Vilcacora

Vilcacora — the smaller cat's claw — is a close relative of Uncaria tomentosa, used by Amazonian peoples alongside its more famous cousin as an immune tonic and anti-inflammatory. Traditional Asháninka healers used vilcacora specifically for deep inflammatory conditions and viral illness. While less studied than U. tomentosa, it shares similar alkaloid and tannin chemistry and is increasingly valued as a gentler alternative with complementary activity, often used together in South American traditional formulas.