Devil's Claw – Get to Know Its Properties

The devil's claw, also known as the devil's paw, is in fact a species of herbaceous, flowering plant found primarily in South Africa. Its size can reach up to 50 centimeters in height and a length of about 1.5 meters. The devil's claw and its health properties have been known for a long time. The inhabitants of the region use herbaceous plants, the most valuable part of which is the root. Instead, the powder is used as a base for the subsequent preparation of dry or liquid extracts. Dietary supplements containing devil's claw are most commonly sold in the form of capsules, tablets, balms, creams, or even medicinal tinctures based on the root of the devil's claw.

The health-promoting properties of Devil's Claw are closely linked to the composition of this African plant, so let's examine what is inside the spread-out claw. Primarily, iridoids, which are organic chemical compounds belonging to the monoterpenes group. In the case of Devil's Claw, we are dealing with a specific fraction of aukubin, where the fundamental compound is herpagozyd. Iridoids primarily condition strong analgesic, anti-rheumatic, and inflammation-inhibiting properties. Phenolic acids, or phenolacids, occur in the form of cinnamic acid and its two most recognizable derivatives, namely chlorogenic and caffeic acids. Phenolic acidic compounds condition cholagogic properties, while the mentioned chlorogenic variety exhibits extremely strong anticonvulsant properties. This is due to the limitation of GABA (γ-aminobutyric acid) transformation, responsible for the process of limiting nerve excitability and facilitating muscle relaxation. It is precisely the deficiencies of GABA that condition the increasingly popular problem of restless leg syndrome, and a significant deficiency can cause seizures or even death. Flavonoids are another group of organic chemical compounds that have a wide range of applications. From giving plants an intense color, to protecting against harmful fungi and insects, and ending with typical therapeutic action. The antioxidant function, which allows us to protect our body from harmful oxidation reactions, comes to the fore. Inhibition of cyclooxygenases and lipoxygenases significantly delays the aging processes of the body. Flavonoids also exhibit strong diuretic, anti-inflammatory, and spasmolytic properties, which consist of intensifying smooth muscle relaxation covering the areas of the digestive tract or urinary tract. The use of flavonoids also significantly strengthens the resistance and further seals blood vessels, which at the same time allows for an anti-edema and anti-exudative effect. In the case of Devil's Claw, our body is enriched with such substances as luteolin and camphorol. The last but equally important component of the spread-out claw are steroid compounds. Mainly stigmasterol, which participates in the process of producing hormonal steroid compounds and metabolic transformations of phosphorus compounds. β-sitosterol is another plant sterol that is responsible for the normalization and maintenance of the correct cholesterol level in the blood. It also exhibits strong anti-inflammatory, antipyretic, and anticancer properties. It is also worth mentioning the co-occurring triterpenes, which further enhance the positive properties of steroid compounds.

It is not possible to discuss all the benefits of systematic use of devil's claw. However, it is important to remember that, like most dietary supplements, it is not recommended for everyone. Who, then, should be wary of or refrain from using devil's claw? Specifically, individuals who have problems with the digestive system. In particular, those who have stomach and duodenal ulcers, which are considered an absolute contraindication for the use of this supplement. Patients who are undergoing pharmacological treatment should also exercise caution. It is worth noting that devil's claw can enhance the effect of certain drugs. In particular, individuals suffering from heart disease, who take antiarrhythmic and antihypertensive drugs, should exercise caution. Devil's claw is also not recommended for diabetics as well as pregnant and breastfeeding women, as there have not been enough studies to confirm its safety for these groups of patients.

Although devil's claw is a product that has been available for purchase in pharmacies, medical-pharmaceutical establishments, and dietary supplement stores for a while now, it is worth investigating how the scientific community views the application of this supplement in therapy. The first research commenced in 2007, when a group of British scientists decided to test the effectiveness of devil's claw in treating osteoarthritis. The study was conducted on 259 patients who were tested using the WOMAC scale, blood tests, liver samples, and the SF-12 quality of life questionnaire. Over 60% of the participants exhibited a significant decrease in pain symptoms, which affected all joints - from wrists and feet to the spine.

Further research conducted in 2014, substantiates earlier discoveries. In this case, a group of 42 individuals, segregated into two smaller clusters based on the severity of pain (acute and chronic), employed a combination of devil's claw with other natural dietary supplements. Turmeric was used in conjunction with bromelain and long oatstraw, known as well. This concocted mixture, in a dosage of 650 mg, was administered thrice daily to patients with acute discomfort. Conversely, the second group utilized merely two doses. After 60 days, it was found that the recorded reduction in pain symptoms was approximately 30% less than in the initial examination using the visual analog scale (VAS).