Cat’s Claw (Rhynchophylla)
Pin Yin (TCM name): Gou Teng
1:4 Spagyric Tincture based in Ethanol and Distilled Water, with this plants' salt principle added. 
Planetary correspondence: Mars & Sun

Physical Effects*:
Uncaria rhynchophylla (as different to the Cat’s Claw known as Uncaria Tomentosa) is a traditional chinese medicine and Japanese medicine that is has neuroprotective, anticonvulsive, antipsychotic and hypotensive properties. The curled claw like structures are used for the treatment of hypertension, epilepsy, and for various head ailments such as Alzheimer’s, dementia, headaches or dizziness. It contains a variety of alkaloid structures, most notably the one named after it (Rhynchophylline) and a potent drug-like alkaloid with the acronym of GME (Geissoschizine methyl ether). It is a component of the popular Japanese medicinal formula known as Yokukansan, where it bestows neuroprotective effects alongside Liquorice root. Studies are showing that the oral ingestion of GME has antipsychotic properties quite similar to Aripiprazole (pharmaceutical) on the dopamine and serotonin receptors. The influence on these receptors also confers some anxiety reducing properties, and can reduce social aggression (thought to be the reason why Yokukansan reduces agitation in elderly persons with dementia).
There is also a neuroprotective effect that is mostly based on preventing the brain's neuron cells supporting known as glial cells from activating in response to inflammation. This anti-inflammatory effect in the brain appears to underlie anti-epileptic properties with oral ingestion of the herb. The neuroprotective properties of the plant, as well as it’s abilities to strengthen the central nervous system, and stimulate the immune system make it a useful component of many Lyme’s disease protocols. It lowers blood pressure, reduces dizziness and has a general strengthening effect throughout the body. One may find that it improves eyesight, manages conjunctivitis and reduces muscular tension.

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Spiritual/Emotional Effects*:
Calm. One feels with this plant as if they have ingested an acupuncture session – not the needles themselves, but the calm and clarity found during. For those whose inspirations are many, this plant helps to draw this multitude of insights and creative thoughts back to a single point of the now. It is as if it’s curling claws arrest you by the collar of your shirt and just slow you down enough to become present and centered… not that it is sedative, quite the opposite. Cat’s Claw definitely increases mental clarity and alertness without being a CNS stimulant like coffee or chocolate. Whilst it can help focus and clarify those whose minds sprawl far and wide, it can also help shift mental sluggishness in those whose minds are not keeping up with the constant evolution of the collective consciousness. This herb will help to clear outdated modes of thinking and encourage the mind to be open to new insights and revelations that keep perspectives refreshed and clear. As mentioned in the physical effects this herb reduces anxiety – which many herbs can do, though this one is particularly good at reducing anxiety that is born of far out imaginings and ungrouned thoughts – consider pairing with passionflower if this sounds like you.

Contraindications:
-Might aggravate certain autoimmune conditions such as Lupus.

*Before purchase please see full disclaimer at bottom of page.