Cat's Claw Extract

Cat's Claw (Uncaria tomentosa) is a medicinal plant traditionally used in South American folk medicine for its immunomodulatory, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antiviral properties. Extracts from the bark and leaves have demonstrated significant immunostimulatory effects by enhancing the activity of human blood mononuclear cells, which play a key role in immune defense [1]. Its anti-inflammatory effects are partly attributed to potent antioxidant activity, particularly through proanthocyanidins that scavenge reactive oxygen species generated during inflammation [4]. Studies also show that Cat's Claw hydroalcoholic extracts exhibit antiviral and virucidal activity against chikungunya virus in vitro, suggesting potential for use in viral infections [2]. Additionally, certain solvent extracts (e.g., ethyl acetate) induce apoptosis in human leukemia cells via reactive oxygen species production, cytochrome c release, and caspase activation, indicating anticancer potential [3]. Animal models confirm its ability to reduce ozone-induced lung inflammation, further supporting its role in inflammatory conditions . While not a primary treatment, it has been evaluated in clinical contexts such as low back pain, though evidence remains limited and mixed [5][6].