Cat's Claw Side Effects

Cat's claw is a vine found in Peru and used in South America as a medicinal herbal remedy. According to the National Institutes on Health, small studies on humans are looking at how cat's claw stimulates the immune system and slows tumor growth in cancer, prevents viral infections like herpes and HIV, and relieves inflammatory conditions, such as arthritis. The National Institute on Aging has done studies on how it affects the brain for treating Alzheimer's. So far, no American scientific evidence exists of benefits, however, side effects have been discovered.

Dizziness and Nausea

• According to University of Maryland Medical Center, some people report mild cases of dizziness and nausea, headaches and diarrhea.

Nursing Mothers

• Nursing or expectant mothers are advised not to take it because it is known to have abortive affects and has been used to prevent pregnancy in other cultures. Because it lowers estrogen and progesterone hormone levels, it can affect unborn babies.

Bleeding

• An increased risk of bleeding, especially when taken with other anticoagulant medications, garlic or gingko balboa is possible. Blood in urine or stools shouldn't to be overlooked and you should not take before surgery.

Heart Problems

• Altered heartbeat rhythms, lower blood pressure and a slower heartbeat can result. It should not be taken with any other heart medication or herbal remedy for the heart, such as foxglove.

Allergic Reactions

• Cat's claw allergic reactions can occur to those that are allergic to plants in the Uncaria or Rubiaceae families. Symptoms include rashes, difficulty in breathing, and swelling or inflammation in parts of the body.