Harpagophytum procumbens is an African botanical native to Southern African deserts of Kalahari and Namib. It is commonly referred to as Devil’s claw, a name derived from the appearance of its fruit which possesses hook-like projections. The part of the plant with medicinal value is the roots and the tubers.
Medicinal Uses
Devil’s claw is widely used principally in the treatment of arthritis, tendonitis, atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries), fibromyalgia and gout. It is also used in the treatment of gastrointestinal upset, migraine and bladder infections.
Effectiveness
Devil’s claw taken either in isolation or alongside other anti-inflammatory drugs has great potential to curb osteoarthritis pain. It mimics the action of Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and works just as well as NSAIDs. Evidence indicates that it works nearly as well as diacerhein, an osteoarthritis drug which is not available in the USA.
Advantage
It can be taken alongside other osteoarthritis drugs since it has no drug interactions.
Dosage
Effective dosage for osteoarthritis for an adult is between 2 and 2.6 grams of the powdered extract taken by mouth daily three times for 4 months.
Contraindications
Pregnant mothers should be cautious as the supplement may stimulate the uterus.