Uncariae tomentosae radix

Uncariae tomentosae radix, also known as cat's claw root, is a drug used in herbal medicines as an adjunct therapy for rheumatoid arthritis .

ESCOP monograph: supportive in inflammatory diseases, e.g. rheumatoid arthritis.

HMPC: effect not confirmed.

Commission E: not processed.

Empirical medicine: in Peru: arthritis, gastritis, cancer, skin diseases, also used as adjuvant therapy for brain tumors, leukemia and AIDS.
In Germany and Austria: as an immunostimulant (capsules, drops, ointments) for infections caused by weakness of the body's immune system. Furthermore, allergic diseases, hay fever, viral infections, e.g. herpes zoster, rheumatic diseases, autoimmune diseases, adjuvant in malignant tumor diseases. Its efficacy has not yet been sufficiently proven.

According to some studies, cat's claw can improve the quality of life of cancer patients (see Sutherlandia frutescens - balloon pea). An effect of cat's claw against cancer cells has only been confirmed in laboratory tests. There are also studies that confirm neither an effect against cancer cells nor an improvement in the side effects of cancer therapy. Cat's claw as an adjuvant cancer therapy is therefore currently the subject of much controversy. Further serious studies must follow.

Uncariae tomentosae radix contains 6 stereoisomeric pentacyclic (e.g. pteropodine, mitraphylline) and 4 tetracyclic oxindole aclaloids (up to 2 %). Other ingredients are quinovic acid derivatives, ursolic and oleanolic acid derivatives, phytosterols (beta-sitosterol, sigmasterol), flavonoids, catechin tannins and procyanidins.

Uncariae tomentosae radix is used for rheumatoid arthritis, rheumatism and for stomach ulcers. In Peru it is also used as adjuvant therapy for brain tumours, leukaemia and AIDS.

3 x daily 20 mg of a dry extract, for tea preparations 3 to 4 x daily 1 tablespoon.

It can lead to constipation, increased uric acid levels and cardiovascular problems.

Not suitable for children < 3 years; do not take during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Based on the available studies and experience reports, no statement can be made regarding further contraindications.

Uncaria tomentosa should not be confused with Uncaria guianensis.
Cat's claw products offered on the Internet should also be considered carefully. Many of these therapeutic promises lack any scientific basis.

1. Schilcher H (2016) Leitfaden Phytotherapie, Urban & Fischer Verlag (2016) Munich, p. 181 f.
2. https://www.awl.ch/heilpflanzen/uncaria_tomentosa/katzenkralle.htm