The Efficacy of Cats Claw for Asthma
Cat's claw is an herb derived from the roots of the plant in South America. This type of herb is used to treat cancer, asthma, arthritis and Alzheimer's disease. Although cat's claw is promoted as a safe and effective herb, such claims are not supported by scientific evidence. Cat's claw is used as a complementary form of asthma and should not replace your regular asthma medication without a doctor's consent.
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Ingredients
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Chinese-herbs.org states that cat's claw is rich in glycosides and alkaloids. Cat's claw contains oxindale alkaloids, which help increase immunity system function. Glycosides contain sugar and non-sugar molecules, which help promote the effective digestion of the alkaloids contained in cat's claw.
Effects
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Cat's claw is an immune-boosting herb which purportedly reduces inflammation. Inflammation of the bronchial tubes, along with airway constriction, causes asthma symptoms to flare up. Prescription long-term controller medications also reduce airway inflammation. Cat's claw is believed to help promote healthy cellular activity within the lungs. According to Chinese-herbs.org, cat's claw can help allergic asthma by reducing allergy symptoms that cause asthma attacks.
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Considerations
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Cat's claw is a centuries-old remedy for a wide range of health ailments. However, the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM) reports that the efficacy of cat's claw has not been scientifically proven to help cure any health issue, including asthma. Studies have been conducted to evaluate the effects of cat's claw on inflammation; as of 2009, there is not enough evidence to rely on cat's claw as an anti-inflammatory remedy.
Indications
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Natural News recommends making a tonic out of cat's claw. Purchase 100 grams of cat's claw roots from a natural foods store. Cook the roots in a half-liter of water. Drain, once the concoction boils. Let the tonic cool before drinking. Refrigerate leftovers. Natural News states that asthma symptoms are relieved by drinking this tonic once a day for a month. Cat's claw is also available in teas and capsule supplements.
Precautions
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The NCCAM reports that side effects of cat's claw are rare, unless you overdose. Common signs of an overdose include vomiting, headaches and dizziness. The NCCAM also explains that cat's claw is used by some women to help abort or prevent pregnancy. Therefore, cat's claw should not be used if you are pregnant, because it may increase your chances of miscarriage. Talk to your doctor before using cat's claw to see whether this is may be an effective form of asthma treatment. Do not use cat's claw in conjunction with a long-term controller or quick-relief medications, as drug reactions may occur. Stop using cat's claw if your asthma symptoms do not improve or if they worsen.
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