Synonyms: U. tomentosa, Cat’s Claw
With distribution across many areas of Central and South America, this large vine often grows high into the rainforest canopy, and gets its “Cat’s Claw” handle from the large thorns that grow along its length. While evidence suggests that Peru’s Ashaninka tribe has been using the plant the longest - at least 2,000 years - many other indigenous tribes are known to have used it.
Una de gato is known to be a powerful stimulant for the immune system, and thus has a wide variety of applications, from treating stomach illnesses to controlling in ammation of the digestive system and internal organs. Several tribes have also been known to use large doses of the plant as a form of contraception. A regi- men of controlled consumption during periods of menstruation can cause sterility for several years.
