Cat's claw: what is it for and how to make tea
Cat's claw is a medicinal plant whose scientific name isUncaria tomentosawhich has diuretic, antioxidant, immunostimulating and purifying properties, and can be used to help treat infections, inflammations and to improve the activity of the immune system.
This plant grows in the form of vines forming climbing shrubs and has light green leaves with slightly curved spines, a reddish brown and cream-colored stem, and can store water inside to meet its own needs.
Cat's claw can be consumed in the form of tea from the bark, root or leaf, or in tablet form, and can be found in health food stores.
What is it for
Cat's claw has analgesic, antioxidant, purifying, diuretic, immunostimulating, antimicrobial, antipyretic and anti-inflammatory properties, and can be used to help treat various situations, such as:
- Ulcer;
- Fungal infection;
- Bursitis;
- Gastritis;
- Rhinitis;
- Asthma;
- Virosis;
- Inflammation in the joints;
- Arthritis;
- Tonsillitis;
- Rheumatism;
- Skin changes;
- Gonorrhea.
In addition, cat's claw can be used to help regulate blood pressure, however it is important that its use is indicated by the doctor or herbalist so that there is no hypotension or interaction with medications that may be being used.
How to use cat's claw
The bark, the root and the leaves of the cat's claw can be used to make tea, tinctures or capsules, which can be obtained in handling pharmacies.
To make cat's claw tea, 20 g of cat claw shells and roots are needed for 1 liter of water. Then, you must boil the ingredients for 15 minutes and then remove the tea from the heat and let it rest in the covered container for 10 minutes, then strain and drink. It is recommended to take cat's claw tea every 8 hours between meals.
Side effects and contraindications
Cat's claw if used in high doses can cause contraceptive effect, diarrhea, nausea and constipation.
The use of cat's claw is contraindicated for pregnant women, women who breastfeed, people with plant allergies or who have autoimmune diseases, such as multiple sclerosis, for example. In addition, people who have ulcers should drink cat's claw tea under medical guidance, as if there is excessive consumption, it may favor the formation of more ulcers.
