Uncaria tormentosa
Common name: Cat's Claw
Family: Rubiaceae
Part used: Stem Bark
Habitat: Large, tropical, woody evergreen vine growing in tropical forests in Central and South America. The stem hooks which help it climb trees are curved, giving the plant it's common name, Cat's Claw.
Folklore and History: As with many plants, we are grateful to be able to include this plant in our in our modern European dispensary due to generous sharing of local traditional knowledge from around the world. The traditional medicinal use of Cat's Claw has been passed on only due to the preservation of this knowledge by 'curanderos' or local healers in Central and South American regions.
Constituents: Alkaloids (oxindoles, POAs and TOAs, pentacyclic and tetracyclic indoles), polyphenols (hydroxybenzoic acids; hydroxycinnamic acids; flavonols; procyanidins).
Actions: Anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant, immunomodulatory, anti-viral, astringent, anti-mutagenic (in vitro studies only)
Traditional and current uses:
• Osteoarthritis and Rheumatoid arthritis
• Other auto-immune diseases
• Support for people with cancer
• Viral diseases (see below)
Disclaimer: The information on this website is provided for educational use only, and is not intended as a replacement for the services of a qualified medical herbalist, doctor or licensed health practitioner. The information contained herein is not diagnostic, always consult a medical health professional before embarking on a treatment programme. Urban Fringe Dispensary disclaims any liability, loss, injury or damage incurred as a consequence of the use and application of the advice given herein.