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Cat's Claw

Cat’s claw refers to 2 dozen species of plants found in the rain forests of Peru. It gets its name because the hooks on the plants look like a cat’s claw.

The active constituents of this supplement are oxindole alkaloids derived from the bark of the root. These alkaloids are thought to stimulate the immune system. It also contains quinovic acid glycoside that may promote wound healing because of its role in reducing inflammation of wounds.

 

Claimed Health Beliefs

  • Boosts the immune system

 

Food Sources

None

 

Dosage

A recommended dose for Saventaro is 20-60mg/day (20 mg 3 times per day for 7-10 days, followed by 20mg/day as a maintenance dose).

 

Evidence for Health Beliefs

Most of the studies have used specific extract of cat’s claw called Saventaro. In vitro studies (studies done in a test tube) have shown that pentacyclic alkaloids boosts the immune system by stimulating the activity of white blood cells, which destroy pathogens.

A human study with a small group of subjects showed that supplementation with Saventaro reduced the occurrence of upper respiratory tract infections.

A study of the effects of cat’s claw on rheumatoid arthritis, showed significant reductions in pain associated with joint swelling and tenderness; however, several subjects receiving the placebo also experienced a decrease in pain. This study suggests that cat’s claw may benefit the immune system in other ways besides just stimulating the white blood cell activity.

 

Cautions

During the early use cat’s claw, some individuals might experience mild gastrointestinal bloating, diarrhea, or nausea. It is also important to note that cat’s claw and its effect on pregnancy has not been fully evaluated. Therefore, it is recommended that pregnant women or women who might become pregnant stay away from cat’s claw.

 

References

1. SupplementWatch, Inc. (2002) Supplement Decisions Made Easy. http://www.supplementwatch.com/supatoz/supplement.asp?supplementId=72 Accessed May 7, 2003.