Devil’s Claw

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.