Introduction

Cat’s claw is a vine that grows in Central and South America. It has been used to ease swelling and help the body fight off disease. Its bark and root can be taken as a liquid extract or made into a tea. It can also be taken as a pill or powder.

What Research Shows

Editorial process and description of evidence categories can be found at EBSCO NAT Editorial Process.

Safety Notes

It is likely safe for most adults to take cat’s claw for a short time. Not enough studies have been done to say whether it is safe to take for a long period. It is also not known whether it is safe for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding or by people with immune system problems.C1

Interactions

Talk to your doctor about any supplements or therapy you would like to use. Some can interfere with treatment or make conditions worse, such as:

• People taking blood thinners or medicine to break up blood clots should talk to their doctors before taking cat’s claw. It may increase the risk of bleeding.
• People taking antiretroviral drugs should talk to and be closely monitored by their doctors. Cat’s claw may increase the risk of adverse events.