Devil's Claw 5% Harpagosides

Botanical:   Harpagophytum procumbens

Family:  Pedaliaceae (sesame)

Other common names: Wood Spider, Grapple Plant

Devil's Claw is a popular joint-supporting herb.  It has been used in Africa and Europe for centuries as an herbal flexibility aid.  Some experts believe that one reason for its benefits is its ability to relieve excess water retention.  For this reason, many women use Devil's Claw to help ease bloating and puffiness.

Disclaimer:
The information presented herein by Viable Herbal Solutions is intended for educational purposes only. These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA and are not intended to diagnose, cure, treat or prevent disease. Individual results may vary, and before using any supplements, it is always advisable to consult with your own health care provider.

History and Uses:
Devil's Claw is indigenous to Southern and Eastern Africa, where the roots are collected at the end of the rainy season and used in herbal medicine.  The name, 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, and the 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, antirheumatic, analgesic, sedative and diuretic properties. This plant is also thought to aid in liver and gallbladder complaints.  The Devil's Claw tuber (secondary root) contains three important constituents belonging to the iridoid glycoside family: harpagoside, harpagide and procumbide, and 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, principles, which, like the iridoid glycosides found in Devil's Claw, stimulate the stomach to increase the production of acid, thereby helping to improve digestion. 

Recommended Dosage:
Take two (2) capsules, one (1) to two (2) times each day with water at mealtimes.

Contraindications:
Devil's Claw may take several weeks of consistent use before noticing results.  Devil's Claw should be avoided during pregnancy as it has been suggested to stimulate uterine muscle contraction.   In addition, nursing women and those with gallstones, duodenal or gastric ulcers should avoid Devil's Claw.  Since Devil's Claw may slow the pulse, it should not be used by people with congestive heart disease.  Headache, ringing in the ears, stomach upset and allergic reactions have been reported.  Speak with your health care provider before using Devil's Claw if you are taking blood-thinning medication.

 

Capsule Information:
Our Devil's Claw supplements are encapsulated in 100% Gluten-free, Vegetable Cellulose, Certified Kosher, size "00" Capsules. (click here for size comparison) Each capsule contains approximately 600 mg. each.