Evidence supporting the use of: Cat's claw
For the health condition: Hepatitis

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 1

Cat's claw (Uncaria tomentosa) is a woody vine native to the Amazon rainforest, long used in traditional medicine systems of South America. Historically, indigenous peoples have used cat's claw for a variety of ailments, particularly for its anti-inflammatory, immune-modulating, and antiviral properties. In the context of hepatitis, its use is primarily based on traditional beliefs that it can "cleanse the blood" and support liver health, rather than on robust scientific evidence. Some in vitro and animal studies suggest cat's claw extracts may have antiviral effects and the capacity to modulate immune responses, but there is a lack of well-conducted, peer-reviewed clinical trials specifically assessing its efficacy in treating hepatitis (either viral hepatitis B or C, or other forms). The existing scientific literature provides only weak, preliminary evidence, mostly limited to laboratory and animal models, with scant translation to human clinical outcomes. Therefore, while cat's claw is sometimes marketed or used in folk medicine to "support liver health" or "aid hepatitis," this practice is rooted in traditional use rather than validated by rigorous scientific studies. Individuals considering cat's claw for hepatitis should consult healthcare professionals, as its safety and efficacy for this condition remain unproven.

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