Available evidence indicates that devil's claw may benefit patients with osteoarthritis of the hip or knee, and back pain.
Devil's claw is a plant native to South Africa and is used in traditional medicine to treat rheumatism, arthritis, inflammation, and stomach disorders. Currently, preparations of devil's claw root are used as anti-inflammatory agents and to relieve pain. Laboratory and animal studies show that devil's claw has anti-inflammatory, pain relieving, antioxidant and appetite suppressant effects. It also helps slow bone loss caused by inflammation. Small clinical studies indicate its benefits in patients with osteoarthritis of the hip or knee, and rheumatic disorders. Larger studies are needed to confirm these effects