Understanding the Two Types of Devil's Claw
The term "devil's claw" is a misnomer, as it refers to two separate genera of plants with very different uses and origins. The key to understanding them is to distinguish between their botanical names and native regions.
The Edible American Devil's Claw (Proboscidea species)
Native to the desert regions of the Southwestern United States, several species of the Proboscidea genus are also known as devil's claw. Their prominent, hooked seed pods give them this common name, and historically, Indigenous communities have utilized parts of these plants for food and other purposes.
Culinary Uses of Proboscidea species:
- Young Pods: When the seed pods are young and green, they are soft and can be cooked and eaten like okra. Indigenous peoples have traditionally boiled, steamed, or fried them.
- Seeds: The mature, dried seeds are also edible and contain oil and protein. They can be eaten raw, roasted for improved flavor, or ground into a gluten-free flour.
The Medicinal African Devil's Claw (Harpagophytum procumbens)
In contrast, the medicinal devil's claw (Harpagophytum procumbens) is a completely different plant native to Southern Africa. Its roots and tubers are the parts used for health purposes, not the fruit. Its primary use is in herbal supplements due to active compounds, such as iridoid glycosides, which have anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties. This variety is not a food source and is typically consumed as a capsule, extract, or herbal tea.
Potential Health Benefits of Medicinal Devil's Claw
Research on Harpagophytum procumbens has focused on its potential to address inflammatory conditions. It's crucial to consult a healthcare professional before using it, especially if you have pre-existing conditions or are taking other medications.
Key benefits often associated with Harpagophytum procumbens include:
- Osteoarthritis: Several studies suggest that devil's claw may reduce pain associated with osteoarthritis of the knee and hip.
- Back Pain: Oral consumption of devil's claw extract appears to help reduce lower back pain, sometimes with similar effectiveness to certain nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
- Inflammation: The active compound, harpagoside, has shown anti-inflammatory effects in animal and lab studies by suppressing inflammatory molecules.
- Digestive Aid: Due to its bitter properties, it has also been traditionally used as a digestive tonic and appetite stimulant.
Comparison of the Two Devil's Claw Plants
| Feature | American Devil's Claw (Proboscidea species) | African Devil's Claw (Harpagophytum procumbens) |
|---|---|---|
| Native Region | Southwestern United States | Southern Africa |
| Primary Use | Edible young pods and seeds; dried pods used for weaving | Medicinal supplement using roots and tubers |
| Edible Parts | Young, green pods and mature seeds | No edible parts; roots are for medicinal preparations |
| Preparation | Cooked like okra (pods), roasted, or ground (seeds) | Made into teas, capsules, or extracts |
| Key Compounds | Not medicinally focused; contains oil and protein in seeds | Contains harpagoside, an anti-inflammatory compound |
Important Safety Considerations and Precautions
Because Harpagophytum procumbens is a potent herb, it comes with important safety precautions, especially for individuals with certain health conditions or those on medication. A key nutritional aspect is that it contains no significant calories, fats, or protein, as it is consumed for its bioactive compounds, not nutritional value.
Potential Side Effects of Medicinal Devil's Claw (Harpagophytum procumbens)
- Gastrointestinal Issues: The most commonly reported side effects include diarrhea, stomach upset, nausea, and bloating.
- Cardiovascular Effects: In rare cases, it can affect blood pressure and heart rate. People with pre-existing heart conditions should be cautious.
- Drug Interactions: Devil's claw can interact with certain medications, including blood thinners (like warfarin), heart drugs, and stomach acid reducers.
- Increased Stomach Acid: It may increase stomach acid production, which can exacerbate stomach ulcers and heartburn.
Conclusion: A Matter of Species and Purpose
To the question, can you eat devil's claw?, the answer depends entirely on the species. While the edible pods and seeds of the American Proboscidea species can be a part of a meal, the roots of the African Harpagophytum procumbens are strictly for medicinal use. Consuming the wrong part of the wrong plant could lead to adverse health effects. For anti-inflammatory benefits, it is crucial to use a high-quality, standardized supplement of the African variety under a doctor's guidance. If you are interested in trying the edible version, ensure it is the correct species and prepare it properly. Always exercise caution and seek professional medical advice before incorporating any new herbal supplement into your diet.
Authoritative Sources
For more detailed information on herbal supplements, consult the National Institutes of Health Office of Dietary Supplements:
