Cat's Claw Bark

Cat's Claw Bark from Peru – Uncaria tomentosa

Cat's Claw Bark is sourced from Peru and prepared from Uncaria tomentosa, a woody climbing vine native to the tropical rainforests of Central and South America. Named for its distinctive curved thorns that resemble a cat's claws, this remarkable botanical has a long history of use in traditional Amazonian herbal medicine.

Cat's Claw has traditionally been valued for digestive health, joint comfort and general well-being. Its bark produces a distinctly earthy, woody and mildly bitter infusion, traditionally prepared by simmering rather than ordinary steeping.

A Traditional Herb of the Amazon

Cat's Claw has been used for generations by Indigenous peoples of the Peruvian Amazon, including Asháninka communities, where it has an important place in traditional herbal knowledge. Historically, the bark has been prepared in decoctions for a variety of purposes, particularly those associated with digestive complaints, inflammation and joint discomfort. Its reputation eventually spread beyond South America, making Cat's Claw one of the better-known botanicals associated with Amazonian herbal traditions.

Naturally Occurring Plant Compounds

Cat's Claw contains a variety of naturally occurring botanical constituents, including oxindole alkaloids, polyphenols, tannins and quinovic acid glycosides.

These compounds have attracted scientific interest, particularly in research examining antioxidant activity and inflammatory processes.

Cat's Claw Bark – A Traditional Decoction Herb

Unlike delicate herbal leaves and flowers, Cat's Claw Bark is a woody botanical traditionally prepared as a decoction. Gently simmering the bark allows the water to extract its characteristic flavour and soluble plant constituents. The resulting infusion has a deep, earthy character with woody and mildly bitter notes.

Cat's Claw can be enjoyed on its own or complemented with lemon, honey or aromatic herbs such as mint.

Botanical name: Uncaria tomentosa
Origin: Peru
Plant part: Bark
Ingredients:Cat's Claw bark / Uncaria tomentosa. 100% pure herb — single ingredient, nothing added.
Form: Bark, fine strands & pieces
Caffeine:
Naturally caffeine free

Brewing Recommendations

Traditional Decoction: Add approximately 3 grams of Cat's Claw Bark to 375 ml (1½ cups) of cold water. Bring the bark and water gradually to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for approximately 10 minutes. Remove from heat, allow to cool slightly, strain and enjoy. For a stronger preparation, simmer gently for up to 20 minutes, adding water as needed.

Preparation Tip: Starting with cold water allows the bark to heat gradually. Keep the pot covered where practical and avoid vigorous boiling. The flavour can be adjusted with honey, lemon or mint according to preference.

Cautions & Warnings: Do not use during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Consult a qualified healthcare practitioner before use, particularly if you have an autoimmune condition, are preparing for surgery, have received an organ transplant, or take immunosuppressants, blood thinners, blood pressure medications or other prescription medications. Discontinue use if an adverse reaction occurs. Avoid prolonged use without professional guidance. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. For educational purposes only.