Get Your Personalized Supplement StackSupplement Stack Quiz

Devil's Claw

Also known as: Grapple Plant, Duiwelsklou, Wood Spider, Harpagophytum Procumbens

Overview

Harpagophytum Procumbens (commonly called Devil's Claw) is a tuber vegetable that is used for combatting lower back pain as well as arthritis (both osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis). It appears to have efficacy at this, and may take a few months to reach maximal efficacy (so it would be unlikely something like Aspirin, which acts fairly fast). Human trials have been conducted on Devil's Claw and arthritis, and although there appear to be a large amount of trials conducted on it many are not sourced online or in Medline (instead mentioned vicariously through systemic reviews and meta-analysis' on the subject) and the power of these trials are limited, due to sample sizes and lack of control for the most part. That being said, at least two well controlled trials note that the efficacy of Devil's Claw is greater than placebo with one saying it is of similar potency to Vioxx (Rofecoxib, a COX2 inhibitor and antiinflammatory). Not too much research into other effects of Devil's Claw, although one study suggests it has remarkable anticholesterase inhibitory potential with the potency on butrylcholinesterase (a cholinesterase enzyme found in the blood and liver) being greater than Galantamine. There appears to be much discussion on safety of Devil's Claw, which may have stemmed from traditional users of Devil's Claw warning about excessive usage. In short term trials it appears to be well tolerated, with a lack of long term evidence. It is definitely possible that it may induce uterine contractions when taken orally, and due to this it should not be used by pregnant women.

Benefits

Devil's Claw is believed to work primarily through its active compounds, particularly harpagoside, which may have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. These compounds are thought to inhibit the production of inflammatory mediators and modulate pain pathways in the body, thereby providing relief from conditions such as arthritis and lower back pain. The exact mechanism of action is still under investigation, but the evidence suggests that it may help reduce pain and improve mobility in affected individuals.

How it works

The benefits of Devil's Claw include its potential to alleviate pain associated with osteoarthritis and lower back pain. It may also help reduce inflammation and improve joint function. Some studies suggest that it can provide relief comparable to conventional pain medications, making it a viable alternative for those seeking natural remedies. Additionally, Devil's Claw may have a positive effect on appetite stimulation and overall digestive health.

Side effects

Studies conducted on humans using Devil's Claw tend to use a brand called Doloteffin, where 6,000mg of Devil's Claw root is taken daily which totals 50mg Harpagoside (tends to be used as an indicator of efficacy). It was taken in three divided doses, with 2,000mg taken at each of the three major meals. Benefits of Devil's Claw extract, as it pertains to arthritis and inflammation, may take upwards of 1-4 months to achieve maximal efficacy.

Dosage

Devil's Claw is generally well tolerated in short-term trials; however, there are some safety concerns. It may induce uterine contractions when taken orally, which poses a risk for pregnant women. Other potential side effects include gastrointestinal discomfort, diarrhea, and allergic reactions in some individuals. Long-term safety data is limited, and caution is advised for those with certain medical conditions or who are taking specific medications.

FAQs

What are other names for Devil's Claw?

Devil's Claw is also known as Grapple Plant, Duiwelsklou, Wood Spider, and Harpagophytum Procumbens. It should not be confused with Cat's Claw (Uncaria Tomentosa).