Devil's Claw ( Harpagophytum Procumbens )
Introduction
This now endangered plant has its origins in Northern Africa where its valuable roots are harvested for a worldwide herbal industry. Its botanical name is Harpagophytum procumbens. There are a number of other species under the genus of Harpagophytum sold as Devil’s Claw but they are not as effective as procumbens.
Devil’s Claw Active Ingredients
These consist of Beta sisterols, Iridoid Glycosides (harpogoside, harpagide, procumbine). Our research here in new Zealand has found a few readily available species sharing some of the same active ingredients. Its remains to be seen if these are as effective as Devil’s Claw.
Research
German studies have shown that this plant has strong anti-inflammatory properties compared to cortisone and phenylbutazone.
It has a healing reputation for arthritis and myalgia.
It has pain relieving properties.
The active ingredients responsible for this are harpogoside and Beta sitosterol.
Experiments show that the whole group of active ingredients works better than isolating just a few.
Bitter principles act to stimulate liver, gall bladder and lower blood sugar.
Devil’s Claw Medicinal Uses
Caution do not use in conjunction with allopathic medicines without informing your health professional. Devils’ Claw stimulates uterine muscles must not be given to pregnant women, pets or mares.
People
Long term use of Devil’s Claw for managing arthritis and degenerative conditions.
As a pain reliever and anti-inflammatory treatment for acute conditions like injuries.
May help with the inflammatory response in some cases of hay fever .
Used in conjunction with yarrow tincture may help with the treatment of tendon and ligament injuries
May be suitable for those concerned about the side effects of allopathic pain killers and cortisone and wishing to get off long term pain medication.
May be used for systemic inflammation.
Used in conjunction with St John’s wort may help with long term back aches and/or muscular pain.
Horses
Long term use of Devil’s Claw for managing arthritis and degenerative conditions. Suitable for the older horse.
Administer prior to working on hard ground to reduce concussive injury or damage.
May be used to alleviate pain associated with laminitis.
May be used to alleviate discomfort due to allergies in particular may help with headshaking where the trigeminal nerve is senstive.
Is slightly sedating and may help with general sensitivity (anticipating discomfort) to being ridden and handled.
Pets
Devil’s Claw is suitable for pets recovering from surgery after going off veterinary medication
may be used for long term management for pain associated with degenerative conditions and the process of aging.