Cat’s Claw (Uncaria tomentosa) – Shredded Herb from Brazil

Cat’s Claw from Brazil – Sacred Amazonian Vine for Immunity, Inflammation, and Spiritual Defense

Step into the healing embrace of the Amazon with Cat’s Claw (Uncaria tomentosa), a revered vine used for centuries in Indigenous medicine for its ability to strengthen the immune system, calm inflammation, and clear spiritual stagnation. Offered here in shredded form, our Cat’s Claw is wild-harvested in Brazil, carefully dried to preserve its potent vitality and ready for teas, tinctures, or ceremonial decoctions.

What Is Cat’s Claw?

Known as “Uña de Gato” in Spanish and Unha de Gato in Portuguese, this climbing vine grows high into the jungle canopy, supported by curved, claw-like thorns that inspired its name. The inner bark and root of the vine are used in traditional preparations, prized by herbalists throughout the Amazon and Andes for both physical and spiritual purposes.

In Indigenous cosmology, Cat’s Claw is seen as a protective plant, one that strengthens the body while cleansing energetic interference and restoring harmony between the human and natural worlds.

Traditional and Energetic Use

In Amazonian plant medicine, Cat’s Claw has long been used to:

• Support immune response and defense
• Soothe inflammatory conditions, especially of the joints or gut
• Promote digestive and eliminative function
• Clear energy blockages and offer spiritual protection
• Balance body and spirit during post-illness recovery

It is often used in cleansing protocols, post-ceremony integration, and periods of physical depletion. Many tribes use it in decoctions or long-cooked teas, sometimes combined with other barks and roots to restore equilibrium in the body and subtle energy field.

Scientific Interest

Modern herbalists and researchers have shown growing interest in Cat’s Claw for its alkaloids, flavonoids, and glycosides, which may contribute to its immunomodulating and anti-inflammatory effects. Some studies suggest benefits for the gut lining, immune regulation, and even potential applications in autoimmune conditions—though traditional use extends far beyond the physical.

Its gentle but profound support of the body’s natural defenses has made it one of the Amazon’s most sought-after herbal allies worldwide.

How to Use

Our shredded Cat’s Claw bark is ideal for preparing traditional decoctions. Simmer 1–2 teaspoons in water for 15–30 minutes, strain, and drink. The flavor is earthy and mildly bitter—indicative of its detoxifying nature.

It can also be blended with herbs such as Pau D’Arco, Mulungu, or Quina Quina depending on the intended effect. In ceremonial or spiritual contexts, it is sometimes used as a supportive tonic to help ground and protect during healing work.

Avoid use during pregnancy, and consult with a knowledgeable practitioner if using alongside pharmaceutical immunosuppressants.

Sourced with Integrity

Our Cat’s Claw is wild-harvested in Brazil with respect for the forest and the traditional communities who have safeguarded this plant’s knowledge for centuries. It is dried naturally, shredded by hand, and packed without additives or fillers.

At Maya Herbs, we are committed to offering not only powerful plants, but also honest connection to tradition, ecology, and purpose.

Whether you’re supporting your immune system, easing inflammation, or seeking spiritual clarity, Cat’s Claw offers a vine to hold onto—a living thread between Earth and spirit.