Benefits
Immune System
Recent research showed that Cat’s Claw supplementation for six months significantly increased men’s white blood cells fighting infection. Researchers noted that DNA was repaired, both in single-strand and double-strand breaks.
The effect of Cat’s Claw on the immune response is dual, as it can either boost or dampen the immune response depending on your needs. Cat’s Claw can help to control hyperimmune reactions, while a weaker immune system that allows diseases to progress unimpeded is strengthened.
Arthritis Relief
Cat’s Claw has been shown in multiple studies to improve the symptoms of osteoarthritis, rheumatoid, and other types of arthritis. In 2001, 45 osteoarthritis patients were randomly assigned to receive Cat’s Claw for four weeks or a placebo. The researchers found “pain related to activity, pain assessment, and medical scores significantly decreased within the first seven days of treatment.” A study in the Journal of Rheumatology found that Cat’s Claw treatment resulted, after 24 weeks of therapy, in a significant reduction of the number of painful joints compared to the placebo.
It is believed that the Cat’s Claw strain containing pentacyclic alkaloids, which are immune modulators, has this effect.
Low Blood Pressure
Traditional Chinese Medicine has used Cat’s Claw to treat high pressure for centuries. Studies now support that that attribute the plant’s blood pressure-controlling ability to a particular alkaloid called hirsutism. The health-promoting alkaloid hirsute is a calcium blocker. The effect of this alkaloid is to lower blood pressure. It prevents calcium from reaching the walls and cells of blood vessels and the heart while also widening and relaxing the blood vessels. The blood will flow more smoothly and efficiently.
Digestive Health
The versatile herb also helps to detoxify the intestinal tract and replenish the beneficial bacteria. Cat’s Claw, a potent anti-inflammatory herb, is also believed to combat the inflammation associated with many gastrointestinal issues.
The drug is used for a variety of digestive problems including IBS, IBD, and colitis.
History and folklore
Cat’s Claw represents the Ashaninka Indians’ culture. Every adult member of the tribe traditionally carries a small woven bag with the bark. They revere the plant and what it did for their ancestors. Ashaninka is an Amazonian tribe that lives in deep jungles, away from other tribes and habitation. The Ashaninka are believed to have taught other Amazonian Indians about this incredible plant.
Father Edmund Szeliga, a Polish missionary, observed that Uncaria tomentosa was just as sacred to the Incans as it is today to the Ashaninka. They consider it a forest deity called Kug-Kukjagui, the father of other forest gods. Incan royals thought Cats Claw to be only for royals. The roots, leaves, and bark are used in concoctions. But the vine can also be bent to create baskets and furniture Magnificent Properties of Cat’s Claw.
Cats Claw remains a significant source of income for the Ashaninka Indians.
Use of Traditional Methods
Cat’s Claw is a long-established traditional medicine used in the Andes. It has been used to treat wounds, inflammation, dysentery, and intestinal problems.
For 1000 years, tribes in the Amazon used this vine to maintain good health. It is a natural tonic for anyone to use. The modern scientific community has validated its reputation as an “all-in-one” herb. Numerous studies have been conducted on the active compounds, shedding light on this ancient plant.
Use Typical
Uncaria tomentosa bark is considered the most valuable part of this tree. The leaves and roots contain significant amounts of phytochemicals but are not as concentrated as the bark.
The bark is traditionally made into tea or powder and consumed for a period depending on the illness.
Constituents
Cats Claw contains a variety of phytochemicals, including oxindole alkaloids, glycosides, quinovic acids, antioxidants, and plant sterols. These elements are believed to be responsible for Cats Claw’s benefits.
Ajmalicine (ajmalicine), akuammigine (akuammigine), campesterol(catechin), carboxy alkyl ester, citronaine, corynantheine/corynoxeine/corynantheine/corynoxeine/epicatechin, Harman(epicatechin), hirsute/hirsute/iso-pteropodine/organic acid/glycoside
Take Precautions
If you are taking blood thinners, do not use Cat’s Claw. The tannins present in large quantities of bark can upset the stomach. It is best to increase your dose to reduce the detoxification symptoms gradually. Cat’s Claw should not be taken if surgery is scheduled.
