Devils Claw
Introduction
Devil’s Claw, a plant native to the Kalahari Desert and Namibian steppes of southwest Africa, is known for its medicinal properties. The secondary roots of the plant are commonly used in decoctions and teas. Traditionally, native Africans have utilized Devil’s Claw as a folk remedy for various ailments, including liver and kidney disorders, allergies, headaches, and particularly rheumatism. Its use is especially prevalent among groups such as the Bushmen, Hottentots, and Bantu in South Africa. In Canada and Europe, it is marketed as a home remedy for arthritis relief.
Common Names
- Devil’s Claw
- Grapple Plant
Latin Name
- Harpagophytum procumbens
Uses
Devil’s Claw is primarily recognized for its potential benefits in treating a wide range of conditions, particularly:
- Arthritis
- Rheumatism
Research indicates that it may also possess properties such as:
- Hypotensive (blood pressure-lowering)
- Anti-arrhythmic
- Anti-inflammatory
- Analgesic (pain-relieving)
How It Is Used
Studies on Devil’s Claw have focused on its effectiveness for conditions like low back pain, muscle pain, and osteoarthritis. Typical dosages include:
- Up to 9 grams of crude tuber daily
- 1 to 3 grams of extract
- 50 to 100 mg of harpagoside
Scientific Evidence
Clinical research, particularly from Germany, suggests that Devil’s Claw exhibits anti-inflammatory effects comparable to phenylbutazone. Additionally, it has been associated with analgesic effects and a reduction in elevated uric acid and cholesterol levels.
Side Effects and Cautions
While Devil’s Claw is generally considered safe, there are some precautions to be aware of:
- It may interact with medications such as Ticlopidine and Warfarin, so consulting a physician before use is advisable.
- The plant can stimulate stomach acid secretion, which may pose risks for individuals with peptic ulcers, gastritis, or excessive stomach acid. Caution is also recommended for those with gallstones.
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