How to Use Cat's Claw to Treat Gout
With anti-inflammatory properties, cat's claw is an herbal extract that can be used to treat gout. For patients seeking a natural alternative to drug treatments or a supplemental remedy for gout symptoms, cat's claw may be the answer.
Instructions
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Manage Gout Symptoms Using Cat's Claw
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Talk to your doctor. You should never self-implement a treatment of any kind to manage a chronic condition like gout. Taking cat's claw to treat gout may come with some risks, depending on your specific situation.
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Use cat's claw as a supplementary way to treat gout. It is thought to be most effective when taken in combination with other anti-inflammatory medications as part of an overall treatment program for controlling gout symptoms.
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Acquire cat's claw extract from your local health food store or herbal remedy center. Ask the staff for assistance if you're unsure about dosage requirements. As a general rule, use between 1 and 10 grams of bark per cup of tea, take 1/4 to 1/2 tsp. per dosage of tincture and take between 100 and 350 mg per day if using capsules.
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Use cat's claw to treat the flare-ups in joint pain, redness, swelling and stiffness commonly associated with gout. Take cat's claw daily, or only when symptoms become problematic, as directed by your doctor. Cat's claw can be taken in capsule form or as a tincture that mixes the herb with alcohol and/or water. Cat's claw bark can also be ground up to make tea.
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Report any persistent side effects to your doctor. Usually, cat's claw has relatively few side effects, and they are generally mild. Most go away with continued use. The most commonly reported side effects include diarrhea, nausea and dizziness.
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Tips & Warnings
Women who are pregnant or trying to become pregnant should not take cat's claw without first informing their doctor. Some studies suggest that cat's claw may increase your chances of having a miscarriage.
Cat's claw may have drug interactions with blood thinners, water pills, blood pressure medications, birth control pills and immunosuppressors.
