Uncaria

Uncaria is a genus of flowering plants in the family Rubiaceae. These are woody climbing plants, commonly known as gambir or cat's claw, found in tropical and subtropical regions. The genus is native to Southeast Asia, Australia, and South America. Uncaria species are characterized by their hook-like tendrils, which they use to climb trees and other vegetation. The leaves are simple, opposite, and ovate to elliptical in shape. The flowers are typically small and white or cream-colored, borne in dense terminal clusters.

Several species within the genus Uncaria have traditional medicinal uses. Uncaria gambir, native to Southeast Asia, is a source of gambir, a tannin-rich extract used in traditional medicine and as a dye. Uncaria tomentosa, commonly known as cat's claw, is a vine native to the Amazon rainforest. It has a long history of use in indigenous Amazonian medicine for a variety of ailments, including inflammation and digestive issues. Research into the chemical compounds found in Uncaria species, such as alkaloids and flavonoids, has been ongoing, with some studies investigating their potential pharmacological properties. The cultivation and harvesting of Uncaria plants are important for both traditional practices and the commercial production of medicinal extracts.