Cat’s Claw
Uncaria tomentosa1:3 Organic Mead Spagyric of wild harvested Amazonian Cat’s Claw arial bark and claw, with plant salts added.
Planetary Ruler: Mars
Note: Based in Mead, avoid this Spagyric if you have bee product allergies.
Physical Properties*:
Cat’s claw is a pertinent plant when the body is under attack or is attacking itself, it is highly effective against infections (viral infections, herpes, UTI’s, wound infections, mouth and stomach ulcers), as well as inflammatory conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis. It is an immune system stimulant, with its antiviral, antibacterial, antifungal, antiparasitic, anti-inflammatory and analgesic, anticoagulant and antihypertensive effects coming from indole and oxindole alkaloids, terpenoids, and polyphenols that the plant uses to defend itself from the plethora of microscopic nasties present in humid tropical forests. These chemicals have a contraceptive effect which may be desired by some, but not women desiring to conceive! The strong antiviral, antibacterial, and antifungal effects have proven effective in the amelioration of Candida, Lyme disease, Eppstein-Barr (glandular fever), hepatitis, gastritis, prostitis, and Crohn’s disease. Cat’s claw can improve blood health with properties such as the stimulation of macrophages and granulocytes, regulation of lymphocyte proliferation, kidney cleansing, and blood purifying. Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS) also responds well to Cat’s Claw treatment and the plant can also be used as a nootropic, as it has been shown to: Alleviate depression by boosting tryptophan and serotonin, improve focus and cognition, fight inflammation in and protect brain neurons, repair DNA and increase Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor - it is gaining popularity as a nootropic.
*Before purchase please see full disclaimer at bottom of page - statements and products not approved by TGA.
Emotional/Spiritual Properties:
Cat’s Claw conjures an image of a relentless warrior climbing their way up a mountain side by tooth, nail and maybe claw… For it is with the claws found along its vine that this plant hooks itself on to host plants and climbs through the jungle foliage in search of light. Cat’s claw is therefore valuable to those who are in protracted struggles, such as legal cases, divorces, long-standing tensions between family members or even self-sabotaging patterns internally – this is reflected by its immune stimulating, antihypertensive, and mood lifting qualities physically. Cat’s claw can be a great ally when there is seemingly no light at the end of the tunnel, it helps to uncover a steady optimism that isn’t based on hoping for some particular outcome, but rather upon a deep desire for all to be brought in to honouring, truth and respect. For those prone to melancholy, defeatism and despair, Cat’s Claw can rouse the inner warrior so we may raise the sword, don the armour and get stuck into the outer challenges, inner work and conflicts in need of resolution in a way that is confident and empowered, therefore negating the fear and insecurity that causes brashness and disrespect. It enables us to wield the sword as we walk life’s various knife edges.
Cautions/contraindications:
-Autoimmune diseases: Cat’s claw may make the immune system more active, which can increase the severity of autoimmune disease symptoms.
-HIV medications: Protease inhibitor drugs used in the treatment of HIV may interact with Cat’s Claw.
-Blood Pressure: Cat’s Claw may lower blood pressure and slow blood clotting, if you are taking blood thinners, anticoagulant drugs, or are about to have surgery, please consult with your healthcare provider before using skullcap.
-In some people extended use or heavy doses of Cat’s claw may cause dizziness, headache and vomiting.
