Also known asUncaria tomentosa, and Una de Gato.IntroductionCat’s claw is a tropical vine clinging to 100-foot (and taller) trees by using its namesake “claws.”Cat’s claw (una de gato in Spanish) refers to at least 20 plants withsharp curved thorns, both native to the South and Central Americantropical rain forests, with most of the commercial production focused onUncaria tomentosa. Ethically harvested cat’s claw bark is a majorsource of income for many Brazilian and Peruvian villages.ConstituentsPentacyclic oxindole alkaloids (pteropodine, isopteropodine,isomitraphylline, uncarine F), tetracyclic oxindole alkaloids(rhynchophylline, isorhynchophylline), quinovic acid glycosides,procyanidins, triterpenoid saponins.Parts UsedInner bark.Typical PreparationsUsually used as a tincture. The tannins in the herb are released onlyif it is taken in an acidic medium; add a little lemon juice to aquarter-cup of water to which you add the tincture or prepare as a tea.For convenience it may be taken as a capsule.PrecautionsWomen should avoid use of this herb when trying to get pregnant.For educational purposes only This information has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration.This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.