This entry was posted 12 years, 5 months ago.
December 14, 2010
Devil’s Claw (Harpagophytum procumbens) is a member of Sesame family and native to the Kalahari and other hot deserts of Southern Africa. It is a small herb with beautiful pink or purple flower, which is also known as unicorn plant, grapple plant, wood spider or Harpago. This herb has been traditionally used in African medicine for treating joint, hip, knee and low back pains. In the early 19th century it was discovered by the colonists from Europe, that is why in our times Devil’s claw benefits are much more used in the countries of Europe as this medicinal herb is not very well known in today’s United States.
The chemistry and therapeutic values of this plant are very well researched. The main constituents of Devil’s Claw include amino acids, flavonoids, steroids (beta- sitosterol and harpagosid), carbohydrates like glucose, fructose and others. This is one of the herbal remedies which are not used in foods, but it is valued for its anti-inflammatory, diuretic, tonic, sedative and anti-rheumatic properties. In old times, Devil’s claw was used as an effective natural analgesic and painkiller, especially for reducing pains linked to osteoarthritis, tendinitis or other related conditions. In addition, there are many other health benefits of Devil’s claw.
Dry roots of this medicinal herb have been used to calm down infections, restore appetite and ward off all possible digestion problems, or assist in relieving all unwanted signs that accompany pregnancy, like pains, morning sickness or nausea. However, one of the most important Devil’s claw benefits is the property of this herb to relieve arthritis pains. Studies showed that this medicinal herb is effective for easing low back pains, and in combination with analgesic properties of it, Devil’s claw becomes a really miraculous herb for all patients who have arthritis, rheumatic conditions, strains, herniated disks and other low back problems.
Besides, this natural remedy can be used for treating a variety of health conditions including sore muscles, high blood pressure, high cholesterol levels, increased heart rate, heartburn, kidney and gall bladder problems, pains, fever, dyspepsia, anorexia, dry mouth and many others. Devil’s claw infusions or a topical ointment can be used externally to treat minor skin problems like burns, bruises, boils, ulcers or cuts. Those individuals who want to enjoy the above mentioned health benefits of Devil’s claw should consult a health care specialist prior to starting any therapy involving this medicinal herb, mainly because this herb can interfere with a number of prescription medicines.
Author Info: Hi! My name is Carla and I am a 5th year medical student at HYMS. I am interested in alternative medicine and I have done months researching the topic of herbal medicine. Besides, I like interviewing people and learning more about their experiences with one or another type of herbal treatments. I am willing to contribute to this site with my knowledge, and I would be happy to help you out to the best of my ability with any specific questions or problems related to alternative medicine.
August 16th, 2012 at 11:30 am
Bom dia, Como posso comprar o harp de 100 mg ?