Herbal Extract
Cat's Claw Extract (Uncaria tomentosa)
Also known as: Una de Gato, Uncaria tomentosa, Cat's Claw, Vilcacora
Cat's Claw is a Peruvian vine traditionally used to support immune function and joint health, containing alkaloids and polyphenols with preliminary anti-inflammatory properties. Evidence remains moderate and primarily from in vitro and animal studies, with limited high-quality human clinical trials.
Last reviewed June 2026 · Evidence graded from peer-reviewed research, not editorial opinion. Educational only — not medical advice.
Every Cat's Claw Extract (Uncaria tomentosa) product we have scored
| # | Product | Score | Per serving |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | NOW Foods Elderberry | 89 A | $0.15 |
| 2 | Pure Encapsulations Cat's Claw | 86 A- | $0.53 |
| 3 | Nutricost Cat's Claw Capsules | 86 A- | $0.25 |
| 4 | Bluebonnet Nutrition CAT'S CLAW BARK EXTRACT | 78 B+ | $0.46 |
| 5 | Herb Pharm Cat's Claw | 76 B+ | $0.38 |
| 6 | Nature's Way Cat's Claw Bark | 71 B | $0.44 |
Scored on dose accuracy, form, label transparency and third-party testing. Per-serving cost is list price divided by servings per container. No brand pays to be listed or ranked.
Common questions
How much Cat's Claw Extract (Uncaria tomentosa) should I take?
The typical range is 400-1000 mg daily (or 20-60 mg of 10:1 extract equivalent). Some studies used 12-24 week protocols; long-term safety data limited
When should I take Cat's Claw Extract (Uncaria tomentosa)?
With meals for better tolerance. Recommended to minimize gastrointestinal upset.
Which form of Cat's Claw Extract (Uncaria tomentosa) is best?
Extract (10:1). Other forms in the catalog: Capsules, Powder, Liquid extract.
Is Cat's Claw Extract (Uncaria tomentosa) safe?
Commonly reported: Nausea, Dizziness, Headache, Gastrointestinal upset.
Which Cat's Claw Extract (Uncaria tomentosa) supplement scores highest?
NOW Foods Elderberry, at 89/100. Scored on dose accuracy, form, label transparency and third-party testing — no brand pays to be listed or ranked.
Primary uses
- Immune system support
- Joint health and flexibility
- Anti-inflammatory support
- General wellness
How it works
- Contains pentacyclic oxindole alkaloids that may modulate immune response
- Polyphenol content provides antioxidant activity
- May reduce pro-inflammatory cytokine production
Dosage
- Typical range
- 400-1000 mg daily (or 20-60 mg of 10:1 extract equivalent)
- Timing
- With meals for better tolerance
- With food
- Recommended to minimize gastrointestinal upset
- Duration
- Some studies used 12-24 week protocols; long-term safety data limited
- Special populations
- Avoid during pregnancy/lactation; caution in autoimmune conditions
Forms
- Extract (10:1)· 70/100
- Capsules· 70/100
- Powder· 70/100
- Liquid extract· 70/100
Safety
Common side effects
- Nausea
- Dizziness
- Headache
- Gastrointestinal upset
Contraindications
- Pregnancy and lactation
- Autoimmune diseases (may overstimulate immune response)
- Bleeding disorders or anticoagulant use (theoretical risk)
- Recent organ transplant
Products containing Cat's Claw Extract (Uncaria tomentosa)
Top-scoring supplements in our catalog that list Cat's Claw Extract (Uncaria tomentosa) on the label. Each product is graded on Formulate's ingredient-level rubric — dose accuracy, form, transparency, and third-party testing.
Evidence notes
Moderate evidence from small human trials and traditional use; most mechanistic evidence is in vitro or animal-derived. Limited large-scale RCTs in humans. 10:1 extract represents concentrated form but lacks standardized clinical evidence specific to this ratio.
Grade C: Mostly observational or small trials; mechanism is plausible but unproven at scale.
Related in Herbal Extract
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Medical disclaimer. This page is educational and does not replace advice from a qualified healthcare provider. Individual needs and risks vary — consult a professional before starting, stopping, or combining supplements, especially if you are pregnant or nursing, taking medication, or managing a health condition.