Western Bulk Herbs – Devil’s Club

Devil’s club was widely employed medicinally by several native North American Indian tribes who used it especially for its pain-relieving properties. It is little, if at all, used in modern herbalism, though it probably merits further investigation. The root bark and stems are analgesic, antirheumatic, antiphlogistic, appetizer, blood purifier, cathartic, emmenagogue, galactogogue, hypoglycaemic, ophthalmic, pectoral and tonic. An infusion is used in the treatment of coughs and colds, bronchitis, tuberculosis, stomach problems etc. A decoction is drunk in the treatment of rheumatism and is also applied externally as a wash on the affected joints. A poultice of the bark has been used to relieve pain in various parts of the body. A poultice of the bark has been applied to a nursing mother’s breasts in order to stop an excessive flow of milk. A decoction has been used as an eye wash in the treatment of cataracts and as a herbal steam bath for treating general body pains. The burnt stems, mixed with oil, are applied as a salve on swellings. An extract of the root bark lowers blood sugar levels and an infusion of the bark has been used in the treatment of diabetes. The infusion also has a tonic effect on the blood and liver. The inner bark is emetic in large doses and purgative (especially if taken with hot water). It is used in the treatment of coughs and colds, stomach and bowel cramps. A poultice of the inner bark is used in the treatment of wounds, sores etc. The berries have been rubbed on the scalp to combat lice and dandruff, and to make the hair shiny.

Latin Name:
Oplopanax horridus

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*Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

Resources:

medicinal herbs: DEVIL’S CLUB – Oplopanax horridus (naturalmedicinalherbs.net)