What Is Devil's Claw, How can It Help Arthritis And More?

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by: Darrell Miller
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Date: Tue, 2 Aug 2011 Time: 6:22 PM
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Devil's claw has been used for centuries in Africa to treat a variety of ailments without harmful side effects. This herb has been used to help with joint pain, liver ailments, kidney disorders, arthritis, rheumatism, hardening of the arteries, and stomach problems.

Traditionally, devil's claw has been used for arthritis, rheumatism, diabetes, arteriosclerosis, liver disorders, and kidney and bladder problems. This herb is considered to be a great cleanser for removing impurities. Regular use of this herb may help to improve hardened vascular walls. Even those individuals who are healthy may benefit from using devil's claw once a year, as it cleanses the body of impurities.

Research has found that devil's claw may responsible for relieving gout and joint pain. A study done in Germany found that the plant has anti-inflammatory properties that are very similar to the anti-arthritic phenylbutazine. Devil's claw is highly regarded in some European countries as a treatment for inflammatory conditions like arthritis and gout. An additional study found that devil's claw, when taken as a tea, may be beneficial in lowering cholesterol and fat levels.

If you choose to take devil's claw, it should be used as directed on the package or as directed by your doctor, pharmacist, or other health care provider. Devil's claw can be taken in capsule, tincture, and tea form. When dealing with inflammation and pain, this herb is typically taken in capsule form. The pill form of devil's claw should be taken with a full glass of water. In order to ensure that a correct dose is consumed, the liquid forms of devil's claw should be measured with a dropper or a dose-measuring spoon or cup. Topical forms of devil's claw are intended to be used externally only. Different formulations of devil's claw should not be used at the same time unless specifically directed to do so by a healthy care professional.

When using different formulations together, the risk of an overdose is increased. Devil's claw should be stored as directed on the package and generally, protected from light. Research has shown that a daily dose of devil's claw should provide at least 50 mg of harpagosides each day. The amount of harpagosides that each individual devil's claw supplement possesses should be indicated on the bottle. For indigestion and appetite loss, a tea can be made by steeping one teaspoon of chopped or powdered dry root in two cups of boiling water. Then it should be let to steep for twenty minutes. The tea should then be strained and cooled.

The leaves and roots of the devil's claw plant should be used to provide alterative, anti-inflammatory, antilithic, antirheumatic, blood purifier, diuretic, lithotriptic, and stimulant properties. The main nutrients found in devil's claw include calcium, iron, magnesium, manganese, phosphous, potassium, protein, selenium, silicon, sodium, vitamins A and C, and zinc. Primarily, this herb should be taken for its beneficial abilities in dealing with arteriosclerosis, arthritis, blood impurities, high cholesterol, diabetes, gastric disorders, headaches, inflammation, kidney problems, liver disorders, effects of pollution, rheumatism, and urinary problems.

Additionally, this herb is extremely helpful in treating gallbladder problems, gallstones, gout, and malaria. For more information on the many beneficial effects provided by devil's claw, feel free to contact a representative from your local health food store.

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