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Cats Claw and Parasites

Cat's claw is a woody vine found growing wild in the jungles and rain forests of South America. The vine got its name from the claw-like appearance of the thorns found at the base of the plant's leaves. These thorns help the climbing plant attach to trees. The herb made from the cat's claw vine is reputed to have numerous medicinal properties, including the ability to treat internal parasites.

  1. How It Works

    • As a treatment for parasites and other intestinal ailments, including Crohn's disease and irritable bowel syndrome, cat's claw works by cleansing the walls of the intestinal tract, flushing out intestinal worms and other parasites. This detoxification process allows the body to absorb more of the essential nutrients in the food we eat, which corrects nutritional issues caused by the intestinal disorder.

    How to Administer

    • Cat's claw can be found as an extract or in capsule form, and its roots and bark can be brewed into a tea. The herb can be applied directly to the skin. Peru's Ashaninka Indians believed cat's claw tea was a sacred beverage and used it to treat intestinal problems, such as parasites and for issues with the immune system.

    Side Effects and Interactions

    • In general, cat's claw seems to be a fairly safe alternative treatment for certain ailments, though there are no large studies to back up its reputation as a healing agent. Some users may experience dizziness, headaches or vomiting, but these side effects are rare. Despite its relative safety, cat's claw may interact adversely with medications that are broken down or changed by the liver.

    Other Precautions

    • Expectant mothers or women who are trying to become pregnant should avoid using cat's claw because it may cause a miscarriage or interfere with conception. Though cat's claw has been used by some as an immunity booster, people with compromised immune systems also should be careful when using the herb, as it could have unpredictable effects. People with leukemia or low blood pressure also need to avoid the plant.

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