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| Uncaria tomentosa | |
|---|---|
| File:Thorns U tomentosa.jpg | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Kingdom: | Plantae |
| Division: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Gentianales |
| Family: | Rubiaceae |
| Genus: | Uncaria |
| Species: | U. tomentosa |
| Binomial name | |
| Uncaria tomentosa (Willd. ex Schult.) DC. | |
Uncaria tomentosa (Cat's Claw or Uña de Gato) is a flowering plant in the family Rubiaceae, native to Central and South America from Guatemala south to Peru, occurring in tropical rainforests.
It is a liana growing to 30 m tall, climbing by means of hooked thorns (the "cat's claws" of the common name) on the stems at the base of the leaves. The leaves are in opposite pairs or whorls of three, simple, with a smooth margin.
Uses
It has been used for a variety of purposes, and was first used by the natives of Peru over 2,000 years ago.
It is used in nootropic drugs, as well as in anti-cancer and anti-AIDS medicines. It contains several alkaloids that are responsible for its overall medical effect.
Some cultures refer to the plant as the "Sacred Herb of the Rain Forest".
References
- Germplasm Resources Information Network: Uncaria tomentosa
- Raintree.com: Uncaria tomentosa medicinal properties
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