Devil's Claw

Description: Livestock were harmed or trapped by this claw-like fruit during grazing. This is how the name was derived. This herb works as an anti-inflammatory because it contains the compounds harpogoside and beta-sitosterol. Since Devil's claw contains this property, it is comparable to the drug phenylbutazone.

Parts Used: roots

Common Use: Suffers of arthritis and other inflammatory diseases will benefit greatly by taking Devil's claw since it works as an anti-inflammatory. Research has shown that this herb is effective in treating joint discomfort, reducing swelling, and relieving pain.

Origin: Africa

Active Substances: Iridoid glycosides (harpogoside, harpagide, and procumbine), sugars, gum resin, and beta-sitosterol.

Standard: 5% harpogosides

Pharmacology:

Active Properties:

Directions For Use:100mg daily. Before taking any herbal product, you are advised to consult with a trained health care professional.

Processing:

Bio-Enhancing:The bio-enhancing agents are Oregon grape root, black cohosh, guaiacum, and ginger root.

Toxicity, Cautions, Contra-Indications:Pregnant women should avoid Devil's claw because it stimulates uterine muscle contraction. Before taking any herbal product, you are advised to consult with a trained health care professional.

Scientific References:Balch, J. and Balch, P., (1997) Prescription for Nutritional Healing. Garden City Park, New York: Avery Publishing Group. Castleman, M., (1991) The Healing Herbs. Emmaus, Pennsylvania: Rodale Press. Chopra, D., (1993) Alternative Medicine. Fife, Washington: Future Medicine Publishing, Inc. Flynn, R. and Roest, M., (1995) Your Guide to Standardized Herbal Products. Prescott, Arizona: One World Press. Murray, M., (1996) Encyclopedia of Nutritional Supplements. Unites States of America: Prima Publishing. Murray, M. and Pizzorno, J., (1998) Encyclopedia of Natural Medicine. United States of America: Prima Publishing. Null, G., (1998) The Complete Encyclopedia of Natural Healing. New York, New York: Kensington Publishing Corp. Werbach, M., (1993) Nutritional Influences of Illness. Tarzana, California: Third Line Press.

Historical Uses:Devil's claw has been used to treat gout and rheumatism. Bile salts, the gallbladder, and kidney ailments seem to function more correctly with the use if this herb.

Analysis:Type standardized extract, Color light brown powder, Standardization >50% glycoiridoids, Loss on drying <8.0%, pH (10% solution) 5-6, Ash <20%, Storage store sealed in a cool dry place.