Devil's Club
Other names for Devil's Club
certified organic devil\'s club extract
certified organic devil\'s club (oplopanax horridus) dried root bark liquid extract
devil\'s club
devil\'s club extractives
devil\'s club root bark concentrate, freeze-dried
devil\'s club root bark extract
devil\'s club root bark extract, dry
devil\'s club root bark (oplopanax horridus) extract
dried devil\'s club root bark extract
dried devil\'s club root extract
fresh devil\'s club
Synopsis of Devil's Club
History
Devil’s Club (Oplopanax horridus) is a remarkable medicinal plant native to the forests of the Pacific Northwest and Alaska. For centuries, Indigenous peoples of these regions have revered Devil’s Club for its impressive healing properties. Traditionally, the bark and roots were carefully harvested and used to prepare teas, poultices, and salves. These remedies addressed a variety of ailments, including colds, coughs, digestive issues, arthritis, and skin conditions. In particular, Devil’s Club was highly valued as a general tonic and for its ability to alleviate pain and inflammation, making it a cornerstone of Indigenous herbal medicine.
Devil’s Club’s roots and inner bark were often brewed into medicinal teas to help manage respiratory ailments and to support the immune system. Topically, poultices made from the plant were applied to wounds, sores, and joint pains to promote healing and reduce discomfort. The plant’s adaptogenic properties—helping the body cope with physical and emotional stress—have also been recognized and sought after.
In modern herbalism, Devil’s Club is frequently included in combination formulas. It is blended with other roots and herbs such as echinacea, burdock, and licorice to create potent immune support and detoxification blends. Its unique synergy with these botanicals enhances their effectiveness, making it a valued component in natural health products. Overall, Devil’s Club stands out as a testament to the wisdom of traditional medicine and continues to offer valuable contributions to modern herbal remedies.
Traditional and scientific validation
Devil’s Club (Oplopanax horridus) is a medicinal plant native to the Pacific Northwest and Alaska, traditionally used by Indigenous peoples for a variety of health purposes. Historically, its root and bark have been prepared as teas, salves, and poultices to address ailments such as diabetes, digestive issues, arthritis, and infections. Ethnobotanical records highlight its importance in Native American healing systems, where it was sometimes regarded as a spiritual protector as well as a physical remedy.
Modern scientific research into Devil’s Club is still in the early stages, but preliminary studies have identified the presence of bioactive compounds such as polyynes, sesquiterpenes, and lignans, which may contribute to its purported anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and blood sugar-modulating properties. Laboratory investigations have shown that extracts of Devil’s Club can inhibit the growth of certain bacteria and fungi, and some in vitro studies suggest potential for reducing inflammation and regulating glucose metabolism. Despite this promise, human clinical trials are limited, and definitive evidence of efficacy in treating specific conditions remains to be established.
Overall, Devil’s Club represents a fascinating example of a traditional remedy with emerging scientific interest. While its inclusion in nutritional products is largely based on historical use and encouraging laboratory findings, further rigorous research—including controlled human studies—is needed to fully validate its health benefits. Nonetheless, Devil’s Club continues to be appreciated for its cultural significance and potential contributions to natural health.
Devil's Club is used for these health conditions
Abuse and Trauma (Traditional)
Addictions (general remedies for) (Traditional)
Alcoholism (Traditional)
Arthritis (Traditional)
Backache (Traditional)
Bites and Stings (Traditional)
Bleeding (external) (Traditional)
Boils (Traditional)
Bruises (healing) (Traditional)
Bruises (prevention) (Traditional)
Burns and Scalds (Traditional)
Cuts (Traditional)
Depression (Traditional)
Diabetes (Traditional)
Ear Infection or Earache (Traditional)
Fatigue (Traditional)
Fever (Traditional)
Glands (swollen lymph) (Traditional)
Inflammation (Traditional)
Injuries (Traditional)
Insect Repellant (Traditional)
Kidney Infection (Traditional)
Lymph Nodes or Glands (swollen) (Traditional)
Mood Swings (Traditional)
Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (Traditional)
Rashes and Hives (Traditional)
Scratches and Abrasions (Traditional)
Stress (Traditional)
Wounds and Sores (Traditional)
Devil's Club is used to support these body systems
Adrenal Glands (Traditional)
Blood (Traditional)
Digestive System (Traditional)
Glandular System (Traditional)
Immune System (Traditional)
Joints (Traditional)
Liver (Traditional)
Lungs (Traditional)
Mucus Membranes (Traditional)
Pancreas Head (Traditional)
Respiratory System (Traditional)
Skin (Traditional)
Urinary System (Traditional)
