What do you need to know about the herb known in our country as cat’s claw, which originated in Peru?
What is cat’s claw?
This immune-boosting herb, which has been officially available in almost all European countries for a long time, has been a long time coming. Why has it become such a focus of interest for so many ?
Cat’s claw (Spanish: Una de gato or Latin: Uncaria tomentosa) is native to the jungles of South America, especially Peru. The plant can grow up to 20-22 metres tall and has a characteristic claw-like formation at the branching of its small branches, hence the name cat’s claw among the Peruvian Indians. In folk medicine, the inhabitants of the primeval forests used it mainly as an anti-inflammatory, to treat infections, to cure tumours and to relieve joint complaints. But it is also mentioned in several writings as a recommended herb for treating diabetes, skin inflammations, menstrual disorders and digestive ailments.
When should you be careful?
Because it reduces egg production when used in higher doses, it reduces the ability to conceive and, because it causes the uterine muscles to contract more strongly, it may increase the risk of miscarriage. It should therefore be used with limited or greater caution during pregnancy.
Who should not take it?
It may irritate the stomach lining in people with sensitive stomachs and may cause stomach pain, and should not be taken by people with or prone to ulcers. Of course, as with all plants, it can cause allergies in susceptible people, so it is definitely worth trying a very small dose before use.
As the effects of cat’s claw also have limitations, it is not recommended to omit other medicines and use only the plant without medical supervision and consultation. It is also advisable to seek the advice of a specialist when using it in combination with other preparations.