Cat's Claw Alkaloids, Explained

Cat's Claw's activity is generally attributed to a group of compounds called pentacyclic oxindole alkaloids (POAs), along with a separate group of tetracyclic oxindole alkaloids (TOAs). Most of the research and commercial interest in Cat's Claw has focused specifically on maximizing POA content while minimizing TOA content, since the two groups are believed to behave differently.

Why sourcing matters

POA-to-TOA ratios vary significantly depending on where the vine is grown and how it's processed, which is why two Cat's Claw products can look identical on the label but perform very differently. This is also why reputable suppliers lab-test for alkaloid profile rather than just listing a generic "Cat's Claw extract" on the label.

What this means for you as a buyer

When you're comparing Cat's Claw products, a certificate of analysis showing alkaloid content is a far more useful signal than marketing copy. We only list Cat's Claw products that come with verifiable third-party lab results.

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