Devil’s ClawDevil’s claw is a herb that is found growing in
the Kalahari Desert in Namibia, Southern Africa.
Amongst the indigenous population it has long been
used in folk remedies, especially for complaints
of the liver and gall bladder, but also in
dysfunction of the kidneys, pancreas and stomach.
It has mild analgesic properties and has been used
in febrifuge. In order to obtain the best results,
only the secondary roots are used. These are
collected at the end of the short rainy season and
processed immediately to prevent oxidation. The
roots are sensitive to oxygen as they grow deeply
in the ground. Much clinical research has been
conducted and has demonstrated that Devil’s Claw
can help relieve joint pains and reduce serum
cholesterol and uric acid levels. Pharmacological
studies show that Devil’s Claw possesses an
anti-inflammatory and analgesic effect similar to
the drug Phenylbutazone. It can give relief
from Rheumatoid Arthritis, but its effect on
Osteoarthritis is more erratic. There is
experimental evidence of success with arterial
blood pressure and cardiac arrhythmia. The main
active components of Devil’s Claw are saponins,
specifically bitter iridoids, harpagoside and
procumbid. Action on arthritis is from the
iridoids and harpagoside. These bitter principles
are most effective against arthritis with
accompanying inflammation. Devil’s Claw is an
anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic muscle relaxant,
and the iridoids are claimed by some authors to
help strengthen the immune system. It is
classified in certain EU countries as a herbal
medicine, with the following allowable claims:
- Belgium: Indicated for painful articular
conditions.
- France: Traditionally used for the
symptomatic treatment of minor painful
arthritic conditions.
- Germany: For loss of appetite, dyspeptic
complaints, supportive therapy for
degenerative conditions of the motor system.
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