Cat's Claw – the liana from the Amazon jungle

Cat's Claw (Uncaria tomentosa) is a tenacious climbing liana that grows wild in the Amazon rainforest, from Mexico down to northern Argentina. Its name comes from the claw-like, hooked thorns on the plant's tendrils, which help it cling to treetops as it climbs towards the light.

A liana that can grow up to 30 meters long

The plant is a true climber and can reach impressive lengths as it scales through the different layers of the rainforest.

Historical use

The root and bark have a long tradition in folk medicine among indigenous peoples in Peru and neighboring areas of the Amazon.

What Cat's Claw contains

The bark contains phytochemicals such as tannins, sterols, glycosides, and alkaloids.

Good to know

Should be avoided during pregnancy and breastfeeding, and used with caution in cases of bleeding disorders or low blood pressure.

Use

Mix a pinch of the powder with water, juice, or tea, a couple of times a day.