Devil's claw (harpagophytum)

Table of Contents

Other names

devil's claw

Synopsis

Devil’s claw (Harpagophytum procumbens) is a perennial plant native to the Kalahari Desert and savannas of southern Africa, particularly Namibia, Botswana, and South Africa. It gets its name from the hook-like projections on its seed pods, which resemble claws. The tuberous root of the plant is the medicinal part, widely known for its use in managing pain, inflammation, and musculoskeletal conditions.

Devil’s claw contains several active compounds, primarily iridoid glycosides—most notably harpagoside—which exhibit anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antioxidant activity. It also includes flavonoids and phenolic acids that support its therapeutic effects.

Modern clinical and herbal uses include:

  • Reducing joint pain and stiffness associated with osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis
  • Supporting lower back pain, neck pain, and tendonitis
  • Alleviating digestive discomfort, especially in traditional bitter formulas
  • Supporting mobility and quality of life in aging populations or athletes
  • Providing a natural alternative to NSAIDs, with a lower risk of gastrointestinal side effects

Devil’s claw is typically consumed as capsules, tablets, tinctures, or standardized extracts, often combined with turmeric, boswellia, or willow bark in anti-inflammatory blends. It is considered safe when used at recommended doses, though it may be contraindicated for individuals with stomach ulcers or gallstones due to its bitter and stimulating effects on digestion.

Historical Use
Devil’s claw has been used for centuries in traditional African medicine, particularly by the San and Khoi peoples of the Kalahari region. Indigenous healers used the root as a remedy for fevers, digestive complaints, blood disorders, rheumatism, and pain. It was often prepared as a decoction or poultice and also used topically for wounds, sores, and skin inflammation.

The plant gained global attention in the early 20th century when European settlers observed its traditional use and brought it back to Germany, where it became widely studied and adopted into phytotherapy and homeopathic medicine. Since then, numerous clinical trials have supported its use for chronic musculoskeletal pain and inflammation, especially in osteoarthritis and back pain, often showing results comparable to conventional pain relievers but with better tolerability.

In modern herbal practice, devil’s claw remains one of the most trusted natural anti-inflammatories for joint and connective tissue health, valued for its effectiveness, safety, and deep ethnobotanical roots.

Uses: Health Conditions

Sciatica (Traditional)

Body Systems

Spleen (Traditional)
Structural System (Traditional)
Gall Bladder (Traditional)
Immune System (Traditional)
Intestinal System (Traditional)
Joints (Traditional)
Lungs (Traditional)
Pituitary (anterior) (Traditional)