Uncaria spp. (Gou Teng): The Hooked Vine That Calms the Mind and Balances the Body
Few herbs in the world of Traditional Chinese Medicine offer the remarkable versatility and therapeutic depth of Uncaria Ramulus (Gou Teng). This hooked vine stem—most commonly sourced from Uncaria rhynchophylla—is not just a traditional remedy for calming internal wind and easing tremors; it's a botanical powerhouse with a growing body of modern research to match its ancient acclaim.
Rich in neuroprotective alkaloids like rhynchophylline and isorhynchophylline, Gou Teng stands at the crossroads of traditional wisdom and modern neuroscience. It helps manage conditions ranging from dizziness and restlessness to high blood pressure and early cognitive decline. With its ability to support the nervous system, regulate vascular tension, and cool internal heat, Uncaria Ramulus is one of the most essential herbs for neurological balance and long-term vitality in both classic formulas and integrative wellness protocols today.
Key Differences:
| Term | Description | Use in TCM & Commerce |
|---|---|---|
| Uncaria spp.; Ramulus | A general term referring to the stem (ramulus) of various species within the Uncaria genus | Broad label used when the exact Uncaria species may vary; often used in bulk herb listings or Western herbal commerce |
| Uncaria rhynchophylla | A specific species of Uncaria, traditionally and most commonly used in Chinese medicine | The primary and preferred species for TCM use when prescribing Gou Teng for calming Liver Wind and neurological symptoms |
Botanical & Functional Notes
Uncaria spp.; Ramulus
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Includes multiple species: Uncaria rhynchophylla, Uncaria macrophylla, Uncaria sinensis, etc.
Uncaria rhynchophylla
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Most studied and standardized species in TCM
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Contains high levels of rhynchophylline and isorhynchophylline
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Specifically used to calm Liver Wind, reduce tremors, dizziness, and manage hypertension
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Preferred in clinical settings and premium products
How To Use Uncaria spp; Ramulus
How To Make Gou Teng Decoction
1. Decoction
A decoction is the traditional method of preparing Gou Teng. Here’s how you can make it:
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Ingredients:
- 10-15 grams of dried Gou Teng
- 2 cups of water
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Instructions:
- Place the dried Gou Teng in a pot.
- Add the water and bring to a boil.
- Reduce the heat and simmer for 20-30 minutes.
- Strain the liquid and discard the herb.
- Drink the decoction while warm.
2. How To Make Gou Teng Tea
Gou Teng tea is another simple way to enjoy the benefits of this herb. It’s less concentrated than a decoction but still effective.
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Ingredients:
- 1-2 teaspoons of Gou Teng powder or a teabag
- Hot water
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Instructions:
- Add the powder or teabag to a cup.
- Pour hot water over it.
- Let it steep for 5-10 minutes.
- Remove the teabag or stir the powder well.
- Enjoy your tea!
Tips for Using Gou Teng
1. Start with a Low Dose
If you’re new to Gou Teng, start with a lower dose and gradually increase it. This helps your body adjust and minimizes the risk of any adverse reactions.
2. Consistency is Key
For best results, use Gou Teng consistently. It can take several weeks to notice the full benefits, particularly for chronic conditions.
3. Combine with Other Herbs
Herbal Information On Uncaria spp; Ramulus
Common Name: Uncaria Vine with Hooks.
Botanical Name: Uncaria spp; Ramulus
Channels/Meridians: Liver, Pericardium, Heart.
Other Names: Chinese Cat's claw, Choto-ko, Choto-san, Uncariae uncis cum ramulus
Pin Yin Name: Gou Teng, Diao-teng-san.
Other Ingredients: None, nothing has been added to this product
Package Size: One Pound (1lb)
Form: Cut
Origin: China
Brand: NuHerbs Lab Tested
Cautions: Do not use if pregnant or nursing. Do Not Confuse With Uncaria tomentosa or guianensis, it has slightly different properties.In large amounts, or used over an extended period of time Gou Teng may cause swollen feet nausea, and diarrhea.
Product Properties: Cool, Sweet, Liver Heat
Major Chemical Components in Uncaria spp. (Ramulus/Gou Teng)
| Compound Class | Specific Constituents | Actions |
|---|---|---|
| Alkaloids | Rhynchophylline, Isorhynchophylline, Corynoxeine, Hirsutine, Mitraphylline | Neuroprotective, antihypertensive, antiarrhythmic, anti-inflammatory |
| Flavonoids | Catechins, Epicatechin | Antioxidant, anti-inflammatory |
| Triterpenes | Ursolic acid, Oleanolic acid | Anti-inflammatory, liver-protective |
| Oxindole alkaloids | Particularly in Uncaria tomentosa | Immunomodulatory, used in some Western herbal protocols |
| Chlorogenic acid | Phenolic acid | Antioxidant, may support vascular health |
Therapeutic Mechanisms (based on TCM and modern research):
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Calms Liver Wind: Helps with symptoms like tremors, headaches, dizziness
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Neuroprotective: May protect neurons from oxidative stress (rhynchophylline)
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Antihypertensive: Some components help lower blood pressure
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Sedative effect: Due to isorhynchophylline and related alkaloids
Dosage and Safety:
Gou Teng is generally considered safe when taken in appropriate doses. It is important to note that Gou Teng may interact with certain medications, such as blood thinners and antihypertensive drugs.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, Gou Teng is a valuable herb with a wide range of health benefits. It has been used for centuries in TCM to promote a healthy nervous system, reduce anxiety, and lower blood pressure levels. Gou Teng contains numerous active compounds that have been shown to possess antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective properties.
Gou Teng has been used for centuries in traditional Chinese medicine and has a wide range of beneficial properties. It has therapeutic benefits for several medical conditions.
Main Characteristics (Attributes) of Herbs
- Harvested at the proper level of maturity and correct time of the season to maximize potency.
- Free from Chlorine
- Manufactured without the use of sulphur
- Preservative Free
- Made at GMP internationally certified facilities (Good Manufacturing Practices) Quality control tests are done at the manufacturing site and at third party labs to confirm results
- Aluminum Phosphate free
- Packaged in an airtight sealed bag
- Pin Yin Names and Botanical Names are listed on the bag
- Certificate of Analysis are available upon request
- Conforms to Standards of Chinese Pharmacopeia
- No dyes, colors, or bleaching of the herbs
- We are a authorized direct distributor of Plum Flower Herbs.
- 500 gram bag size which equal anywhere from 4 to 6 cups of herbs
Chinese Traditional herbs should be regarded as a supplementary aspect to modern western healthcare, and not as a replacement. Chinese traditional herbs ( Teas ) emphasize harmony, and balance.
References:
https://examine.com/supplements/uncaria-rhynchophylla/
https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.1177/1469066717694044
https://www.meso.it/old.tcmwiki.com/wiki/gou-teng.html
https://books.google.com/books?id=VPjcIdkqStAC&pg=PA419&lpg=PA419&dq=gou+teng&source=bl&ots=Qz-uUm07SO&sig=ACfU3U0rS8BthJmxSVsfDLRgrvAxju4VKg&hl=en&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwiS84PO2Kn9AhU6FzQIHTmrB0U4WhDoAXoECAUQAw#v=onepage&q=gou%20teng&f=false
