Devil's claw originates from the sandy steppe regions of the Kalahari Desert and has long been known in Africa as a medicinal plant. Here, too, extracts from its root are becoming increasingly popular, especially as a supportive aid for joints and flexibility.
What does devil's claw look like?
Devil's claw (Harpagophytum procumbens) is a herbaceous plant from the sesame family. Also known as the grapple plant, this growth develops ground-hugging shoots up to 1.5 m long. Its strikingly large flowers are reddish-violet in color. The woody fruits have arm-like outgrowths that bear anchor-like hooks, from which the plant gets its name.
What active ingredients does the devil's claw root offer?
Of medical interest regarding devil's claw are its tuberous storage roots, as they contain iridoid glycosides, including harpagoside, small amounts of procumbide as well as harpagide and phenol glycosides. In addition, the devil's claw roots, which can weigh up to 600 grams, contain a high level of water-soluble carbohydrates. Further components include flavonoids, triterpenes, and phytosterols. Once crushed and dried, the roots can be used as a tea, as a tincture, or in finished preparations. However, since the extract tastes very bitter, taking it in capsule form is recommended.
How does devil's claw work?
Preparations made from the roots of devil's claw have anti-inflammatory and mild pain-relieving effects. Therefore, they are used for the supportive treatment of the joints. Due to the bitter taste of the iridoids, extracts from the devil's claw root are also used for loss of appetite and to promote bile production to support digestion.
What should you consider when taking devil's claw?
In rare cases, taking devil's claw preparations can lead to allergic reactions, nausea, vomiting, or headaches. If you suffer from a stomach or duodenal ulcer, you should definitely avoid such preparations. If you have gallstone disease, you should only use them after consulting your doctor.
By the way: The population of the wild-growing devil's claw is severely threatened, and careful handling of this medicinal plant is urgently needed. Therefore, nowadays only the branched secondary roots are harvested, while the main root is left in the soil so that it can soon form new shoots there.
Good to know: Regular exercise helps you prevent or alleviate joint problems. You can find more information on how to keep your musculoskeletal system running smoothly here.
• Read in our expert interview what can be done to prevent knee and hip surgeries. Find out more here.
