Cat's claw
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Cat's claw is the common name of a genus, Uncaria, of 40 different species of woody vines with large thorns (from which the common name is derived) found throughout the tropics. Various species are used as folk remedies for a variety of conditions including viral infections (e.g. herpes simplex), tremors, fever reduction and high blood pressure. New Age snake oil peddlers, in turn, tout it as a magical panacea whose magical uses include "curing" HIV, Alzheimer's disease, CFS ME and (of course) cancer. The inner bark and/or root of cat's claw is used to make liquid extracts, capsules, and teas. Preparations of cat's claw can also be applied to the skin. It was ranked as the seventh most popular herb in U.S. sales in 1997.[1]
[edit] Evidence shmevidence
The ever-credulous NCCAM says of cat's claw:[2]
- There is not enough scientific evidence to determine whether cat's claw works for any health condition.
- Small studies in humans have shown a possible benefit of cat's claw in osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, but no large trials have been done. In laboratory studies, cat's claw stimulates part of the immune system, but it has not been proven to reduce inflammation or boost the immune system in humans.
- The National Institute on Aging funded a study that looked at how cat's claw may affect the brain. Findings may point to new avenues for research in Alzheimer's disease treatment.
The American Cancer Society says:
"Available scientific evidence does not support claims that this herb can treat cancer or other diseases in people. Animal and laboratory studies may show promise, but further studies are necessary to find out whether the results apply to humans. Until clinical trials in humans are completed, the true value of cat's claw remains uncertain." —American Cancer Society
The possibility that some compounds found in cat's claw may have some therapeutic effect, itself a speculative finding with little strong evidence and most research at an early stage, is naturally interpreted by the woo community as a ringing endorsement of every conceivable claim. In fact, there is no evidence that the herb itself has any significant positive effect and there are known side effects related to blood pressure. However, being a herb, no evidence of efficacy is required and only minimal evidence of safety.