Remedies Using Devils Claw Herb

Devils claw herb or harpagophytum procumbens is a native African herb. The name is derived from the claw-like hooks which are attached to the fruits. Devil's claw plant is also known as grapple plant. The people of the Kalahari Desert have been using the secondary root or tuber for thousands of years as a remedy to support healthy joints.

Several studies were done to find out the active ingredients and ascertain the effectiveness of devil's claw. The results from these clinical studies found that devil's claw plants contain natural chemicals such as beta sitosterol and harpagoside which among others produce analgesic, diuretic and sedative effect.

Even though there were conflicting results, researchers agree that devils claw may help in the treatment of some conditions and illness such as:

Osteoarthritis - taking devil's claw extract on its own or when combined with non steroidal anti inflammatory drugs may decrease joint pain and inflammation.

Lower back pain - University of Heidelberg did a trial on 183 patients and the result showed that devil's claw was effective in providing acute low back pain relief. Harpagophytum procumbens also provides relief for neck and shoulder pain.

Gout - a study in 1981 showed that devil's claw was able to reduce uric acid levels. Taking devil's claw extract as a supplement daily or when the first symptom appears may help treat gout.

Sinus headache - because it is a natural analgesic and also has anti inflammatory properties, devil's claw is an alternative remedy for sinus headaches.

Devils claw herbal extract is also taken to treat conditions such as allergies, loss of appetite, indigestion, fever and upset stomach. It is also being used topically to treat boils, mouth ulcers and other skin lesions.

Devil's claw extract is available in capsules, dried and cut, devil's claw tea, liquid extract and devil's claw tincture.

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