, curved thorns at the base of its leaves that resemble a cat’s claws. For centuries, indigenous cultures in South America have used the plant’s root and bark for medicinal purposes. This long history has prompted modern interest, leading to its availability as a popular herbal supplement.
Traditional and Modern Applications
Indigenous peoples of the Amazon, such as the Asháninka in Peru, have a rich history of using cat’s claw. They traditionally prepared it by boiling the inner bark or root to create a medicinal drink. It was used for a wide range of health issues, including inflammation, fevers, digestive problems like gastric ulcers, and as a general health tonic.
The most researched contemporary uses for cat’s claw focus on inflammatory conditions like osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Some studies suggest that certain extracts can help reduce pain associated with these conditions. For example, one study involving individuals with osteoarthritis of the knee found that taking 100 mg of a specific cat’s claw extract daily for four weeks led to reduced pain during physical activity.
Another modern application is supporting the immune system. Preliminary research indicates that cat’s claw might help stimulate certain white blood cells, which are part of the body’s defense mechanisms. It is also used for other conditions based on its traditional history, such as digestive complaints including colitis and gastritis, although more scientific investigation is needed. Two primary species, Uncaria tomentosa and Uncaria guianensis, are used, with most research focusing on U. tomentosa.
Active Compounds and How They Work
The effects of cat’s claw are attributed to active compounds in its bark and root. The most studied are alkaloids, specifically pentacyclic oxindole alkaloids (POAs) and tetracyclic oxindole alkaloids (TOAs). These compounds are responsible for the herb’s immune-modulating effects, with POAs in particular appearing to support the cellular immune system.
Another class of compounds in cat’s claw is polyphenols, such as proanthocyanidins, which have antioxidant activity. Antioxidants work by neutralizing unstable molecules called free radicals that can cause cellular damage, which helps protect cells.
The anti-inflammatory properties are linked to the herb’s ability to inhibit certain biological pathways. Research suggests that extracts can suppress the activation of a protein called nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB). NF-κB plays a role in regulating the immune response to inflammation, so by inhibiting it, cat’s claw may help reduce the production of inflammatory signaling molecules like tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha).
Forms and Recommended Dosage
Cat’s claw is commercially available as capsules and tablets, which contain dried bark or a concentrated extract. It is also sold as a liquid extract, or tincture, that can be added to beverages. For a more traditional method, dried, shredded inner bark is available for brewing into a tea.
There is no universally established dosage, as recommendations vary by product form and concentration. For capsules with dried bark, daily doses range from 300 to 500 mg, sometimes divided throughout the day. For concentrated extracts, the dosage is lower, with some studies using 20 to 100 mg per day for specific conditions like arthritis.
When using a liquid tincture, a common dose is 1 mL taken one to three times daily. Because of the variability between products, it is best to follow the dosage instructions provided on the product’s label. Consulting with a healthcare provider can also help determine an appropriate amount.
Safety Considerations and Interactions
While cat’s claw is considered safe for short-term use, some individuals may experience mild side effects. The most reported issues are digestive in nature, such as nausea, stomach upset, or diarrhea. Dizziness and headache have also been reported.
Certain populations should avoid using cat’s claw due to potential risks or a lack of safety information. This includes:
- Pregnant and breastfeeding women.
- Individuals with autoimmune diseases, such as multiple sclerosis (MS) or lupus.
- People with bleeding disorders.
- Those with low blood pressure.
- Anyone scheduled for surgery, as it may affect blood pressure and clotting.
The herb can interact with several types of medications. Anyone taking prescription drugs should consult their healthcare provider before using cat’s claw, especially if taking:
- Blood thinners (anticoagulants), due to an increased risk of bleeding.
- Blood pressure medications, as it may cause blood pressure to drop too low.
- Drugs that suppress the immune system (immunosuppressants).
- Certain medications used to treat HIV.