U. guianensis, other species Biochemistry Principal active biochemicals are six oxindole alkaloids. These alkaloids significantly enhance the ability of white blood cells to attack, engulf, and digest harmful microbes or foreign bodies. It has proven useful in treating arthritis, bursitis, allergies and numerous bowel and intestinal disorders.
Anecdotal evidence indicates effectiveness in relieving side effects of chemotherapy.
Wild populations of this woody vine are threatened in some areas by harvesters who dig out the root out rather than simply cutting the vine and allowing regrowth. It grows prolifically under cultivation.