Devil’s Claw Plant: Discover the Potential Health Benefits

The devil’s claw plant is one of the most effective remedies phytotherapy has to treat rheumatic conditions.

The Healing Properties of the Devil’s Claw Plant

Since the early 20^th century, the root of the devil’s claw has been analyzed in depth, mainly in German laboratories, and has been the object of much research. More than 40 active substances have been discovered in this root, among which the most outstanding are monoterpene glycosides of the iridoid group (glycoiridoid), harpagine, harpagide, and procumbide. The devil’s claw plant owes its analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and antispasmodic properties to these substances.

The devil’s claw plant also has wound-healing properties and decreases blood cholesterol and uric acid levels. Its indications are the following:

Anti-inflammatory and antirheumatic – Devil’s claw plant is recommended for rheumatic aches caused by arthrosis. Good results are obtained for cervical, lumbar, hip, and knee arthrosis. This has been confirmed by clinical research. After two or three months of treatment, articular motility improves significantly, and pain disappears. The plant has proven helpful for all kinds of articular rheumatism.

Unlike many anti-inflammatory medicines, devil’s claw root does not produce irritant effects on the digestive system. It completely lacks any side effects when taken in therapeutic doses.

The antirheumatic properties of the devil’s claw plant are produced both when it is taken orally and when it is applied externally. The best effects are achieved when simultaneously combining internal and external applications of the devil’s claw.

Depurative – This plant promotes the elimination through the urine of acid metabolic waste, like uric acid, which is the causative agent of gout and many cases of arthritis (inflammation of the joints).

Antispasmodic – It relaxes spasms, intestinal colic, irritable bowel, and biliary and renal colic.

Hypolipemic – Devil’s claw reduces the cholesterol level in the blood and regenerates the elastic fibers that make arterial walls, thus essential for arteriosclerosis.

Cicatrizant – When externally applied, this plant is an excellent cicatrizant (heals wounds) for all kinds of injuries and skin sores.

The devil’s claw is mainly used as a remedy for arthritis, lumbago, gout, and rheumatism. It is a blood cleanser that helps remove deposits in the joints and assists in uric acid elimination from the body. It relieves pain and reduces inflammation. As a diuretic, digestive stimulant, and soothing, it helps treat menopausal symptoms, arteriosclerosis, kidneys, gallbladder and liver ailments, and allergies.

Devil’s Claw Plant Scientific Facts

1. Scientific Name – Harpagophytum procumbens Dec.
2. French – Herpagophytum
3. Spanish – Harpagofito
4. Environment—It is native to South Africa, the nearby areas of the Kalahari desert, and Namibia. It grows in argillaceous and sandy soils.
5. Description—This is a vibrant plant of the Pedsacliaceae family, with single purple flowers similar to foxgloves. The fruit grows at soil level and is woody, with hooks. The primary root is a long tuber; secondary roots, like peanuts, grow. These have a very sour flavor and are the medicinal part of the plant.
6. Parts of the plant used medicinally – The secondary roots.

How to use Devil’s Claw

1. Infusion – The usual dose is 15 grams (a spoonful) of root powder per half a liter of water. Steep for half an hour to one hour. Drink three or four cups per day.
2. Capsules—Due to its sour flavor, devil’s claw is also available as capsules containing root powder. Three or four should be swallowed daily. We recommend that you take infusions of pharmaceutical preparations of devil’s claw before meals.
3. Compresses or fomentations soaked in the infusion are described for internal use, though it is better to prepare them more concentratedly. Apply directly on the affected skin area several times.

Decoction: Simmer for fifteen minutes and take six ounces three times daily. Tincture: Take ½ to one teaspoon three times daily.

DISCLAIMER: All content on this website is presented solely for educational and informational objectives. Do not rely on the information provided as a replacement for advice, diagnosis, or treatment from a qualified medical expert. If you are pregnant, nursing, or have any preexisting medical concerns, talk to your doctor before using any herbal or natural medicines.

REFERENCES

1. George D. Pamplona-Roger, M.D. “Encyclopedia of Medicinal Plants.” George D. Pamplona-Roger, M.D. Encyclopedia of Medicinal Plants. Ed. Francesc X. Gelabert. vols. 2 San Fernando de Henares: Editorial Safeliz, 2000. 670, 671. Print. [devil’s claw plant]
2. Vance Ferrell Harold M. Cherne, M.D. The Natural Remedies Encyclopedia [Book]. – Altamont, TN: Harvestime Books, 2010. – Vol. Seventh Edition: 7: pp. 155.
3. WebMD: https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-984/devils-claw
4. Verywell Health: https://www.verywellhealth.com/devils-claw-what-should-i-know-about-it-89445

Last update on 2025-06-07 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API