Uncaria tomentosa
Cat's Claw
Rubiaceae
At a Glance
- Common name
- Cat's Claw
- Scientific name
- Uncaria tomentosa
- Family
- Rubiaceae
- Region
- South America
- Plant part
- Bark, Root
- Caffeine
- Caffeine Free
- Evidence
- Insufficient
- Safety review
- Safety information on file
Safety & Cautions
Safety information on fileBotanical Description
A large climbing woody vine with opposite large glossy oval leaves and distinctive curved claw-like thorns at the leaf nodes, with small clusters of yellow tubular flowers; the bark and root are the parts used.
Also known as: Uña de Gato, Amazon Vine, Samento
Historical Background
Cat's claw (uña de gato) is a sacred climbing vine of the Amazon, used for generations by Indigenous peoples of Peru for immune and inflammatory support. Its curved thorns resemble a cat's claw, and its bark decoction became one of the most popular South American rainforest remedies worldwide.
Earliest recorded uses: Indigenous Amazonian (Asháninka and other) traditions as a bark decoction for immunity and inflammation.
Traditional preparations:
- Bark decoction
- Long-simmered immune tea
- Blended with pau d'arco
Traditional Uses
These uses document historical traditions and do not imply proven effectiveness.
Indigenous South American Traditions
Immune, anti-inflammatory, and vitality bark decoction.
Modern Herbalism
Immune-support and antioxidant bark tea.
Flavor & Aroma
Aroma: Woody, earthy, slightly bitter, herbal
Tea Preparation
Modern Evidence
Cat's claw has an Indigenous tradition as an immune and anti-inflammatory bark tea. Clinical evidence is insufficient; preclinical work shows immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory activity, but it is not a treatment for cancer, arthritis, infection, or any disease.
Evidence levels describe the state of research for the traditional use discussed here, not a recommendation. Historical use does not imply effectiveness.
Related Herbs
Entry last updated August 4, 2026