Posted by Larry Hoover on January 22, 2007, at 20:42:39
In reply to Cat's Claw (Uncaria tomentosa), posted by Quintal on January 22, 2007, at 3:30:17
> Does anyone have experience with this herb? What does it do?
>
> I suffer from chronic inflammation and I'm wondering if this might help?
>
> QI've used it, but I don't remember any significant benefits. It was a while ago.
It's primary effects are: strong inhibition of TNF-alpha; broad antioxidant capacity; and, antinociceptive effects mediated by 5-HT2 receptors. In order, those would provide suppression of the inflammatory process, elimination of some secondary inflammatory mediators, and suppression of pain sensation.
It has no direct effects on inflammatory prostaglandins, as do most commonly used antiinflammatories (COX inhibitors). If you haven't tried using turmeric, I'd strongly recommend a trial. It worked better for me, and lasted longer than, Celebrex, Mobicox, or Vioxx. One heaping teaspoonful stirred into 4 oz. of water was my dose. Don't spill it! It stains anything.
Lar
poster:Larry Hoover
thread:725075
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/alter/20070114/msgs/725402.html