Herb Pharm Devil's Claw

Our assessment

The evidence shows that this product contains calcium, a mineral essential for bone health and nerve function. However, data on the specific formulation of this Devil's Claw product is limited. Our assessment is that while calcium has well-documented benefits, the high number of adverse event reports for calcium-containing products warrants careful consideration before you start taking this supplement [NIH ODS] [FDA data].

How it works

Calcium acts as a master regulator for your body. It supports bone mineralization by helping deposit minerals into your bone structure, and it promotes neuromuscular relaxation by aiding muscle relaxation and nerve signaling [NIH ODS]. Think of it as a key nutrient that keeps your bones strong and your nerves communicating effectively.

Safety profile

The FDA has received a total of 592,059 adverse event reports for products like this. High calcium intakes might increase the risk of heart disease and prostate cancer. High levels in the blood and urine can cause poor muscle tone, poor kidney function, low phosphate levels, constipation, nausea, weight loss, extreme tiredness, frequent need to urinate, abnormal heart rhythms, and a high risk of death from heart disease [FDA data] [NIH ODS]. Calcium can also reduce the absorption of several medications, including bisphosphonates, tetracycline antibiotics, fluoroquinolone antibiotics, levothyroxine, and phenytoin [NIH ODS].

Our recommendation

We recommend you speak with your healthcare provider before taking this product, especially if you take any prescription medications or have a history of kidney problems or heart disease. Start with the lowest effective dose and monitor for side effects like constipation or nausea. Data not available for specific dosage recommendations for this formulation [NIH ODS] [FDA data].

Supplement labels contain several key sections regulated by the FDA:

• Serving Size — The recommended amount per dose. Always check this — some products require multiple capsules per serving.
• Amount Per Serving — Shows the quantity of each nutrient in the product, typically in IU (International Units), mg (milligrams), or mcg (micrograms).
• % Daily Value (%DV) — Indicates how much a nutrient in a serving contributes to a daily diet. 5% DV or less is low; 20% DV or more is high.
• Other Ingredients — Lists inactive ingredients like fillers, binders, and capsule materials (e.g., gelatin, cellulose, magnesium stearate).
• Suggested Use — The manufacturer's recommended directions for taking the supplement, including timing and dosage.

Source: FDA Dietary Supplement Labeling Guide