Devil’s Claw Benefits

Devil’s claw benefits include anti-inflammatory and anti-arthritic properties, it’s an analgesic, and a digestive stimulant.

Devil’s Claw Compounds

Devil’s claw contains several active compounds that contribute to its medicinal benefits. The main bioactive components include:

1. Harpagoside: This iridoid glycoside is considered the key ingredient responsible for the anti-inflammatory properties of devil’s claw. It inhibits the production of inflammatory substances in the body. The compound also provides analgesic effects and helps to reduce joint pain and inflammation associated with arthritis. Harpagoside also helps to stimulate digestion. It promotes gastric acid secretion and improves the function of the digestive system.
2. Procumbide: Another iridoid glycoside found in devil’s claw, procumbide also exhibits anti-inflammatory effects by reducing the activity of certain enzymes involved in inflammation. With reducing these enzymes, procumbide also potentially helps provide relief for arthritis symptoms. Procumbide may also contribute to the herb’s digestive stimulant effects.
3. Phytosterols: Devil’s claw is rich in phytosterols, such as beta-sitosterol, which have been shown to possess anti-inflammatory properties.It also reduces inflammation in the joints, easing the pain of arthritis.
4. Flavonoids: Devil’s claw contains flavonoid compounds like luteolin and kaempferol, which exhibit antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects in the body.

While Devil’s claw has its share of medicinal properties, it is important to check with a primary care physician before adding any herbs or supplements into your diet.

References:

• https://www.mountsinai.org/health-library/herb/devils-claw#:~:text=Devil%27s%20claw%20contains%20iridoid%20glycosides,may%20relieve%20pain%20and%20inflammation.

References

Gxaba, N., & Manganyi, M. C. (2022). The Fight against Infection and Pain: Devil’s Claw (Harpagophytum procumbens) a Rich Source of Anti-Inflammatory Activity: 2011-2022. Molecules (Basel, Switzerland), 27(11), 3637. https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules27113637

https://www.mountsinai.org/health-library/herb/devils-claw#:~:text=Devil%27s%20claw%20contains%20iridoid%20glycosides,may%20relieve%20pain%20and%20inflammation.