Is Cat's Claw safe?
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Safety of Cat's Claw: A Comprehensive Review
Introduction to Cat's Claw Safety
Cat's claw, known scientifically as Uncaria tomentosa and Uncaria guianensis, is a medicinal plant from the Amazon rainforest traditionally used for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. With its increasing popularity, understanding its safety profile is crucial.
Clinical Trials and Safety Assessments
Osteoarthritis Treatment and Safety
A study involving 45 patients with osteoarthritis of the knee evaluated the safety and efficacy of freeze-dried U. guianensis. The trial revealed no deleterious effects on blood or liver function and no significant side effects compared to the placebo group. This suggests that cat's claw is safe for short-term use in treating osteoarthritis.
Aromatase Inhibitor-Induced Arthralgia
In a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled phase II clinical trial, 70 breast cancer patients experiencing arthralgia from aromatase inhibitors were treated with U. tomentosa. The study found no significant differences in toxicity or laboratory results between the treatment and placebo groups, indicating that cat's claw is safe but ineffective for this specific condition.
Advanced Cancer Patients
A phase II study assessed the effects of U. tomentosa on the quality of life in patients with advanced solid tumors. The treatment improved overall quality of life and reduced fatigue without significant changes in biochemical or inflammatory parameters. The medication was well tolerated, further supporting its safety in a clinical setting.
In Vitro and Animal Studies
Antioxidant and Anti-inflammatory Properties
Multiple studies have demonstrated that cat's claw exhibits potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities. These effects are primarily due to its ability to inhibit TNFα production and scavenge free radicals. Importantly, these studies did not report significant cytotoxicity, suggesting a favorable safety profile .
Toxicological Evaluations
A comprehensive review of the toxicological aspects of U. tomentosa indicated a low potential for acute and subacute oral toxicity. The review also found no evidence of genotoxic or mutagenic activity, reinforcing the plant's safety for human consumption.
Conclusion
Overall, the available evidence suggests that cat's claw is safe for use in various therapeutic contexts, including osteoarthritis and quality of life improvement in cancer patients. While it shows promise as an anti-inflammatory and antioxidant agent, its efficacy may vary depending on the condition being treated. Further research, particularly long-term studies, is needed to fully understand its safety profile.
Sources and full results
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