Natural Herbal Remedy Supplements
Devils Claw


Devils Claw - A Natural, Safe Pain Reliever

Also known as grapple plant and wood spider, devils claw (harpagophytum procumbens) is an herb that belongs to the sesame family.



The plant, native to Southern Africa, has big tuberous roots in the shape of claws. These roots have gained a good reputation as an  anti-inflammatory, analgesic, diuretic and a sedative.

Health Benefits of Devils Claw

For thousands of years in Africa, this plant has been used as a natural remedy. Today, it is has been used to treat a variety of conditions such as arthritis, skin diseases, kidney, pancreas, gallbladder and stomach conditions.

Devils claw herb is used mostly notably as a pain reliever. People who suffer from om back pain, neck pain, osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis or tendinitis can find the herb very useful.

If you have a loss of appetite or suffer from a little indigestion, devil's claw tea could work wonders.




Important Facts about Devil’s Claw

Many studies have been conducted to examine the health benefits this herb offers. Here are the findings of two such studies:

1. A study published in the Journal Rheumatology suggested that the herb is as effective as the anti-inflammatory drug Vioxx in relieving pain.

Vioxx by the way has been taken off the market due to its harmful side effects whereas devil's claw is relatively safe to use.

2. Joint Bone Spine published a study that showed that the herb is as effective as the drug called diacerheirn at reducing pain. This study compared 100 mg of diacerhein per day with six 435 mg capsules of the herb’s extract per day.

So popular has this herb become that sales of it in Germany back in 2001, exceeded 30 million euros.

Side Effects & Herbs-Drug Interactions

Devil's claw supplement is relatively safe and has been used by many people without side effects.

However, there have been reported cases of diarrhea, bradycardia and dispepsia after taking this herb.



If you are on medication, talk to your doctor before taking this herb. People taking beta-blockers, anticoagulants or drugs that affect blood sugar should be especially careful.

Also, if you are taking antacids, drinking drinking devil's claw tea or taking the supplement could reduce the effectiveness of the antacids. This is because the herb increases stomach acids.

If you are pregnant, have diabetes, heart problems, it is absolutely important to consult your physician before taking the herb.

Bottom Line

Why go through a life of pain or take harmful prescription drugs when taking devil's claw extract can be so effective in relieving joint pain.

This herb has been hugely effective for many people in Europe; and so for you, wherever you are, it can be a big winner for your health too.

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