The benefits of devil's claw tea have been known since ages. It has a lot of anti-arthritic properties and offers a cure for arthritis and rheumatism. This plant is extensively found in the Southern African region, especially Namibia, South Africa, and Madagascar. The fruit of this plant has a very peculiar appearance and it looks like a bunch of hooks. When the fruit splits open from one end it tends to look like a pair of curved horns or like claws. These claw-like roots are then used in the preparation of medicines.
As the benefits of devil's claw tea was recognized during the early 20th century, it was later introduced in Europe where it was used to aid digestion. There was a belief that the bitterness in the tea would help in stimulating the digestive juices. One of the active ingredients in this root is the iridoid glycosides and it is found in the secondary root. This root also contains calcium, aluminum, chlorogenic acid, luteolin, kaempferol, chromium, magnesium, oleanolic acid, tin, selenium, and zinc.
To get the maximum benefits of devil's claw tea put a teaspoonful of dried and chopped devil's claw roots into a teapot and pour two cups of boiling water. Let it stand for some time till the roots are completely soaked for about twenty minutes. Now strain the tea and allow it to cool before drinking. You may consume around 3 cups of tea per day. Alternately, you may boil your tea as a decoction (instructions will be included) this is my prefer choice, the decoction can be made over night or early morning and stored and drank throughout the day as preferred. Decoctions make a stronger formula.
NOTE! Those who are on medication such as Plavix or Coumadin are advised not to consume this tea. In case you are undergoing a surgical procedure, you must ensure that you inform your surgeon that you are taking tea that is prepared from devil's claw. This tea is also not advised during pregnancy and also in those with digestive disorders, ulcers etc.
The benefits of devil's claw tea are many and it offers relief from aching muscles, relieves back and neck pains, joint pains, rheumatoid arthritis, and osteoarthritis. This herbal tea is also useful in relieving tendonitis and fever. It is useful in treating boils and some of the kidney-related disorders as well. It also stimulates appetite and aids in the functioning of the liver.
