Cat's claw is an herb from the bark and root of the Amazon rainforest native, Uncaria tomentosa. This herbal supplement is believed to have healing properties for conditions ranging from arthritis pain and inflammation, to accompanying fever and stomach ulcers. The University of Maryland Medical Center suggests that preliminary studies have shown that this herb carries antioxidant and anti-tumor properties, although further studies are needed to determine the validity of these claims. Cat's claw has mainly been used for its diuretic properties, the ability to lower blood pressure, and the ability to relax smooth muscles of the intestinal tract. As always, it is imperative to seek the counsel of a licensed health professional before attempting to self-medicate.
Headaches
One common side effect of cat's claw is headache. Headaches often begin with tension in the body. In the situation where an individual has been taking cat's claw, this could be due to a drop in blood pressure. The tension starts from the contraction of muscles in the head, neck and shoulders as a bodily response to environmental conditions, fatigue or stress. This herbal supplement should be discontinued should symptoms persist. Follow up with the application of heat or cold packs that can typically alleviate these symptoms.
Dizziness
Dizziness is another common side effect listed with the use of cat's claw. The Cleveland Clinic defines three distinctive types of dizziness: fainting and lightheadedness, vertigo and disequilibrium. Feeling faint or lightheaded can be described as a lack of strength and loss of consciousness. Vertigo is a hallucinatory sensation where the room an individual is in begins to spin or whirl. Disequilibrium is an overwhelming feeling associated with falling, stumbling and lack of balance. This condition is potentially dangerous and should be treated by a medical doctor.
Nausea and Vomiting
Nausea and vomiting are bodily reactions for some individuals taking cat's claw, as it can be mistaken for an ingested irritant or invading source. Vomiting is the body's way of ridding itself of the irritant. While nausea and vomiting are not considered serious, they are an indication that this herbal supplement is not a welcomed treatment in the body.
Diarrhea
Diarrhea, like nausea and vomiting, is indicative that the body is trying to rid itself of an ingested irritant or invading source. It is the body's way of expelling the substance from the intestines. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, the diarrhea caused by cat's claw tends to be mild and goes away with continued use of the supplement. Caution must be exercised however, as there is an increased likelihood of becoming dehydrated.
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