Is Cat's Claw compatible with breastfeeding? Do we have alternatives for Cat's Claw?

Cat's Claw

January 24, 2017 (Low Risk)

Climbing plant which is native from Peru.
It is mainly used the bark of branches, leaves and roots as well.
It contains oxindole alkaloids, steroids, ursolic acid and polyphenols, among other components.
Commonly used as anti-inflammatory on arthritis, rheumatism and gastric ulcer. These anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, antioxidant and anti-infective properties are being studied. The degree of evidence available is not as high because of poor quality of the studies performed.

At latest update relevant published data on its excretion into breast milk were not found.

This plant is lacking of toxicity. Given to this, occasional and moderate consumption during lactation would have little or no risk, when used at a correct dose.

Very Low Risk

Compatible. Not risky for breastfeeding or infant.

Low Risk

Moderately safe. Mild risk possible. Follow up recommended. Read the Comment.

High Risk

Poorly safe. Evaluate carefully. Use a safer alternative. Read the Comment.

Very High Risk

Not recommended. Cessation of breastfeeding or alternative.

Synonyms

  • Cat’s thorn

Writings

  • Nauclea aculeata (Latin, botanical name)
  • Uncaria guianensis (Latin, botanical name)
  • Uncaria tomentosa (Latin, botanical name)

Drug trade names

References

  1. Jalloh MA, Gregory PJ, Hein D, Risoldi Cochrane Z, Rodriguez A. Dietary supplement interactions with antiretrovirals: a systematic review. Int J STD AIDS. 2016Abstract
  2. Froeling FE, Stebbing J. Uncaria tomentosa, the cat's whiskers or claws? Lancet Oncol. 2014Abstract
  3. EMA. Assessment report on Uncaria tomentosa. Committee on Herbal Medicinal Products (HMPC). 2014 Full text (in our servers)
  4. López Galera RM, Ribera Pascuet E, Esteban Mur JI, Montoro Ronsano JB, Juárez Giménez JC. Interaction between cat's claw and protease inhibitors atazanavir, ritonavir and saquinavir. Eur J Clin Pharmacol. 2008Abstract
  5. WHO. World Health Organization. Geneva. WHO monographs on selected medicinal plants. Volume 3. WHO monographs. 2007 Full text (link to original source) Full text (in our servers)
  6. Valerio LG Jr, Gonzales GF. Toxicological aspects of the South American herbs cat's claw (Uncaria tomentosa) and Maca (Lepidium meyenii) : a critical synopsis. Toxicol Rev. 2005Abstract