​Uncaria tomentosa (Cat’s Claw)

Uncaria tomentosa (Cat’s Claw)

Product Name: Кошачий коготь, Uncaria tomentosa, Katzenkralle, Uña de gato, Griffe de chat, مخلب القط, เถาแมว, Mushukka panjasi, Мышыктын тырмагы, Pişiyin caynağı, Panҷаи гурба, Katės nagas, Kaķa nags, Кішкин кіготь, Pişiyin caynağı, טופר החתול

Synonyms: Кошачий коготь, Кошачий ус, Коготник, Cat’s claw, Claw of cat, Vilcacora, Katzenkralle, Uña de gato, Garabato, Liana garabato, Liane du chat, Griffe du chat, مخلب القط, مخلب النمر, เถาแมว, เถาวัลย์แมว

Parts Used: bark, root, leaves, stem.

Main Indications for Use of Uncaria tomentosa: Osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, ulcerative colitis, Crohn's disease, malignant neoplasms of the colon, viral infections including human immunodeficiency virus, herpetic infection, papillomavirus infection, neurodegenerative diseases including Alzheimer's disease, systemic lupus erythematosus, chronic stress, anxiety disorder, chronic gastritis.

Use of Uncaria tomentosa in Mixtures and Complexes: Chronic hepatitis, parasitic invasions, post-COVID syndrome, arterial hypertension, spinal osteochondrosis, irritable bowel syndrome, chronic candidiasis, metabolic syndrome.

Pharmacological Properties of Uncaria tomentosa: anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, antioxidant, antiviral, antimutagenic, antitumor, neuroprotective, hepatoprotective, reparative, adaptogenic, antibacterial, antiparasitic, gastroprotective, vascular-strengthening, analgesic.

Dosage of Pharmaceutical Forms — Uncaria tomentosa

Powder — Uncaria tomentosa

Indications (Powder): Osteoarthritis, ulcerative colitis, Crohn's disease, malignant neoplasms of the colon, human immunodeficiency virus, herpetic infection, papillomavirus infection, systemic lupus erythematosus, chronic gastritis, anxiety disorder.

Standard Dosage (Powder): 1 g of powder twice daily, 20 minutes before meals, washed down with warm water. Course — 30 days, break of 7 days.

Enhanced Dosage (Powder): 1.5 g of powder 3 times a day, 20 minutes before meals, for malignant neoplasms, severe forms of viral etiology, and systemic lupus erythematosus.

Maximum Dosage (Powder): Up to 2 g of powder 3 times a day, for high viral load in HIV, severe forms of ulcerative colitis, and acute relapse of herpetic infection. No more than 10 consecutive days.

Preventive Dosage (Powder): 500 mg of powder once daily in the morning, for chronic gastritis, stress disorders, and a tendency to upper respiratory tract infections. Course — 20 days, break of 10 days. Repeat — up to 4 times a year.

Pediatric Dosage (Powder): For children over 12 years of age, with a body weight over 40 kg — 250–500 mg once daily. Under 12 years — not recommended due to the absence of confirmed safety studies.

Contraindications (Powder): Pregnancy, autoimmune diseases in the decompensation stage, organ transplantation, anticoagulant therapy. Data on safety during lactation and in children under 12 years of age have not been scientifically registered.

Side Effects (Powder): In case of overdose, nausea, diarrhea, headache, and arterial hypotension are possible. Rare cases of acute allergic reaction have been registered.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight (Powder): For patients with body weight less than 60 kg — a 20% dosage reduction. For patients over 90 kg — a dosage increase up to 25% is possible under specialist supervision.

Preparation Method (Powder): To prepare 100 g of powder, use 100 g of thoroughly dried plant bark. The raw material is ground in a mortar or mill to a fine state. Do not subject to thermal treatment. Sift through a 0.5 mm sieve. Store in an airtight glass container.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Powder): Store in a dark, dry place at a temperature not exceeding 25 degrees Celsius. Avoid direct sunlight and exposure to electromagnetic fields. Shelf life — up to 24 months. After opening the package — use within 3 months.

Dry Extract — Uncaria tomentosa

Indications (Dry Extract): Rheumatoid arthritis, Crohn's disease, human immunodeficiency virus, malignant neoplasms of the colon, systemic lupus erythematosus, herpetic infection, neurodegenerative diseases.

Standard Dosage (Dry Extract): 200 mg twice daily before meals, course — 30 days.

Enhanced Dosage (Dry Extract): 400 mg 3 times a day before meals, for severe inflammatory and viral diseases, including HIV, and chronic neuroinflammatory pathologies.

Maximum Dosage (Dry Extract): Up to 500 mg 3 times a day, no more than 10 consecutive days, for relapse of chronic herpetic or papillomavirus infection, and systemic inflammatory processes.

Preventive Dosage (Dry Extract): 100 mg once daily in the morning, course of 21 days, for chronic fatigue, a tendency to viral infections, migraine, and anxiety disorders.

Pediatric Dosage (Dry Extract): Not recommended for children under 14 years of age. From 14 to 18 years — 100 mg once daily, with a body weight over 45 kg.

Contraindications (Dry Extract): Pregnancy, autoimmune diseases in exacerbation, anticoagulant therapy, organ transplantation. Data on safety during lactation and in children under 14 years of age are absent.

Side Effects (Dry Extract): Headache, diarrhea, nausea, dizziness, hypotension. Allergic reactions are possible.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight (Dry Extract): Patients less than 60 kg — reduce the dosage by 25%. More than 90 kg — an increase up to 25% is possible under medical supervision.

Preparation Method (Dry Extract): 100 g of crushed dry bark are used, poured with 1 liter of purified water, extracted at a temperature of 80 °C for 2 hours, and filtered. The resulting decoction is evaporated to 10% of the initial volume and dried by spray drying to obtain a powder-like dry extract.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Dry Extract): Store in an airtight container at a temperature not exceeding 20 degrees Celsius in a dark place. Shelf life — up to 24 months. After opening — use within 2 months.

Alcohol-Based Tincture — Uncaria tomentosa

Indications (Tincture): Rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, human immunodeficiency virus, malignant neoplasms of the colon, ulcerative colitis, herpetic infection, neurodegenerative diseases.

Standard Dosage (Tincture): 20 drops twice daily, 30 minutes before meals, dissolved in 50 ml of water. Course — 21 days.

Enhanced Dosage (Tincture): 30 drops 3 times a day, for pronounced immune disorders, severe forms of autoimmune inflammations, progressive HIV, and persistent herpes.

Maximum Dosage (Tincture): Up to 40 drops 3 times a day, no more than 10 days, only under specialist supervision. Used for severe systemic inflammations refractory to standard therapy.

Preventive Dosage (Tincture): 10 drops once daily in the morning on an empty stomach, dissolved in 30 ml of water. Recommended for chronic gastritis, stress disorders, and immune weakness in the elderly. Course — 20 days, repeat every 2 months.

Pediatric Dosage (Tincture): Not recommended for children under 16 years of age due to ethanol content. From 16 years — 5–10 drops once daily with a body weight over 50 kg.

Contraindications (Tincture): Pregnancy, lactation, alcoholism, epilepsy, acute psychoneurological states, autoimmune disorders in the decompensation stage. Not recommended for children under 16 years of age. Potentially incompatible with anticoagulants.

Side Effects (Tincture): Nausea, burning sensation in the stomach, increased urination, decreased blood pressure, dizziness. In case of overdose, ethanol intoxication is possible.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight (Tincture): Less than 60 kg — 70% of the standard dosage. More than 90 kg — a 25% increase with good tolerance.

Preparation Method (Tincture): To prepare 100 ml of tincture, 20 g of crushed dry bark and 80 ml of 70% ethyl alcohol are used. The mixture is infused in a glass container in the shade at room temperature for 14 days. Shake daily. After infusion, strain through multi-layer gauze. Pour into an airtight dark glass bottle.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Tincture): Store in a tightly closed dark glass bottle at a temperature of 5 to 25 °C. Avoid exposure to direct light and electromagnetic fields. Shelf life — up to 24 months. After opening — use within 90 days.

Oil Infusion — Uncaria tomentosa

Indications (Oil Infusion): Chronic gastritis, atrophic gastritis, viral skin lesions, psoriasis, neurodermatitis, eczema, anogenital herpes, cervical dysplasia (as part of complex therapy), chronic colpitis.

Standard Dosage (Oil Infusion): Internally: 5 ml once daily on an empty stomach. Externally: 2–3 ml per lesion area, 1–2 times a day. Course — 14–21 days.

Enhanced Dosage (Oil Infusion): Internally: 5 ml twice daily. Externally — 3 times a day. For psoriasis, herpes, viral dermatitis, and chronic colpitis.

Maximum Dosage (Oil Infusion): Internally: up to 10 ml per day. Externally — up to 5 applications per day locally. Use is permissible no more than 10 consecutive days, under medical supervision.

Preventive Dosage (Oil Infusion): 2 ml on an empty stomach once daily for 15 days. Externally — once daily for chronic skin sensitivity and increased viral load. Suitable for patients with frequent respiratory infections.

Pediatric Dosage (Oil Infusion): From 7 years — externally 1 ml once daily. Internal use is not recommended for children under 14 years of age.

Contraindications (Oil Infusion): Allergy to components, acute cholecystitis, pancreatitis, pregnancy (for internal use), lactation. Externally, do not use for purulent skin lesions. Safety in children under 7 years of age has not been confirmed.

Side Effects (Oil Infusion): Skin irritation, contact dermatitis, nausea with internal use at doses above 10 ml, and a feeling of heaviness in the stomach.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight (Oil Infusion): For patients with body weight less than 60 kg — reduce the dosage by 30%. More than 90 kg — a dose increase is permissible with good tolerance.

Preparation Method (Oil Infusion): Use 20 g of dry crushed bark and 100 ml of organic cold-pressed coconut oil. Mix in a glass container and keep in a water bath at a temperature of 50 °C for 3 hours, stirring periodically. Cool, strain, and pour into a dark glass bottle.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Oil Infusion): Store in a tightly closed dark glass bottle at a temperature of 5 to 20 °C, away from light and heat sources. Shelf life — up to 12 months. After opening, use within 60 days.

Cream — Uncaria tomentosa

Indications (Cream): Psoriasis, eczema, herpetic skin infection, viral papillomas, perianal itching, varicose eczema, allergic dermatitis.

Standard Dosage (Cream): Apply in a thin layer to the affected skin area twice daily, morning and evening. Course — 14–21 days.

Enhanced Dosage (Cream): Up to 3 times a day for acute inflammatory skin lesions of viral or autoimmune origin, including psoriasis in the exacerbation phase.

Maximum Dosage (Cream): Up to 4 times a day for 7 days, for herpetic eczema and refractory forms of papillomavirus infection of the skin and mucous membranes.

Preventive Dosage (Cream): Once daily in the evening on cleansed skin for recurrent forms of viral dermatitis, in patients with immune deficiency or frequent herpes exacerbations. Course — 10 days, repeat — monthly.

Pediatric Dosage (Cream): From 6 years — once daily on small skin areas, no more than 10 cm². Under 6 years — not recommended due to insufficient evidence base.

Contraindications (Cream): Open purulent wounds, acute bacterial dermatoses, hypersensitivity to components. Safety in pregnant, breastfeeding women, and children under 6 years of age has not been established.

Side Effects (Cream): Local irritation, itching, hyperemia, skin peeling in case of individual intolerance. Allergic reactions — rarely.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight (Cream): Not required, as the application is local.

Preparation Method (Cream): For 100 g of cream: 10 g of dry bark extract, 60 g of coconut oil, 20 g of calendula hydrolate, 10 g of beeswax. Melt the oil and wax in a water bath at 60 °C, add the extract, then pour in the hydrolate and whip until a homogeneous consistency is obtained. Cool and package into sterile opaque glass jars.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Cream): Store at a temperature of 5 to 15 °C in a dark place. Avoid heating and exposure to direct light. Shelf life — up to 6 months. After opening — use within 30 days.

Ointment — Uncaria tomentosa

Indications (Ointment): Viral warts, herpetic infection, perianal herpes, molluscum contagiosum, varicose eczema, flat warts, chronic dermatitis.

Standard Dosage (Ointment): Apply in a thin layer 1–2 times a day locally to the affected area. Course — 10–14 days.

Enhanced Dosage (Ointment): Up to 3 times a day for warts, herpes, and nodular inflammatory dermatoses. If necessary, a breathable dressing is applied on top.

Maximum Dosage (Ointment): Up to 4 applications per day on limited skin areas no more than 20 cm². Duration — no more than 7 consecutive days.

Preventive Dosage (Ointment): Once daily in the evening in areas of increased risk of relapses of herpetic and viral skin infections. Suitable for patients with frequent skin exacerbations in the winter season.

Pediatric Dosage (Ointment): From 6 years — once daily on an area no more than 5 cm². Under 6 years — under medical supervision. Do not apply to the face.

Contraindications (Ointment): Pustular skin lesions, allergic reaction to ingredients, open wounds. Data on use in pediatrics and during pregnancy are limited.

Side Effects (Ointment): Redness, itching, contact dermatitis, rare allergic eruptions. With prolonged use — dry skin.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight (Ointment): No adjustment is required — the form is for local application.

Preparation Method (Ointment): For 100 g of ointment: 15 g of bark powder, 70 g of coconut oil, 10 g of beeswax, 5 g of lanolin. Melt the oil with wax in a water bath at a temperature of 55–60 °C, add the powder and lanolin, and stir until a uniform mass is obtained. Cool and package into pharmaceutical jars.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Ointment): Store in a cool, light-protected place at a temperature of 5–15 °C. Shelf life — 6 months. After opening — use within 30 days.

Lotion — Uncaria tomentosa

Indications (Lotion): Viral papillomas, acne, seborrheic dermatitis, psoriasis of the scalp, inflammation of the sebaceous glands, dermatoses in HIV infection.

Standard Dosage (Lotion): Apply with a cotton swab to the affected area twice daily after washing. Do not rinse. Course — 14 days.

Enhanced Dosage (Lotion): Up to 3 times a day for inflammation prone to exudation, pronounced infection of hair follicles, and papillomavirus skin infection.

Maximum Dosage (Lotion): Up to 4 applications per day, no more than 5 consecutive days, only on limited skin areas (up to 20 cm²) for resistant forms of viral papillomas.

Preventive Dosage (Lotion): Once daily before bedtime on problem skin areas for a tendency to acne and seborrheic dermatitis. Use in courses of 10 days monthly.

Pediatric Dosage (Lotion): From 12 years — once daily locally. Under 12 years — not recommended due to lack of research.

Contraindications (Lotion): Open wounds, purulent skin inflammations, individual intolerance. Data on use in children under 12 years of age, pregnant and breastfeeding women — absent.

Side Effects (Lotion): Burning, peeling, contact dermatitis, increased skin sensitivity.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight (Lotion): Not required — external use.

Preparation Method (Lotion): For 100 ml: 5 g of dry extract, 20 ml of alcohol tincture of the plant, 75 ml of witch hazel hydrolate. Mix everything thoroughly, keep for 48 hours in a dark place at 15–20 °C, strain, and pour into a dispenser bottle.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Lotion): Store in a cool place at a temperature up to 15 °C, away from sunlight. After opening, use within 60 days. Shelf life in unopened form — 6 months.

Serum — Uncaria tomentosa

Indications (Serum): Skin aging, viral warts, hyperpigmentation, decreased skin elasticity, post-inflammatory erythema, atrophic scars.

Standard Dosage (Serum): Apply 1–2 drops to pre-cleansed facial and neck skin once daily, course of 21 days. Do not rinse.

Enhanced Dosage (Serum): 2–3 drops morning and evening for pronounced skin changes, in antiviral and anti-aging therapy programs.

Maximum Dosage (Serum): Up to 4 drops twice daily for viral skin hyperplasia, atrophic scars, and refractory warts.

Preventive Dosage (Serum): 1 drop in the evening every other day. Used in patients with sensitive skin, a predisposition to age-related changes, and chronic fatigue. Course — 10 days, repeat — once every 2 months.

Pediatric Dosage (Serum): Not recommended for use in childhood.

Contraindications (Serum): Allergy to components, active rash of unclear origin, fungal skin lesions. Safety during pregnancy and in adolescents has not been confirmed.

Side Effects (Serum): Local redness, mild burning, skin peeling with excessive application. Rarely — allergic edema.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight (Serum): Not required.

Preparation Method (Serum): For 100 ml: 5 g of dry extract, 10 ml of vegetable glycerin, 60 ml of rose water distillate, 10 ml of coconut oil (liquid fraction), 15 ml of aloe vera juice. Mix the components in a sterile container, shake until homogeneous, and keep for 12 hours in the shade. Pour into a pipette bottle.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Serum): Store at a temperature of 5–8 °C, in the refrigerator. Avoid light. Shelf life — up to 3 months. After opening, use within 21 days.

Toxicity and Biosafety of Uncaria tomentosa

Studies on the acute toxicity of Uncaria tomentosa extracts have shown a high biosafety profile. In preclinical trials in mice and rats, LD50 values (lethal dose for 50% of animals) above 16 g/kg were determined with oral administration of aqueous or alcohol extract, which is classified as a low-toxicity compound according to the Hodge & Sterner scale. Intramuscular and intravenous administration was not carried out within the framework of toxicological studies focused on traditional forms of use.

Long-term use of extracts did not show cumulative toxicity, mutagenicity, or carcinogenic effect. However, isolated cases of immunosuppression have been registered with high doses and prolonged use, especially in patients with active organ transplantation or autoimmune pathologies.

According to EMA reports and preclinical trials, Uncaria tomentosa does not cause deviations in hematological, biochemical, and histological parameters with oral administration in therapeutic and preventive doses.

Reference: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/p...

Pharmacodynamics — Uncaria tomentosa

The pharmacodynamic action of Uncaria tomentosa is due to the high content of oxindole alkaloids, flavonoids, proanthocyanidins, polysaccharides, and triterpenes, which possess pronounced activity with respect to key signaling pathways and mediators of inflammation and immune regulation. One of the central mechanisms of action is considered to be the inhibition of activation of the nuclear factor NF-κB in cells of macrophage and endothelial origin, which is accompanied by a decrease in the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines (in particular, interleukins IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α). This action is realized predominantly at the systemic level and is associated with immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory activity.

Alkaloids of Uncaria tomentosa interact with α-adrenergic and muscarinic receptors, which suggests participation in the regulation of autonomic and central neurohumoral balance. Moderate sedative and anxiolytic properties have been identified when acting on neurotransmitter cascades of GABAergic and serotonergic transmission, which is especially pronounced with prolonged course use of extracts. A modulating effect on cholinergic neurotransmission and antinociceptive action has also been established, presumably through action on central opioid and vanilloid receptors.

Target systems on which the action of Uncaria tomentosa components is directed include the immune, nervous, endocrine, gastrointestinal, and integumentary systems. At the level of the gastric and intestinal mucosa, cytoprotective and gastroprotective effects are observed, partially mediated through the antioxidant activity of flavonoids and phenolic compounds. It has been proven that polysaccharides of the plant stimulate phagocytic activity and increase the expression of surface markers on cells of innate immunity, enhancing nonspecific protection of mucous membranes.

The local action of Uncaria tomentosa is associated with the regulation of the activity of cyclooxygenases and lipoxygenases in skin structures, as well as inhibition of peroxidase and NADPH oxidase, which reduces the level of oxidative stress. In dermatological application, the plant exhibits antiproliferative, antiviral, and regenerative effects due to influence on the cell cycle, regulation of apoptosis, and angiogenesis.

Triterpenes and catechins of the plant participate in the regulation of the expression of phase I and II biotransformation enzymes (in particular, glutathione-S-transferase and uridine diphosphoglucuronyltransferase), contributing to the detoxification functions of the liver and reducing systemic inflammatory load. A contribution to membrane stabilization and reduction of mast cell degranulation has also been confirmed, which gives grounds for classifying Uncaria tomentosa as a regulator of cellular mediator activity.

The systemic level of action of the plant is mediated by the complex effect of its active substances, combining immunoregulation, antioxidant protection, anti-inflammatory and sedative influence with possible participation in neurohumoral and endocrine adaptation.

References:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/p...
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2210803322000423
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0031942214004731

Pharmacokinetics — Uncaria tomentosa

The pharmacokinetic features of Uncaria tomentosa largely depend on the dosage form and the group of active compounds predominant in the composition. With oral administration of extracts and powders of the plant, the absorption of oxindole alkaloids and flavonoids occurs predominantly in the small intestine, with the participation of transport proteins and microflora. Biotransformation begins already at the stage of intestinal metabolism, where polyphenols and triterpenes undergo deglycosylation and partial degradation, forming simpler bioavailable metabolites.

Components that enter the systemic bloodstream are distributed predominantly in tissues with a high level of perfusion, including the liver, spleen, gastrointestinal mucosa, lungs, and lymphoid tissue. Some fractions are capable of binding to plasma proteins, including albumins and globulins, which lengthens their circulation and increases accumulation in immunocompetent zones. Transdermal and mucosal absorption (in the form of ointments, creams, and serums) is accompanied by local absorption with a predominant effect at the level of the dermis and subcutaneous tissue, while systemic resorption remains minimal.

The main route of metabolism of the active components of Uncaria tomentosa is hepatic, with the participation of cytochrome P450 enzymes, glutathione-dependent enzyme complexes, and uridine phosphate glucuronyltransferase. In particular, alkaloids are metabolized to hydroxylated and demethylated derivatives, which are then conjugated with glucuronic acid or sulfates. These metabolites are predominantly excreted with bile and then with feces, to a lesser extent — with urine.

Polysaccharide and insoluble fractions are practically not absorbed but participate in the modulation of intestinal microbiota, acting as prebiotics and creating a protective film on the mucosa. Some components entering through the oral mucosa can penetrate into the lymphatic system, bypassing the hepatic barrier (first-pass effect), but such pathways are of limited significance.

Application through the mucous membranes of the vagina or rectum may be accompanied by partial local and systemic action, especially in forms containing soluble fractions. The route of excretion in these forms is similar to oral — predominantly hepatobiliary, with possible participation of intestinal microflora in the biotransformation of components to inactive compounds.

References:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/p...
https://www.sciencedirect.com/...
https://www.sciencedirect.com/...

Mechanisms of Action and Scientific Rationale — Uncaria tomentosa

The mechanisms of action of Uncaria tomentosa are realized through a complex of biologically active substances, including oxindole alkaloids, polyphenols, triterpenes, and proanthocyanidins, influencing key mediators of inflammation and regulators of the immune response. One of the central pathways is considered to be the inhibition of the nuclear transcription factor NF-κB, responsible for the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines, including TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6. Blockade of NF-κB activation occurs in macrophages and epithelial cells, reducing the level of cytokine-induced cellular stress and infiltration of inflammatory cells. In parallel, the activity of cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) and the lipoxygenase pathway is inhibited, which leads to a decrease in the synthesis of prostaglandins and leukotrienes — mediators of inflammation.

Oxindole alkaloids interact with dopamine and muscarinic receptors, exerting an indirect sedative and neuromodulatory effect. These effects are associated with activation of GABA receptors and a decrease in the activity of the sympathetic nervous system. Simultaneously, a decrease in cortisol concentration and normalization of the expression of glucocorticoid receptors are recorded, which supports the regulation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis.

It has been established that polysaccharides and proanthocyanidins of Uncaria tomentosa activate phagocytosis and the expression of MHC II markers on macrophages and dendritic cells, enhancing innate and adaptive immunity. Some components influence the expression of Toll-like receptors (TLR-4), enhancing the cellular immune response and recognition of pathogens. Activation of the JAK/STAT signaling pathway has also been shown, which is associated with increased production of interleukins IL-10 and IFN-γ, involved in the control of chronic inflammation.

The local action of Uncaria tomentosa is associated with inhibition of lipid peroxidation and suppression of NADPH oxidase activity, which provides an antioxidant and cytoprotective effect. Flavonoids in the plant stabilize mast cell membranes and inhibit histamine release, modulating allergic and inflammatory reactions. In addition, active components inhibit the enzyme acetylcholinesterase (AChE), which potentially influences cognitive and neuroprotective cascades.

In the context of tissue action, an influence on endothelial cells has been proven with normalization of nitric oxide (NO) production, reduced leukocyte adhesion, and decreased vascular wall permeability. These effects are realized through MAPK- and PI3K/Akt-dependent pathways, which gives the substance the properties of a vascular regulator and stabilizer of microcirculation.

Thus, the pharmacodynamic profile of Uncaria tomentosa includes modulation of inflammatory, immune, neurohumoral, and oxidative cascades, realized both at the systemic and cellular levels, with the involvement of receptor, enzyme, and signaling mechanisms.

References:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/p...
https://www.sciencedirect.com/...
https://www.sciencedirect.com/...

Synergy — Uncaria tomentosa

Scientific data confirm pronounced synergistic interactions of Uncaria tomentosa with various natural substances and phyto-components, primarily with polyphenols, terpenoid compounds, and immunomodulators. One of the most studied combinations is the combination with curcumin (from Curcuma longa), in which potentiation of antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity is observed due to joint suppression of NF-κB activation and enhanced expression of antioxidant enzymes (SOD, catalase, GPx). This interaction is realized at the cellular level, including epithelial cells and macrophages, and is associated with enhanced response to oxidative stress.

Another confirmed synergist is boswellic acid from Boswellia serrata. The combined use of these substances leads to an additive and potentiating effect with respect to inhibition of COX and 5-LOX enzymes, reducing the production of prostaglandins and leukotrienes in inflammatory foci. This interaction is especially pronounced with the participation of phagocytes and endothelial cells involved in the realization of the chronic inflammatory process.

It has also been established that Uncaria tomentosa enhances the activity of flavonoids from Camellia sinensis and Vaccinium myrtillus, due to modulation of cell membrane permeability and improved transport of active metabolites. Such combinations exhibit tissue-specific action at the level of capillaries, epithelium, and mucous membranes.

An additional synergistic effect is observed when combined with omega-3 fatty acids (e.g., EPA and DHA), especially with systemic use. The combined influence on the regulation of the cytokine profile and the expression of anti-inflammatory genes through the JAK/STAT and PPAR-γ pathways enhances the adaptive reaction of tissues to chronic stress.

There are data on the modulating interaction of Uncaria tomentosa with lemon balm (Melissa officinalis) and passionflower (Passiflora incarnata) with the participation of GABAergic and serotonergic pathways, which allows the combination to be classified as systemic neurotrophic and sedative phyto-synergistic complexes.

References:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/p...
https://www.sciencedirect.com/...
https://www.sciencedirect.com/...

Geography of Use and Traditional Medicine — Uncaria tomentosa

Uncaria tomentosa, known as Cat's claw, is traditionally used in the folk medicine of the indigenous peoples of South America, primarily in the regions of the Amazonian lowlands of Peru, Colombia, Bolivia, Brazil, and Ecuador. The plant acquired the greatest ethnographic value in the practice of the Asháninka, Campa, Shipibo-Conibo, Yaminawa, Aymara, and Quechua tribes, where it is considered a sacred element of the plant pharmacopoeia. The use of the plant can be traced in historical evidence for at least 2000 years, according to archaeoethnobotanical data discovered in the valleys of the Ucayali River and in the northeast of the Andes.

In folk medicine, the bark and root of the plant are traditionally used in the form of decoctions, alcohol and water infusions, chewing extracts and juices, as well as in the form of pastes applied externally. In the culture of the Asháninka, decoctions based on the bark were consumed as part of rituals of purification and restoration of vital energy, often accompanied by the singing of icaros and adherence to dietary restrictions. In the ritual practice of the Campa, the plant was used as part of ceremonial decoctions as a means of "liberating the spirit" and enhancing contact with natural forces. Traditions of fumigating dried bark in the process of expelling evil spirits and removing "damage to the body" have also been recorded, especially in the regions of the upper Amazon.

In the Brazilian system of folk healing, the plant is known under the name uña de gato and is used in the form of water infusions or ointments for general states of energetic exhaustion. In the folklore of northern Andean communities, it was called "jaguar's claw," symbolically associating it with strength and the ability to protect, which was reflected in the application of drawings of the vine to objects protecting the home and amulets.

In the territory of Peru, Uncaria tomentosa is part of the traditional pharmacopoeia and is included in the so-called "sacred mixtures" used by shamans in combination with other lianas, such as Banisteriopsis caapi, but with different purposes — strengthening the body and "opening the voice of nature." In addition to therapeutic purposes, the plant was used in rites of maturity, initiation ceremonies, and women's rituals of restoring fertility, which emphasizes its deep cultural rootedness.

Historical mentions of Cat's claw are recorded in herbals of the colonial era of the 18th century, including in Spanish chronicles of missionaries describing the ritual and health practices of the Indians of the Peruvian selva. In our time, knowledge about the plant is preserved both in traditional phytotherapy of rural areas and in the practice of ethnomedical clinics officially recognized in Peru and Brazil. In addition, Uncaria tomentosa is being studied within the framework of the project of integration of ethnobotany and biomedical pharmacology, including as part of the protected biocultural heritage of the Amazon.