Positive Health Online

Abstract

SANDOVAL and colleagues, Department of Pediatrics and Center for Cardiovascular Sciences, Albany Medical College, Albany, NY 12208, USA sandovm@mail.amc.edu investigated the biochemical mechanisms by which Cat's claw protects cells against damage caused by inflammatory activity .

Background

Cat's claw (Uncaria tomentosa) is a medicinal plant from the Amazon River basin, widely used for treating inflammatory disorders . It has previously been described as being an inhibitor of NF-kappaB .

Methodology

Decoctions of Cat's claw were prepared by water extraction of micropulverized bark, with or without concentration by freeze-drying. Cytotoxic effects were induced in mouse-derived macrophages by the free radical agent 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrilhydrazyl (DPPH ; 0.3 uM) and ultraviolet (UV ) light. Production of TNFalpha (tumour necrosis factor alpha), a cytotoxic molecule, was induced by exposure to lipopolysaccaride (LPS; 0.5 ug/ml).

Results

The freeze-dried concentrate of Cat's claw was significantly more effective against the cytotoxic effects of DPPH, UV and TNFalpha than the non-freeze dried preparation. The freeze-dried concentrate of Cat's claw was fully cytoprotective against the free radical DPPH and against UV irradiation at a concentration of 10 ug/ml, but suppressed TNFalpha production by 65-85% at the much lower concentration of 1.2 ng/ml.

Conclusion

Cat's claw is an effective protector against the cytotoxic effects of oxidation due to the free radical DPPH or to UV irradiation (i.e. it is an effective antioxidant ). However, perhaps more importantly, it is a potent inhibitor of TNFalpha production . Thus, the anti-inflammatory actions of Cat's claw appear to be primarily due to immunomodulation via suppression of TNFalpha synthesis.

References

Sandoval M et al. Cat's claw inhibits TNFalpha production and scavenges free radicals: role in cytoprotection. Free Radical Biology & Medicine 29 (1): 71-8. Jul 2000.