Cat's Claw

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Basic information

Native to Peru’s virgin rainforests, this medicinal vine is known as the “Amazonian miracle of herbal medicine.” It is used to treat illnesses that attack the immune system, like cancer or HIV. The tribes of the Amazon hold this herb sacred because of its great contribution to medicine. Its other names include uña de gato, samento, rangaya, garabato, bejucote and Uncaria tomentosa.

Seasonal availability

Harvest: from the fifth to tenth month one year after sowing.

Human health benefits

Cat’s claw is a powerful anti-inflammatory with antimutagenic properties that strengthen the immune system. It is also a recommended preventative treatment for cancer and immune deficiencies. This herb is also a painkiller, helps fight diabetes and allergies, and cleans out toxins. It can be used to treat acne, colitis, gastritis and ulcers.

The vine, with scientific name Uncaria tomentosa, also reduces discomfort and inflammation for people with rheumatism, arthritis or viral infections. It also soothes menstrual cramps and toothaches, and can be used to treat gonorrhea, blood clots and the dreaded diabetes.

Nutritional value

Planta/Plant

Mitra, uncarina F, iso-miltrafilina, ácido ursólico y ácido oleanólico./ Mytraphylline, F uncarine, iso-mitraphylline, ursolid and oleanolic acid.

Hojas/Leaves

Alcaloides./ Alkaloids, isoentane compounds, glycosides, steroids, 3a-dihydrocadambine.

Tallo/Stem

Alcaloides, compuestos de isopentano, glicósidos./ Alkaloids, isopentane compounds, glycosides.

Raíz/Root

Uncarina F, especiofilina, isopteropodina, pteroropodina, isomitrafilina, rincofilina, isoríncofilina, mitrafilina, epicatequina y procianidina./ F uncarine, especiophyline, isopteropodine, pteroropodine, isomitraphylline, rincophylline, isorincophylline, mitraphylline, picatechin and procianidine.

Geographical distribution

Presentations

República del Perú - Comisión de Promoción del Perú para la Exportación y el Turismo - PromPerú