Cat's Claw Supplement Information

Cat's Claw is an herbal supplement derived from the Uncaria tomentosa plant native to the Amazon rainforest. It is traditionally used to support immune function, reduce inflammation, and promote overall health. Cat's Claw may offer antioxidant and antimicrobial properties.
Category
Supplement
Where to get
Available at health stores and online retailers
Applicable for
Prepared by Shruti Sahoo, reviewed by Dr. Eugene Smith

Cat's Claw FAQ


Image credit: gardeningknowhow.com

What are the benefits of Cat's Claw?

While more recent studies are needed on cat’s claw, here are some of the most researched benefits: One of the most popular uses for cat’s claw is for arthritis. Arthritis is an inflammatory joint condition that leads to pain, swelling, and loss of function.

What is the scientific name for a Cat's Claw?

Cat’s claw’s scientific name is Uncaria tomentosa. It belongs to the Rubiaceae ( i.e. coffee) family of plants. The plant is a large woody vine that climbs and extends in search of sunlight. It gets its name from the distinctive claw-like thorns on its leaves. For thousands of years, cat’s claw has been used by Indigenous people in the Amazon.

What is a cat's claw vine?

Cat’s claw ( Uncaria tomentosa) is a tropical vine which can grow up to 98 feet (30 meters) tall. Its name comes from its hooked thorns, which resemble the claws of a cat. It is found mainly in the Amazon rainforest and in other tropical areas of South and Central America. The two most common varieties are Uncaria tomentosa and Uncaria guianensis.

What is a Cat's Claw plant?

The plant’s Latin name is Uncaria tomentosa, while its other common names are cat’s claw, una de gato, samento, and saventaro. There are numerous constituents that makeup cat’s claw, including: Cat’s claw is commonly used as a herb for Lyme disease. In addition, it has been used for arthritis, cancer, anti-microbial purposes, and cognitive health.

What is a Cat's Claw?

Named after its hook-like horns, cat's claw ( Uncaria tomentosa) is a woody vine native to the Amazon rainforest and other places in South and Central America. The bark and root have been used by South Americans for centuries to treat health problems including arthritis, stomach ulcers, inflammation, dysentery, and fevers.

What does a Cat's Claw look like?

Cat’s Claw is a large, woody vine that can grow up to 100 feet in length. Its leaves are oval-shaped and have a dark green color. The vine produces small, yellow flowers that develop into elongated fruits containing numerous seeds. The inner bark of Cat’s Claw is the most commonly used part for medicinal purposes.

Can Cat's Claw help you?

Maybe it can help you too. Cat's claw is one of the most promising antiviral herbs around. Find out health benefits, nutrition facts, how to use, dosage as well as side effects.

Cat's Claw References

If you want to know more about Cat's Claw, consider exploring links below:

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