• used to ease the pain associated with osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis
• used adjunctively to ease symptoms associated with inflammatory bowel conditions such as Crohn’s, colitis, diverticulitis, and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
• used as a general daily tonic (to tone, balance, and strengthen all body functions)
• used as an adjunctive therapy for cancer, to reduce side effects of chemotherapy and protect cells
• used as an immunostimulant
A tonic and restorative, cat’s claw is one of the most significant medicinal herbs to have come to us from the indigenous peoples of the Amazon rainforest. Its therapeutic qualities first came to the attention of Western researchers in the early 1970s.
Since then scientists have discovered that even in small amounts, the oxindole alkaloids in this plant enhance immune function by as much as 50%.
This has led to its use as an adjuvant treatment for cancer and AIDS. In her classic work on the herbs of the rainforest, Leslie Taylor points out that five of the oxindole alkaloids in this herb “have been clinically documented with in vitro antileukemic properties, and various root and bark extracts have demonstrated antitumorous and antimutagenic properties.” In 2001, for example, Italian scientists reported that cat’s claw pushed back the growth of human breast cancer cells by 90%.
No less remarkable are the powerful antiinflammatory properties of cat’s claw, which arise from phytochemical compounds called quinovic acid glycosides, first discovered in 1991. As Taylor points out, subsequent studies indicate that, “cat’s claw (and, especially its glycosides) could inhibit inflammation from 46% and up to 89% in various in vivo and in vitro tests. The results of these studies validated its long history of indigenous use for arthritis and rheumatism, as well as for other types of inflammatory stomach and bowel disorders.”
A randomized control trial conducted by Peruvian researchers in 2001 affirms that cat’s claw is an effective antioxidant and concludes that it “has enjoyed a remarkable clinical experience in South America, and it is highly regarded for the treatment of chronic inflammation…this Amazonian botanical not only treats the arthritic disease process but also reduces the toxic side effects of the current standard pharmaceuticals used in the management of arthritis.”
Administration:
25-50 drops (0.8-1.7ml) three to four times daily, in a mouthful of water, on an empty stomach.
Contraindications and Cautions:
Do not use if pregnant or breastfeeding. Do not take this product if you are scheduled for a bone marrow transplant, have received an organ transplant or skin graft, or have tuberculosis. Consult a health care practitioner prior to use if you are taking blood thinners or immunosuppressant medications or if you are trying to conceive a child.
Available in bottle sizes of 50ml, 100ml, and 250ml.
A NOTE ON TINCTURES
Tinctures are more readily absorbed by the body and have a high degree of bio-availability. As well, they have a long shelf life.
Sometimes people ask us why tinctures are alcohol-based. There are very good reasons. Alcohol is critically important in the extraction of an herb's medicinal ingredients. It also helps to stabilize and preserve them. Alcohol is the ideal carrier substance, conveying the therapeutic goodness of the herb to the body. In itself, too, science has proven that alcohol enhances the immune system and its defences.
As for the amount of alcohol taken in an average dose of tincture, you'll be surprised to learn that it's about the same as what you'd find in an overly ripe banana!
Tinctures remain the most practical way to take advantage of the amazing, health-giving power of herbs.
Ingredients:
Wildcrafted
Cat's Claw
(Uncaria tomentosa) |
