Devil’s Claw, a great natural anti-inflammatory against pain

Devil’s claw extract is considered the best herbal remedy to treat rheumatic problems, for its exceptional anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. In some countries, such as Germany and France, it is listed as anti-inflammatory medication and is prescribed as such.

Devil’s claw properties

The devil’s claw contains iridoid glycosides, including harpagoside, to which its potent anti-inflammatory action is attributed, as well as procumbid and harpagid, phytosterols, flavonoids, triterpenic acids and small amounts of essential oil.

On the other hand, it is attributed a diuretic, hypolipidemic, antispasmodic action and, due to its traditional uses, also febrifuge, hypoglycemic and healing.

How it works against pain

Several scientific studies have endorsed the efficacy of devil’s claw extracts to relieve pain and reduce inflammation in rheumatic disorders, with an effect comparable to non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), with which it can be combined if necessary. .

To be useful it must contain a minimum of 9.5 mg of harpagoside, the anti-inflammatory element, per capsule and be taken for 8 to 12 weeks.

It is indicated in rheumatoid arthritis, early osteoarthritis and gout pain. It can help reduce or replace drugs.

Other benefits of devil’s claw

It’s a diuretic powerful, useful to eliminate excess uric acid in mild or incipient hyperuricemia. Orally, it is resolute against Back pain or recurrent or chronic cervical and tensions due to bad postures. With suitable plants such as marjoram or betony, it helps to calm nervous migraines either tension headaches caused by fatigue, eye strain or colds. Because it is a very bitter plant, it has been indicated as appetite stimulant for situations of weakness, anemia and mild anorexia. It is used as a support hypocholesterolemia, hepatobiliary disorders, intestinal diverticulosis and gastrointestinal spasmsalthough there is still not enough scientific evidence to support its effectiveness.

How to take devil’s claw

The most common form is in capsules.about 2.5 to 3 g daily in three doses, depending on the intensity of the pain.

It can also be found in powder (up to 3 g daily in three doses), in liquid extract, alcoholic tincture (50 drops per day dissolved in water or juice) and dried plant for decoction.

The following devil’s claw infusion or tea is an example of how the dried plant is used:

Infusion for low back pain

This masterful formula with devil’s claw helps combat back pain, particularly low back pain. It is also useful for reducing inflammation and relieving pain in osteoarthritis.

Mix in equal parts devil’s claw, calaguala, white willow, meadowsweet and star anise. Boil a level tablespoon of this mixture per cup of water, over low heat, about 4-5 minutes. Let cool and rest overnight and drink during the day. You have to try to take it from 4 to 8 weeks in a row.

Precautions and contraindications

Devil’s claw is generally quite safe, although you must always stick to the prescribed doses.

Due to prudence and lack of studies, it is not recommended in pregnancy, lactation and children under 12 years of age. It is also not recommended in case of gastritis or gastroduodenal ulcer. (increases gastric juices), or gallstones. On the other hand, it is advisable to consult your doctor if you take medication, as there may be incompatibilities (for example with warfarin, antacids and drugs as common as omeprazole, diazepam or loperamide).