Harpagophytum procumbens
Common name: Devil's Claw, Grapple Plant, Wood Spider, Windhoek's Root
Family: Pedaliaceae
Part used: Secondary root tubers, but not the root which does not contain the active compounds.
Habitat: Devil's claw is a herbaceous perennial which grows in the Kalahari Desert, Botswana, Namia and across South-West Africa. The name describes the claw-like curved protective spines around the fruit capsule. Leaves are gregreen and flowers are violet with yellow throat.
Folklore and History: Traditionally used in medicine in many cultures in South-West Africa
Constituents: Iridoid glycosides (mainly harpagoside), isoharpagoside, harpagide, procumbide. Triterpenes, phytosterols, phenolic acids, phenolic glycosides, flavonoids.
Actions: Anti-inflammatory, analgeslic, anti-rheumatic, bitter tonic.
Traditional and current uses:
- Osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis (traditionally used for 2-3 months to achieve relief)
- Gout
- Joint inflammation
- Lower back pain
- Myalgia
- Dyspepsia, to improve digestion and appetite
Disclaimer: The information on this website is provided for educational use only, and is not intended as a replacement for the services of a qualified medical herbalist, doctor or licensed health practitioner. The information contained herein is not diagnostic, always consult a medical health professional before embarking on a treatment programme. Urban Fringe Dispensary disclaims any liability, loss, injury or damage incurred as a consequence of the use and application of the advice given herein.