Cat’s claw tea is a herbal tea that grows in the wild of the Amazon rainforest and other tropical areas of Central and South America. The name “cat’s claw” comes from the shape of the leaves, which are shaped like claws.

Uncaria tomentosa and uncaria guianensis are the two most common species. Uncaria tomentosa extract is what can be found in most commercial cat’s claw preparations.

Cat’s claw tea is made from the cat’s claw bark and root as a remedy for a wide range of ailments, including viral infections, arthritis, ulcers, cancer, Lyme disease, etc. 

Cat’s claw phytochemicals produce health benefits and include a group of oxindole alkaloids that support the immune system. 

Cat’s claw tea can be purchased at many health food stores and online on sites like Amazon.com. It can also be ordered directly from the manufacturer.

Our Top Picks

• Hanan Cat’s Claw Tea
• Nuestra Salud Herbal Infusion Tea 
• Buddha Teas’ Cat’s Claw Bark Tea
• Celebration Herbal’s Cats Claw Inner Bark Tea
• Whole World Botanicals – Royal Cat’s Claw Tea
• Inca’s Herb Uña De Gato

Best Overall: Hanan Cat’s Claw Tea

Hanan Cat’s Claw Tea contains a wide range of phytochemicals that can help increase immune function and reduce inflammation.

Its bark has several beneficial qualities that can aid with immunity, brain function, and joint health, among other general health areas. Hanan’s Cat’s Claw Tea strengthens the immune system by boosting the body’s natural defenses against viral illnesses.

Its active ingredients include flavonoid glycosides and polysaccharide glucans, which strengthen the immune system.

These nutrients work together to boost your overall wellness. They’re great for supporting the liver, kidneys, heart, lungs, skin, bones, muscles, eyes, ears, teeth, hair, nails, glands, and more!

Hanan’s Cat’s Claw Tea helps cleanse the colon, reduce joint inflammation, and slow down the aging process by assisting with DNA repair.

 Key Ingredients:

• 1000 mg Cat’s claw inner bark

Hanan’s Cat’s Claw Tea is best for those who have arthritis because it reduces inflammation and increases mobility.

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Best Anti-Inflammatory Properties: Nuestra Salud Herbal Infusion Tea 

This product contains herbs known to have anti-inflammatory properties. These herbs help reduce swelling and pain associated with inflammation.

They contain antioxidants that protect cells against damage caused by free radicals. This helps with the maintenance of healthy skin and hair.

It also contains echinacea purpurea, an herb used traditionally to treat cold sores, fever, sore throat, cough, flu symptoms, and upper respiratory tract infections. Echinacea has been shown to stimulate white blood cell production, increase antibody response, boost immunity, and improve resistance to illness.

Glycyrrhizin is also one of the tea’s active ingredients. It works by increasing levels of insulin, helping your body use sugar more efficiently.

This product contains no artificial colors or flavors. This cat’s claw tea is 100% natural with only herbs and spices included. No preservatives have been added. This tea is gluten-free, vegan-friendly, non-GMO, and contains zero caffeine.

 Key Ingredients:

• Cat’s claw

Nuestra Salud Herbal Infusion Tea is best for people who want to take advantage of the full healing power of nature without spending hours preparing it each day. The infusion blends are ready to steep right out of the package, so you don’t need any special equipment. You just add hot water!

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Best for Antioxidant Properties: Cat’s Claw Bark Tea by Buddha Teas

Cat’s Claw Bark Tea by Buddha Teas is naturally sourced from Peru and tastes delicious. This tea has a relatively thick consistency and a mellow, earthy flavor that blends well with other teas.

There are roughly 30 identified components and 17 alkaloids in a cat’s claw bark tea. It helps relieve joint pain, promotes a healthy immune and digestive system, and is a natural source of antioxidants.

This delicious tea contains no artificial flavors or GMOs and is prepared from the bark and root of the cat’s claw plant.

Enjoy a cup of Cat’s Claw Bark Tea, packed in bleach-free tea bags with no additives or caffeine. To obtain the full flavor and benefits of this tea, bring fresh water to a boil and simmer for 3-6 minutes. Remove the tea bag and cover the cup while it steeps.

Studies show that extracts from the plant can be just as good at reducing swelling as prescription drugs like ibuprofen. Another interesting finding was that the extract had antioxidant activity. Antioxidants effectively help protect cells from free radical damage.

 Key Ingredients:

• 27g Cat’s claw

Cat’s claw bark tea is a natural source of antioxidants that helps fight off disease-causing free radicals. These powerful compounds also support the body’s ability to heal itself. Cat’s claw bark tea is an effective remedy for joint pain due to its anti-inflammatory properties. 

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Best for Mental Clarity: Celebration Herbals Cat’s Claw Inner Bark Tea

This blend is made from 100% wild-harvested cat’s claws. The herb is harvested from wild areas and randomly harvested to ensure natural species regeneration.

Celebration Herbal Cat’s Claw Tea is an adaptogen that supports your overall wellness. Adaptogens have been shown to have positive effects when combined with stressors, including physical exercise, emotional distress, illness, injury, surgery, pregnancy, menopause, etc.

It supports adrenal gland function, increases energy levels, reduces anxiety, improves sleep quality, enhances libido, relieves pain, boosts metabolism, and more.

 Key Ingredients:

• 1000mg Wild cat’s claw inner bark 

Celebration Herbals Cat’s Claw Tea is best for anyone looking to improve their mood or enhance their mental clarity. It works on both sides of the brain, helping you think more clearly while improving memory retention.

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Best Packaging: Whole World Botanicals’ Royal Cat’s Claw Tea

This tea contains organic cat’s claw, organic oat straw, and organic raspberry leaf. It is free of any artificial additives or preservatives. This product comes in a resealable pouch, so you don’t have to worry about losing its contents or freshness.

Cat’s claw is one of the most popular herbs used today. Its benefits are numerous and used for more than just joint pain. Cat’s claw is considered a tonic herb, meaning it promotes general well-being.

It aids cardiovascular functions, by promoting healthy blood pressure, reducing CRP (C-reactive protein) in the blood, and helping to prevent plaque buildup in the arteries.

It provides relief from symptoms associated with allergies, such as sneezing, coughing, watery eyes, runny nose, sinus congestion, sore throat, and fatigue.

Key Ingredients:

• 140g Cat’s claw inner bark 

If you are looking for something that works quickly, then this isn’t the best option for you. However, if you want something that provides long-term benefits, then this might be what you’re after.

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Best Budget-Friendly: Inca Herb’s Cat’s Claw Tea

This product only uses the best ingredients available. Inca Herb includes organically grown herbs and spices. All products are free from added sugar, salt, gluten, soy, dairy, yeast, wheat, corn, peanuts, shellfish, eggs, fish, tree nuts, and animal derivatives.

It is entirely safe for both humans and animals. Inca Herb uses high-quality botanical extracts and essential oils. 

Key Ingredients:

• 37.5g Cat’s claw 

Inca Herb’s Cat’s Claw Tea is best for those who need help getting back into shape. It helps boost immunity by supporting the body’s ability to fight off infections. It also has anti-inflammatory properties, making it great for joint issues like arthritis.

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Things to Know Before You Buy: Guide to Your Cat’s Claw Tea Options

How to Choose the Best Cat’s Claw Tea?

When choosing a cat’s claw tea, the most important step is ensuring that it contains all the necessary nutrients.

There are three main categories of cat’s claw: wild-harvested, cultivated, and processed. Each has slightly different properties.

Wild-harvested cat’s claw is considered superior, as it contains higher amounts of antioxidants than other forms.

Cultivated cat’s claw can also be beneficial depending on where it was raised.

Processed cat claw is usually extracted using a substance such as alcohol or water.

These processes remove some of the valuable compounds found in wild-harvested cat’s claw. To get the most out of cat’s claw tea, you need to choose a product that offers a wide range of nutrients.

How Does Cat’s Claw Work?

Cat’s claw works by boosting your body’s natural defenses against disease. When we consume these herbs, our bodies absorb them into our cells.

Once inside the cells, the plant matter begins breaking down, releasing enzymes that help fight off infections. In addition to fighting infection, cat’s claw helps boost immunity and supports healthy digestion.

Is Cat’s Claw Safe?

Cat’s claw is generally regarded as safe for consumption. While there have been reports of allergic reactions, these were rare occurrences. As long as you follow proper dosage guidelines, you will likely not experience any negative side effects. 

If you consume too much cat’s claw, you may experience some discomfort, but it should disappear after a few days. If you do notice any adverse symptoms, stop taking the supplement immediately and consult your doctor if the symptoms persist.

Qualities to Look For:

Organic – Organic plants have been grown without pesticides or chemical fertilizers. This means that they are grown in such a way as to not pollute the environment or harm wildlife. It also ensures that the plants haven’t been genetically modified.

100% Wild-Harvested – Look for a label that says “wild-harvested” or “organic.” This indicates that the plant hasn’t been farmed and has instead been naturally grown.

High Antioxidant Content – Most cats’ claw teas contain between 10% and 20% antioxidant content. Higher levels indicate a higher benefit to overall nutrition.

High Levels of Vitamins and Minerals – Some brands offer more vitamins and minerals than others. If possible, purchase one with at least 15% vitamin C.

Low Sugar Levels – Avoid any brand that lists sugar as an active ingredient.

High-Grade Extractions – Some companies use harsh chemicals during processing. If possible, avoid any company that doesn’t disclose its methods. Instead, opt for one that uses organic solvents like ethanol (alcohol) or water. However, you should know that ethanol removes more of the active ingredients than water.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the side effects of cat’s claw tea?

Certain people have reported dizziness, nausea, headaches, diarrhea, and low blood pressure after consuming cat’s claw tea.

Constipation or watery stool is normally mild and disappears after a few days. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should avoid taking cat’s claw because it can cause miscarriage.

What does cat’s claw tea taste like?

The tea has a bitter and woody flavor. To make it more appetizing, some people combine it with honey and lemon.

Can you consume cat’s claw every day?

Once you decide to consume cat’s claw, keep in mind that there are no established doses. The WHO suggests taking 20–350 mg of dry stem bark extracts or 300–500 mg of tablets every day, divided into two or three doses.

How long should you take cat’s claw?

Adults have traditionally taken 60-300 mg of cat’s claw every day for 8 to 24 weeks. Consult a physician to determine the optimal product and dosage for a particular ailment.

How long does cat’s claw take to work?

Cat’s claw is most effective when used over several months. After taking the supplement regularly for 4–6 weeks, symptoms will start improving.

Is cat’s claw safe for dogs?

Yes! Cat’s claw is perfectly safe for both humans and animals alike. In fact, it was originally developed specifically for canine health.

How do you make cat’s claw tea?

To prepare cat’s claw tea, add one teaspoon of dried cat’s claw stems to boiling water. Let it simmer until it’s reduced by half. Strain out the herbs and serve hot. You may sweeten it with honey if desired.

What is cat’s claw tea good for?

Today, cat’s claw tea is used to treat viral infections, cancer, arthritis, diverticulitis, peptic ulcers, colitis, gastritis, hemorrhoids, parasites, and leaky gut syndrome.

Is cat’s claw poisonous?

No. It contains only natural compounds such as flavonoid glycosides, saponins, tannin, alkaloids, and essential oils. These substances do not pose any risk to your body.

Is cat’s claw the same as devil’s claw?

No. While they share similar names, these two plants are completely different. 

Devil’s claw contains high levels of oxalic acid, which can damage your kidneys. It also contains saponins, which can irritate your stomach lining. This makes it unsafe for children under 12 years old.

On the other hand, cat’s claw is much safer. There are no known adverse reactions associated with this plant.

Does cat’s claw help with weight loss?

Some studies suggest that cat’s claw may promote fat burning, while others claim that it helps reduce appetite. However, scientific evidence on its effectiveness for this purpose remains inconclusive.

Final Thoughts on Cat’s Claw Teas

If you’re looking for a natural solution to boost your immune system and reduce inflammation, Hanan Cat’s Claw Tea might be the resource you need.

Cat’s claw has been used in traditional medicine as an anti-inflammatory agent, so it could also help with some chronic conditions like arthritis or asthma.

It can also improve liver function and is high in antioxidants, which are important for reducing oxidative stress in cells.

As always, if you have any questions about these products, feel free to reach out! We would love to answer them!

References

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