Cat’s Claw
Cat’s claw is a traditional South American vine bark used for immune and inflammation support, often in joint and recovery routines. It can be helpful for some people, but because it can influence immune activity, it needs caution for autoimmune conditions, transplant recipients, or anyone on immunosuppressants.
Key Benefits
- Supports healthy inflammatory response (joints and tissues)
- Supports immune resilience (supportive, not for acute emergencies)
- May support comfort and mobility in some people with stiffness
- Sometimes used for gut inflammation support in traditional systems (supportive)
Common Issues It May Help With
- Occasional joint discomfort
- Stiffness
- Inflammation support (general)
- Immune support (general)
How To Use (Simple)
- Capsules/extracts are common
- follow label directions and assess over 4–8 weeks. Tea/decoction is possible but bitter and astringent. Take with food if it causes stomach upset.
Taste / Notes
Bitter, woody, astringent.
Evidence Level
Some studies suggest anti-inflammatory and immune-modulating effects; evidence varies by extract type and dose. Best framed as supportive.
Cautions
Avoid during pregnancy/breastfeeding. Use caution with autoimmune disease (may worsen symptoms in some) and avoid if you have had an organ transplant unless clinician-approved. Stop if you develop rash, dizziness, or significant GI upset.
Interactions
May reduce effectiveness of immunosuppressants (transplant meds, biologics)—consult clinician Use caution with anticoagulants/antiplatelets (potential bleeding risk; evidence mixed) If on blood pressure medications, monitor—some people report BP changes
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