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Posted by Elaine Moore Aug 8, 2006 |
Inflammation is one of the primary mechanisms in the immune response. It occurs when the immune system reacts to injury or the presence of toxins and foreign substances. Chronic inflammation is the underlying cause of most diseases and the direct cause of most pain.
Harpagophytum prumbens, an herb commonly known as devil's claw, has been found to help people with autoimmune disease by reducing both inflammation and pain. Used alone or in combination with other herbs such as white willow, devil's claw has potent anti-inflammatory properties. Devil's claw has two primary active ingredients:
- Harpogoside
- Beta-sitosterol
While both compounds have anti-inflammatory properties, beta-sitosterol is considered an immunomodulator. Therefore, most studies focusing on pain reduction are based on the properties of harpogoside.
Sources of Devil's Claw
Devil's claw is found as a perennial groundcover native to the dry highlands of Zimbabwe, Angola, Namibia, Botswana, and South Africa. Indigenous South Africans have used devil's claw for centuries. The name devil's claw is derived from the plant's fruit, which resembles a large, hooked claw. The recommended daily dose of devil's claw is 50-60 mg of the active harpagoside ingredient, which corresponds to 2,400 to 2,900 mg of devil's claw extract daily. The extract is best taken in 2-3 divided doses daily. As a dried powdered root containing both harpogoside and beta-sitosterol, 1 gram as a tea can be used 3 times daily. As a 1:5 tincture, 1 teaspoon can be taken 3 times daily.
Clinical Trials and Studies
In studies conducted at the University of Frieburg in Germany, patients with arthritis treated with 60 mg of devil's claw's active ingredient harpagoside were as likely to experience from 50 percent to complete pain reduction as patients using the arthritis drugs phenylbutazone, corticosteroids, and Vioxx. In addition, devil's claw has been found in studies to alleviate some of the aches, pain, and stiffness seen in osteoarthritis and it modestly reduces blood sugar levels.
Precautions
Compared to non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agents (NSAIDs), which may cause stomach ulcerations and gastrointestinal bleeding, Devil's claw has an impressive safety record. However, devil's Claw is not recommended for people with ulcers since it can cause mild stomach distress, and it is not recommended for pregnant or lactating because its effectiveness in these conditions has not yet been studies.
Other Uses
Devil's claw is also reported to be an effective treatment for gout and gouty arthritis. In conditions of gout, inflammation is related to excess production of uric acid. Devil's claw has been found to reduce uric acid levels, thereby helping tame the disease process.