Rainforest vine could aid immune system
The name “cat’s claw” refers to about 20 plant species native to the rain forests of Central and South America. The climbing, woody vines, called una de gato in Spanish, are named for their claw-like thorns. Just two cat’s claw species -- Uncaria tomentosa and Uncaria guianensis -- have reputed therapeutic value.
*
For the record:
12:00 a.m. March 31, 2004 For The Record
Los Angeles Times Wednesday March 31, 2004 Home Edition Main News Part A Page 2 National Desk 2 inches; 63 words Type of Material: Correction
Cat’s claw -- The Supplements column in Monday’s Health section incorrectly stated that people with autoimmune diseases should avoid cat’s claw, a supplement recommended by some herbalists to treat rheumatoid arthritis and other conditions. It should have said that people being treated for autoimmune diseases (such as rheumatoid arthritis) should check with their doctors before taking the herb to avoid possible drug interactions.
For The Record
Los Angeles Times Monday April 05, 2004 Home Edition Health Part F Page 5 Features Desk 2 inches; 64 words Type of Material: Correction
Cat’s claw -- The Supplements column in last Monday’s Health section incorrectly stated that people with autoimmune diseases should avoid cat’s claw, a supplement recommended by some herbalists to treat rheumatoid arthritis and other conditions. It should have said that people being treated for autoimmune diseases (such as rheumatoid arthritis) should check with their doctors before taking the herb to avoid possible drug interactions.
Uses: Indigenous people in the Amazon have long used cat’s claw to treat arthritis, ulcers, tumors and gastrointestinal conditions. More recently, herbalists have recommended the herb to treat osteoarthritis of the knee and rheumatoid arthritis; reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke; and stimulate the immune system, especially in AIDS patients.
Dose: Daily, 60 to 1,000 milligrams a day in pill form; 3 to 6 milliliters of liquid tincture; or 1 to 3 cups of tea made from a gram of boiled root. Most commercial cat’s claw supplements contain U. tomentosa.
Precautions: People with autoimmune diseases or those awaiting organ transplants should avoid the herb. Some preparations can cause mild nausea, dizziness or diarrhea. High doses can result in easy bruising and steep drops in blood pressure.
Research: Animal studies show that some components of U. tomentosa can dilate blood vessels, lower blood pressure and heart rate and reduce inflammation. Lab research suggests the herb can stop or slow the growth of several types of cancer. In a few preliminary human studies, cat’s claw alleviated pain caused by osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, improved immune function and reduced ulcer symptoms.
Dietary supplement makers are not required by the U.S. government to demonstrate that their products are safe or effective. Ask your health-care provider for advice on selecting a brand.
*
-- Elena Conis
