Uncaria sinensis
What's the taxonomical classification of Uncaria sinensis?
Uncaria sinensis belongs to the kingdom Plantae and is classified under the phylum Streptophyta. Within the class Equisetopsida and the subclass Magnoliidae, it is organized under the order Gentianaales. This plant is a member of the family Rubiaceae, falling into the genus Uncaria, and is specifically identified by the species name sinensis.
| Taxonomic Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Gentianales |
| Family | Rubiaceae |
| Genus | Uncaria |
| Species | sinensis |
What are the morphological characteristics of this plant?
Uncaria sinensis has woody, climbing vines characterized by trifoliate leaves, small yellowish flowers, and specialized curved thorns called aculei used for attachment. The plant features a woody stem that can reach significant lengths as it climbs through forest canopies. Its leaves consist of three leaflets that are typically elliptical or ovate in shape with smooth margins. The flowers are small and actinomorphic, often appearing in clusters throughout the flowering season. The fruit develops into a small, fleshy capsule that contains several seeds.
What is the geographical distribution of this plant?
This plant is native to the tropical and subtropical regions of Southeast Asia, specifically found across China, India, Myanmar, and parts of Thailand. It thrives primarily in the dense, humid forests of southern China where the climate remains consistently warm. In these natural habitats, the woody climber prefers shaded environments often found in mountainous or hilly terrain. Cultivation has expanded its presence to other tropical zones where suitable soil and moisture levels are available. Because of its medicinal value, many regions across the equatorial belt now support its growth for commercial purposes.
How is this plant cultivated?
This plant Uncaria sinensis is a woody climbing vine native to tropical and subtropical regions that requires well-drained soil and ample sunlight for optimal growth.
Farmers typically propagate the species using seeds or stem cuttings to establish new plantations in humid environments. Because it is a liana, it necessitates sturdy support structures such as trees or trellises to facilitate its upward climbing habit. Regular irrigation and protection from extreme frost are essential to maintain the health of the vines.
Once established, the plant is carefully harvested for its medicinal thorns and bark.
What parts of this plant are used medicinally?
This plant Uncaria sinensis is primarily used medicinally for its bark and roots, though other structures like the stem and branchlet contain bioactive alkaloids. The leaves are often studied for their chemical properties, while the flowers may be utilized in specific traditional preparations. Although the hooks are a distinctive physical feature of the climbing vine, they are not typically harvested for therapeutic use. Scientific interest also extends to the stem, which serves as a conduit for the medicinal compounds found throughout the organism.
According to a study published by "The Journal of pharmacy and pharmacology", the branchlet and hook of Uncaria sinensis Oliv. were examined using a 5-hydroxytryptamine receptor binding assay. The alkaloids obtained from Uncaria sinensis Oliv., specifically geissoschizine methyl ether, corynantheine, and dihydrocorynantheine, decreased specific [3H]5-HT binding to membrane preparations from rat brain. In addition to these results, in-vitro experiments on guinea-pig ileum showed that these alkaloids act as partial agonists for 5-HT receptors. These findings suggest that these components might be useful in the treatment of diseases resulting from disorders of 5-HT metabolism.
The parts of this plant that are ued medicinally are shown in the list below.
- branchlet
- flower
- hook
- leaf
- stem
What traditional systems uses this plant?
This plant, known as Uncaria tomentosa or Uncaria guianensis, has been utilized for centuries in Traditional Chinese Medicine and various indigenous Amazonian healing practices to treat inflammatory conditions and immune system imbalances. Practitioners in these traditional systems often prepare decoctions from the woody vines to address ailments such as arthritis, rheumatism, and digestive issues. In many South American cultures, the bark and roots are specifically valued for their ability to restore bodily equilibrium and promote wound healing. These historical methods rely on the plant's perceived ability to clear heat and tonify the blood within the body's energetic frameworks. Modern research continues to investigate these ancient applications to understand the biological mechanisms behind its therapeutic effects.
According to a study published by "Journal of ethnopharmacology", Uncaria sinensis (Oliv.) Havil is one of the species belonging to the genus Uncaria that is widely used in medical Uncariae Ramulus Cum Uncis. Traditional remedies employing these species had been used widely in antiquity and were first compiled in the renowned ancient masterpiece Mingyi Bielu written by Hongjing Tao. Based on the examination of the genus Uncaria, 107 newly marked chemical compositions have been identified from URCU from 2015 to present. The hook-bearing stem serves as the primary constituent enrichment site for these plants. These species are widely distributed in China and abroad and are used in both traditional and modern medicine.
The hystorical systems that uses this plant are shown in the list below.
- Traditional Chinese Medicine
What are the pharmacological activities of Uncaria sinensis?
This plant has anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, anticancer, antioxidant, and neuroprotective pharmacological activities driven primarily by its bioactive oxindole alkaloids. Its antioxidant properties help neutralize free radicals, which subsequently contributes to its ability to protect cells from oxidative damage. The plant demonstrates significant anti-inflammatory effects by modulating immune responses and inhibiting specific inflammatory mediators. Furthermore, its antibacterial capabilities allow it to combat various pathogens, while its anticancer potential suggests an ability to inhibit tumor cell growth. Finally, the neuroprotective qualities of Uncaria sinensis offer promise in safeguarding neural pathways against degenerative processes.
According to a study published by "Zhongguo Zhong yao za zhi = Zhongguo zhongyao zazhi = China journal of Chinese materia medica", the optimum condition for extracting catechu involves a 50% ethanol concentration, a 1:12 ratio of raw material to solvent, 35 min of ultrasonic time, and an extraction temperature of 60 degrees C. The resulting catechu gel formulation consists of 0.5 g of carbomer-940, 5.0 g of glycerol, 50.0 mL of catechu extracts, and 0.5 mL of triethanomine. This semitransparent and stable gel shows remarkable anti-inflamatory activity by reducing paw edema in a dose-dependent manner compared to a carrageenan-induced rat. The drugs within the gel are released quickly during in vitro profiles.
The primary pharmacological activities of this plant are shown in the list below.
- anti-inflammatory
- antibacterial
- anticancer
- antioxidant
- neuroprotective
What medicinal compounds this plant contains?
This plant contains a diverse array of indole alkaloids, including rhynchophylline, corynooxine, isoicorynoxeine, and isorhynchophylliine. These bioactive secondary metabolites are the primary components responsible for the therapeutic properties of Uncaria sinensis. Specifically, the rhynchophylline group is known to exert significant cardiovascular and neurological effects. Other compounds like corynooxine and isoicorynoxeine contribute to the complex chemical profile used in traditional medicine. The presence of isorhynchophylliine further enhances the pharmacological versatility of this botanical species.
According to a study published by "Zhongguo Zhong yao za zhi = Zhongguo zhongyao zazhi = China journal of Chinese materia medica", the Uncaria genus contains 34 species all over the world. Within China, 11 species and one variant are present. Among the five species documented in the Chinese Pharmacopoeia as raw materials for Uncariae Ramulus Cum Uncis, Uncaria sinensis is one. Indole alkaloids serve as the characteristic constituents of Uncaria plants. These alkaloids exist in addition to triterpene, lignan, and flavone components.
The primary medicinal compounds of this plant are shown in the list below.
- Indole alkaloids
- corynooxine
- rhynchophylline
- isoicorynoxeine
- isorhynchophylline
What health conditions is this plant used for?
This plant is used for managing inflammation, neurodegenerative diseases, vascular diseases, cardiovascular diseases, and cancer. The bioactive alkaloids within the plant act as potent agents to reduce systemic swelling and oxidative stress. Researchers study its potential to protect brain cells from the progression of neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's. It also shows promise in regulating blood flow and supporting heart health to combat various cardiovascular and vascular diseases. Furthermore, its unique chemical compounds are being investigated for their ability to inhibit the growth of certain cancer cells.
According to a study published by "Zhongguo Zhong yao za zhi = Zhongguo zhongyao zazhi = China journal of Chinese materia medica", the catechu gel shows remarkable anti-inflamatory activity. This gel was prepared using 50.0 mL of catechu extracts combined with 0.5 g of carbomer-940, 5.0 g of glycerol, and 0.5 mL of triethanomine. In studies involving rats, the catechu gel reduced paw edema in a dose-dependent manner compared to carrageenan-induced rats. The optimal extraction of catechu required a 50% ethanol concentration, a 1:12 ratio of raw material to solvent, 35 min of ultrasonic time, and an extraction temperature of 60 degrees C.
The main health conditions this plant is used for are shown in the list below.
- inflammation
- neurodegenerative diseases
- vascular diseases
- cardiovascular diseases
- cancer
What are the herbal preparations of this plant?
This plant is Uncaria sinensis, which is used to create various medicinal herbal preparations including Uncariae Ramulus Cum Uncis, Choto-san, U. sinensis extract, water extracts, and catechu gel. Uncariae Ramulus Cum Uncis specifically utilizes the hooked stems of the plant to address inflammatory conditions. The traditional herbal formula known as Choto-san incorporates these elements to support systemic balance. Additionally, manufacturers produce standardized U. sinensis extract and liquid water extracts for consistent dosing. Topical applications may also utilize catechu gel derived from the plant's properties.
According to a study published by "Phytomedicine : international journal of phytotherapy and phytopharmacology", the hooks and stems of Uncaria sinensis (Oliv.) Havil. comprise a medicinal plant used in preparations. In experiments involving gerbils, two doses of Uncaria sinensis extract (USE), specifically 1.0% and 3.0%, were dissolved in drinking water and provided ad libitum from 7 days prior to ischemia/reperfusion until 7 days after. A 3.0% USE treatment significantly inhibited pyramidal cell death in the hippocampal CA1 region at 7 days post ischemia/reperfusion. Furthermore, the 3.0% USE-treated group showed significantly enhanced superoxide anion and hydroxyl radical scavenging activities in the homogenized hippocampus at 7 days after ischemia/reperfusion. This 3.0% USE treatment also resulted in significantly lower lipid peroxide and NO2-/NO3- levels in the homogenized hippocampus at 48h after ischemia/reperfusion compared to the control.
The main herbal preparations of this plant are shown in the list below.
- U. sinensis extract
- Uncariae Ramulus Cum Uncis
- Choto-san
- Water extracts
- catechu gel
What side effects this plant can have?
This plant can cause decreased locomotor activity in subjects as a primary neurological side effect. Research indicates that consuming Uncaria sinensis may lead to reduced physical movement and slower motor responses. These changes in behavior are often linked to the plant's potent alkaloids which interact with the central nervous system. Some studies suggest that high doses can impact coordination and overall energy levels in test subjects. Monitoring these sedative effects is essential for anyone considering its medicinal use.
According to a study published by "Phytomedicine : international journal of phytotherapy and phytopharmacology", the water extracts of Uncaria sinensis were studied for their effect on locomotor response. Along with three predominant Uncariae plants, the indole and oxindole alkaloid constituents were evaluated. Specifically, the water extracts of U. sinensis significantly decreased locomotor activity after oral administration to mice. This effect was also observed in four indole alkaloids which included corynoxine, corynoxine B, isorhynchophylline and geissoschizine methyl ether. The depression of locomotor activity upon administration of these alkaloids appears to be due to mediating of the central dopaminergic system.
The main side effects this plant can have are shown in the list below.
- decreased locomotor activity
What herbs are paired with Uncaria sinensis?
This plant, known as Uncaria sinensis or Amorucao, is most commonly paired with herbs like Rehmannia glutinosa and Achyranthes baisao to enhance its ability to nourish the liver and kidneys.
Practitioners often combine it with Panax ginseng to boost vitality and strengthen the body's overall energy levels. When addressing inflammation or joint pain, it may be formulated alongside herbs that promote blood circulation such as Angelica sinensis. These strategic combinations are designed to balance the plant's sedative effects with stimulating components.
Such pairings are a fundamental aspect of traditional herbal formulas intended to optimize therapeutic outcomes.