Arthritis pain: Taking a plant protein could help relieve pain felt in the joints

Arthritis has more than 100 different types, with different causes and treatment methods. Two of the most common types are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Taking a plant protein known as devil’s claw could help ease the pain felt in joints. What is it?

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Arthritis Foundation said: “Harpagoside, the active ingredient in devil’s claw, appears to reduce pain and inflammation in joints.”

The health benefits of taking this supplement are impressive and help with a variety of other issues.

The European Medicines Agency says devil’s claw can be used to relieve minor joint pain and mild digestive disorders including bloating or flatulence.

Holland and Barrett advises: “As a traditional herbal medicine, it’s used for the relief of backache, rheumatic or muscular pain, and general aches and pains in the muscles and joints.”

What is devil’s claw?

Devil’s claw is an herb with its botanical name being Harpagophytum, meaning “hook plant” in Greek.

The plant gets its name from the appearance of its fruit, which is covered with hooks meant to attach onto animals in order to spread to seeds.

The roots and tubers of the plant are used to make medicine.

Devil’s claw is used for “hardening of the arteries” and is said to help with arthritis, muscle pain, back pain, gout, chest pain, gastrointestinal issues, and heartburn.

Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis, affecting millions of people around the world.

Arthritis occurs when the protective covering on the ends of the joint bones – known as cartilage – wears down.

This causes the bones to rub together, resulting in swelling, stiffness and pain.

More studies are needed, however, current research suggests that devil’s claw may be effective at reducing pain associated with osteoarthritis.

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In a study with the National Library of Medicine, the use of devil’s claw in treating pain from arthritis was investigated.

The study noted: “In a double-blind clinical study, the efficacy and tolerance of a herbal medicine product, Harapdol was compared with diacerein in the treatment of 122 patients suffering from osteoarthritis.

“Assessments of pain and functional disability were made on a scale.

“The results showed that spontaneous pain was significantly improved over the course of the study with the use of Harpadol.” 

Versus Arthritis says devil’s claw can be bought in capsules, tinctures and fluid extracts over the counter.

It adds: “We don’t yet understand how it works, but evidence suggests that devil’s claw is as effective as conventional medicines for arthritis.

“Devil’s claw is a plant native to deserts of South and South East Africa.

“Extracts from the plant root are used medicinally to treat several diseases.”

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