DrugInfoSys

Uncaria tomentosa

Uncaria tomentosa

The English name for this herb is Cats Claw.

Warning: Since it is an immune system stimulant, it should not be used by transplant patients and should be avoided by those with auto-immune disorders. It should not be used with antihypertensive drugs. The bitterness of the herb by cause nausea and mild gastric disturbances.

Description

None recorded.

Pharmacological Actions

The pharmacological actions of Uncaria tomentosa are Anti-inflammatory, Anti-oxidant , Immunostimulant, Kidney cleanser.

Indications

Contraindications

None recorded.

Temperament

None recorded.

Occurrence, Taste & Odor

Taste: Bitter.

Dosage

PartDoseInstructions
Whole Herb0.000 – 0.000 0Or 1g of root bark by adding 250ml of water and boiling for 10-15 minutes after cooling 1 cup is drunk thrice a day.
Extract20.000 – 60.000 g/dayN/A

Available Brands

None recorded.

Compound Preparations

No Compound Preparation information is available for Uncaria tomentosa.

Substitutes

No information regarding Uncaria tomentosa's substitute is currently available.

Active Constituents

The active constituents of Uncaria tomentosa are Catechin tannins [typically act as astringens], Flavonoids, Glycerides [It gives anti-inflammatory and antioxidant actions to this herb], Oxyindole alkaloids [It stimulate the immune system], Polyhydroxylated triterpenes [demonstrated anti-tumor affects in vitro against Ehrlich carcinoma cells], Proanthrocyanidins [these are antioxidant compounds], Sterols [mild inhibitors of cholesterol synthesis in vitro, have moderate anti-inflammatory properties.].

The active constituent of Uncaria tomentosa's Root Bark is Quinovic acid glycosides (QAG) [At least 7 QAGs have been isolated. QAG7 functions as anti-inflammatory compound in animal studies].

Antidotes

No information regarding Uncaria tomentosa's antidote is currently available.

Toxicity

Uncaria tomentosa

Constituent: Catechin tannins

Tannins have potential adverse effects including upset stomach, renal damage, hepatic necrosis, and increased risk of esophageal and nasal cancer. Cat's claw contain very low levels of tannins that are probably not clinically signofocant.