Devil's Claw Root and Powder Profile
Also known as
Harpagophytum procumbens, Unicorn plant, Grapple plant, Wood Spider, and Elephant Tusks.
Introduction
Devil's claw is native to South Africa, named because of its peculiar appearance. The common name refers to the inner capsule of the fruit which splits open at one end and becomes two curved horns or claws. Its claw-like roots are used in medicines after they are chopped and allowed to dry in the sun for at least 3 days. The tribal herbal traditions of South Africa employed devil's claw to relieve pain, specifically for joint and muscular problems, as well as to stimulate digestion, to reduce persistent fevers, heartburn, persistent headache, and various allergies. Devil's claw is one of the bitterest of all herbs, making a very good digestive stimulant. English and Dutch explorers traded devil claw and sold it in Europe as a popular remedy for arthritis
Constituents
Aluminum, calcium, chlorogenic acid, chromium, harpagide, kaempferol, luteolin, magnesium, oleanolic acid, selenium, tin, zinc.
Parts Used
Sun dried tuber. Most prefer secondary tuber, and this is the form offered by Mountain Rose Herbs.
Typical Preparations
Capsules, tinctures, teas.
Summary
Devil's claw has been traditionally used to offer slow but sure relief of joint pain caused by both osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, and it has also been shown to relieve muscle pain and enhance mobility for people with either arthritis or muscle injuries. Scientists don't know exactly how devil's claw works at this time, other than that it is not a COX-2 inhibitor like Celebrex or Vioxx, and therefore is not potentially injurious to the heart. Tests done in both Germany and France have shown the herb to have anti-inflammatory properties, but its effectiveness in herbal practice is disputed despite a lengthy history of use. It does have a German E commission monograph.
Precautions
Don't use devil's claw if you take Coumadin (warfarin) or Plavix. Tell your surgeon you have been taking devil's claw before you have surgery. Safety during pregnancy has not been established. Not recommended for those who suffer from stomach inflammation, ulcers, or digestive disorders.
This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
