Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Cat's claw (Uncaria tomentosa) has a long history of traditional use in South American herbal medicine, particularly among indigenous peoples of the Amazon rainforest. Traditionally, the inner bark and roots of cat's claw have been used to treat a variety of ailments, including colds, viral infections, inflammation, and digestive problems. The plant is believed to help stimulate the immune system, which forms the basis for its traditional use against colds and other infections.

While there is some laboratory evidence indicating that cat's claw extracts possess antiviral and immunomodulatory properties, most of these studies are limited to in vitro (test tube) experiments or animal models. Compounds such as oxindole alkaloids, glycosides, and polyphenols found in cat's claw have shown activity against certain viruses and may modulate immune responses. However, robust clinical trials in humans to evaluate its effectiveness specifically for treating or preventing the common cold are lacking.

Therefore, the use of cat's claw for colds is primarily based on traditional practices rather than strong scientific validation. Some modern herbalists continue to recommend it for immune support, but the overall quality of evidence is low. People interested in using cat's claw should be aware of potential drug interactions and side effects, and consult healthcare professionals before use.

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