Cat's Claw

Identity

Common Name

Cat's Claw

Scientific Name

Uncaria tomentosa

Botanical Family

Rubiaceae

Native Region

Amazon rainforest (Peru, Brazil)

Cultivation Regions

Peru, Brazil, Colombia, Amazon basin

Plant Parts Used

Bark, Root

Synonyms

Uña de Gato, Amazon Vine, Samento

Caffeine Level

Caffeine Free

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.

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 Uses

These uses document historical traditions and do not imply proven effectiveness.

Flavor & Aroma

Aroma: Woody, earthy, slightly bitter, herbal

Tea Information

Research Summary

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 reflect the currently available scientific literature and may change as new research emerges. Where evidence is limited or conflicting, this is stated plainly.

References & Sources