Uncaria tomentosa: Composición química, propiedades bioactivas y aplicaciones terapéuticas

Uncaria tomentosa (cat’s claw) is a climbing plant native to the Ecuadorian Amazon, widely used in traditional medicine for its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and immunomodulatory properties. This study presents a literature review on the chemical composition, pharmacological properties, and therapeutic applications of this species, with an emphasis on the bioactive compounds found in different parts of the plant. The results indicate that oxindole alkaloids, quinovic acid glycosides, triterpenes, sterols, and phenolic compounds are primarily responsible for its biological activity. Furthermore, significant variability in the concentration of these compounds was identified depending on the region of origin, suggesting the influence of environmental and genetic factors. The antioxidant activity of U. tomentosa extracts was higher in those obtained with polar solvents such as ethanol and methanol, while extraction with supercritical CO₂ yielded the highest amounts of bioactive compounds. Despite scientific evidence supporting its benefits, further clinical studies are needed to validate its therapeutic efficacy and establish safe dosages in humans. Additionally, the overexploitation of this plant raises concerns about its sustainability, highlighting the need to implement conservation strategies and controlled cultivation.