Shop Now
Cat's claw, or Uncaria tomentosa, is a woody vine native to the Amazon rainforest. It is named for the hook-like thorns along its stems that resemble a cat's claw. For over 2,000 years, indigenous tribes, mainly the Asháninka people of Peru, have used the bark and root of Cat's Claw to treat a wide range of conditions, including arthritis, digestive issues, viral infections, inflammation, and wounds.
Cat's Claw is widely available as a dietary supplement in capsules, tablets, and liquid extracts. But what does the scientific evidence actually say about its benefits? In this article, we will review the research on cat's claw, its traditional uses, and what modern studies reveal about its potential health applications.
What the Research Shows: Key Benefits
1. Anti-Inflammatory Properties
The most well-studied benefit of a cat's claw is its anti-inflammatory activity. In 2024, a systematic review and meta-analysis of 24 preclinical studies found that Uncaria tomentosa extracts significantly reduced two key markers of inflammation: interleukin-6 (IL-6) and nuclear factor kappa-B (NF-κB).
These two are central players in the body's inflammatory response, and their reduction shows the cat's claw's ability to manage inflammatory conditions.
2. Immune System Support
Cat's claw has been used for centuries to boost the immune system. The pentacyclic oxindole alkaloids (POAs) found in the plant are known to enhance the activity of white blood cells called phagocytes, which help the body fight infections.
3. Joint Comfort and Arthritis Support
Cat's Claw is traditionally used for arthritis and rheumatism. It also has some scientific backing. The anti-inflammatory and immunomodulating effects of cat’s claw may help reduce joint pain and swelling in conditions like osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.
4. Emerging Research: Cancer and Antiviral Activity
Early-stage research has explored Cat's Claw for potential anticancer effects. In 2025, a systematic review found that crude aqueous bark extracts and POA-rich extracts exhibited selective cytotoxicity against specific cancer cell lines, including squamous cell carcinoma, prostate cancer, and leukemia. Most extracts were non-toxic to normal cells, though the crude bark extract did show some toxicity to keratinocytes (skin cells).
Cat's claw has also demonstrated antiviral activity in laboratory studies. Alkaloids, proanthocyanidins, and quinovic acid glycosides are considered responsible for this effect. However, clinical applications remain early-stage.
Important Safety Information
While cat's claw is generally well-tolerated for short-term use, there are important precautions to consider.
Common Side Effects
When taken by mouth, it can cause:
-
Nausea, vomiting, or upset stomach
-
Diarrhea
-
Dizziness or headaches
Who Should Avoid Cat's Claw
-
People with autoimmune conditions
-
Pregnant or breastfeeding women
-
People with bleeding disorders
-
Those scheduled for surgery
Serious Drug Interactions
-
Blood thinners (warfarin, clopidogrel, aspirin, NSAIDs): May increase bleeding risk
-
Blood pressure medications: May enhance blood pressure-lowering effects
-
Immunosuppressants (cyclosporine, prednisone): Cat's claw stimulates the immune system, which may counteract these drugs
-
HIV medications: Potential for altered drug levels
-
Drugs metabolized by the liver: May affect how your body processes certain medications
Dosage: What's Considered Safe?
There is no standardized dose for cat's claw, as it varies by product form and concentration. Always follow the brand's instructions for the product you are consuming.
Try TomoX Cat’s Claw tablets, which are easy to take, easy to keep up with, and available in 6 servings per pack, 3 tablets per serving. It has three unique flavours: Blue Raspberry, Strawberry, and Watermelon.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is Cat's Claw safe to take daily?
Cat's Claw is well-tolerated for short-term use (up to 6 months). However, its effects on blood clotting and immune function mean it's not suitable for everyone. Always consult a healthcare provider before starting daily use.
2. Can Cat's Claw help with joint pain?
Yes. Cat's Claw helps reduce inflammation and support joint comfort, but the evidence is limited.
3. How do I know which cat's claw product to choose?
Look for products that provide third-party lab testing, specify the Uncaria species used (U. tomentosa), list the plant part (bark), and disclose their alkaloid content or standardization. TomoX offers a lab-verified, transparent option with precision-dosed cat's claw extract.
4. Does Cat's Claw interact with medications?
Yes. It can interact with blood thinners, blood pressure medications, immunosuppressants, HIV medications, and drugs processed by the liver. Always discuss with your pharmacist or healthcare provider.
5. Can I take cat's claw if I have an autoimmune disease?
It's generally not recommended. Because cat's claw may stimulate the immune system, it could worsen autoimmune conditions
The Bottom Line
Cat's claw is a fascinating botanical with a rich history of traditional use and is promising but still in the early stages of scientific research. The strongest evidence supports its anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties, with some emerging data on joint comfort and potential anticancer activity.
More Readings: