Cat’s claw (Uncaria tomentosa) is a tropical vine which can grow up to 98 feet (30 meters) tall. Its name comes from its hooked thorns, which resemble the claws of a cat.

It is found mainly in the Amazon rainforest and in other tropical areas of South and Central America.

The two most common varieties are Uncaria tomentosa and Uncaria guianensis. The former is the type often used in supplements in the United States.

The bark and root have been used for centuries in South America as a traditional medicine for many conditions, such as inflammation, cancer, and infections.

Cat’s claw supplements can be taken as a liquid extract, capsule, powder, or tea.