Devil’s Claw- 10 Medicinal Uses of This Amazing Herb

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Devil’s claw is the common name of the plant Harpagophytum procumbens and its derives name from hook-like appendages that cover the fruit of the plant. The roots and tubers of the plant are commonly used to make medicine. It is use as a folk remedy in Africa for fever, rheumatoid arthritis, skin conditions, and conditions involving the gallbladder, pancreas, stomach and kidneys.

Devil’s Claw was recommended to be taken as a bitter tonic to aid digestion and for fevers, allergies and pain relief. Currently, devil’s claw is considered alternative medicine for arthritis (particularly osteoarthritis), lower back pain, muscle pain and inflamed tendons.

10 Health benefits of Devil’s Claw Herb

Diabetes

According to some studies, another herbal benefit of Devil’s Claw is in the treatment of diabetes. In one animal study the herb was able to significantly reduce blood glucose levels.

Digestion

Devil’s Claw could help with issues related to digestion, including helping to stimulate the appetite as well as settling upset stomachs.

Anti-inflammatory effects

In vitro studies are largely supportive of anti-inflammatory action. Mechanisms elucidated include inhibition of COX-2 enzymes and proinflammatory enzymes, antioxidant activity.

Lowering the cholesterol

It lower the absorption of cholesterol from the intestine. It contains natural plant sterols called beta sterols. These sterols are not absorbed through intestine into blood stream. These sterols prevent the absorption of bad cholesterol as well. Therefore, devil’s claw is a very good treatment option for people having high cholesterol level.

Anti-oxidative
Devil’s Claw extract was particularly rich in water-soluble antioxidants. Harpagoside, a major compound in devil’s claw, did not contribute significantly to its antioxidant activity.

Migraine headaches

The cause of migraine headache is still unknown. Analgesic action of devil’s claw makes it a beneficial herb to prevent the recurrent attacks of migraine headaches.

Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis is a prevailing condition now days. With age the wearing and tearing of joints start. Normally the ends of bones and joints are covered with slippery and lubricated cartilages. These cartilages ensure the smooth, friction free movements of joints.

Acute Pain

Devil’s claw has analgesic, sedative and diuretic properties that will be more noticed in chronic application than in the treatment of acute pain.

Wounds

Devil’s Claw can also be used externally to treat wounds, sores, boils and skin lesions

Arthritis

Devil’s claw becomes a really miraculous herb for all patients who have arthritis, rheumatic conditions, strains, herniated disks and other low back problems.

Resources include

http://herbsmed.net/devils-claw-health-benefits/index.html
http://www.voxnature.com/health-benefits-and-uses-of-devils-claw-harpagophytum/
http://www.drugs.com/npp/devil-s-claw.html

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Prof. Hesin
I am herbalist and write on variety of topics from nutrition to natural health, herbal medicine, nutritional supplementation, mind/body medicine and i enjoys the challenge of providing my family with healthy food options that fit with their busy lifestyle.