Devil’s Claw

Devil’s Claw is a plant that grows in the Kalahari Desert of Southern Africa. Also known as Harpagophytum procumbens, the plant’s roots have been used for centuries to treat a variety of ailments. Devil’s Claw gets its name from the small hooks that cover its fruit, which resemble claws. In recent years, Devil’s Claw has gained popularity as a natural remedy for various health conditions due to its numerous health benefits.

It is also known as Grapple Plant, Wood Spider, and Harpagophytum and has been used for centuries by the San and Khoi people of Southern Africa to treat a variety of ailments such as fever, digestive problems, and arthritis. Devil’s Claw’s active compounds are called harpagosides, which have anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce pain and swelling. The roots are harvested from the wild and are dried and ground into a powder, which is used to make capsules, tablets, and teas. It has a bitter taste and is often mixed with other herbs to mask its flavour.

Health Benefits of Devil’s Claw

1. Relieves Arthritis Pain: Devil’s Claw’s anti-inflammatory properties make it an effective natural remedy for arthritis pain. Several studies have found that taking Devil’s Claw supplements can significantly reduce joint pain and improve mobility in people with osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.
2. Reduces Lower Back Pain: Devil’s Claw has also been found to be effective in reducing lower back pain. A study found that taking Devil’s Claw supplements for eight weeks significantly reduced lower back pain compared to a placebo.
3. Improves Digestive Health: Devil’s Claw has been traditionally used to treat digestive problems such as heartburn, bloating, and constipation. The plant’s bitter compounds stimulate the production of digestive enzymes and bile, which helps improve digestion. It is also an effective diuretic.
4. Lowers Cholesterol Levels: Devil’s Claw has been found to lower cholesterol levels in some studies. The plant’s compounds help reduce the absorption of cholesterol in the gut, which helps lower overall cholesterol levels in the body.
5. Reduces Headaches: Devil’s Claw’s anti-inflammatory properties also make it effective in reducing headaches. A study found that taking Devil’s Claw supplements for four weeks significantly reduced the frequency and intensity of tension headaches.
6. Devil’s Claw is also beneficial to diabetes, kidney disorders, liver, gallbladder, inflammation and the elimination of uric acid.

Devil’s Claw active compounds, harpagosides, have anti-inflammatory properties that make it effective in reducing pain and swelling. It is a safe and natural alternative to over-the-counter pain relievers and is worth considering if you suffer from arthritis, lower back pain, digestive problems, high cholesterol, or headaches. However, like with any supplement, it’s important to talk to your doctor before taking Devil’s Claw, especially if you’re taking any medications or have any underlying health conditions.