What is it?

In herbal medicine, it is the tubers of Devil’s claw; surely the most alarmingly named herb in our dispensary! I understand that the name Devil’s claw comes partly from what the thorny fruits of this South African bush look like and partly what it feels like if you stand on it!

The British Herbal Pharmacopoeia (BHP) describes the actions of Devils' claw as 'anti-inflammatory, antirheumatic, analgesic, sedative, diuretic and says it is indicated for 'rheumatism, arthritis, gout, myalgia, fibrositis & lumbago' and specifically indicated for 'rheumatic disease'. The BHP recommends doses of 0.1-0.25grams or the 25% 1:5 tincture at a dose of 0.5-1ml.

Thomas Bartram writes that the actions of Devils' claw include 'anti-inflammatory, antirheumatic, analgesic, liver tonic, cholagogue, diuretic, sedative, detoxicant, stomachic, lymphatic, stimulant, cortisone-like action' He suggests uses for it including inflammatory arthritis, stiff joints, gout, lumbago, sciatica, polymyalgia, neuralgia, liver congestion, gall bladder disorders, itching skin conditions, inflammatory conditions of the veins. Bartram suggests doses of a quarter to half a tsp in each cup of water gently simmered for 15 minutes and then a dose of half a cup, or a 1-2 ml of the tincture. He recommends to avoid it in pregnancy and not to use it in the presence of gastric or duodenal ulcer.

Safety of Devil's Claw

There are no adverse reactions reported in the medical literature and Devil's claw is regarded as generally safe but I and most herbalists would be unlikely to prescribe it during pregnancy or whilst breastfeeding.

Also, as a herb that has strong effects on the digestive system, this remedy may cause an upset stomach to some individuals when used in high doses and it is recommended to be used with care for people who have a sensitive gut and to be avoided if there is an actively inflamed digestive lining.