Safety

Allergies

Avoid in individuals with a known allergy or hypersensitivity to devil's club. The spines on the stems and leaves are known to cause a topical allergic reaction.

Side Effects and Warnings

The American Herbal Products Association lists devil's club as Class 1, or "Herbs which can be safely consumed when used appropriately," though a duration of safe use is not specified. Devil's club is not listed by the U.S. Food and Drugs Administration (FDA) as generally recognized as safe (GRAS).

Chronic ingestion of a devil's club infusion may cause too much weight gain. The spines on the stems and leaves have been known to cause a topical allergic reaction. Diarrhea has occurred in one patient taking an aqueous extract of inner root bark.

Devil's club may also lower blood sugar levels. Caution is advised in patients with diabetes (high blood sugar) or hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), and in those taking drugs, herbs, or supplements that affect blood sugar. Serum glucose levels may need to be monitored by a qualified healthcare professional, including a pharmacist, and medication adjustments may be necessary.

Pregnancy & Breastfeeding

Devil's club is not recommended in pregnant or breastfeeding women due to a lack of available scientific evidence. Devil's club may expel afterbirth and start post- partum menstrual flow.

Interactions

Interactions with Drugs

Devil's club may lower blood sugar levels. Caution is advised when using medications that may also lower blood sugar. Patients taking drugs for diabetes by mouth or insulin should be monitored closely by a qualified healthcare professional, including a pharmacist. Medication adjustments may be necessary.

Interactions with Herbs & Dietary Supplements

Devil's club may lower blood sugar levels. Caution is advised when using herbs or supplements that may also lower blood sugar. Blood glucose levels may require monitoring, and doses may need adjustment.