Family Name: Rubiaceae
Botanical Name(s): Uncaria tomentosa
Popular Name(s): Una de Gato
Parts Used: Root bark
Habitat: Cat's Claw is found in the tropical jungles of South
and Central America.
Description: Cat's Claw is a woody vine which attains a height
up to 30m. The plant bears elliptic leaves with smooth edges growing in
opposite whorls of two. It has hook-like thorns that resemble the claws
of a cat. The plant climbs by means of these thorns.
Uses: Cat's Claw is used as an anti-inflammatory, antioxidant
and anticancer agent. It is used to treat gastric ulcers, tumors,
parasites and colitis. It is used to treat cancer and HIV infection
also.
