Health Benefits of Cats Claw

Cats Claw is commonly known as Una de Gato and is used extensively in Peruvian medicine. This vine is native to South and Central American tropical rainforest. Both the species of cat’s claw namely, Uncaria tomentosa and Uncaria guianensis, have different properties and different medicinal uses according to it. It is popular for curing a variety of health problems like stomach problems, arthritis and cancer. It is also seen that the roots and bark of this plant strengthen the immune system. These parts are mainly used by making medicine. This herb has anti-inflammatory properties along with strong healing properties. This herb is one of the most bestselling herbs in United States of America.

Primary Use of this Herb

Cats claw is very popularly used for curing digestive problems. It is also known to possess anti-inflammatory properties.

Chemical and Nutrient content in Cats Claw

Cat’s Claw has the following chemical compounds in it:

• Pentacyclic oxindole alkaloids
• Tetra cyclic oxindole alkaloids
• Mitraphylline
• Speciophylline
• Hirsutine
• Isopteropodine
• Quinovic acid glycosides

Health Benefits of Cat’s Claw

1. Known to cure arthritis

   Due to its anti-inflammatory properties, cat’s claw is known to cure disorders like arthritis naturally.

2. Fights cancer

   Studies show that cat’s claw effectively reduces the growth of cancer and tumor cells, thereby reducing the effect of cancer. It also reduces fatigue in cancer patients.

3. Lowers blood pressure

   Due to the presence of hirsutine compound in Cat’s Claw, this herb has the ability to reduce the blood pressure and keep it in control. This helps in maintaining the blood circulation in a healthy manner.

4. Boosts immunity

   It is seen that cat’s claw can significantly increase the number of white blood cells in our body, which helps one in fighting against infections and diseases. Therefore, it boosts immunity.

5. Helps in HIV treatment

   As cat’s claw increases immunity, it is chosen as a dietary supplement for people who have serious HIV infections.

6. Cures herpes

   The herpes virus stays in a person’s blood for lifetime and so cat’s claw is taken so that it strengthens the immune system and kills the herpes virus.

7. Keeps digestive system healthy

   Crohn’s disease is a disease that causes inflammation in the lining of digestive tract and leads to pain in abdomen. Cat’s claw is taken in case of such a disease as it is known to possess anti-inflammatory properties.

How to Use:

• Cat’s claw can be taken in the form of tea, which is made from inner bark of the vine.
• Cat’s claw is also available in the form of liquid, tablet and capsules which are available in any medical store.

Caution

Normally, this herb is harmless, but when it is taken in huge amounts, one can suffer through dizziness, nausea and diarrhea. So, it is very necessary to take cat’s claw only after consulting a doctor.