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Cat’s Claw: The Amazon Vine Behind the Name

ByVR Group
Cat's claw bark and leaves at KC Smokz in Kansas City

Cat’s claw gets its name from thorns, not cats. It is one of the newer additions to our botanical shelf at KC Smokz, and one most customers have heard of without knowing much about it.

The plant

Cat’s claw (Uncaria tomentosa) is a woody vine native to the Amazon rainforest and other tropical regions of Central and South America. It climbs high into the canopy, and along its stems are curved, hooked thorns that look like a cat’s claws — hence the common name, and the Spanish uña de gato.

The inner bark and root are the parts traditionally used, with a long history among indigenous peoples of Peru and the surrounding region.

Two species, one common name

This is the detail worth knowing before you buy. Two related species are both sold as cat’s claw:

  • Uncaria tomentosa — the species most commonly found in the North American supplement market.
  • Uncaria guianensis — also used traditionally in South America.

Good labelling names the species outright. If a package just says “cat’s claw” with no species, that is worth asking about — and we will check the supplier paperwork for you.

A surprising relative

Cat’s claw sits in the Rubiaceae family — the same botanical family as coffee, and the same family as kratom (Mitragyna speciosa). They are different genera used in entirely different ways, but they are genuine botanical cousins. Kava, by contrast, is unrelated to all of them, sitting in the pepper family.

Formats we carry

  • Capsules — the most common format, pre-measured.
  • Bark powder — loose, usually prepared as a tea.
  • Cut bark and teas — bagged or loose.
  • Liquid extracts and tinctures — concentrated.

What to check on the label

  • Species — tomentosa or guianensis.
  • Plant part — inner bark and root are the traditional parts.
  • Serving size — follow what is printed.
  • Batch testing — ask whether lab documentation is available.
  • Storage — sealed, cool and dry, away from direct sunlight.

Find it at KC Smokz in Westport

KC Smokz is at 3745 Broadway Blvd, Kansas City, MO 64111, open seven days a week — Mon–Thu 9 am–10 pm, Fri–Sat 9 am–11 pm, Sunday 9 am–10 pm. Call (816) 656-5090 to check what is on the shelf before you drive over.

See our full cat’s claw page →

These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Not for sale to persons under 21. Consult a healthcare professional before use, particularly if you are pregnant, nursing, taking any medication, or have a medical condition. Check local laws in your area before purchasing.

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