Wild Crafted Cats Claw Bark (Uncaria tomentosa)

Description

Herbs are Sold By the Ounce, Price is Per Ounce

Cat’s Claw (Uncaria tomentosa)

Family: Rubiaceae
Common Names: Uña de Gato, Hawk’s Claw, Life-giving Vine of Peru
Origin: Native to the Amazon rainforest and other tropical areas of Central and South America

Botanical

Cat’s Claw is a large, woody vine that can reach over 100 feet in length. It gets its name from the claw-like thorns that grow along the vine, which help it climb trees. The plant features glossy, dark green leaves and small, yellowish flowers.

Parts Used

• Bark: Primarily used in herbal medicine.
• Root: Sometimes used, but harvesting it can be unsustainable.

Habitat and Cultivation

Cat’s Claw thrives in tropical rainforests, particularly in the Amazon Basin. It prefers well-drained, loamy soils rich in organic matter and requires partial to full sunlight.

Traditional and Medicinal Uses

Cat’s Claw has a long history of use in traditional Peruvian medicine, particularly for its anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties.

Medicinal Actions:

• Anti-inflammatory: Traditionally used to reduce inflammation, particularly in cases of arthritis and digestive disorders.
• Immunomodulatory: Enhances the immune response, making it popular for use in fighting infections.
• Antioxidant: Helps protect the body from oxidative stress.
• Antiviral: Used in some traditional practices for its potential to inhibit viruses.
• Digestive Tonic: Traditionally used to treat various gastrointestinal issues, including ulcers and gastritis.

Active Compounds:

• Alkaloids: Rhynchophylline, hirsutine, and mitraphylline, which are believed to contribute to its immune-modulating and anti-inflammatory effects.
• Oxindole Alkaloids: Found to support immune function.
• Glycosides and Tannins: Contribute to its antioxidant properties.

Energetics and Taste

• Energetics: Cooling and drying
• Taste: Bitter, astringent

System Affinities

• Immune System
• Digestive System
• Musculoskeletal System

Modern Uses and Research

Recent studies have highlighted Cat’s Claw’s potential in supporting immune health, reducing inflammation, and combating viral infections. It is often used as a complementary therapy for arthritis, chronic fatigue syndrome, and even some types of cancer due to its immune-boosting properties.

Research Studies:

1. Immune Support: A study published in Phytomedicine demonstrated that Cat’s Claw can enhance the immune response by increasing white blood cell count and activity .
2. Anti-inflammatory Effects: Research in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology showed that Cat’s Claw has significant anti-inflammatory effects, particularly in reducing symptoms of osteoarthritis .
3. Antioxidant Properties: A study in Food and Chemical Toxicology confirmed its potent antioxidant activity, which may protect cells from damage .

Cautions and Interactions

• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Not recommended due to a lack of safety data.
• Autoimmune Conditions: May overstimulate the immune system in people with autoimmune disorders.
• Blood Pressure: Cat’s Claw may lower blood pressure; use with caution if taking antihypertensive medications.
• Surgery: Discontinue use at least two weeks before surgery due to its potential to affect blood clotting.