Cat’s claw or uncaria tomentosa: a medicinal plant against cancer

What is cat’s claw

The cat’s claws are a genus of plants of which two species stand out: Uncaria guianensis and Uncaria tomentosa. The one with older medicinal applications it is the second, a liana up to 30 meters long, with branches armed with large thorns and lanceolate leaves.

In humid tropical forests, on poorly drained land or in the proximity of river courses, from Panama to Bolivia and Brazil, this genus of plants grows, well known and used by the indigenous peoples of the area, who have spent centuries using its bark to relieve digestive problemsdiarrhea, gastritis, joint inflammationslittle ones tumorswounds, hemorrhoids and viral infections like herpes.

Cat’s claw medicinal properties

The knowledge of shamans has not gone unnoticed by pharmacological research, and cat’s claw has been subjected to Clinical studies who have highlighted their anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antiviral and immunostimulant properties. The effectiveness of the cat’s claw extract to stimulate the white blood cell generation and strengthen the immune response.

Alkaloids such as yohimbine, oxindolic acids, quinvovic acid, polyphenols, tannins, etc. have been isolated in its composition. It is distributed powdereddry and liquid extract, dry bark for decoction, alcoholic tincture and capsules.

What is cat’s claw used for?

In colon and breast cancer: cat’s claw extract It is indicated as a natural support for reduce the side effects of chemotherapy. Its activity has also been explored to inhibit cancer cells in breast and colon tumors.To strengthen the immune system: as an immune stimulant it is used, at a preventive and palliative level, in allergic rhinitis, asthmatic and flu processes, states of weakness and convalescence, and viral infections like herpes, or fungal such as candida and other mycoses.As a diuretic: in case of fluid retention, kidney stones and to prevent urinary infections such as cystitis, ureteritis or prostatitis.As an anti-inflammatory: is used mostly in rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis and gout.

How to take cat’s claw

To stimulate the defenses

Cat’s claw as an immune stimulant it is taken in powder (dissolve a level teaspoon in yogurt or water, twice a day) or the decoction of the bark (Boil one tablespoon per half liter of water for 5 minutes, let it rest for 10, strain and drink during the day, with a few drops of lemon juice. lemon).

Infusion with cat’s claw for rheumatic pain

Cat’s claw is combined with other anti-inflammatory plants such as devil’s claw and the calagualaand star anise to improve the flavor, all in equal parts.

How to prepare it: Boil one tablespoon per half liter of water for five minutes, leave it to rest for 10 and strain. It can be drunk during the day.

Cat’s Claw Precautions, Contraindications, and Interactions

It is contraindicated in the pregnancy, lactation and in children under 12 years of age. if antacids are takenand consult with the doctor if other treatments are followed, as it can show drug interactions such as fexofenadine, used in allergic rhinitis.high doses can also cause Gastrointestinal disordersso it is necessary to follow the indications of the herbalist.

Advisor: J Mª Teixé, herbalist at “El Manantial de Salud”