Clinical trials performed using pharmaceutical drugs demonstrated the importance of anti-inflammatory agents (NSAIDs: non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) in the reduction of pain and stiffness in patients with rheumatoid arthritis. NSAIDs help manage the chronic pain, inflammation, and swelling associated with RA. What about a natural NSAID?

There have more than 23 clinical trials with Devil's claw in patients with osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis or low back pain. It is this clinical data that led to the following statements in the Natural Standard database ( a private, independent organization): 'There is a growing body of scientific evidence suggesting that devil's claw is safe and beneficial in the short-term management of pain related to degenerative joint disease or osteoarthritis. It may be equally effective as drug therapies, such as non-steroidal anti inflammatory drugs (or may allow for dose reductions of cessation of these drugs in some patients).'

Based on this body of clinical evidence, I would recommend that you take Devil's claw. You can obtain additional local pain relief by applying a counterirritant-based gel on your wrist. This can be done 3 to 4 times a day, as required.

If you are looking for a good brand of Devil's claw, I recommend EnteriPhyte which is available via your health care practitioner. If you are looking for a retail brand: look for Vitalis Relief from Wampole Inc in pharmacy retail stores (or on-line at http://www.wampole.ca/search-results.html ) and CuraPhyte Relief from CuraPhyte Technologies in health food stores. Both companies use Devil's claw as an anti-inflammatory agent in these products. For the counterirritant gel: see Vitalis Comfort Gel or CuraPhyte Relief Gel.