Overview
Uncaria tomentosa for joint pain and immunity.
- Whole dried plant material (root, leaf, flower, or aerial parts depending on the species)
- Standardized hydroethanolic or aqueous extract (capsule, tincture, or tea)
- Powdered traditional preparation used in Ayurvedic, TCM, or Western herbal practice
- Standardized extract capsule
- Liquid tincture (alcohol or glycerin)
- Powdered whole herb
- Traditional decoction or tea
Mechanism of action
Pentacyclic oxindole alkaloids modulate NF-κB.
- · Pentacyclic oxindole alkaloids modulate NF-κB
Effects on the body
Organ system effects
Cat's Claw modulates innate and adaptive immune responses, including cytokine signaling and barrier function.
Evidence-based benefits
Reduces RA inflammation
Moderate evidencePotential side effects
- · GI upset
Drug interactions
Safety & non-supplemental interactions
Educational summary — always confirm with your clinician or pharmacist before starting, stopping, or combining with prescription therapy.
- ·Pregnant or breastfeeding (insufficient safety data)
- ·Children under 18 (unless directed by a clinician)
- ·Autoimmune disease (theoretical immune activation)
- ·Immunosuppressants
Supplement interactions
- Vitamin D3 + K2Foundational immune modulation.
- ZincRequired cofactor for innate and adaptive immune function.
No specific avoidances listed.
Dosing & bioavailability
Where to buy
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Third-party testedIndependently verified Cat's Claw — look for USP, NSF, or Informed Sport seals on the label for purity and dose accuracy.Cat's Claw third party tested NSF
CapsulesPre-measured Cat's Claw capsules — easiest for travel and consistent daily dosing without scoops or scales.Cat's Claw capsules
PowderBulk unflavored Cat's Claw powder — best cost-per-gram and flexible dosing for stacking or mixing into drinks.Cat's Claw powder unflavored
Best sellersMost-purchased Cat's Claw products on Amazon — a quick way to see what's reviewed widely before you commit.Cat's Claw best sellerScientific evidence8Show studiesHide studies
Cat's claw in rheumatoid arthritis
Mur E, et al.
40 RA patients
Reduced tender/swollen joints vs placebo.
PubMed: Cat's Claw — Reduces RA inflammation
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PubMed: Cat's Claw — randomized controlled trial
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PubMed: Cat's Claw — dose response
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Google Scholar: Cat's Claw — clinical evidence
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