How to Use Cat's Claw to Boost the Immune System

Cat's claw is a woody vine found in rainforests and tropical regions of Central and South America. It has been used for thousands of years, and because it may stimulate the production of white blood cells in the body, it can be taken to boost the body's immune system.

Things You'll Need

• Cat's claw
• Physician

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Instructions

• 1

  Speak to your doctor if you want to learn more about how cat's claw can work to boost your immune system. Simply put, some of the alkaloid chemicals found in cat's claw extract may increase the body's natural production of the white blood cells your body needs to ward off illness and infection.

• 2

  Use cat's claw only if it's deemed safe to do so by your primary physician. Cat's claw has interactions with several drug classes and should not be combined with certain medications, particularly those that alter blood pressure.

• 3

  Buy your first cat's claw extract with the help of a trained expert in alternative medicine or herbal treatments. Most forms of cat's claw available in the marketplace combine the herb with various other extracts, some of which will be more effective than others in delivering the alkaloids that boost your immune system.

• 4

  Take cat's claw as directed by your doctor or alternative medicine expert. The herb is usually available in three different forms: tincture, capsule and ground extract. Usually, 1/4 to 1/2 a tbsp. of tincture 2 or 3 times a day is the recommended dose. 100 to 350 mg can be taken per day in capsule form. Use up to 10 grams of ground extract per cup of tea. Drink up to 3 cups of tea per day, as directed.

• 5

  Take cat's claw daily to provide your body with the immune system boost it needs to stay healthy.

• 6

  Stop taking cat's claw if you experience persistent or severe nausea, dizziness or diarrhea. Also, discontinue use if it causes allergic skin reactions like rashes or itching. This is a sign that cat's claw is causing inflammation of your kidneys, which could lead to serious complications if you continue taking it.