Devil’s Claw is indigenous to southern Africa where, for thousands of years, tribes prepared the herb as an internal remedy for migraine, gastrointestinal problems and fever reducer. Salves were prepared to heal skin conditions. Today, Devil’s Claw is a scientifically validated remedy for pain and inflammation associated with degenerative joint conditions and back pain, as well as arthritis-related pain, fibromyalgia, and headaches. A key compound called harpagoside inhibits chemicals in the body that create inflammation.
Devil’s Claw is safe and has few to no side effects for most people. In clinical trials, Devil’s Claw was found to be as effective as many prescription drugs. It was found to relieve knee and hip pain associated with osteoarthritis – as much as a 35% improvement after eight weeks of treatment. Other studies have shown taking standardized extract of devil’s claw provides moderate relief for mild-to-moderate back, neck and shoulder muscle pain. In a study of chronic low back pain, men and women who took Devil’s Claw every day for a month reported less pain and needed fewer painkillers than those who took a placebo (sugar pill).
Devil’s Claw is available in tea and capsule form, as well as tincture and extract. Different forms are more suitable to different health concerns. Devil’s Claw is not recommended during pregnancy as it may stimulate uterine contractions. Also, Devil’s Claw can interact with other medications. It’s important to talk with Dr. Myra Reed before taking this herb.