Origin and things worth knowing
This ancient medicinal plant, which is also known as Cat's Claw and is native to the Amazon region, is revered as sacred by many indigenous peoples of South America (such as the Conibo or Casibo) because of its broad spectrum of medicinal effects.
The sharp thorns in the leaf axes of this liana, which can grow up to 100 m long and up to 30 cm thick, give it its name.
From the root to the bark to the leaves, the entire plant is used for the following different diseases and ailments:
 
- Asthma
- arthritis
- Dermatitis
- Diabetes
- Diarrhea
- Inflammation (e.g. urinary tract inflammation or inflammation in the mouth)
- gastritis
- Menstrual problems and irregular cycle
- weakened immune system
- viral diseases
- Ulcers / benign and malignant tumors
 
In the 1990s, the WHO (World Health Organization) recognized cat's claw as a traditional medicinal plant and confirmed the following effects in studies:
 
- antioxidant (attacks free radicals)
- anti-inflammatory (against inflammation)
- analgesic
- antiviral
- antitumor (against cancer)
- anti-oedematous (against fluid accumulation in the tissue)
- immunomodulating (strengthening in case of immune deficiency or regulating in case of overreaction)
- Lowering cholesterol
Since cat's claw can also have a contraceptive effect, the tea should be avoided if you are planning to have children. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should not drink the tea either!
 
The followingactive ingredientsowns cat's claw among others:
- Indole alkaloids: these damage tumor cells
- Procyanidins: these serve to bind free radicals and protect against cancer
- Sterols : these inhibit the formation of proteins that can lead to Alzheimer's
- Triterpenes : these have a beneficial effect on cholesterol levels
 
Preparation as a tea
For gastrointestinal problems such as gastritis, skin diseases, arthritis or even cancer
let about 20g cat's claw simmer covered in 1L water for 45min. After that, sit down and drink throughout the day.
 
For arthritis, diabetes, cirrhosis of the liver, rheumatism or malignant tumors, let 2 teaspoons of cat's claw simmer in 1 1/2 liters of water, covered, for at least 30 minutes.
After the brew has cooled down, at least half a glass should be drunk before each meal.
 
Note on medical content:
The content presented here only provides an overview of possible medical use and does not constitute a recommendation for use.
Please always consult a (family) doctor or pharmacist.