Don’t be intimidated by its name. Despite of what it’s called, devil’s claw can actually help in banishing all sorts of maladies bugging you. There are plant-based components in this herb that are known to be very good at fighting off pain and inflammation, as well as a host of other problems concerning the health.
Since it thrives in sandy soils, devil’s claw can be easily found and obtained in South Africa. In fact, this herb has been used for centuries now by traditional healers in dealing with many different health concerns. Primarily, it is used for treating chronic pain, making it excellent for sufferers of conditions that cause muscle and joint pain. However, thanks to the herb’s amazing antioxidant properties, it may also be used for dealing with problems associated with oxidative stress.
Due to its popularity, you are not going to have a hard time getting your hands on devil’s claw. So many health food stores these days carry it in the form of tea and capsules, utilizing the root of the said herb as their primary ingredient.
Before using devil’s claw, make sure that you carefully read the label and follow the instructions for use. Just because the capsule or tea you are about to take contains ingredients coming from nature doesn’t mean right away that it won’t produce side effects. Using it improperly or overusing it is known to yield mild gastrointestinal symptoms. It’s exactly for this reason why caution must be taken when taking devil’s claw or any other herbal preparation.
Going back to the many health benefits offered by this herb, the following are some of the reasons why devil’s claw should be welcomed into your home and life despite of its shudder-inducing moniker:
Devil’s Claw is Effective Against Arthritis
Studies have shown that this herb well-known for its analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties can actually improve the symptoms of arthritis in as short as 10 days. Unlike non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) commonly used for arthritis, devil’s claw does not yield unfavorable side effects provided that it is taken in the correct manner or dosage.
It is Proven Effective for the Likes of Bursitis and Tendonitis
There are instances when joint pain strikes because of reasons other than arthritis. For instance, there’s bursitis which is characterized by the inflammation of the fluid-filled sac in the joint called bursa. Then there is also the so-called tendonitis, a condition wherein the tendons are swollen due to overuse or injury. Devil’s claw is known to provide relief for both issues.
Taking This Herb is Recommended for Lower Back Pain
Due to the sheer amount of weight it needs to support whether you’re standing or sitting down, your lower back is prone to ending up achy. The intake of devil’s claw is recommended for those who often suffer from lower back pain to avoid the constant administration of NSAIDs. Paired with rest, devil’s claw can help you go back to your usual activities in no time.
Devil’s Claw Provides Relief from Muscle Pain
Aside from the joint, rheumatism is something that also affects the muscles. Devil’s claw is an herb that can provide muscle pain relief brought about by the said condition. This herb works effectively because, according to studies, it is very good at regulating the influx of calcium in the muscle cells, thus providing relief from the muscle-related symptom of rheumatism.
It May Help in Delaying Various Skin Aging Signs
Did you know that there are some beauty solutions that contain devil’s claw? These products take advantage of the purported antioxidant properties of the popular herb. Their regular application may be used in warding off or minimizing fine lines, wrinkles and other skin aging signs. Many topically applied products with the herb are also good for skin infections.
