Deep in the Amazon rainforest grows a woody vine with curved, hook-like thorns that look just like a cat’s claws, which is how it got its name. Cat’s claw (Uncaria tomentosa), known in Spanish as uña de gato, has been used for centuries by the Asháninka and other Indigenous peoples of Peru as one of their most valued healing plants. Today herbalists value cat’s claw bark to: support a healthy, balanced immune system support joint comfort and mobility support a healthy inflammatory response support comfortable digestion and gut health How to use it: cat’s claw is a tough, woody bark, so it needs to be simmered rather than steeped. Simmer 1 to 2 teaspoons in 2 cups of water for 15 to 20 minutes, then strain. It has a mildly bitter, woody flavor, and a little cinnamon, ginger or raw honey softens it nicely. You can also add it to your bone broth or other root teas. Cautions: not for use during pregnancy, while trying to conceive, or while nursing. Talk with your provider if you have an autoimmune condition, or if you take immune-suppressing medication, blood thinners or blood pressure medication. Stop taking it 2 weeks before surgery. Sold by the ounce.
