Vilcacora (Uncaria Tomentosa) – Powder

Brew & Taste

Vilcacora does not have a distinct taste. If we had to describe it, we'd say it's a little like diluted cough drops. The infusion produced by steeping the herb is red and it's recommended to drink it lukewarm.

Origins

This herb also has a botanical name, although it is more likely to be found under its common names. Uncaria tomentosa looks like a vine that can grow up to 30m in length. Its curved spines cling to the bark of its host trees – these earned it the nickname Cat's Claw. The inner bark of the tree is used for phytotherapeutic purposes.

Vilcacora is found in the Amazon rainforest at altitudes up to 800m. The translation from Quechua might be "sacred plant" – that nicely describes the relationship of the indigenous Amazonian tribes of Aguaruna, Ashaninka, Cashibo, Conibo, and Shipibo have had towards this plant for over 2,000 years. For example, a well-known expert on Peruvian herbs, Dr. Fernando Cabieses, described that the people of the Ashaninka tribe boil 5-6kg of the plant in water until they get 1 cup of the drink.

As you can see, Vilcacora is getting a lot of attention. Global interest has been sparked by the oxindole alkaloids it contains. Its positive effect on immunity has been confirmed by studies by Canadian scientists at the University of Ottawa and by experts in Peru. Vilcacora also contains quinic acid glycosides, tannins, catechins, and carboxylic alkyl esters.

We don't want to overwhelm you with an endless list of chemical compounds, so here's a legend about vilcacora: Once upon a time, a badly wounded warrior of the Ashaninka tribe wandered through the jungle. He came across an Amazon tiger clawiing at a vine and drinking its nectar. The warrior was astonished to see that the tiger had gained enough strength after a while to run after an enormous deer and strike it down in one leap. The man, on the verge of collapse, decided to try it for himself. He crawled over to it, coated his lips in its nectar, and he suddenly felt a great wave of energy. His pain began to subside, and his wounds began to heal. That's how this strange vine saved his life.

People with autoimmune diseases, pregnant and nursing women as well as people on certain medications (such as protease inhibitors) should be cautious when taking Vilcacora. Vilcacora may lower blood pressure and slow blood clotting. If any of these effects worry you, consult your doctor.

Tea packaging preview

We pack our teas in a strong, zip-lock aluminum packet which allows you to easily re-seal its contents. This container protects the quality of the tea against humidity, light or foreign odors, all of which could noticeably affect the quality of the brew.