Health Benefits of Devil’s Claw

Despite its name, devil’s claw is a godsend to sufferers of a litany of ailments. Studies conducted in Europe show the African perennial to be effective whether it’s used internally or topically. According to an article, “Devil’s Claw (Harpagophytum procumbus), Devil’s Claw Benefits” from www.herbwisdom.com, double-blind, placebo-controlled research conducted in France indicated that those taking the herb exhibited similar pain relief as those taking pain-management drugs, but with less side effects.

Other research proved devil’s claw’s ability to reduce arthritic pain in ten days, aid sufferers of lower back, hip, and knee pain, treat issues with the gall bladder, pancreas, rheumatoid arthritis, tendonitis, gout, bursitis, pre and post labor pains, and allergies. The plant has also been approved by the German Commission E which functions like the United States’ Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for use in degenerative musculoskeletal and digestive disorders.

Harpagophytum procumbens, devil’s claw formal name, was introduced to the Western world early in the 20th century, first to Europe then to the United States. South Africans, however, have longed used it to treat some of the diseases already mentioned as well as malaria, fever, ulcers, wounds, and bug bites.

Its most commonly reported side effect is heartburn. But because of the plant’s main constituents -phenolic glycosides, procumbide, coumarin acid esters- it is advised that hyperglycemic and type 2 diabetic patients not use it. As with any other herbal supplement, a healthcare provider should be consulted.

The substantive tubers are the part of the plant that provides its therapeutic value. They are harvested, dried, prepared, and sold as tablets, capsules, and extracts. The name devil’s claw comes from its claw-like shape fruit. It is also called wood spider or grapple plant. The leaves are quite long with hairy undersides, and the trumpet-like flowers which bloom in winter and spring range from pink to purple to red. The claw-like fruit contains dark brown seeds.

“Devil’s Claw (Harpagophytum procumbus), Devil’s Claw Benefit.” www.herbwisdom.com.

Reference:

• www.herbcompanion.com