How to Use the Cat's Claw Herb

Cat's claw is an herb that comes from a vine grown in tropical rainforests and jungles of Asia and South America. Scientific research and world studies on this herb haven't been around very long, but what has been found in it has proven to be very promising, and many cultures in areas of its origin have been using it medicinally for many centuries. The cat's claw herb is full of many types of phytochemicals, including alkaloids and tannins, which provide many different types of benefits to the body. The main things it has proven to be useful for are bolstering the immune system, greatly easing or ridding of gastrointestinal problems, and anti-inflammation. Listed below are some specifics for each category.

- The Immune System: Plenty of evidence has shown that cat's claw is a great natural immune system booster, with its alkaloidal and antioxidant properties. In this it not only helps strength the body's defenses against future problems, but it helps in fighting against infections and viruses that are already there.

- Gastrointestinal Issues: Studies have shown that cat's claw works in clearing the intestinal tract of toxins and bad bacteria, thus easing the pain of or even helping to eliminate many intestinal and stomach problems. Such problems may include gastritis, gastric ulcers, Chrohn's disease, colitis, and irritable bowel syndrome. Cat's claw has also been shown to replenish the good bacteria necessary for a healthy body. The same good bacteria that conventional antibiotics tend to destroy along with the bad bacteria.

- Anti-Inflammatory: Many studies have also proven the herb to be very effective when it comes to arthritis and rheumatism, and in both humans and animals have reduced swelling from all kinds of inflammation (not just arthritis) greatly. In some animals it reduced it by half!

- Anti-Hypertensive: Cat's claw also has a good effect on hypertension - it has been known to reduce cholesterol and overall blood pressure, which improves all-around circulation and leads to the prevention of heart attack and stroke.

- Other Uses: Many studies are still going on when it comes to this herb, which has also shown promise for more advanced diseases, such as diabetes, lupus, cancer, and even HIV.

How to Use

Cat's claw is readily available in most countries in the form of pills, tinctures or tea. Pill form usually comes in 400-500 mg capsules, and generally is taken once a day. In some countries, such as Australia and Germany, cat's claw requires a prescription from a doctor to use. There has never been any documented case of someone overdosing on the herb, but since there hasn't been many years of study on it its recommended to be cautionary with it if you are taking other herbs or medications. If you are already on a prescription, you should talk to your doctor before taking cat's claw. Pregnant or nursing mothers should not take cat's claw at all.