Cat’s claw, also known by its Spanish name, uña de gato, is a medicinal plant native to the Amazon and Central American rainforests. In this article, we’ll be sharing the benefits of this healing plant and why it’s something you may want to add to your health regimen.
What exactly is cat’s claw?
Botanically classified as Uncaria tomentosa and a member of the Rubiaceae plant family, cat’s claw is a woody, climbing vine named after its hook-like thorns that resemble the claws of a cat. The thorns assist the vine in climbing up to 100 feet high into the canopy of the rainforest.
There are two main documented species of cat’s claw, which have similar chemical make-ups—Uncaria tomentosa and Uncaria guianensis. Most commercial preparations, including teas and capsules, contain the U. tomentosa variety.
The history of cat’s claw
Cat’s claw has recently gained popularity in the Western wellness world thanks to its wide range of healing properties. The benefits of this plant, however, are not a modern discovery. Cat’s claw has a long history of use dating back to the Inca civilization. Indigenous people of South and Central America have long used it to ward off and heal disease.
The benefits of cat’s claw
Cat’s claw is rich in three major groups of chemical compounds: alkaloids, terpenoids, and flavonoids. These compounds have been shown to have immune-modulating, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory effects. Because of cat’s claw’s high concentration of these compounds, researchers have been looking into its potential use for several health concerns. Here are some of the top research-backed benefits of this incredible, healing plant.
- Boosts immune function
Cat’s claw is most well-known for its powerful immune-boosting properties. In one study involving men, consuming cat’s claw extract for two months increased their number of white blood cells, which are involved in fighting infections. Researchers believe that the immune-boosting effects are due to the plant’s anti-inflammatory properties, although more research is needed to determine the exact mechanism of action.
- Treats arthritis
Multiple studies have confirmed that cat’s claw is effective in improving both osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis thanks to its anti-inflammatory effects. In one study involving people with knee osteoarthritis, one week of consuming cat’s claw extract reduced pain associated with activity. In another study involving patients with active rheumatoid arthritis, 24 weeks of treatment with cat’s claw extract resulted in a reduction in the number of painful joints compared to the placebo.
- Has antiviral properties
Cat’s claw has a long history of use as a natural anti-viral and now, many studies are supporting these age-old claims. In one study of 31 volunteers with cold sores, cat’s claw was more effective in reducing symptoms compared to the prescription antiviral drug, Acyclovir. In a test tube study, cat’s claw prevented immune cells from being infected with dengue virus and also reduced inflammatory cytokines.
- Lowers high blood pressure
In traditional Chinese medicine, cat’s claw has long been used to lower high blood pressure. Now, research is supporting this benefit, showing that cat’s claw may indeed be an effective natural remedy for high blood pressure. It’s ability to do so is attributed to an alkaloid called hirsutine.
- May fight cancer
While more research needs to be done regarding cat claw’s ability to fight cancer, initial studies suggest cat’s claw may help kill tumor and cancer cells in test tubes. One study on leukemia cells demonstrated that the alkaloids in cat’s claw have the potential to not only stop cancer from continuing to grow, but also to kill the cancer cells themselves.
The bottom line
Cat’s claw is steadily gaining recognition in the Western wellness world—and for good reason. From boosting the immune system to fending off viruses to easing the pain of arthritis, this anti-inflammatory vine offers a number of valuable health benefits.
Cat’s claw is most commonly consumed in tea or tincture form. At Inca Master Tea Co., we offer 100% natural cat’s claw bark that can be brewed to make a health-enhancing cup of tea. We source our cat’s claw from Peru where it grows natively. Experience the benefits of this Peruvian plant for yourself today.
References:
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15070175/
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15162359/
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11515716/
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11603848/
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11950006/
http://www.dst.uff.br/revista22-2-2010/1%20-%20Uncaria.pdf
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18279801/
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/1798789/