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WHEN YOU SHOULD NOT TAKE CAT’S CLAW
What is cat’s claw and what is it used for?
Cat’s claw is a vine from Peru, which is used in natural medicine as a reinforcer of the immune system and because of its anticancer properties.
The bark is used to treat AIDS, to increase immunity, for colds, flu and infections.
It is not recommended to combine the plant with other natural remedies without the supervision of a medical specialist. Cat’s claw long treatments are not recommended either.
What contraindications does cat’s claw present?
- Pregnancy and lactation: the safety of the plant has not been tested in pregnant women or during lactation. The components of the plant suggest that it is not adequate and that it should not be taken.
- The alkaloids can cross the placenta and mammary barrier affecting the fetus or baby. The phytoestrogens it contains may have abortifacient effects so this plant is contraindicated during pregnancy and lactation.
Illustration of cat’s claw (Uncaria tomentosa). Courtesy of ©Dibujosparapintar.com - Children under 3 years: They should not take the plant because their immune system is still too immature. Children under 12 years of age should not take the plant either without the consent of the pediatrician.
- Organ transplantation: It should not be given to people who have had an organ or bone marrow transplanted, since the increase of the immunity goes against the prescribed medication. The cat’s claw can increase rejection of the organism by the new organ.
- Autoimmune diseases: The plant may increase the symptoms of autoimmune diseases such as lupus, psoriasis, or multiple sclerosis. Nor should people with corticosteroids or immunosuppressive treatment take it.
- Leukemia: the immune system should not be stimulated in patients with leukemia, but rather the opposite. The diet of these people should be very sterile, that is to say, it will be preferable for them to consume bag vegetables that have already been washed, and to avoid the vegetables susceptible to be contaminated.
- Anticoagulants: tetracyclic alkaloids affect blood coagulation and may contraindicate the plant to people who are taking medication for varicose veins, thrombosis, poor circulation or anticoagulant plants.
- Heart disease, hypertension and hypotension: This plant can affect blood pressure (either hypertension or hypotension) or alter the medications to control hypertension. Consult your doctor before taking cat’s claw if it is your case.
- Digestive ulcers: It has been mentioned that the cat’s claw might be contraindicated in cases of digestive ulcers. Caution is advised if you have stomach problems before taking the plant.
Illustration of cat’s claw (Uncaria tomentosa). Courtesy of 
More information on cats claw
This article was endorsed by Montserrat Enrich - Journalist specializing in edible wild plants and plant uses.
