uncaria rhynchophylla extract

**Uncaria rhynchophylla extract** is a botanical preparation derived from the hooks and stems of Uncaria rhynchophylla, a traditional Chinese medicinal plant known as "Gouteng". The primary active components are **indole alkaloids** (notably rhynchophylline, isorhynchophylline, corynoxine, and angustoline), with additional bioactive constituents including flavonoids and triterpenes. The extract has demonstrated a range of pharmacological activities: - **Neuroprotective effects:** Extensively studied for its protective actions in neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and Parkinson’s disease (PD). Mechanisms include inhibition of amyloid-beta and tau aggregation, activation of mitophagy (via UCHL1), modulation of neurotransmitter systems (notably the serotonergic pathway), and anti-inflammatory properties[2][3][4][5]. - **Vasodilatory/Antihypertensive effects:** Shows vasodilation mediated through the nitric oxide–soluble guanylyl cyclase–cyclic GMP (NO/sGC/cGMP) signaling, prostacyclin (PGI₂), M₃ and β₂ receptors, voltage-gated calcium channels, IP₃-induced intracellular Ca²⁺ release, and potassium channels (except KCa type)[1]. - **Other effects:** Traditional indications include treatment of dizziness, headaches, epilepsy, hypertension, stroke, anxiety, and convulsions. Modern pharmacological investigations also suggest antioxidant and anti-HIV activity[3][5][8]. Typical routes of administration are oral, but intranasal delivery has been studied for targeted brain effects[5]. The extract is mostly considered a herbal supplement rather than an approved pharmaceutical drug in any major regulatory jurisdiction.

Other names

uncaria rhynchophylla ethanolic extractUncariae Ramulus cum UncisGoutengUR extractURA