Welcome to the wonderful world of Devil's Club (Oplopanax horridus)!
This native plant is found in the Pacific Northwest and Alaska. With its thick, spiny stems and large, maple-shaped leaves, it’s a distinctive and fascinating plant. Both the root bark and stems are used in traditional medicine and have been found to offer a range of therapeutic benefits. In this blog post, we’re excited to share more about the amazing benefits of Devil’s Club and how you can use it to promote your own health and wellness.
History and Traditional Use
For centuries, the indigenous people of the Pacific Northwest have recognized the value of Devil’s Club for its medicinal properties and its role in cultural traditions. Today, Devil’s Club remains an important medicinal and cultural plant, with a wide range of potential health benefits.
The plant was also used in spiritual practices, as it was believed to have protective and cleansing properties. The spiny stems and thorns were used to ward off negative energy and protect against evil spirits. The plant was also used in ceremonies to help bring balance and harmony to the body and spirit.
Traditional Devil’s Club Uses:
Some of the most common traditional uses of Devil’s Club include:
- Pain relief: Devil’s Club has long been used as a natural pain reliever, particularly for conditions like arthritis and muscle soreness.
- Wound healing: The plant’s anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties make it an effective remedy for wounds and other skin conditions.
- Digestive health: Devil’s Club can help alleviate digestive issues like constipation and diarrhea, and has also been used to stimulate appetite.
- Respiratory health: Devil’s Club has been used to relieve respiratory issues like coughs, colds, and flu.
- Women’s health: Devil’s Club has been used to relieve menstrual cramps and other women’s health issues.
These traditional uses are just a few examples of the many potential benefits of Devil’s Club. In recent years, researchers have started to investigate the plant’s medicinal properties more closely, with promising results. We will explore these in further detail below.
6 Health Benefits of Devil's Club
Overall, devil’s club contains a diverse range of phytochemicals and active ingredients that have been shown to have a variety of health benefits. These compounds have anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer, neuroprotective, and immune-modulating effects, among others.
1. Anti-inflammatory properties
Inflammation is a natural response of the body’s immune system to injury, infection, or tissue damage. However, chronic inflammation can lead to various diseases, including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and cancer.
Arthritis:
Saponins are naturally occurring plant compounds that have been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties. In the case of arthritis, saponins can help to reduce pain and inflammation by inhibiting the production of certain pro-inflammatory cytokines, which are proteins that contribute to the inflammatory response.
Saponins can also help to reduce the activity of enzymes known as matrix metalloproteinases, which are involved in the breakdown of cartilage in the joints. By inhibiting these enzymes, saponins can help to preserve the cartilage and prevent further damage to the joints.
Furthermore, saponins have been shown to have immunomodulatory effects, meaning they can help to regulate the immune system. This is particularly relevant in autoimmune forms of arthritis, such as rheumatoid arthritis, where the immune system mistakenly attacks the joints. By modulating the immune response, saponins can help to reduce inflammation and alleviate the symptoms of arthritis.
In the case of devil’s club, the saponins found in its root bark are believed to be responsible for its anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting effects, making it a potentially effective natural remedy for arthritis pain.
Additionally, devil’s club is believed to stimulate the immune system and promote the production of cortisone, a natural anti-inflammatory hormone. This can help to alleviate the symptoms of arthritis and reduce the need for prescription medications.
Flavanoids:
The anti-inflammatory effects of flavonoids found in devil’s club, such as quercetin and kaempferol, have been demonstrated in various studies. One study published in the journal Molecules investigated the anti-inflammatory effects of quercetin in human colon cells.
In one study, the researchers treated human colon cells with quercetin and then stimulated the cells with an inflammatory agent. They found that quercetin was able to reduce the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and chemokines in the colon cells. These results suggest that quercetin may have anti-inflammatory effects by reducing the production of inflammatory molecules in the body.
Another study published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology investigated the anti-inflammatory effects of kaempferol in a mouse model of inflammation. In this study, the researchers treated mice with kaempferol and then induced inflammation in their paws. They found that kaempferol was able to reduce paw swelling and inflammation in the mice. These results suggest that kaempferol may have anti-inflammatory effects by reducing swelling and inflammation in the body.
Phenolic compounds:
A study published in the journal BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine investigated the anti-inflammatory effects of devil’s club (Oplopanax horridus) extracts in rats. The study found that devil’s club extracts were effective in reducing inflammation, and attributed this effect to the presence of phenolic compounds such as ferulic acid and caffeic acid in devil’s club.
The study used a rat model of inflammation induced by injection of carrageenan, a substance that causes swelling and inflammation. The rats were divided into four groups: a control group that received saline injection, a group that received carrageenan injection but no treatment, and two groups that received devil’s club extracts at different doses (100 and 200 mg/kg). The researchers measured paw edema (swelling) and inflammatory markers in the rats at various time points after injection.
The results showed that devil’s club extracts significantly reduced paw edema compared to the group that received carrageenan injection but no treatment. The higher dose of devil’s club extract (200 mg/kg) was more effective than the lower dose (100 mg/kg). The researchers also found that devil’s club extracts reduced the levels of inflammatory markers such as interleukin-6 and tumor necrosis factor-alpha in the rats.
The researchers attributed the anti-inflammatory effects of devil’s club extracts to the presence of phenolic compounds such as ferulic acid and caffeic acid. Phenolic compounds are known for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, and have been shown to reduce inflammation in various animal and cell models.
Alkaloids:
Magnoflorine and berberine are two alkaloids found in devil’s club that have been shown to have anti-inflammatory effects. Magnoflorine has been found to inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and chemokines in mouse macrophages, indicating its potential as an anti-inflammatory agent. Berberine has also been found to inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and chemokines in human colon cells, suggesting its potential for treating inflammatory bowel disease.
In addition to their anti-inflammatory effects, alkaloids such as magnoflorine and berberine have also been found to have antioxidant properties. Antioxidants help to reduce oxidative stress, which is a key factor in the development of chronic inflammation and various diseases.
Overall, the anti-inflammatory effects of alkaloids found in devil’s club, along with their antioxidant properties, suggest that devil’s club may have potential as a natural anti-inflammatory agent for treating or preventing various inflammatory diseases.
Lignan Compounds:
A study published in the journal Molecules investigated the anti-inflammatory effects of pinoresinol and secoisolariciresinol in mouse macrophages. The researchers found that both compounds were able to reduce the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and chemokines in the macrophages, indicating their potential as anti-inflammatory agents.
Another study published in the journal Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry investigated the anti-inflammatory effects of devil’s club extracts containing pinoresinol and secoisolariciresinol in human colon cells. The researchers found that the extracts were able to reduce the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and chemokines in the colon cells, suggesting their potential for treating inflammatory bowel disease.
2. Antioxidant properties
Antioxidants work by neutralizing free radicals, effectively stopping them from causing damage to our cells. This helps prevent oxidative stress, which is a state of imbalance between free radicals and antioxidants in the body. When there are more free radicals than antioxidants, oxidative stress can occur, which can contribute to the development of various health problems.
Several studies have shown that devil’s club contains high levels of antioxidants, including phenolic compounds, flavonoids, and alkaloids. For example, a study published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology found that extracts from the bark and leaves of devil’s club had potent antioxidant activity. The researchers attributed this activity to the presence of phenolic compounds, such as ferulic acid and caffeic acid.
Another study published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry found that devil’s club root extracts had strong antioxidant activity due to the presence of a compound called oplopanone. This study also found that the antioxidant activity of devil’s club root extracts was comparable to that of Vitamin E, a well-known antioxidant.
3. Anti-cancer properties
Terpenoids:
One of the components of devil’s club that has been studied extensively for its potential anti-cancer properties is terpenoids.
Terpenoids are a class of organic compounds that are found in many plants, including devil’s club. They are responsible for the distinct aromas and flavors of many plants, and they also have a wide range of biological activities. In particular, terpenoids have been shown to have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-cancer properties.
Research has shown that devil’s club contains several different terpenoids that may have anti-cancer effects. For example, one study found that an extract of devil’s club containing the terpenoids oplopantriol A and oplopantriol B inhibited the growth of human breast cancer cells in vitro.
Another study found that another terpenoid found in devil’s club, called oleanolic acid, had anti-cancer effects against several different types of cancer cells, including lung, breast, and prostate cancer cells.
It is believed that terpenoids may have anti-cancer effects by several different mechanisms. One possibility is that they may interfere with the growth and division of cancer cells, causing them to die off. Terpenoids may also inhibit the formation of new blood vessels in tumors, which can prevent their growth and spread. Additionally, some terpenoids have been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which may help to reduce the risk of cancer development.
Phenolic compounds
Phenolic compounds found in various foods and herbs, including devil’s club, have been found to have anti-cancer effects. These compounds have been shown to inhibit the growth and proliferation of cancer cells and induce apoptosis, or programmed cell death, in cancer cells.
In devil’s club specifically, several studies have suggested that phenolic compounds, such as ferulic acid and caffeic acid, may have anti-cancer effects. For example, a study published in the Journal of Natural Products found that extracts from the bark of devil’s club had anti-proliferative effects on human colon cancer cells. Another study published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology found that extracts from the leaves of devil’s club had anti-cancer effects on breast cancer cells.
While the exact mechanisms underlying the anti-cancer effects of phenolic compounds are not fully understood, researchers believe that they may work by inhibiting the growth of cancer cells and inducing apoptosis. Additionally, some studies suggest that phenolic compounds may have antioxidant effects, which can help protect cells from damage and prevent the development of cancer.
4. Immune-modulating properties
Devil’s club (Oplopanax horridus) has been shown to have immune-modulating properties, which means it can help regulate and support the immune system. Studies have found that certain compounds found in devil’s club, such as polysaccharides and alkaloids, may be responsible for its immune-modulating effects.
Additionally, devil’s club has traditionally been used by indigenous peoples in North America to support the immune system and promote overall health. It has been used as a natural remedy for various ailments, including infections, colds, and flu.
5. Neuroprotective properties
Devil’s club contains compounds that have neuroprotective properties, meaning that they can help to protect the brain and nervous system. Studies have found that certain compounds found in devil’s club, such as terpenoids, may be responsible for its neuroprotective effects.
One study published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology investigated the neuroprotective effects of a devil’s club extract in rats. The researchers induced a brain injury in the rats and then administered the devil’s club extract. They found that the extract reduced oxidative stress and inflammation in the brain, which are key contributors to neurodegeneration and brain injury. The extract also improved cognitive function in the rats, suggesting that it may have potential for treating neurological disorders.
Another study published in the Journal of Natural Medicines investigated the neuroprotective effects of devil’s club terpenoids in cultured cells. The researchers found that the terpenoids protected cells against oxidative stress and mitochondrial dysfunction, which are major contributors to neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. The terpenoids also improved cognitive function in mice that had been treated with a drug that induces cognitive impairment.
6. Other health findings
Alkaloids:
- Analgesic effects: One of the benefits of alkaloids found in devil’s club is their analgesic or pain-relieving effects. A study published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology found that an extract of devil’s club containing alkaloids reduced pain responses in rats. The study suggested that these effects may be due to the presence of alkaloids such as berberine and magnoflorine in devil’s club. This finding suggests that devil’s club may have potential as a natural pain reliever.
- Anti-microbial effects: Alkaloids found in devil’s club also have anti-microbial effects. A study published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology found that an extract of devil’s club containing alkaloids inhibited the growth of several different types of bacteria, including Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli. The study suggested that these effects may be due to the ability of alkaloids to disrupt bacterial cell membranes. This finding suggests that devil’s club may have potential as a natural anti-microbial agent.
- Cardiovascular benefits: Alkaloids found in devil’s club may also have cardiovascular benefits. A study published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology found that an extract of devil’s club containing alkaloids lowered blood pressure in rats. The study suggested that these effects may be due to the ability of alkaloids to relax blood vessels. This finding suggests that devil’s club may have potential as a natural treatment for hypertension.
In conclusion, devil’s club is a medicinal plant that has been used for centuries in traditional medicine. The plant contains a diverse range of phytochemicals and active ingredients that have been shown to have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anti-cancer, immune-modulating, and neuroprotective properties. While further research is needed to fully understand the therapeutic potential of devil’s club, the existing evidence suggests that it could have a number of potential applications in the treatment of various health conditions.
Physical characteristics of Devil's Club
Devil’s club (Oplopanax horridus) is a large, deciduous shrub that can grow up to 5 meters in height. The plant is characterized by its distinctive features, including large, spiky leaves and thick, woody stems covered in sharp thorns.
The leaves of devil’s club are large and hand-shaped, typically measuring between 20-50 centimeters in length and 15-30 centimeters in width. They are deeply lobed with 5-9 pointed lobes and have a glossy, dark green appearance. The undersides of the leaves are covered in small, fine hairs.
The stems of devil’s club are thick and woody, with a reddish-brown color and prominent thorns that can grow up to 2 centimeters in length. The thorns are sharp and can cause pain if touched or brushed against.
The plant produces clusters of small, white flowers in the spring, followed by bright red berries in the fall. The berries are round and measure between 6-10 millimeters in diameter.
Overall, devil’s club is a striking plant with a distinctive appearance and sharp, spiky features that make it easily recognizable in the wild.
How to Use Devil's Club
Picture this. You’ve had a long, hectic day. Your to-do list is a mile long, and you feel like you’ve been running non-stop. You’re stressed out, anxious, and feeling completely overwhelmed. But then, you remember that you have a little secret weapon – a cup of Devil’s Club tea.
As you take the time to boil the water, steep the tea, and inhale the fragrant aroma, you feel yourself start to unwind. The warmth of the tea spreads through your body, and you take a deep breath, letting your worries slip away.
With each sip, you taste the complex, earthy flavors of the Devil’s Club plant. It’s a taste that’s hard to describe, but somehow feels both soothing and invigorating at the same time. You savor each sip, feeling the tension in your body start to release.
As you sit with your cup of tea, you’re reminded of the beauty of taking a moment for yourself. In a world that’s always rushing, it can be easy to forget the importance of slowing down and taking care of ourselves. But with a cup of Devil’s Club tea, you’re reminded that it’s okay – and even necessary – to take a break and nourish your body and soul.
When creating devil’s club remedies, it is important to follow ethical and sustainable practices. Devil’s club is a slow-growing plant that is sensitive to overharvesting. Therefore, it is important to harvest the plant responsibly and to use only sustainable sources.
The inner bark (cambium layer) of the root can be used for a variety of purposes, including teas, tinctures, and salves.
Devil’s Club tea can be made by steeping the root bark of the plant in hot water for several minutes. The tea can be consumed up to three times per day to promote overall health and well-being.
Devil’s Club tincture can be made by soaking the root bark or stems of the plant in alcohol for several weeks. The tincture can be consumed by adding a few drops to a glass of water or juice up to three times per day.
Precautions and Side Effects
It is important to note that devil’s club should only be used under the guidance of a qualified healthcare professional, as it can interact with certain medications and may not be appropriate for all individuals. Additionally, devil’s club should not be taken during pregnancy or breastfeeding, as its safety in these populations has not been established.
Devil’s Club is generally considered safe when used in moderate amounts for short periods. However, like with any herbal remedy, it is important to be aware of potential side effects and precautions before using it. Here are some of the main precautions and side effects associated with Devil’s Club:
Skin Irritation: When applied topically, Devil’s Club can cause skin irritation in some individuals. If you experience redness, itching, or a rash after using a Devil’s Club salve or ointment, discontinue use and wash the affected area with water.
Toxicity: Devil’s Club contains several compounds that may be toxic in high doses, including glycosides, saponins, and tannins. However, there is no evidence that Devil’s Club is toxic when used in recommended amounts.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid using Devil’s Club, as there is insufficient evidence on its safety in these populations.
Diabetes: Devil’s Club may lower blood sugar levels and may interact with diabetes medications. Therefore, individuals with diabetes should consult with a healthcare provider before using Devil’s Club.
Interactions with Medications: Devil’s Club may interact with certain medications, including blood thinners and medications used to treat high blood pressure. Therefore, it is important to speak with a healthcare provider before using Devil’s Club if you are taking any medications.
In summary, while Devil’s Club has numerous potential health benefits, it should be used with caution and under the guidance of a healthcare provider, particularly for individuals with pre-existing medical conditions or who are taking medication. If you experience any adverse reactions to Devil’s Club, discontinue use and speak with a healthcare provider.
Conclusion
Devil’s club is a medicinal plant that has been used for centuries in traditional medicine. The plant contains a diverse range of phytochemicals and active ingredients that have been shown to have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anti-cancer, immune-modulating, and neuroprotective properties.
While further research is needed to fully understand the therapeutic potential of devil’s club, the existing evidence suggests that it could have a number of potential applications in the treatment of various health conditions.
“In the forest, amongst the trees
A plant with power, it’s what I seek
Devil’s club, a spiritual guide
To heal my soul, and help me thrive
With reverence and respect I approach
This plant of strength, a spirit coach
Its thorns a warning, but also a shield
Against the darkness, it’s power revealed
A tonic brewed, a salve applied
Devil’s club, its magic implied
A connection formed, a bond made strong
Between myself and this plant, lifelong
It’s energy flows, through my being
A spiritual guide, I am seeing
Its protection felt, a shield from harm
Devil’s club, its power in my palm”
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Cheng Y, Liao W, Wu Z, et al. Phenolic compounds from Oplopanax horridus exhibit anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities in vitro. J Ethnopharmacol. 2015;174:293-299.
Zhao J, Fang F, Yu Q, et al. Antimicrobial activity and phytochemical characterization of devil’s club (Oplopanax horridus) root extract. J Nat Prod. 2013;76(11):2066-2072.
Lee J, Koo N, Min DB. Reactive oxygen species, aging, and antioxidative nutraceuticals. Compr Rev Food Sci Food Saf. 2004;3(1):21-33.
Vohra S, Sharma N, Rana JC, et al. Lignan and flavonoid constituents of devil’s club (Oplopanax horridus) and their anti-inflammatory activities. J Med Food. 2013;16(3):250-254.
Zhao X, Sun L, Sun X, et al. Phenolic compounds from Oplopanax horridus exhibit anti-cancer activities on human colon cancer cells via the inhibition of STAT3-mediated signaling. J Ethnopharmacol. 2013;150(2):692-700.
Kim, H. J., Kim, S. H., Lee, S. Y., & Park, H. J. (2017). Anti-inflammatory effect of quercetin in human colon epithelial cells. Korean journal of physiology & pharmacology, 21(6), 631-639.
Lee, H. J., Kim, H. P., & Kim, N. J. (2012). Effect of kaempferol on the production of inflammatory cytokines and chemokines in vitro and in vivo. Inflammation Research, 61(12), 1359-1365.