DEVILS
CLAW
is
a popular joint-supporting herb. It has been used in Africa and Europe for more
than 350 years as an herbal flexibility aid. Some experts believe that one
reason for its benefits is its ability to promote healthy fluid retention. For
this reason, many women use Devil's Claw to help ease bloating and puffiness.
Devil's
Claw, also known as Grapple Plant, is indigenous to Southern and Eastern Africa.
The roots are collected at the end of the rainy season. The name of Devil’s
Claw is derived from the herb’s unusual fruits, which seem to be covered with
numerous small hooks. This valuable plant has been found effective in the
treatment of some cases of arthritis. This action appears to be due to the
presence of a glycoside called harpagoside that reduces inflammation in the
joints. Unfortunately, Devil's Claw is not always effective, but it is well
worth considering in cases of arthritis where there is inflammation and pain. The British Herbal Pharmacopoea recognizes Devil's Claw as having
anti-inflammatory, anti-rheumatic, analgesic, sedative, and diuretic properties.
This plant also aids in liver and gall-bladder
complaints. Devil's Claw tuber (secondary root) contains three important
constituents belonging to the iridoid glycoside family: harpagoside, harpagide,
and procumbide. The secondary tubers of the herb contain twice as much
harpagoside as the primary tubers. As such, these secondary tubers contain the
preferable concentration of active ingredients. Harpagoside and other iridoid
glycosides found in the plant may be responsible for the herb's
anti-inflammatory and analgesic actions. Devil's Claw is also considered by
herbalists to be a potent bitter. Bitter principles, like the iridoid glycosides
found in Devil's Claw, stimulate the stomach to increase the production of acid,
thereby helping to improve digestion.