The herb has crooked thorns that look like a cat's claw. It has recently been found in the Peruvian rain forest.
Effects
Has an immune stimulating effect. It is an antioxidant that is effective against hypersensitivity and for joint maintenance. Cat's claw may have an inhibiting effect on some cancers, but this has not been sufficiently examined in humans. The herb has been shown (experimentally) to counteract oestrogen binding to oestrogen receptors of breast cancer cells.
Precautions
You should never use herbal medicine if you suspect that your symptoms should be clarified by a doctor. If you do not feel better within a month - contact your physician, a phytotherapist, or a naturopath.
Interactions
There is a risk of interactions between Cat's claw and several type of prescription medicine.
Contraindications and special remarks
In South America, large doses of Cat's claw are used as contraception. For this reason, it should not be taken by women who plan on getting pregnant; nor during pregnancy or while breast-feeding. Patients with transplants should not use the herb.
General warnings against taking Cat's claw are giving for those suffering from autoimmune disorders (AIDS, rheumatism, Crohn's disease, etc.). However, experience from using Cat's claw does not seem to be able to confirm such warnings.
Sustained use(>8 weeks) might reduce blood levels of oestrogen and progesterone.
Side effects
Can cause diarrhoea, headache, stomach ache, and shortness of breath in some people. Can counteract pregnancy.
Dosage
1:2 extract: 3 ml. or a spoonful a day. Take it with some water. Extracts are strong - if you wish you may rinse with your favourite choice of beverage.
Dried herb: 3 - 6 g. a day.
Further fortification
Read about Andrographis paniculata, Astragalus membranaceus, Echinacea purpurea root, and/or Sambucus nigra.
