Cat’s claw
Uncaria tomentosaIt is named after the hooked thorns on its stems, which it uses to climb trees.
What is Cat’s claw?
Cat’s claw (Uncaria tomentosa) is a plant of the Rubiaceae family. Traditions that use it: Amazon. Part used: bark, root.
What is Cat’s claw used for?
Traditional use: One of the key healing plants of the Asháninka. Scientific evidence: limited. Contains oxindole alkaloids.
Is Cat’s claw safe?
Safety label: caution. Can interact with immunosuppressants, blood thinners and blood pressure medicines. Not for use in pregnancy.
Traditional use
One of the key healing plants of the Asháninka. The bark is boiled and drunk for joint pain, inflammation, wounds and immunity.
In nature
Mix-up risk
Uncaria guianensis is sold under the same name, but the two species differ chemically.
Preparation
The bark is boiled for 20–30 minutes.
What science says
Contains oxindole alkaloids. A few small studies in knee osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis reported slight benefit; larger studies are needed.
Safety
Can interact with immunosuppressants, blood thinners and blood pressure medicines. Not for use in pregnancy.
Drug interactions
| Medicine or substance | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| Immunosuppressants | May weaken the drug by stimulating immunity. |
| Blood thinners | May increase bleeding risk. |
| Blood pressure medicines | Can lower blood pressure. |
| Drugs broken down by CYP3A4 | Lab studies show it affects this enzyme. |
This list is not complete. If you take regular medication, ask your pharmacist or doctor before trying Cat’s claw.
Similar plants
Sources
- NCCIHUS National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health: use and safety summary
- ResearchKedi tırnağı ekstrelerinin iltihap ve bağışıklık üzerine etkileri: sistematik derleme ve meta-analiz
- Botanical recordKew Plants of the World Online: Uncaria tomentosa
- Titles of research sources are summarised in Turkish on the Turkish page; links open the original English publications.
Written by Edanaz Tınmazlar · Last reviewed: · Türkçe