Considered a weed and despised by Farmers and Ranchers. Learn more about Devil’s Claw Many Benefits.
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Devil’s Claw, otherwise known as Unicorn plant, Boot catcher, Devil’s horn, Hoof hooker and Ram’s horn has the scientific name Proboscidea parviflora.
This plant has large spade like leaves and thick stems that quickly suck up moisture and holds it to keep the plant hydrated during the long hot summer months.
Being a Native plant to the south west it provides a source of protein and carbs for Honey bees and Native bees. Devil’s claw blooms just in time to help pollinators in the summer dearth (a time of no blooms or limited blooms).
Furthermore, Wild Turkey, Deer and sheep will graze the young flower heads when fresh grazing is not available. Devil’s claw is resilient and will produce more heads after grazing.
It’s trumpet like flower has a runway for bees to follow to the flowers sexual organ, aiding pollination.
Young, tender seed pods are edible for humans akin to Okra, just a bit more bitter. Wash your pods with water and boil for 2 minutes. After boiling you can saute them in butter for a wild treat. Seed from the wooden seed pod can be ground and used as flour or flour additive.
Medicinal are as follows, PLEASE CONSULT YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE USING DEVIL’S CLAW.
Tubers and roots are dried and ground for use in many over the counter dietary supplements. Some say that Devils Claw has helped with migraine headaches, back pain, gout, arthritis and chest pain to name a few.
Remember, when it comes to wild foods do your own research and always consult your Doctor.
This post is for educational purposes only.