Research:

Devil's Claw

Devil's Claw

• Devil’s Claw is a flowering plant belonging to the sesame family. Its name comes from the hook-shaped fruit that resembles a claw.
• The roots of Devil's Claw contain various active compounds and are the part of the plant used in herbal supplements.
• It was first discovered by South African natives and introduced to Europeans in the early 1900s. The roots were traditionally used to support joint health and mobility.
• Iridoid glycosides, particularly harpagoside, are believed to be responsible for its popularity as a beneficial herb.
• Today, Devil's Claw is commonly used in Germany and France to promote healthy joint mobility and function.

White Willow Bark

• The bark of the white willow tree contains salicin, a natural compound.
• White Willow Bark may help support healthy joint mobility.
• It also contains powerful plant compounds called flavonoids. The combination of flavonoids and salicin is believed to contribute to the herb’s effects.
• Willow trees belong to the Salicaceae plant family and are native to Europe, Central Asia, and Northern Africa.
• Several species of willow trees are used to produce extracts and supplements, including:
  • White Willow (European willow)
  • Black Willow (Pussy Willow)
  • Crack Willow
  • Purple Willow
• Once salicin is absorbed, it breaks down into various salicylate derivatives, which are known for their health-promoting properties.

Alfalfa

• The University of Rochester Medical Center states that "the use of Alfalfa is considered safe and seems to enhance certain immune system functions."
• Both historical and modern herbalists regard Alfalfa as one of the most comprehensive herbal supplements, as it contains a wide range of minerals, vitamins, and nutrients essential for overall health and well-being.
• Alfalfa is considered a "best practices" herb for ongoing support and maintenance of a healthy body.
• It is rich in protein, as well as vitamins A, B1, B6, C, E, and K. It also contains carotene, calcium, potassium, zinc, and iron. Alfalfa can be consumed in the form of leaves, tablets, or seeds.

Red Clover

• Studies suggest that red clover may support bone health due to its rich content of micronutrients.
  • Red clover is particularly high in phytoestrogenic isoflavones.
  • Diets rich in phytoestrogenic isoflavones are linked to improved skeletal health.
• Red clover contains several isoflavones, including daidzein, genistein, formononetin, and biochanin A. These are polyphenols with antioxidant properties and other health benefits.
  • The isoflavones daidzein, genistein, formononetin, and biochanin A are thought to interact with COX enzymes. This interaction is associated with reduced prostaglandin production, which may support immune balance and joint function.

The information above is for informational purposes only. They do not reflect or relate to the performance or purpose of any products that contain the ingredients being described on this page.

* "Herbal supplements are not drugs. They are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. *

Help Me Choose:

What is a Joint?

• Joints, also called articulations, are strong connections that link bones and cartilage together. Each joint is uniquely shaped and structured to control the range of motion between the parts it connects.

Types of Joints in the Human Body:

• Ball and Socket Joints:

• These joints allow for a wide range of movement, including rotation. Examples include the shoulder and hip joints.

• Condyloid Joints:

• Found in the jaw and fingers, these joints don't allow rotation but are versatile and essential for various movements.

• Gliding Joints:

• Present in the spine, ankle, and wrist, these joints enable bones to glide past one another in different directions.

• Hinge Joints:

• These joints function like a hinge, permitting movement in one direction, as seen in the knee and the elbow's bending part.

• Pivot Joints:

• Found in the neck and elbow, pivot joints allow bones to twist or rotate around each other.

• Saddle Joints:

• A great example is at the base of the thumb. These joints allow side-to-side and back-and-forth motion, but not full rotation.

These joint types play a crucial role in determining the range and type of motion possible in different parts of the body.

There are some terms that are commonly used to describe the motion of the bones at either end of the joint.

• Range of Motion
  • Most joints in the human body allow for movement, though some, like those in the skull, do not. Joints that do allow motion, such as the knee or ankle, have a predetermined range of motion. This range defines how far the joint can comfortably move or bend in each direction.
  • The range of motion is typically measured in degrees. For example, most joints extend up to 180 degrees or less. Think of the elbow or knee: they can bend until the upper and lower parts are close together and straighten until they reach about 180 degrees but can't go beyond that without causing pain or damage.
• Extension
  • Extension refers to straightening or moving the parts connected by a joint so that the bones are moved farther apart. This reduces the angle between the bones. Extension occurs when muscles contract and bones move to straighten the joint.
• Flexion
  • Flexion is the bending of a joint, bringing the bones closer together and decreasing the angle between them. Flexion occurs when muscles contract and pull the bones into a bent position.

How Many Joints Are in the Human Body?

The human body has 360 joints, all of which are subject to wear and tear over time. These include:

• 66 joints in the thorax (chest).
• 76 joints in the spine and pelvis.
• 54 joints in the hands (27 in each hand).
• 66 joints in the feet and ankles (33 in each foot).
• Additional joints are found in the hips, knees, shoulders, elbows, and wrists.

Exercise for Joint Health

• Exercise can be beneficial for managing joint discomfort. Practices like Tai Chi and Yoga are particularly useful for improving mobility, but it’s advisable to consult a professional before starting any new exercise routine.

Diet and Joint Health

• A balanced diet is essential for supporting joint health. Here are some basic dietary tips:

• Foods to Avoid:

  • Sugars and refined carbohydrates

  • Alcohol and tobacco

  • Salt and preservatives

  • Advanced Glycation End products (AGEs): These substances form when foods are grilled, fried, or pasteurized and may affect joint health. (Yes, AGE can be tough on joints—pun intended! 😂)

By paying attention to diet and exercise, individuals may help maintain their joint health.

Foods to Support Joint Health:

• Super Fruits:

• Fruits like cherries, blueberries, raspberries, blackberries, and pomegranates contain natural compounds like anthocyanins and antioxidants that are thought to help support overall joint function.

• Peppers (Red Peppers, Cayenne):

• Peppers are known for promoting good circulation and are a rich source of vitamin C, which plays a role in producing collagen. Collagen is part of the structure in cartilage, tendons, and ligaments that supports joint stability. Citrus fruits, pineapples, and tomatoes are also high in vitamin C.

• Dark Green Leafy Vegetables:

• Vegetables such as kale, broccoli, Bok choy, and collard greens contain important nutrients like beta-carotene and vitamin C, as well as calcium and minerals that contribute to bone strength.

• Raw Nuts (Walnuts, Almonds, Peanuts, Pecans):

• Nuts provide natural antioxidants and healthy fats, including a type of Omega-3 fatty acid, which are believed to be good for supporting joint comfort and flexibility.

The information listed above is for informational purposes only. It does not reflect or relate to the performance or purpose of any products on this website.

* "Herbal supplements are not drugs. They are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. *

Health Information: 

Maintaining joint health is essential for supporting mobility and overall quality of life. A balanced approach that includes regular physical activity, a nutritious diet, and proper hydration can help promote healthy joints. Engaging in low-impact exercises such as swimming, walking, or cycling may reduce strain on the joints while helping to maintain flexibility and strength. Stretching and strengthening exercises that focus on joint stability may also support joint function over time. It’s important to listen to your body and adjust activity levels as needed to avoid overexertion.

Diet also plays a role in supporting joint health. Incorporating foods rich in nutrients like calcium, vitamin D, and omega-3 fatty acids may help maintain bone and joint function. Staying hydrated is another key factor, as water helps to keep cartilage, the tissue that cushions joints, lubricated. Including a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins in your diet can provide essential vitamins and minerals to support overall joint and bone health. Maintaining a healthy weight can also reduce stress on the joints, particularly in weight-bearing areas such as the knees and hips.

Ingredients:

• Devil's Claw (root), Yacca (root), Chaparral (herb), Burdock (root), White Willow (bark), Alfalfa (leaf), Hydrangea (root), Red Clover (tops), Horsetail Grass (herb), Skullcap (herb), Bladder Pod (herb)

Instructions:

2 Capsules twice a day 1/2 hour before meals.

What's Included:

1 Bottle of Grandma's Herbs ARTH-FX* - 100 Capsules - 555 mg.

Features:

• This natural herbal formula is designed to support healthy joint function and maintenance. Grandma's Herbs ARTH-FX features a blend of herbs traditionally associated with joint health, offering a balanced approach to promoting overall wellness.

  Ingredients like Devil's Claw and White Willow Bark are included in the formula and work together synergistically to support healthy joints. 

  ARTH-FX also includes chaparral, an herb traditionally used for its cleansing properties. Chaparral contains the antioxidant NDGA (nordihydroguaiaretic acid), which has been studied for its potential role in supporting the body's natural cleansing processes. 

The information listed above is for informational purposes only. It does not reflect or relate to the performance or purpose of any products on this website.

* "Herbal supplements are not drugs. They are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. *