Cat's Claw (Uncaria tomentosa)

Cat's Claw is a woody vine native to the Amazon rainforest and other tropical regions of South and Central America. Named for the small hook-like thorns that resemble a cat's claws, this botanical has been used for centuries in traditional herbal practices. Today, it remains one of the most widely recognized Amazonian herbs and is valued for its rich phytochemical profile.

About Cat's Claw

Uncaria tomentosa belongs to the Rubiaceae family and can grow over 100 feet in length as it climbs through the rainforest canopy. Traditionally, the inner bark has been the most commonly prepared portion of the plant, although other parts have also been used in regional herbal traditions.

Cat's Claw has become a popular botanical among herbal enthusiasts interested in traditional Amazonian plants and naturally occurring plant compounds.

Chemistry

Cat's Claw contains a diverse range of naturally occurring phytochemicals, including oxindole alkaloids, quinovic acid glycosides, polyphenols, triterpenes, and proanthocyanidins.

Among its most studied constituents are pentacyclic oxindole alkaloids (POAs), which have been the focus of much of the scientific research surrounding the plant. Researchers continue to investigate how these compounds contribute to Cat's Claw's biological activity, although many of its traditional uses have yet to be fully understood through modern clinical research.

Because Cat's Claw is a whole botanical rather than a single isolated compound, its phytochemical profile naturally varies depending on growing conditions, harvest time, and processing methods.

Traditional Use

For generations, Indigenous communities throughout the Amazon have incorporated Cat's Claw into traditional herbal preparations. The inner bark was commonly simmered into decoctions and consumed as part of daily wellness practices.

Its long history of traditional use has made Cat's Claw one of the best-known rainforest botanicals available today.

Preparation & Suggested Use

Cat's Claw may be prepared in several ways depending on personal preference.

Tea or Decoction

Simmer 1–3 grams of the inner bark in water for approximately 20–30 minutes, then strain before drinking.

Powder

If using powdered Cat's Claw, many people mix it into water, smoothies, or herbal beverages.

When trying Cat's Claw for the first time, begin with a smaller serving to assess your individual response.

Frequently Asked Questions

What part of the Cat's Claw plant is traditionally used?

The inner bark is the portion most commonly used in traditional preparations and modern herbal products.

Safety Information

If you are pregnant, nursing, taking prescription medications, have an autoimmune condition, or are scheduled for surgery, consult your healthcare provider before using Cat's Claw.

Discontinue use if unwanted effects occur.

Keep out of reach of children.

Store in a cool, dry place away from heat and moisture.

Disclaimer

This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. These statements have not been evaluated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

Consult a qualified healthcare provider before use if you are pregnant, nursing, taking medications, or have a medical condition.

Store in a cool, dry place and use responsibly.