Devil's claw, also known as Harpagophytum procumbens, is a medicinal plant native to South Africa. This herb has been traditionally used to treat a variety of conditions thanks to its remarkable anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.
Properties of devil's claw
Devil's claw is a plant rich in bitter glycosides, such as harpagide, harpagoquinone and harpagoside. It also contains phytosterols, phenolic glycosides and traces of essential oils, which give it a wide range of medicinal properties:
- Anti-inflammatory: Helps reduce inflammation in joints and muscles.
- Analgesic: Provides effective pain relief, especially in the back and joints.
- Diuretic: Helps eliminate excess fluids and toxins from the body.
- Digestive: Improves digestion and treats disorders such as dyspepsia and constipation.
- Antirheumatic: Effective in the treatment of rheumatic conditions.
- Healing: Helps in the healing of wounds.
- Cardiotonic: Benefits cardiovascular health.
Traditional uses of devil's claw
Devil's claw is primarily known for its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. The active compound, harpagoside, acts on inflammation and pain, making it especially useful in the treatment of conditions such as arthritis and osteoarthritis. In addition, it has diuretic and purifying properties, contributing to the elimination of toxins from the body.
Effectiveness and proven uses
Devil's claw is commonly used to treat ailments involving pain and inflammation, such as back pain and osteoarthritis. Studies have shown that taking it by mouth can be as effective as some nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) in reducing lower back pain and osteoarthritis pain.
Back pain: Taking devil's claw can reduce lower back pain.
Osteoarthritis: Helps reduce the pain of osteoarthritis and may allow a reduction in the dose of NSAIDs needed for pain relief.
How to use devil's claw
The part of the plant used for its medicinal qualities is its root. It can be consumed in various forms:
Infusions: The dried root can be used to make tea.
Poultices: Can also be applied directly to the affected area to relieve pain and inflammation.
Nutritional Supplements: Available in capsules, tablets, tinctures and extracts.
Safety and precautions
Devil's claw is generally safe for most adults when taken orally for up to 12 weeks. Common side effects include diarrhea and indigestion. It may also cause allergic skin reactions. It is important to consult a health care professional before starting any treatment, even if it is an all-natural ingredient, and especially if you have any medical conditions or during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Recommended products
At our health food store, we offer a variety of devil's claw products to help you take advantage of its benefits:
Devil's claw has shown significant improvements to the quality of life for people with pain or inflammation associated with conditions such as osteoarthritis and lower back pain. You can find devil's claw products in our collection of joint pain products.