Uncaria crispa Caulis Extract
Also known as: Uncaria crispa, Uncaria tomentosa, Cat's Claw, Uncaria crispa Caulis Extract
Overview
Uncaria crispa Caulis Extract is derived from the stem of the Uncaria crispa vine, a species within the Rubiaceae family closely related to Uncaria tomentosa, commonly known as Cat's Claw. Traditionally, Uncaria species have been utilized in South American ethnomedicine for their anti-inflammatory and immune-modulating properties. The extract is characterized by its rich phytochemical composition, including alkaloids, flavonoids, and terpenoids, which are believed to be responsible for its biological activities. While Uncaria crispa shares chemical similarities and traditional uses with Uncaria tomentosa, specific high-quality research on Uncaria crispa Caulis Extract is limited. Most of the current understanding of its potential benefits, particularly regarding anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects, is extrapolated from extensive research conducted on Uncaria tomentosa. The 'Caulis' designation specifically refers to the stem part of the plant used for extraction, highlighting the source material for this particular supplement.
Benefits
Based on systematic reviews and meta-analyses of *Uncaria tomentosa* (Cat's Claw) extracts, which are chemically and ethnobotanically similar to *Uncaria crispa*, there is evidence for significant anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects. Specifically, these extracts have been shown to reduce levels of the pro-inflammatory cytokine IL-6 (Standardized Mean Difference (SMD): −0.72, 95% CI: −1.15 to −0.29, p=0.001) and downregulate NF-κB signaling, both key mediators of inflammation. However, no significant effects on IL-1, IL-10, or TNF-α cytokines have been consistently observed. Animal studies also suggest potential hepatoprotective effects and stimulation of myeloid progenitor cells, indicating broader immune support. The evidence for *Uncaria crispa* specifically is largely inferred from *U. tomentosa* data, as high-quality human randomized controlled trials (RCTs) directly on *U. crispa* Caulis extract are currently lacking. The low toxicity observed in animal models for *Uncaria* extracts supports their potential safety for therapeutic use.
How it works
The primary mechanism of action for *Uncaria crispa* Caulis Extract, inferred from studies on related *Uncaria* species, involves the modulation of inflammatory pathways. Its anti-inflammatory effects are largely attributed to the downregulation of Nuclear Factor-kappa B (NF-κB), a crucial transcription factor that regulates the expression of numerous pro-inflammatory genes. Additionally, the extract has been shown to reduce the levels of the pro-inflammatory cytokine Interleukin-6 (IL-6). The active constituents, including various alkaloids and flavonoids, are believed to interact with immune cells, influencing their signaling pathways and cytokine production. Some research also suggests that the extract may promote a shift towards a Th2 cytokine profile, further modulating immune responses. The efficacy can be influenced by the extraction method, with hydroethanolic extracts appearing more effective than aqueous extracts in reducing IL-6, suggesting better availability of active compounds.
Side effects
Overall, *Uncaria* extracts, including *Uncaria crispa* Caulis Extract, demonstrate low toxicity in animal models and are generally considered well tolerated. Due to the limited number of large-scale human randomized controlled trials specifically on *Uncaria crispa* Caulis extract, common side effects in human use are not extensively documented. Traditional use of *Uncaria* species suggests a good tolerability profile. Currently, no significant drug interactions or contraindications have been widely reported in the reviewed literature. However, caution is advised for specific populations such as pregnant or lactating individuals and children, as there is a lack of specific safety data for these groups. As with any supplement, individual sensitivities may vary, and it is prudent to consult a healthcare professional before use, especially if underlying health conditions exist or other medications are being taken.
Dosage
There are no standardized dosing guidelines specifically established for *Uncaria crispa* Caulis Extract due to the limited direct human clinical research. Dosing recommendations are largely extrapolated from studies on *Uncaria tomentosa* (Cat's Claw), where doses in clinical studies have varied significantly, often ranging from 250–350 mg of standardized extract daily. However, it is crucial to note that these dosages are not directly transferable to *Uncaria crispa* without specific studies confirming its efficacy and safety at these levels. Based on cytokine modulation data, hydroethanolic extracts may be preferred for their potential efficacy. The optimal timing and duration of supplementation for *Uncaria crispa* Caulis Extract are also not well-established. Users should exercise caution and consider starting with lower doses, gradually increasing if well-tolerated, and always consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice.
FAQs
Is Uncaria crispa Caulis extract the same as cat's claw?
Uncaria crispa is a related species within the same genus as Uncaria tomentosa (cat's claw). While they share similarities, most clinical evidence for benefits is on U. tomentosa, not directly on U. crispa.
Is Uncaria crispa Caulis extract safe?
Animal studies and traditional use suggest low toxicity. However, human clinical safety data specifically for U. crispa Caulis extract are limited, so caution is advised.
What are the expected benefits of Uncaria crispa Caulis extract?
Primarily, it is expected to offer anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects, particularly by lowering IL-6 levels and inhibiting NF-κB activity, based on research of related species.
How quickly do benefits appear with Uncaria crispa Caulis extract?
There are no human RCT data to determine the onset of benefits. Animal studies suggest effects on inflammation markers may be observed within days to weeks.
Research Sources
- https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/pharmacology/articles/10.3389/fphar.2024.1378408/full – This systematic review and meta-analysis of in vivo studies on Uncaria tomentosa (Cat's Claw) extracts found significant reductions in pro-inflammatory cytokine IL-6 and NF-κB signaling, indicating anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects. The study also noted low toxicity of the extracts. While focused on U. tomentosa, its findings are often extrapolated to U. crispa due to chemical similarities.
- https://f1000research.com/articles/13-923 – This experimental phytochemical profiling study on Uncaria nervosa (a related species) identified alkaloids and flavonoids, suggesting potential anticancer bioactives. Although not directly on U. crispa, it highlights the presence of active compounds in the Uncaria genus that may contribute to therapeutic effects.
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38881881/ – This PubMed entry corresponds to the systematic review and meta-analysis on Uncaria tomentosa, reinforcing its findings regarding the reduction of IL-6 and NF-κB and the low toxicity observed in animal models. It serves as a key reference for the inferred benefits of Uncaria crispa.
- https://ouci.dntb.gov.ua/en/works/4YEjbN64/ – This source, likely an animal study, is cited for its findings on Uncaria tomentosa increasing myeloid progenitor cells and demonstrating an immunomodulatory effect in mice infected with Listeria. While not directly on U. crispa, it provides further evidence for the immune-supporting properties of the Uncaria genus.