Cat’s claw, or Uncaria tomentosa, is a climbing vine native to the Amazon rainforest that can grow over 30 metres tall, named for the curved claw-like thorns at the base of its leaves that let it grip trees as it climbs towards the canopy. Used for centuries by Amazonian indigenous peoples, notably the Ashaninka of Peru, it holds a central place in traditional South American herbal medicine.

The inner bark, the most-used part of the vine, contains numerous bioactive compounds including oxindole and pentacyclic alkaloids, polyphenols, triterpenes and, above all, the carboxy alkyl esters (CAE) that define the AC-11 extract; the Uncaria tomentosa used for this extract is sustainably farmed in the Amazon, respecting the forest ecosystem and local communities.

AC-11 differs fundamentally from classic cat’s claw extracts in both its extraction process and standardisation. While conventional extracts use alcohol solvents and are standardised on alkaloids, AC-11 is extracted exclusively with hot water — a clean process that yields a specific molecular profile, rich in CAE and low in oxindole alkaloids that can be undesirable at high doses.

AC-11 is the only cat’s claw extract in the world standardised for its carboxy alkyl ester content, at a minimum 8%; protected by 11 international patents (including US patents 11,883,457, 10,098,922 and 9,457,009 from Optigenex Inc), it has been the subject of over 12 independent scientific publications on DNA repair, telomere length and joint comfort.

Take 2 capsules a day with a glass of water, with a meal, for optimal absorption; a 60-capsule pack covers a one-month course at the recommended dose. A course of 3-6 months is recommended for joint comfort and cellular support goals, and can be extended according to individual needs, as AC-11’s effects build up over time.

Not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women, people on immunosuppressant, anticoagulant or antihypertensive treatment without prior medical advice. For adult use only. Do not exceed the recommended daily dose. Food supplements are not a substitute for a varied, balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle. Keep out of reach of children. Store away from heat and humidity. If in doubt or on medical treatment, consult your doctor or pharmacist before starting supplementation.

What is the difference between AC-11 and a classic cat’s claw extract?

The main difference is the extraction process and standardisation. Classic extracts are usually made with alcohol solvents and standardised on alkaloids, while AC-11 is extracted exclusively with water and standardised on CAE (carboxy alkyl esters), the active molecules documented in clinical studies — an approach that ensures a specific, reproducible molecular profile from batch to batch.

Can cat’s claw AC-11 be combined with other supplements?

Yes, AC-11 can be combined with other supplements as part of a broader wellness programme, and is compatible with most common vitamins, minerals and plant extracts. However, due to potential interactions with certain treatments (immunosuppressants, anticoagulants, antihypertensives), we recommend seeking advice from a healthcare professional if you take medication.

How long before I feel the effects of AC-11?

AC-11 supplementation works over time — a 3-6 month course is recommended for joint comfort and cellular wellbeing goals. Some people report faster benefits, but consistency and duration of use are the key factors for the best results.

Herba Barona is an independent specialist supplement shop in the heart of Paris — established in 2006. What you order is genuinely on our shelves: we ship from our own stock, with no dropshipping and no long waits.

Visit us at 10 rue Théophile Roussel, Paris 12 — or use Click & Collect and pick up your order in-store. We also deliver across France and Europe. Friendly, expert advice in English from our team.

Where is the shop?

Herba Barona is at 10 rue Théophile Roussel, 75012 Paris — a two-minute walk from Ledru-Rollin (line 8), close to Bastille. Open Tuesday to Saturday, 9:30 am–6:30 pm.

Can I order online or collect in store?

Yes. We ship across France and Europe under the same conditions as our French store, or choose Click & Collect to pick up your order for free at our Paris shop.