Catlaw Buttercup

Botanical

What is it

Catlaw buttercup, known as 'mao zhua cao' (cat-paw herb), is a name applied in traditional Chinese medicine to certain Ranunculus species, used historically for what TCM describes as resolving phlegm and treating cervical lymph-node swelling.

Evidence for 1 use

AI-assisted evidence assessment — talk to your doctor before relying on any single supplement.

Traditional TCM use (phlegm, lymph nodes)

Mixed Evidence

Used in traditional Chinese formulas; no modern controlled clinical trials support specific indications.

How it works

Many Ranunculus species contain protoanemonin, an acrid lactone that is irritant and toxic in fresh plant material. Drying converts protoanemonin to anemonin, which is less reactive. The phytochemistry is poorly characterized for this specific TCM herb. Animal and laboratory studies are sparse. There is no validated modern pharmacological mechanism for the traditional uses.

Dosage

Traditional decoction doses are 9–15 g of dried herb. There is no FDA-recognized dose. DSLD data is limited.

When and how to take it

Used as decoction in traditional formulas.

1 commercial form

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Dried herb decoction

Traditional preparation.

Not characterized.

Safety

Fresh plant is irritant due to protoanemonin and should not be used. Even dried material can be irritating in sensitive individuals. Use should be guided by trained TCM practitioners.

Who should be cautious

Avoid in pregnancy and breastfeeding. Not appropriate for self-prescription due to species identification and processing requirements.

Interactions

No clinically established interactions.

Frequently asked questions

Is the fresh plant safe?⌄

No. Fresh Ranunculus species contain protoanemonin, which is acrid and irritant.

References

Catlaw Buttercup on NIH DSLD (US supplement label database) — NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database link

Research on Catlaw Buttercup (PubMed search) — PubMed link

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Evidence-based·How we grade evidence

Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This page is educational, not a substitute for personalized medical advice. Evidence grades are AI-assisted assessments — talk to your doctor before starting any new supplement, especially if you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, on medications, or managing a chronic condition.