Cat’s Claw Bark Powder – Uña de Gato

Cat’s Claw (Uncaria tomentosa), known in the Amazon as Uña de Gato, is a climbing forest vine named for its curved claw-like thorns. Growing up to thirty meters high, it anchors itself deep into the canopy and has been valued for centuries by Indigenous peoples as a sacred plant. The Asháninka of Peru are most closely linked to its use, but the Aguaruna, Shipibo, Cashibo and Conibo also revere it. For these communities, Cat’s Claw is more than a tea ingredient: it is a protective and cleansing ally that strengthens vitality and restores balance between body and spirit.

Its bark carries a rich profile of natural compounds — including oxindole alkaloids, tannins, and flavonoids — and is traditionally prepared as a decoction. Indigenous healers use it in both practical and ceremonial contexts, from recovery after childbirth to cleansing rituals that reinforce resilience and harmony.

Preparation

Simmer 2 teaspoons of the fine bark powder in 1 liter of water for about 15–20 minutes. The resulting tea is light yet grounding. For a stronger brew, dissolve half a teaspoon of our concentrated Cat’s Claw extract (available here) into the tea. This creates a deeper preparation that reflects the full strength of the vine.

To explore the complete background of Cat’s Claw, including its cultural history, ceremonial role, and traditional qualities, please read our full article here.

Other names: Uncaria tomentosa, Una de Gato, Uña de Gato, Paraguayo, Garabato, Garbato Casha, Samento, Toroñ, Tambor Huasca, Uña Huasca, Uña de Gavilan, Hawk's Claw, Saventaro.

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Taiwan