Cat's Claw (Uncaria tomentosa) is a large woody vine that grows in the Amazon rainforest. It gets its name from the sharp, curved thorns that grow on the vine, resembling a cat's claws. The bark of this vine is cut and dried for use in traditional herbal practices.
Indigenous peoples of the Amazon, like the Asháninka, have used Cat's Claw for centuries to support immune system health and joint comfort. It is sold by us as a botanical food product only, not for therapeutic use.
As Cat's Claw is a tough, woody bark, it must be decocted, not infused. This means you should simmer 1-2 teaspoons of the bark in a pot with cold water for 15-20 minutes. Simply steeping it in a cup of hot water will not be effective.
Cat's Claw tea has a very distinct flavour that is earthy, woody, bitter, and somewhat tannic (astringent). Many people prefer to blend it with lemon, honey, or other spices like ginger to make it more palatable.
Cat's Claw bark is known to contain a complex range of active compounds, including various alkaloids (most notably pentacyclic oxindole alkaloids or POAs), tannins, and quinovic acid glycosides.
No, not at all. It is a plant and is not related to felines. The name comes 100% from the physical appearance of the thorns on the vine, which it uses to climb high into the Amazonian canopy.
