Cat's Claw - explained briefly
Cat's claw (Spanish Una de Gato) is a plant well known in South America that has traditionally been used mainly as a tea or infusion. The name refers to the plant's hook-shaped thorns, which resemble a cat's claw.
Many people are interested in cat's claw because it has a long tradition and fits well into a mindful, nature-oriented daily routine.
Meaning & Name: Why "Una de Gato"?
"Una de Gato" literally means "claw of the cat." It refers to the small, curved thorns the plant uses to climb.
In German-speaking countries, the name cat's claw has become established for it.
Origin: Where does cat's claw grow?
Cat's claw is native to regions of South America. Depending on its origin and processing, the color, cut, and intensity of its aroma can vary significantly.
For many people, the following are especially important with plants like this:
· traceable origin
· clean drying and storage
· processing that suits the intended use (usually tea)
What form does cat's claw tea come in?
Depending on the supplier, cat's claw can look very different (e.g. finely cut, coarsely cut, or in pieces).
At YOMERA, you get cat's claw as untreated sticks from the bark - in other words, as natural, coarse pieces of bark without any additional treatment. Many prefer this form because it feels more "original" and is well suited to a classic decoction.
Everyday use: How is cat's claw traditionally used?
Cat's claw is often prepared as a tea/decoction. Many people incorporate it into calming routines, for example:
· as a warm drink during the colder months
· as a mindful "tea moment" in the evening
· as part of a simple, nature-inspired herbal routine
Important: We are deliberately keeping this neutral and making no medical claims.
Preparation: Tea vs. decoction (general)
Depending on the cut, cat's claw is traditionally more likely to be:
· infused (tea) or
· gently simmered (decoction)
Since YOMERA offers cat's claw as bark sticks, in practice it is often prepared more as a decoction so that the aroma and plant compounds can be extracted well.
If you're using cat's claw for the first time, start with a mild preparation and see what feels right for you.
Taste & Aroma
Many describe cat's claw as rather herbal and woody and not "perfumy." Depending on the product, the taste may be more bitter or milder.
Quality: How can I recognize good cat's claw?
Look for:
· Shape & cleanliness: for sticks, preferably even pieces of bark with few crumbs/dust
· Smell: naturally herbal, not musty
· Transparency: origin and product form clearly stated
· Packaging: aroma-tight, stored dry
Storage
· store dry, dark, and tightly sealed
· protect from moisture (otherwise the plant material quickly absorbs water)
· ideal: a tin or jar in the kitchen cupboard
FAQ about cat's claw (Una de Gato)
What is cat's claw (Una de Gato)?
A traditionally well-known plant from South America that is often used as a tea or decoction.
Why is it called cat's claw?
Because of the hook-shaped thorns that resemble a cat's claw.
In what form does your cat's claw come?
At YOMERA, cat's claw untreated and comes as bark sticks.
What does cat's claw taste like?
Often herbal-woody and rather bitter, depending on origin and preparation.
What is the best way to store cat's claw?
Dry, dark, and tightly sealed so that aroma and quality remain stable.
Cat's claw (Una de Gato) at YOMERA
We select our cat's claw with a focus on clean quality, a suitable bark form (sticks) and traceable origin. If you would like to incorporate Una de Gato as a tea or decoction into your routine, you will find a carefully curated option at YOMERA.
0 comments