NUMBER ONE lion's claw is the dried fruit of Martynia annua, a plant native to Central America, now naturalised in several tropical regions, including West Africa. Its curved, hook-shaped pods, which resemble claws, are traditionally prepared as a decoction. 100 g bag.
What is lion's claw?
Lion's claw, also called bicorn, is the common name for Martynia annua L. (Martyniaceae family). The fruit, green then blackening at maturity, ends in two curved, hooked horns that let the seed cling to animal fur: it is this shape that gives it its name of “claw” or “bicorn”. The plant is native to Mexico, Central America and the Caribbean; it has naturalised in several tropical regions, including West Africa, where its dried fruits are sold in grocery stores. In English, it goes by the names tiger's claw or cat's claw. It should not be confused with devil's claw (Harpagophytum procumbens), a root native to southern Africa sold in herbal medicine under a similar name but corresponding to a different plant.
How to use it?
Dried lion's claw is traditionally prepared as a decoction: bring a few pieces to the boil in water, let simmer for several minutes, then strain before drinking warm or chilled. Ginger is sometimes added to flavour the drink.
What to pair it with?
Other dried West African plants are also prepared as an infusion or decoction, such as RACINES organic kinkeliba. To flavour your decoction, NUMBER ONE African ginger powder is a common option. The exotic teas and infusions range gathers other dried plants to prepare the same way.
Product information
- Brand: NUMBER ONE (distribution TAI YAT)
- Net weight: 100 g
- Product: dried lion's claw, whole fruit of Martynia annua
- Allergens: refer to the label of the product received
- Plant: Martynia annua, native to Central America, naturalised in West Africa
- Storage: in a dry place, away from light and moisture, bag well resealed
Precautions
Follow the instructions printed on the bag received before preparing the decoction. Do not confuse lion's claw with devil's claw, a different plant sold in herbal medicine.
