Overview
SCIENTIFIC SCORE
Possibly Effective
Based on 16 Researches
7.3
USERS' SCORE
Good
Based on 39 Reviews
8
Supplement Facts
Serving Size: 2 Veg Capsules
Amount Per Serving
%DV
Total Carbohydrate
<1 g
<1%*
Cat's Claw(Uncaria tomentosa) (Bark)
1 g (1,000 mg)
†
Top Medical Research Studies
9
We explored the potential of cat's claw, a medicinal plant from Peru, as a treatment for cancer using B16-BL6 mouse melanoma cells. In controlled experiments, we treated these cancer cells with both ethanol and phosphate-buffered saline extracts of cat's claw. The results were promising, showing a remarkable reduction in cell growth—up to 80% less compared to untreated cells—and a notable increase in apoptosis, which is a form of programmed cell death essential for eliminating cancer cells.
Our in vivo studies with C57/bl mice provided further insights. Mice treated with both ethanolic and aqueous extracts of cat's claw showed a substantial decrease in tumor weight by an average of 59% and a reduction in tumor size by about 40%. We also performed histochemical analysis, which revealed a significant drop in the Ki-67 marker—indicative of cell proliferation—in the tumors of treated mice. While there was a slight increase in TUNEL staining, it was not statistically significant.
Additionally, we observed that cat's claw extracts reduced markers of angiogenesis and limited T cell infiltration into the tumors. Overall, our research indicates that cat's claw exhibits powerful anti-cancer properties, enlightening its potential as a complementary treatment in cancer therapy.
Our in vivo studies with C57/bl mice provided further insights. Mice treated with both ethanolic and aqueous extracts of cat's claw showed a substantial decrease in tumor weight by an average of 59% and a reduction in tumor size by about 40%. We also performed histochemical analysis, which revealed a significant drop in the Ki-67 marker—indicative of cell proliferation—in the tumors of treated mice. While there was a slight increase in TUNEL staining, it was not statistically significant.
Additionally, we observed that cat's claw extracts reduced markers of angiogenesis and limited T cell infiltration into the tumors. Overall, our research indicates that cat's claw exhibits powerful anti-cancer properties, enlightening its potential as a complementary treatment in cancer therapy.
Read More
8
We explored the effects of an aqueous extract from Uncaria tomentosa, commonly known as cat's claw, on squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) cells. This type of cancer begins in the skin's squamous layer and can become quite aggressive if not treated in time. Our findings revealed that the cat's claw extract reduced the growth of SCC cells in a dose-dependent manner while also increasing levels of oxidative stress in these cells.
We observed that the extract interfered with the normal cell cycle and significantly decreased cell viability. This cell death was associated with increased reactive oxygen species—which indicates oxidative DNA damage—and a reduction in a key prosurvival protein involved in DNA repair. Interestingly, our results suggest that non metastatic SCC cells are more sensitive to the cat's claw treatment than normal keratinocyte cells.
Overall, the study indicates that cat's claw may have potential as a natural treatment option for precancerous conditions and early-stage squamous cell carcinomas. There was also a preliminary analysis of the chemical components of the extract, which showed promise with low-medium molecular weight metabolites that appear to have anticancer properties.
We observed that the extract interfered with the normal cell cycle and significantly decreased cell viability. This cell death was associated with increased reactive oxygen species—which indicates oxidative DNA damage—and a reduction in a key prosurvival protein involved in DNA repair. Interestingly, our results suggest that non metastatic SCC cells are more sensitive to the cat's claw treatment than normal keratinocyte cells.
Overall, the study indicates that cat's claw may have potential as a natural treatment option for precancerous conditions and early-stage squamous cell carcinomas. There was also a preliminary analysis of the chemical components of the extract, which showed promise with low-medium molecular weight metabolites that appear to have anticancer properties.
Read More
8
We explored how extracts from Uncaria tomentosa, commonly known as cat's claw, influence cancer cell activity by specifically targeting the Wnt-signaling pathway. Using a modified cell-based luciferase assay, we examined three different cancer cell lines that display varying levels of Wnt-signaling activity. By introducing specific Tcf-reporter plasmids and treating them with two types of cat's claw extracts—an aqueous extract and an alkaloid-enriched extract—we were able to assess their inhibitory effects.
Our findings showed that both extracts significantly inhibited the Wnt-signaling activity in the tested cancer cells, leading to reduced expression of the Wnt-target gene, c-Myc. Interestingly, the alkaloid-enriched extract proved to be more effective, especially in the SW480 cell line, which had the highest endogenous Wnt-signaling activity. Furthermore, we noted that the presence of a dominant negative-TCF-4 variant in non-cancer cells rendered them insensitive to the alkaloid-enriched extract, indicating a selective action against cancer cells.
We also observed that the alkaloid-enriched extract was less toxic to non-cancer cells compared to cancer cells, suggesting a potentially therapeutic benefit. Overall, our study suggests that the diverse medicinal properties of cat's claw may include a noteworthy impact on the Wnt-signaling pathway, a key player in cancer development.
Our findings showed that both extracts significantly inhibited the Wnt-signaling activity in the tested cancer cells, leading to reduced expression of the Wnt-target gene, c-Myc. Interestingly, the alkaloid-enriched extract proved to be more effective, especially in the SW480 cell line, which had the highest endogenous Wnt-signaling activity. Furthermore, we noted that the presence of a dominant negative-TCF-4 variant in non-cancer cells rendered them insensitive to the alkaloid-enriched extract, indicating a selective action against cancer cells.
We also observed that the alkaloid-enriched extract was less toxic to non-cancer cells compared to cancer cells, suggesting a potentially therapeutic benefit. Overall, our study suggests that the diverse medicinal properties of cat's claw may include a noteworthy impact on the Wnt-signaling pathway, a key player in cancer development.
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Most Useful Reviews
9
Supports healing process
112 people found this helpful
Cat's Claw is an effective detoxifier and is recommended for individuals recovering from chemotherapy and radiation therapy. It aids the immune system and exhibits antitumour activity against cancer. The plant also facilitates wound healing. I find it beneficial for both my son and me in our recovery.
Read More
10
Effective for precancer
61 people found this helpful
After a cervical conization and being diagnosed with precancer, I turned to Cat's Claw as part of my antitumour complex alongside other supplements. After six months of use, my cytology revealed no atypical cells and HPV was negative. I wholeheartedly recommend it to anyone facing similar health challenges.
Read More
9
Cervical cancer recovery
44 people found this helpful
Superb natural remedy for pain and cancer. I purchased these for a friend with cervical cancer, known for helping with pain. Shortly after starting them, she noticed her chemotherapy burns diminishing and significantly less pain. Both she and her doctor were astonished at how quickly the cancer cells were vanishing. Certainly recommended after what I witnessed!
Read More
Medical Researches
SCIENTIFIC SCORE
Possibly Effective
Based on 16 Researches
7.3
- All Researches
9
We explored the potential of cat's claw, a medicinal plant from Peru, as a treatment for cancer using B16-BL6 mouse melanoma cells. In controlled experiments, we treated these cancer cells with both ethanol and phosphate-buffered saline extracts of cat's claw. The results were promising, showing a remarkable reduction in cell growth—up to 80% less compared to untreated cells—and a notable increase in apoptosis, which is a form of programmed cell death essential for eliminating cancer cells.
Our in vivo studies with C57/bl mice provided further insights. Mice treated with both ethanolic and aqueous extracts of cat's claw showed a substantial decrease in tumor weight by an average of 59% and a reduction in tumor size by about 40%. We also performed histochemical analysis, which revealed a significant drop in the Ki-67 marker—indicative of cell proliferation—in the tumors of treated mice. While there was a slight increase in TUNEL staining, it was not statistically significant.
Additionally, we observed that cat's claw extracts reduced markers of angiogenesis and limited T cell infiltration into the tumors. Overall, our research indicates that cat's claw exhibits powerful anti-cancer properties, enlightening its potential as a complementary treatment in cancer therapy.
Our in vivo studies with C57/bl mice provided further insights. Mice treated with both ethanolic and aqueous extracts of cat's claw showed a substantial decrease in tumor weight by an average of 59% and a reduction in tumor size by about 40%. We also performed histochemical analysis, which revealed a significant drop in the Ki-67 marker—indicative of cell proliferation—in the tumors of treated mice. While there was a slight increase in TUNEL staining, it was not statistically significant.
Additionally, we observed that cat's claw extracts reduced markers of angiogenesis and limited T cell infiltration into the tumors. Overall, our research indicates that cat's claw exhibits powerful anti-cancer properties, enlightening its potential as a complementary treatment in cancer therapy.
Read More
8
We explored the potential of Uncaria tomentosa, commonly known as cat’s claw, and its ability to combat cancer when delivered through specially designed nanoparticles. By creating these nanoparticles from materials like poly-e-caprolactone (PCL) and poly-d,l-lactide-co-glycolide (PLGA), we aimed to enhance the extract’s anticancer properties.
Our study showed that both types of nanoparticles effectively reduced the viability of prostate cancer cells, specifically the DU145 and LNCaP lines. Interestingly, while the UT-PLGA nanoparticles demonstrated a stronger impact on DU145 cells, the UT-PCL nanoparticles excelled against LNCaP cells. This suggests that the targeted delivery using nanoparticles might improve the effectiveness of cat's claw.
Overall, our findings indicate that incorporating cat's claw into nanoparticle systems may enhance its anticancer activities, paving the way for more efficient treatments in prostate cancer. This research highlights the exciting potential of natural extracts combined with modern technology to create innovative cancer therapies.
Our study showed that both types of nanoparticles effectively reduced the viability of prostate cancer cells, specifically the DU145 and LNCaP lines. Interestingly, while the UT-PLGA nanoparticles demonstrated a stronger impact on DU145 cells, the UT-PCL nanoparticles excelled against LNCaP cells. This suggests that the targeted delivery using nanoparticles might improve the effectiveness of cat's claw.
Overall, our findings indicate that incorporating cat's claw into nanoparticle systems may enhance its anticancer activities, paving the way for more efficient treatments in prostate cancer. This research highlights the exciting potential of natural extracts combined with modern technology to create innovative cancer therapies.
Read More
8
We explored the effects of an aqueous extract from Uncaria tomentosa, commonly known as cat's claw, on squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) cells. This type of cancer begins in the skin's squamous layer and can become quite aggressive if not treated in time. Our findings revealed that the cat's claw extract reduced the growth of SCC cells in a dose-dependent manner while also increasing levels of oxidative stress in these cells.
We observed that the extract interfered with the normal cell cycle and significantly decreased cell viability. This cell death was associated with increased reactive oxygen species—which indicates oxidative DNA damage—and a reduction in a key prosurvival protein involved in DNA repair. Interestingly, our results suggest that non metastatic SCC cells are more sensitive to the cat's claw treatment than normal keratinocyte cells.
Overall, the study indicates that cat's claw may have potential as a natural treatment option for precancerous conditions and early-stage squamous cell carcinomas. There was also a preliminary analysis of the chemical components of the extract, which showed promise with low-medium molecular weight metabolites that appear to have anticancer properties.
We observed that the extract interfered with the normal cell cycle and significantly decreased cell viability. This cell death was associated with increased reactive oxygen species—which indicates oxidative DNA damage—and a reduction in a key prosurvival protein involved in DNA repair. Interestingly, our results suggest that non metastatic SCC cells are more sensitive to the cat's claw treatment than normal keratinocyte cells.
Overall, the study indicates that cat's claw may have potential as a natural treatment option for precancerous conditions and early-stage squamous cell carcinomas. There was also a preliminary analysis of the chemical components of the extract, which showed promise with low-medium molecular weight metabolites that appear to have anticancer properties.
Read More
8
We investigated how cat's claw, a traditional Peruvian remedy, affects both cancerous and normal cells, particularly in the context of chemotherapy with cisplatin. Our study highlighted that the leaves of this woody vine, when processed into a decoction, demonstrated different impacts on cancer cells compared to healthy cells.
We found that the extract was not harmful to normal human dermal fibroblast (NHDF) cells, which kept their viability intact. In contrast, cancerous HepG2 liver cells experienced a significant cytotoxic effect when treated with the extract. This treatment prompted an increase in reactive oxygen species (ROS) in the cancer cells, which lowered their glutathione (GSH) levels, eventually leading to cell death through the activation of specific apoptosis pathways.
In a fascinating twist, we noted that the decoction not only heightened the effectiveness of cisplatin against HepG2 cells but also seemed to protect normal cells from the harmful effects of this chemotherapy drug. This suggests a potential dual action where the cat's claw extract enhances cancer treatment while safeguarding healthy tissues. Additional research is essential to confirm these findings and uncover the underlying mechanisms at play, particularly regarding its use alongside traditional cancer therapies.
We found that the extract was not harmful to normal human dermal fibroblast (NHDF) cells, which kept their viability intact. In contrast, cancerous HepG2 liver cells experienced a significant cytotoxic effect when treated with the extract. This treatment prompted an increase in reactive oxygen species (ROS) in the cancer cells, which lowered their glutathione (GSH) levels, eventually leading to cell death through the activation of specific apoptosis pathways.
In a fascinating twist, we noted that the decoction not only heightened the effectiveness of cisplatin against HepG2 cells but also seemed to protect normal cells from the harmful effects of this chemotherapy drug. This suggests a potential dual action where the cat's claw extract enhances cancer treatment while safeguarding healthy tissues. Additional research is essential to confirm these findings and uncover the underlying mechanisms at play, particularly regarding its use alongside traditional cancer therapies.
Read More
8
Cat's claw shows cancer potential
We investigated the effects of Uncaria tomentosa, commonly known as cat's claw, on cancer growth using an experimental model with Walker-256 tumour cells in rats. A hydroethanolic extract of cat's claw and two fractions derived from it were compared to assess their anti-cancer properties over a two-week treatment period.
The whole extract and one of its fractions, rich in antioxidant substances, notably reduced tumour weight and volume, indicating their potential effectiveness. In addition to shrinking tumours, these treatments also seemed to enhance survival rates among the rats. Interestingly, the fraction containing pentacyclic oxindole alkaloids did not yield any significant benefits in this context.
This study emphasizes the role of oxidative stress modulation in the anti-cancer activity of cat's claw, highlighting that the beneficial outcomes were likely due to a combination of various antioxidants rather than alkaloids alone. Overall, our findings suggest that cat’s claw extract exhibits promising anti-tumour effects that warrant further investigation.
The whole extract and one of its fractions, rich in antioxidant substances, notably reduced tumour weight and volume, indicating their potential effectiveness. In addition to shrinking tumours, these treatments also seemed to enhance survival rates among the rats. Interestingly, the fraction containing pentacyclic oxindole alkaloids did not yield any significant benefits in this context.
This study emphasizes the role of oxidative stress modulation in the anti-cancer activity of cat's claw, highlighting that the beneficial outcomes were likely due to a combination of various antioxidants rather than alkaloids alone. Overall, our findings suggest that cat’s claw extract exhibits promising anti-tumour effects that warrant further investigation.
Read More
User Reviews
USERS' SCORE
Good
Based on 39 Reviews
8
- All Reviews
- Positive Reviews
- Negative Reviews
9
Supports healing process
112 people found this helpful
Cat's Claw is an effective detoxifier and is recommended for individuals recovering from chemotherapy and radiation therapy. It aids the immune system and exhibits antitumour activity against cancer. The plant also facilitates wound healing. I find it beneficial for both my son and me in our recovery.
Read More
10
Effective for precancer
61 people found this helpful
After a cervical conization and being diagnosed with precancer, I turned to Cat's Claw as part of my antitumour complex alongside other supplements. After six months of use, my cytology revealed no atypical cells and HPV was negative. I wholeheartedly recommend it to anyone facing similar health challenges.
Read More
9
Cervical cancer recovery
44 people found this helpful
Superb natural remedy for pain and cancer. I purchased these for a friend with cervical cancer, known for helping with pain. Shortly after starting them, she noticed her chemotherapy burns diminishing and significantly less pain. Both she and her doctor were astonished at how quickly the cancer cells were vanishing. Certainly recommended after what I witnessed!
Read More
9
Positive oncologist visit
18 people found this helpful
After my husband was diagnosed with cancer in 2008, he began taking Now's Cat's Claw. Recently, his oncologist informed him, "you're good; don’t come back." He attributes this positive outcome to the herb, which he believes has contributed significantly to his well-being.
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7.5
Lowers side effects
8 people found this helpful
Cat's claw is effective at lowering blood pressure and cholesterol, while also preventing blood clots. This plant helps fortify the immune system and inhibits cancer’s development. Additionally, it reduces radiation and chemotherapy side effects, acts as an antioxidant, and is beneficial for various conditions, including cysts, fibroids, and prostatitis.
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Frequently Asked Questions
7.5
Reduces cysts
10 people found this helpful
I take Cat's Claw twice daily for cystic fibrous mastopathy. After three months, I noticed a significant reduction in cysts. Its constituents, such as mitraphylline and uncarine, effectively combat cancer cells and inflammation. I definitely recommend it.
7.5
Improved immune response
274 people found this helpful
During my breast cancer chemotherapy, a friend recommended cat's claw. It has helped me avoid stomatitis and maintain a semblance of immunity, which I consider a significant victory amidst treatment challenges.
10
Effective for precancer
61 people found this helpful
After a cervical conization and being diagnosed with precancer, I turned to Cat's Claw as part of my antitumour complex alongside other supplements. After six months of use, my cytology revealed no atypical cells and HPV was negative. I wholeheartedly recommend it to anyone facing similar health challenges.
9
Positive oncologist visit
18 people found this helpful
After my husband was diagnosed with cancer in 2008, he began taking Now's Cat's Claw. Recently, his oncologist informed him, "you're good; don’t come back." He attributes this positive outcome to the herb, which he believes has contributed significantly to his well-being.
9
Supports healing process
112 people found this helpful
Cat's Claw is an effective detoxifier and is recommended for individuals recovering from chemotherapy and radiation therapy. It aids the immune system and exhibits antitumour activity against cancer. The plant also facilitates wound healing. I find it beneficial for both my son and me in our recovery.
7.5
Modulates immune response
51 people found this helpful
Cat's claw serves as an antibiotic herb, alleviating allergies and has shown potential in lowering blood pressure and cholesterol levels. It's known to enhance immunity while inhibiting cancer growth. Furthermore, it alleviates side effects from radiation and chemotherapy, operates as an antioxidant, and can aid in preventing strokes and heart attacks. With a variety of benefits including anti-inflammatory and detoxifying effects, cat's claw stands out as a versatile supplement for numerous health conditions, making it a reliable choice for supporting overall health.
7.5
Lowers side effects
8 people found this helpful
Cat's claw is effective at lowering blood pressure and cholesterol, while also preventing blood clots. This plant helps fortify the immune system and inhibits cancer’s development. Additionally, it reduces radiation and chemotherapy side effects, acts as an antioxidant, and is beneficial for various conditions, including cysts, fibroids, and prostatitis.
9
Great for immunity
7 people found this helpful
Cat's Claw has been a family staple for years, enhancing our immunity and treating fibroids. It's an excellent remedy against cancer, and I fully endorse its benefits!
9
Prevents cancer growth
2 people found this helpful
Uncaria, known as cat's claw, is superior to Siberian ginseng and golden root in healing properties. This plant enhances and restores immunity, promotes metabolism, alleviates inflammation in both external and internal organs, and strengthens joints. Particularly valued for its ability to kill cancer cells, it aids recovery from chemotherapy and radiation therapy. It effectively detoxifies, relieves internal inflammation, and significantly bolsters the immune system. Additionally, it inhibits the growth of cancer cells and can assist in overcoming leukemia, while preventing blood clots. Its impressive range of benefits makes it a remarkable natural remedy.
9
We explored the potential of cat's claw, a medicinal plant from Peru, as a treatment for cancer using B16-BL6 mouse melanoma cells. In controlled experiments, we treated these cancer cells with both ethanol and phosphate-buffered saline extracts of cat's claw. The results were promising, showing a remarkable reduction in cell growth—up to 80% less compared to untreated cells—and a notable increase in apoptosis, which is a form of programmed cell death essential for eliminating cancer cells.
Our in vivo studies with C57/bl mice provided further insights. Mice treated with both ethanolic and aqueous extracts of cat's claw showed a substantial decrease in tumor weight by an average of 59% and a reduction in tumor size by about 40%. We also performed histochemical analysis, which revealed a significant drop in the Ki-67 marker—indicative of cell proliferation—in the tumors of treated mice. While there was a slight increase in TUNEL staining, it was not statistically significant.
Additionally, we observed that cat's claw extracts reduced markers of angiogenesis and limited T cell infiltration into the tumors. Overall, our research indicates that cat's claw exhibits powerful anti-cancer properties, enlightening its potential as a complementary treatment in cancer therapy.
Our in vivo studies with C57/bl mice provided further insights. Mice treated with both ethanolic and aqueous extracts of cat's claw showed a substantial decrease in tumor weight by an average of 59% and a reduction in tumor size by about 40%. We also performed histochemical analysis, which revealed a significant drop in the Ki-67 marker—indicative of cell proliferation—in the tumors of treated mice. While there was a slight increase in TUNEL staining, it was not statistically significant.
Additionally, we observed that cat's claw extracts reduced markers of angiogenesis and limited T cell infiltration into the tumors. Overall, our research indicates that cat's claw exhibits powerful anti-cancer properties, enlightening its potential as a complementary treatment in cancer therapy.
8
We explored the effects of an aqueous extract from Uncaria tomentosa, commonly known as cat's claw, on squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) cells. This type of cancer begins in the skin's squamous layer and can become quite aggressive if not treated in time. Our findings revealed that the cat's claw extract reduced the growth of SCC cells in a dose-dependent manner while also increasing levels of oxidative stress in these cells.
We observed that the extract interfered with the normal cell cycle and significantly decreased cell viability. This cell death was associated with increased reactive oxygen species—which indicates oxidative DNA damage—and a reduction in a key prosurvival protein involved in DNA repair. Interestingly, our results suggest that non metastatic SCC cells are more sensitive to the cat's claw treatment than normal keratinocyte cells.
Overall, the study indicates that cat's claw may have potential as a natural treatment option for precancerous conditions and early-stage squamous cell carcinomas. There was also a preliminary analysis of the chemical components of the extract, which showed promise with low-medium molecular weight metabolites that appear to have anticancer properties.
We observed that the extract interfered with the normal cell cycle and significantly decreased cell viability. This cell death was associated with increased reactive oxygen species—which indicates oxidative DNA damage—and a reduction in a key prosurvival protein involved in DNA repair. Interestingly, our results suggest that non metastatic SCC cells are more sensitive to the cat's claw treatment than normal keratinocyte cells.
Overall, the study indicates that cat's claw may have potential as a natural treatment option for precancerous conditions and early-stage squamous cell carcinomas. There was also a preliminary analysis of the chemical components of the extract, which showed promise with low-medium molecular weight metabolites that appear to have anticancer properties.
8
We investigated how cat's claw, a traditional Peruvian remedy, affects both cancerous and normal cells, particularly in the context of chemotherapy with cisplatin. Our study highlighted that the leaves of this woody vine, when processed into a decoction, demonstrated different impacts on cancer cells compared to healthy cells.
We found that the extract was not harmful to normal human dermal fibroblast (NHDF) cells, which kept their viability intact. In contrast, cancerous HepG2 liver cells experienced a significant cytotoxic effect when treated with the extract. This treatment prompted an increase in reactive oxygen species (ROS) in the cancer cells, which lowered their glutathione (GSH) levels, eventually leading to cell death through the activation of specific apoptosis pathways.
In a fascinating twist, we noted that the decoction not only heightened the effectiveness of cisplatin against HepG2 cells but also seemed to protect normal cells from the harmful effects of this chemotherapy drug. This suggests a potential dual action where the cat's claw extract enhances cancer treatment while safeguarding healthy tissues. Additional research is essential to confirm these findings and uncover the underlying mechanisms at play, particularly regarding its use alongside traditional cancer therapies.
We found that the extract was not harmful to normal human dermal fibroblast (NHDF) cells, which kept their viability intact. In contrast, cancerous HepG2 liver cells experienced a significant cytotoxic effect when treated with the extract. This treatment prompted an increase in reactive oxygen species (ROS) in the cancer cells, which lowered their glutathione (GSH) levels, eventually leading to cell death through the activation of specific apoptosis pathways.
In a fascinating twist, we noted that the decoction not only heightened the effectiveness of cisplatin against HepG2 cells but also seemed to protect normal cells from the harmful effects of this chemotherapy drug. This suggests a potential dual action where the cat's claw extract enhances cancer treatment while safeguarding healthy tissues. Additional research is essential to confirm these findings and uncover the underlying mechanisms at play, particularly regarding its use alongside traditional cancer therapies.
7
We explored how cat's claw, known scientifically as Uncaria tomentosa, affects cancer, particularly in the context of breast cancer cells. Our study focused on the influence of a hydroalcoholic extract of cat's claw on the purinergic system, which plays a role in tumor progression. Using two different concentrations of the extract, we treated MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells and assessed changes in purinergic receptors and ectonucleotidase activities.
We observed that the extract might help reduce levels of adenosine in the extracellular environment. This reduction is significant because high adenosine levels can contribute to tumor growth. Interestingly, our findings suggest that cat's claw may interact with specific receptors, such as A1 and P2X7, influencing their activities and potentially enhancing the anti-tumor effects of adenosine.
Additionally, we investigated how cat's claw performs when combined with the chemotherapy drug doxorubicin. The treatment results indicated that cat's claw might work together with doxorubicin to improve its overall effectiveness against tumor cells. These insights reveal a promising potential for integrating cat’s claw into cancer treatment strategies, particularly in enhancing chemotherapy outcomes.
We observed that the extract might help reduce levels of adenosine in the extracellular environment. This reduction is significant because high adenosine levels can contribute to tumor growth. Interestingly, our findings suggest that cat's claw may interact with specific receptors, such as A1 and P2X7, influencing their activities and potentially enhancing the anti-tumor effects of adenosine.
Additionally, we investigated how cat's claw performs when combined with the chemotherapy drug doxorubicin. The treatment results indicated that cat's claw might work together with doxorubicin to improve its overall effectiveness against tumor cells. These insights reveal a promising potential for integrating cat’s claw into cancer treatment strategies, particularly in enhancing chemotherapy outcomes.
4
Inconclusive evidence on cat's claw
We examined the role of cat's claw in managing aromatase inhibitor-induced musculoskeletal symptoms (AIMSS) among women with early-stage breast cancer. This study assessed various systemic therapies, including cat's claw, to determine their effectiveness in alleviating these painful symptoms.
The evidence surrounding cat's claw showed some potential benefits, as it was part of trials that reported clinically meaningful reductions in pain scores. However, the overall findings about the effectiveness of cat's claw specifically were inconclusive due to the complexity and variability of the treatment methods used across the studies.
Importantly, we observed that, while cat's claw was included in some therapeutic explorations, the data failed to provide robust conclusions about its effectiveness or safety for breast cancer symptoms. The review highlighted the need for more rigorous research to truly understand how cat's claw may impact cancer-related pain management and whether it can recommend this treatment confidently.
The evidence surrounding cat's claw showed some potential benefits, as it was part of trials that reported clinically meaningful reductions in pain scores. However, the overall findings about the effectiveness of cat's claw specifically were inconclusive due to the complexity and variability of the treatment methods used across the studies.
Importantly, we observed that, while cat's claw was included in some therapeutic explorations, the data failed to provide robust conclusions about its effectiveness or safety for breast cancer symptoms. The review highlighted the need for more rigorous research to truly understand how cat's claw may impact cancer-related pain management and whether it can recommend this treatment confidently.
7
We explored the potential of cat's claw (Uncaria tomentosa), a plant known for its anti-inflammatory and antitumor properties, in enhancing the quality of life for patients battling advanced solid tumors. Through a phase II study, we administered a 100-mg dose of cat's claw extract three times a day to participants who had limited treatment options and a projected life expectancy of at least two months.
With our focus on symptom management, we used well-established questionnaires to evaluate various aspects of the participants' lives, such as overall quality of life, fatigue levels, anxiety, and sleep quality. We gathered responses from fifty-one volunteers, mostly older adults, to see how cat's claw affected them.
The results were promising. Patients reported significant improvements in their overall quality of life and social functioning, along with reduced fatigue levels. While we didn’t observe any noteworthy changes in biochemical markers typically associated with inflammation, the majority tolerated the treatment well. Notably, even though the cancer didn't shrink, we did find that the disease stabilized for over eight months in a few participants.
Ultimately, our findings suggest that cat's claw may indeed offer benefits to those with advanced cancer, particularly in terms of boosting quality of life and managing fatigue, though its effects do not seem connected to its anti-inflammatory properties.
With our focus on symptom management, we used well-established questionnaires to evaluate various aspects of the participants' lives, such as overall quality of life, fatigue levels, anxiety, and sleep quality. We gathered responses from fifty-one volunteers, mostly older adults, to see how cat's claw affected them.
The results were promising. Patients reported significant improvements in their overall quality of life and social functioning, along with reduced fatigue levels. While we didn’t observe any noteworthy changes in biochemical markers typically associated with inflammation, the majority tolerated the treatment well. Notably, even though the cancer didn't shrink, we did find that the disease stabilized for over eight months in a few participants.
Ultimately, our findings suggest that cat's claw may indeed offer benefits to those with advanced cancer, particularly in terms of boosting quality of life and managing fatigue, though its effects do not seem connected to its anti-inflammatory properties.
References
- Roberts KE, Adsett IT, Rickett K, Conroy SM, Chatfield MD, et al. Systemic therapies for preventing or treating aromatase inhibitor-induced musculoskeletal symptoms in early breast cancer. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2022;1:CD013167. doi:10.1002/14651858.CD013167.pub2
- Zari A, Alfarteesh H, Buckner C, Lafrenie R. Treatment with Promotes Apoptosis in B16-BL6 Mouse Melanoma Cells and Inhibits the Growth of B16-BL6 Tumours. Molecules. 2021;26. doi:10.3390/molecules26041066
- Ribeiro AF, Santos JF, Mattos RR, Barros EGO, Nasciutti LE, et al. Characterization and in vitro antitumor activity of polymeric nanoparticles loaded with Uncaria tomentosa extract. An Acad Bras Cienc. 2020;92:e20190336. doi:10.1590/0001-3765202020190336
- Ciani F, Tafuri S, Troiano A, Cimmino A, Fioretto BS, et al. Anti-proliferative and pro-apoptotic effects of Uncaria tomentosa aqueous extract in squamous carcinoma cells. J Ethnopharmacol. 2018;211:285. doi:10.1016/j.jep.2017.09.031
- Kośmider A, Czepielewska E, Kuraś M, Gulewicz K, Pietrzak W, et al. Uncaria tomentosa Leaves Decoction Modulates Differently ROS Production in Cancer and Normal Cells, and Effects Cisplatin Cytotoxicity. Molecules. 2017;22. doi:10.3390/molecules22040620
- Santos KF, Gutierres JM, Pillat MM, Rissi VB, Santos Araújo MD, et al. Uncaria tomentosa extract alters the catabolism of adenine nucleotides and expression of ecto-5'-nucleotidase/CD73 and P2X7 and A1 receptors in the MDA-MB-231 cell line. J Ethnopharmacol. 2016;194:108. doi:10.1016/j.jep.2016.08.051
- Kaiser S, Carvalho ÂR, Pittol V, Dietrich F, Manica F, et al. Genotoxicity and cytotoxicity of oxindole alkaloids from Uncaria tomentosa (cat's claw): Chemotype relevance. J Ethnopharmacol. 2016;189:90. doi:10.1016/j.jep.2016.05.026
- Núñez C, Lozada-Requena I, Ysmodes T, Zegarra D, Saldaña F, et al. [Immunomodulation of Uncaria tomentosa over dendritic cells, il-12 and profile TH1/TH2/TH17 in breast cancer]. Rev Peru Med Exp Salud Publica. 2015;32:643.
- de Paula LC, Fonseca F, Perazzo F, Cruz FM, Cubero D, et al. Uncaria tomentosa (cat's claw) improves quality of life in patients with advanced solid tumors. J Altern Complement Med. 2015;21:22. doi:10.1089/acm.2014.0127
- Deiab S, Mazzio E, Messeha S, Mack N, Soliman KF. High-Throughput Screening to Identify Plant Derived Human LDH-A Inhibitors. European J Med Plants. 2013;3:603.
- Kaiser S, Dietrich F, de Resende PE, Verza SG, Moraes RC, et al. Cat's claw oxindole alkaloid isomerization induced by cell incubation and cytotoxic activity against T24 and RT4 human bladder cancer cell lines. Planta Med. 2013;79:1413. doi:10.1055/s-0033-1350742
- Dreifuss AA, Bastos-Pereira AL, Fabossi IA, Lívero FA, Stolf AM, et al. Uncaria tomentosa exerts extensive anti-neoplastic effects against the Walker-256 tumour by modulating oxidative stress and not by alkaloid activity. PLoS One. 2013;8:e54618. doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0054618
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