The black elder tree, Sambuca Nigra, has been used for thousands of years to ward of colds and flu. Extracts of all parts of the tree have been used, but the berry has been the favourite part. Elderberry wine has for centuries been regarded as a cure for colds and flu - you\'d feel better even it didn\'t cure!
The old wives\' tales have now been shown to have much basis in scientific fact.
This herb, Latin name Uncaria Tormentosa, is a creeping vine growing in the Peruvian rainforests. Its name comes from the large thorns that protect it. It appears that this is the most potent herb yet discovered, with all the qualities of Ginseng, Echinacea, Goldenseal, Lapacho and Shiitake mushrooms. Its effectiveness against viruses could be greater than that of any agent known, and its versatility is amazing.
Some of its effects are as follows:
Anti-viral
This may be its most potent effect. It has inhibiting effects on many viruses, including colds and flu, and can normally stop a flu or rhinovirus(cold) infection within 48 hours. For this purpose, it has to be taken in large doses; 6oomg of extract for each of the two days, taken in split doses; say 1x100mg capsule 4 times a day.
Immune Boosting
Cat\'s Claw has been shown to improve T-cell counts, and also phagocyte activity. Phagocytes are the cells that engulf and devour invading cells such as cancer cells, bacteria and other micro-organisms. Cat\'s Claw, therefore, can greatly improve the body\'s ability to combat bacterial infections, as well as parasites and fungal infections.
Healing effects; mucosal membranes
Cat\'s Claw has powerful healing effects on mucous membranes, particularly those of the gastric and intestinal tract. Because of this, and also its anti-bacterial, anti-parasitic and anti-fungal effect, it can be of great help in cases of gastric and duodenal ulcers, Crohn\'s disease and ulcerative colitis. All these effects, plus anti-oxidant effects which it also has, will have an extremely helpful effect in cases of 'leaky bowel'.
Anti-Toxin
Cat\'s Claw can eliminate the mutagenic (cancer causing) effects of many toxins, and also combats free radicals. Various substances in it protect the liver. Other substances, catechins, help detoxify alcohol.
Anti-allergy
Cat\'s Claw protects against allergies in a number of ways. It improves the whole condition of the intestinal system, and alleviates leaky gut syndrome. This firstly reduces the amount of potential allergens, and secondly reduces the amount that will penetrate into the bloodstream. It also reduces the effects of allergic reactions once started, because of its anti-inflammatory effect.
Circulatory System
Various factors found in Cat\'s Claw lower platelet aggregation and blood clotting, and inhibit plaque formation on arterial walls. It therefore improves blood circulation, reduces blood pressure and reduces tendency to strokes.
For the first time Reflex Nutrition offer both Elderberry & Cat\'s Claw extracts in one capsule. Food legislation prevents us describing the potential benefits of this product.
