Cat’s Claw | HerbaZest

Health Benefits of Cat’s Claw

Cat’s claw’s properties include anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective, antioxidant, and immunomodulatory actions, which have been used in traditional Amazonian medicine for centuries. Modern scientific studies have validated some of these applications. Cat’s claw’s benefits have been shown effective for:

While traditionally used for treating a variety of health conditions, some medicinal applications of cat’s claw require further research. However, preliminary studies suggests that cat’s claw may be useful for:

• Treating dengue fever. Cat’s claw’s immunoprotective effects may help fight this tropical disease as well as other viral infections.

• Repairing skin damage. Thanks to its antioxidants and other supporting compounds, it has been shown that cat’s claw may prevent cell damage from UV radiation.³

• Preventing degenerative diseases. The alkaloids contained in cat’s claw bark are thought to be responsible for the herb’s beneficial effect on memory impairment, helping prevent the onset of dementia and Parkinson’s disease.

• Eliminating bacteria. Cat’s claw’s antimicrobial properties have been found useful in root canal treatments and other bacterial infections.⁴

How It Works

Recent research into the mechanisms behind cat’s claw’s health benefits has revealed several potent phytocompounds, mainly uncarines, a type of oxindole alkaloids, which have been shown to modulate the immune response and exert neuroprotective effects. Proanthocyanidins, a class of antioxidants, as well as phenolic acids are believed to be behind cat’s claw’s anti-inflammatory properties.

Anti-inflammatory properties are also present in devil’s claw, dog rose, nettle, sweet birch, and turmeric, whereas broccoli, cherry, cabbage, echinacea, and the tea plant have the ability to enhance and protect immunity.

Cat’s Claw Side Effects

While cat’s claw toxicity has not been extensively studied, it appears to have few side effects. Some people have reported nausea, dizziness, and diarrhea while taking cat’s claw. These side effects go away in many people after their body gets used to the herb.

Cautions

Though cat’s claw appears to be generally safe, moderation should be exercised, and women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should avoid it. People with chronic health conditions, such as autoimmune diseases, skin grafts, kidney or liver disease, tuberculosis, leukemia, or low blood pressure, should refrain from taking this herb.

Cat’s claw bark may interact with some prescribed drugs, such as immunosuppressants, blood thinners, diuretics, and blood pressure medications.