Cat's Claw Extract Supplement: Tired of Being Sick? Try Herbs Natural Herbal Support

By Kelvin Hall

Within your body there is an amazing protection mechanism--a system that protects you from all kinds bacteria, viruses, and toxins. It's your immune system.

Your immune system works around the clock in so many different ways. It is a very intricate and complex system for eliminating and incapacitating any foreign invader. Sometimes the immune system overreacts to a certain stimuli, and you get an allergic response.

Cat's claw has been used, in combination with the drug AZT, for individuals who are HIV positive. Research continues to explore the usefulness of cat's claw for viral infections such as HIV and herpes.

The active constituents are quite variable and depend upon the time of the year when the plant is harvested. While the stem bark has some activity, the root is three to four times more active than the stem bark. Some of the known active compounds in cat's claw include alkaloids, triterpenes, phytosterols, and proanthocyanidins.

Cat's claw's immune stimulating effect is a result of its alkaloid components. The alkaloids also possess some ability to inhibit blood clots and relax the blood vessel walls. The phytosterols are reported to have anti-inflammatory activity through their effect in stimulating interleukin production. An aqueous extract of cat's claw has shown some ability to inhibit the growth of tumor cells. The proanthocyanidins and several alkaloids appear to possess the tumor-inhibiting properties.

Cat's claw consists of the dried bark from the root or stem of Uncaria tomentosa or Uncaria guianensis (two Amazonian vines). These large twining woody vines can grow to a length of 100 feet. The bark of the vines has long fissures and is yellowish to yellow-green in color.

A tea can be made by boiling the root bark of cat's claw in water for five to 10 minutes and then straining the water. Tablets and capsules containing cat's claw are available in many strengths, ranging from 250 milligrams up to one gram. A typical dose would be 300-milligram capsules taken three times a day. Extracts of cat's claw are often standardized to 4 percent alkaloid content for effective results.

When looking at essential herbs to take for better overall health don't overlook Cats Claw, as we have seen its benefits are immense.And, what is most important: it is natural medicine. - 32543

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