Cat's Claw, also known as Samento or Uña de Gato, is helpful in detoxification of the intestinal tract and replenishing friendly bacteria in the intestines. It also has anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting effects, so it can be very helpful to those suffering from inflammation-related gastrointestinal disorders. After using Cat's Claw with approximately 150 patients between 1988 and 1992, Dr. Brent Davis reports that "Uncaria tomentosa (Cat's Claw) has the ability to break through severe intestinal derangements that no other available products can touch." He refers to the herb as "the opener of the way" because of its remarkable ability to cleanse the entire intestinal tract and help patients suffering from many inflammation-related stomach and bowel disorders. The active chemical compounds found in Cat's Claw are alkaloids and tannins. The alkaloids have a pronounced effect on the ability of white blood cells to engulf and digest harmful micro-organisms and foreign matter. Laboratory testing has shown that the alkaloids in Cat's Claw have a pronounced enhancement effect on phagocytosis (the ability of the white blood cells and macrophages to attack, engulf and digest harmful micro-organisms, foreign matter and debris). Cat's claw has also been shown to increase the production of leukocytes and specifically T4 lymphocytes, thus blocking the advance of many viral illnesses. The primary mechanism for the anti-inflammatory actions of Cat's Claw appears to be suppression of TNF-alpha synthesis. TNF-alpha is associated with many inflammatory health conditions. TNF stands for "tumor necrosis factor". Quinovic acid glycosides in cat's claw may support the immune system and protect the body from viruses. The major alkaloid rhynchophylline may help support healthy blood pressure, increasing circulation, reducing heart rate, and controlling cholesterol levels.