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- Origin
Devil’s
Claw (Harpagophytum procumbens) is an African herb from Southwest Africa in the desert
regions. It comes from a fruit that grows on a prickly, claw-like shape. It is known for
its healing process in conditions involving inflammation which includes headaches and
arthritis. Some other folkloric uses have been for: allergies, arthritic liver, kidney,
and bladder problems, and digestive problems. Western herbalists have used it as a blood
purifier.
- Benefits
Research has confirmed that devil’s claw has
inflammatory and pain-killing effects. It is known that an extract from the root rather
than the ingredients is more effective. A clinical study was given which involved 42
patients. The patients took devil’s claw for two months, and 89% of the people who
had degenerative arthritis reported reduced pain; 84% had an increase in range of motion.
Only two patients noted side effects, which was a slight digestive discomfort.
200 mg. standardized to 5% harpogoside of devil’s
claw should be taken daily.
When the recommended dosage is taken, side effects are
rare. Devil’s claw has a low toxicity. A study on mice revealed that when they took
13.5 g/kg their body weight, only half the mice received lethal effects. Because
devil’s claw acts as a digestive stimulant, people with gastric or duodenal ulcers
should not take it.
Information summarized by Vitamin Planet,
Inc from Literature provided by Optimal Nutrients. DO NOT COPYŠ
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