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Uncaria tomentosa
ORDERS OF 250G OR MORE MAY REQUIRE UP TO 4 WEEKS FOR PROCESSING AND SHIPPING.
Main Preparation Method: decoction, fluid extract, or capsules
Main Actions: immune stimulant, anti-inflammatory, antimutagenic (cellular
protector), anticancerous, antiulcerous
Main Uses:
as an immune stimulant and an adjunctive therapy for cancer (to reduce side
effects of chemotherapy and protect cells); as a bowel cleanser and anti-
inflammatory for Crohn's, colitis, diverticulitis, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS),
and other bowel problems; as an anti-inflammatory for arthritis (all kinds) and
muscle pains/strains/injuries; as a general daily tonic (to tone, balance, and
strengthen all body functions) for stomach ulcers and ulcerative colitis and as
an ulcer preventative/ stomach and bowel protector)
Cautions: Do not use before or after an organ or bone marrow transplant
since it boosts immune function. May also have a mild blood thinning effect.
Both South American Uncaria species are used by the indigenous peoples of the Amazon rainforest in very similar ways and have long histories of use. Cat's claw (U. tomentosa) has been used medicinally by the Aguaruna, Ashaninka, Cashibo, Conibo, and Shipibo tribes of Peru for at least 2,000 years. The Ashaninka Indian tribe in central Peru has the longest recorded history of use of the plant. They are also the largest commercial source of cat's claw from Peru today. The Ashaninka use cat's claw to treat asthma, inflammations of the urinary tract, arthritis, rheumatism, and bone pain; to recover from childbirth; as a kidney cleanser; to cure deep wounds; to control inflammation and gastric ulcers; and for cancer. Indigenous tribes in Piura use cat's claw to treat tumors, inflammations, rheumatism, and gastric ulcers. Other Peruvian indigenous tribes use cat's claw to treat diabetes, urinary tract cancer in women, hemorrhages, menstrual irregularity, cirrhosis, fevers, abscesses, gastritis, rheumatism, tumors, and inflammations as well as for internal cleansing and to "normalize the body." Reportedly, cat's claw has also been used as a contraceptive by several different tribes of Peru (but only in very large dosages). Dr. Fernando Cabieses, M.D., a noted authority on Peruvian medicinal plants, explains that the Ashaninka boil 5 to 6 kg (about 12 pounds) of the root in water until it is reduced to little more than 1 cup. This decoction is then taken 1 cup daily during the period of menstruation for three consecutive months; this supposedly causes sterility for three to four years.
Cat's claw has been used in Peru and Europe since the early 1990s as an adjunctive treatment for cancer and AIDS as well as for other diseases that target the immune system. In herbal medicine today, cat's claw is employed around the world for many different conditions, including immune disorders, gastritis, ulcers, cancer, arthritis, rheumatism, rheumatic disorders, neuralgias, chronic inflammation of all kinds, and such viral diseases as herpes zoster (shingles). Dr. Brent Davis, D.C. has written several articles on cat's claw and refers to it as the "opener of the way" for its ability to cleanse the entire intestinal tract and its effectiveness in treating stomach and bowel disorders (such as Crohn's disease, leaky bowel syndrome, ulcers, gastritis, diverticulitis, and other inflammatory conditions of the bowel, stomach, and intestines). Dr. Julian Whitaker, M.D. reports using cat's claw for its immune-stimulating effects, for cancer, to help prevent strokes and heart attacks, to reduce blood clots, and for diverticulitis and irritable bowel syndrome.
This information is gathered directly from:
https://rain-tree.com/catclaw.htm
UNCARIA TOMENTOSA (CAT’S CLAW)
The Immune Guardian—An Amazonian Vine for Inflammation, Immunity, and Joint Health
BOTANICAL IDENTIFICATION
Scientific Name: Uncaria tomentosa (Willd. ex Schult.) DC.
Common Names: Cat’s Claw, Uña de Gato, Vilcacora
Family: Rubiaceae
Uncaria tomentosa is a woody, perennial liana that can reach 20–30 meters in length. It is recognized by its curved, claw-like thorns at the base of its leaves, which allow it to climb trees. The leaves are opposite, elliptical, and glossy green, measuring 6–12 cm long. Its flowers are small and yellowish, forming globular heads.
Native to the Amazon rainforest and tropical areas of South and Central America, particularly Peru, Colombia, and Brazil, it thrives in humid, well-drained soils along riverbanks and forest edges.
Adaptations include thick bark containing bioactive alkaloids for plant defense and large climbing structures to compete for sunlight.
CULTURAL AND HISTORICAL USE
Cat’s claw has been a cornerstone of Peruvian and Amazonian traditional medicine for centuries. Indigenous tribes such as the Asháninka use it to treat inflammatory disorders, digestive problems, and infections.
It is also considered a spiritual cleanser in Amazonian shamanic practices, often used alongside other purifying herbs.
Modern herbal medicine recognizes cat’s claw as a powerful immune modulator and anti-inflammatory agent, particularly for joint health and chronic inflammatory conditions.
KEY BIOACTIVE COMPOUNDS AND BENEFITS
| Compound | Role in Plant | Human Benefits | Regional Variation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Oxindole Alkaloids | Plant defense and signaling | Immunomodulation, white blood cell activation | Higher in wild Peruvian vines |
| Quinovic Acid Glycosides | Antimicrobial activity | Antiviral, antibacterial, antifungal | Concentration varies by season |
| Polyphenols (proanthocyanidins) | Antioxidants | Anti-inflammatory, vascular protection | Increased in older bark |
| Triterpenes and Saponins | Defense compounds | Joint health, liver support | Found in both bark and root |
The combined action of alkaloids, glycosides, and polyphenols provides cat’s claw with its immune-balancing and anti-inflammatory properties.
HOW IT WORKS IN THE BODY
Oxindole alkaloids enhance phagocytosis and modulate immune response, helping the body fight infections while reducing chronic inflammation.
Quinovic acid glycosides disrupt viral and bacterial replication, supporting immune defenses.
Polyphenols reduce oxidative stress, which is key in inflammatory and autoimmune conditions.
Cat’s claw is also believed to support DNA repair and cellular health, based on emerging research.
DOSE GUIDELINES
| Preparation Type | Typical Dose | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Decoction (bark) | 5–10 grams simmered 15–20 minutes | Immune or anti-inflammatory support |
| Tincture (1:4 or 1:5) | 2–4 mL up to 3 times daily | Chronic inflammation, immune balance |
| Capsule (standardized) | 250–500 mg 1–2 times daily | Joint and immune support |
PREPARATION AND USES
The inner bark is traditionally boiled into a tea or decoction for inflammatory conditions, digestive complaints, or infections.
Modern herbal supplements include capsules, tinctures, and extracts standardized to alkaloid content for consistent therapeutic effects.
Often combined with anti-inflammatory herbs like turmeric, boswellia, or ginger for joint and immune health.
OPTIMAL CONTEXT FOR USE
Cat’s claw is most effective for chronic inflammatory states, including arthritis, autoimmune disorders, and persistent infections.
It is commonly used in post-infection recovery and as part of detoxification or immune-support protocols.
Best taken as part of a balanced herbal regimen rather than as a standalone remedy for acute infections.
SUSTAINABILITY AND ETHICAL HARVESTING
Uncaria tomentosa is harvested primarily for its inner bark, which requires careful cutting to avoid damaging the plant.
Overharvesting in the Amazon is a concern, and sustainable harvesting practices involve taking bark from mature vines without removing the root or entire plant.
Certified organic and fair-trade sourcing helps protect both the environment and local communities.
SAFETY AND CAUTIONS
Generally safe for most adults when used at recommended doses.
Not advised during pregnancy or breastfeeding due to potential uterine-stimulating effects.
May interact with immunosuppressant drugs, anticoagulants, or medications for hypertension.
Mild gastrointestinal discomfort may occur in sensitive individuals.
REFERENCES
Keplinger, K., et al. (1999). "Uncaria tomentosa (Willd.) DC.: Ethnomedicinal use and pharmacological properties." Journal of Ethnopharmacology.
Duke, J.A. (2009). Handbook of Medicinal Herbs. CRC Press.
Winkelman, M. (2010). Plants of the Gods: Their Sacred, Healing, and Hallucinogenic Powers.
EMA (2019). Uncaria tomentosa Monograph.
FINAL NOTE
Uncaria tomentosa is a revered Amazonian vine, offering both physical and spiritual strength. Its immune-modulating properties, combined with a long tradition of healing, make it a vital plant for maintaining resilience against modern stressors and chronic inflammation.
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