Based on my own experience using devil's claw, I believe that it is an effective analgesic and anti inflammatory. I started taking an extract prepared by Herb Pharm last year, then due to monetary issues of thriftiness, purchased a bulk supply of the root from Mountain Rose Herbs, and made my own extract, which turned out to be quite a bit stronger than Herb Pharm's extract. Before my extract was ready, I tried it as an infusion, which was extremely bitter. I prefer the extract. To date, I have suffered no unpleasant side effects from the use of this herb.

http://medicinalplants.us/devils-claw-background-actions

http://www.umm.edu/altmed/articles/devils-claw-000237.htm