arthritis

Herb Spotlight: Devil’s Claw

Herb Spotlight, Lifestyle

WARNING: If you have any issues with gastric or duodenal ulcers please consult a physician before using. Large doses of Devil’s Claw can produce obstruction of the bile ducts or intestines along with producing colic in cases of gallstones.

When I was suffering with severe acne I heard that Devil’s Claw would be a nice way to cleanse my toxins and clear my skin. Later in life when I was researching the best ways to fight arthritic pain naturally I learned that it is valuable for those suffering with chronic arthritis. Turns out these effects are all due to the inflammation relief provided by Devil’s Claw. Also, shout out to another one of those super metal herb names, makes me feel like a real witch using names like Devil’s Claw and Mugwort. The herbs gets it’s name from the hook shaped tubers that attach to the fur of animals and eventually spread the seeds. Cool, huh? Nature really trips me out sometimes.

Scientific Name: Harpagophytum procumbens [aka: arthritis tea, grapple plant, hook plant]

Magickal Stats: Elementally water, ruled by Saturn

Parts Used: roots, tubers

Improves Function Of:devils claw

  • Metabolism
  • Digestive System
  • Lymphatic & Blood detoxification

Aides in Relieving Symptoms Of:

  • Arthritis, tendonitis, lower back pain
  • Acne, psoriasis and skin maladies
  • Slow metabolism & Poor appetite
  • Insufficient production of bile & digestive issue

Assists Spiritually With:

  • Relieve pain and support health
  • Confuse and Confound an enemy
  • Remove negativity

How Does It Work? Studies have been inconclusive on the exact properties that make Devil’s Claw a healing herb, but it has been used for generations in Europe. It provides anti-inflammatory and pain relief effects but it also has some adverse effects. If you are hypoglycemic I would avoid this remedy because it can lower blood sugar levels and work against you. Similarly it can produce excess bile and upset ulcers and should be avoided for this reason as well.

What Do I Do With It? Devil’s Claw is both applied topically and taken internally. Take internally to fight inflammation and create more bile to help digestive issues. Apply topically to fight acne and other skin ailments.

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What’s In My Cup? Arthritis Relief

What's In My Cup?

Cowboyfriend suffers from pretty intense arthritis from his heavy rock climbing days. Now that he is primarily partaking in manual labor I thought is wise to get some herbs specifically for his ailments. My research for this tea ball came from Therapeutic Herb Manual by Ed Smith, if you have any interest in herbology I recommend that you start by grabbing that little herb bible. This blend works by targeting inflammation and stimulating relaxation to help stifle any arthritic flare. If you are seriously suffering from arthritis I truly recommend looking into the medical cannabis laws for your state. There are countless non-smokeable and smokeable products available that will drastically help you.

Joshy

This Blend will Assist With:

  • Relief from inflammation
  • Arthritis Relief
  • Lymph and Blood Purification
  • Enhance Immune System Function
  • Digestion and Flatulence Relief
  • Anxiety and Nervous System Function

Simply Mix Together:

1 tsp dried Angelica Root

1 tsp dried Licorice Root

1 tsp dried Burdock Root

1 tsp dried Chamomile

1 tsp dried St. Johns Wort

Put your jam packed tea ball into your favorite mug and pour boiling water directly over it. Let it steep for 10-15 minutes depending on desired taste. This one is an earthy mixture due to al of the roots and the licorice slowly trickles down your throat to an imminent loosey goosey relaxation.  Burdock and Angelica are essential herbs for those suffering from arthritis, if this tea blend works consider investing in a tincture made from these roots.

Change into comfortable clothes and sit with your warm mug, take in all of the aromas emitting from the concoction. While taking in your surroundings with a warm mug in hand meditate on the mantra: I Can Heal From Within. 

Namaste.