Cat’s Claw is a vine that grows in the Peruvian rainforests of South America. It is referred to by some cultures as the “Sacred Herb of the Rain Forest,” and in Peru it is protected as a valuable medicinal resource. It gets its name from the small thorns at the base of the leaves that look like a cat’s claw. Cat’s Claw has been used by for hundreds of years for wide variety of ailments.
Some of the alkaloids in Cat’s Claw have been proven to boost the immune system. One of its major alkaloids, rhynchophylline, may reduce the risk of stroke and heart attack by lowering blood pressure, increasing circulation, reducing heart rate and controlling cholesterol. It also contains constituents with anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anticancer properties.
Cat’s Claw has long been used to provide help for intestinal ailments such as Crohn’s disease, gastric ulcers and tumors, parasites, colitis, diverticulitis, and leaky bowel syndrome. It has also been used to help with such conditions as arthritis and rheumatism, diabetes, PMS, chronic fatigue syndrome, lupus, and prostate problems. Its stimulating affects on the immune system can also improve the bodys response to viral and respiratory infections and has made it a prominent herb currently being studied for use in the treatment of HIV/AIDS.
Cat’s Claw should not be used by individuals with skin grafts or tuberculosis or by those receiving organ transplants. In theory, it should not be taken by anyone taking immunosuppressive medications because of its stimulating affects on the immune system. (Sufficient scientific research has not been done to properly test this theory). Pregnant or breastfeeding women and children should not use Cat’s Claw, without first consulting their nutritional oriented healthcare provider.
Discuss the benefits of Cat’s Claw with your healthcare provider, to learn more about how it may help you. [Copyright © 2004 World Image Naturals™, Inc. www.worldimagenaturals.com ]
