Herbs ~ Cat's Claw (Uncaria tomentosa, U. guianensis)

• AM/PM 21 DAY HERBAL CLEANSING

In Germany and Austria, physicians prescribe cat's claw to stimulate the immune response in cancer patients, many of whom may be weakened by chemotherapy, radiation, or other conventional cancer treatments. Several compounds in the herb-some of which have been studied for decades-may account for its cancer fighting and immune boosting effects. In the 1970s, researchers reported that the inner bark and root contain compounds called procyanidolic oligomers (PCOs), which inhibit tumors in animals. In the 1980s, German scientists identified other compounds in cat's claw that enhance the immune system, in part by stimulating immune cells called phagocytes that engulf and devour viruses, bacteria, and other disease-causing microorganisms. Then, in 1993, an Italian study detected another class of compounds, called quinovic acid glycosides, that have multiple benefits. These act as antioxidants, ridding the body of cell-damaging molecules called free radicals. They also kill viruses, reduce inflammation, and inhibit the transformation of normal cells into cancerous ones.

In addition to its antitumor potential, cat's claw may be of value in combating stubborn infections such as sinusitis.

Traditionally the herb has been relied on to treat pain. Because of its anti-inflammatory properties, it may be effective in relieving joint pain caused by arthritis or gout. additional studies are needed, however, to define the precise role that cat's claw plays in treating arthritis and other inflammatory complaints.

Some preliminary reports found that cat's claw, in conjunctions with conventional AIDS drugs, may benefit people infected with HIV, because it seems to boost the immune response; further studies are necessary. some experts caution against taking the herb for chronic conditions affecting the immune system, including tuberculosis, multiple sclerosis, and rheumatoid arthritis, because they believe it may over stimulate the immune system and make symptoms worse. Other doctors, however, recommend it for autoimmune disorders, including rheumatoid arthritis and lupus. More research must be undertaken.

You can combine or rotate cat's claw with other immune-stimulating herbs, such as echinacea, goldenseal, reishi and maitake mushrooms, astragalus, or pau d'arco.

Pregnant or nursing women should avoid cat's claw, In Peru, cat's claw has been long valued as a contraceptive; in animals, it stimulates uterine contractions. This effect suggest the herb could induce a miscarriage.