Devil's Claw

Scientific names: Harpagophytum procumbens

Common names: Devil's claw also is known as grapple plant.

Efficacy-safety rating:

ÒÒ...Ethno or other evidence of efficacy.

Safety rating:

●...Little exposure or very minor concerns.

What is Devil's Claw?

Devil's claw grows naturally in the Kalahari desert and Namibian steppes of southwest Africa. The secondary roots are used in decoctions and teas.

What is Devil's Claw used for?

Traditional/Ethnobotanical uses

Devil's claw has been used by native Africans as a folk remedy for diseases ranging from liver and kidney disorders to allergies, headaches, and, most commonly, rheumatisms. This drug, however, is more widely used in South Africa, especially by Bushmen, Hottentots, and Bantu. Devil's claw is marketed in Canada and Europe as a home remedy for the relief of arthritic disease.

Miscellaneous uses

Devil's claw is a folk remedy used for an extensive range of diseases, including arthritis and rheumatism. Research suggests it may be useful as a hypotensive, anti-arrhythmic, anti-inflammatory, and analgesic. The major chemical component, which has been thought to be responsible for the anti-inflammatory activity of devil's claw, is harpagoside. There are no clinical studies supporting these uses.

What is the dosage of Devil's Claw?

Devil's claw has been studied for low back pain, muscle pain, and osteoarthritis using daily doses of crude tuber up to 9 g daily, 1 to 3 g of extract, and 50 to 100 mg of harpagoside. Standardized preparations include LI 174 (Rivoltan), Doloteffin (more than 50 mg harpagoside), and WS 1531. A level of more than 1 harpagoside in root is considered acceptable.