Devil’s Claw for Pain – What You Need to Know

Devil’s claw (Harpagophytum procumbens) is a herb found in southern Africa, particularly the Kalahari desert. It is commonly found in the savannahs of Botswana, South Africa and Namibia and its name is derived from its fruit, which is covered by hooks that latch on the fur animals, which helps distribute its seeds as the animals roam. The devil’s claw roots have been used by the Khoisan people for centuries, mainly to alleviate pain, treat indigestion, arthritis and skin conditions. 

While you may come across other plants going by the term devil’s claw, including Proboscidea parviflora and Proboscidea altheaefolia found in the U.S,  Harpagophytum procumbens is the only kind known to have medicinal properties. 

The herb also goes by the names wood spider and grapple plant, but indigenous Africans commonly call it Kamangu, while the Afrikaans call it teufelskralle.

What are the Common Uses of Devil’s Claw? 

Most of the benefits of this herb can be attributed to a compound referred to as harpagoside, believed to have analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties. 

Devil’s claw is commonly used to treat rheumatic conditions affecting the muscles, bones, ligaments, tendons and joints. Examples include tendinitis, rheumatoid arthritis, back pain and osteoarthritis. Some even believe it can be used to treat nerve pain, sciatica, Lyme disease symptoms, gout and fibromyalgia. 

The plant’s dried roots infusions can be used to stimulate appetite and ease indigestion. Also, an ointment extracted from the roots can be used topically to heal boils, ulcers and sores. 

How to Improve Your Health With Devil’s Claw

While there is still more studies to be done in regards to the efficacy of devil’s claw, some research suggests that it can be effective in some situations including: 

1. Osteoarthritis

Recently, studies done on the herb’s extract have shown its potential in reducing osteoarthritis symptoms. According to a study published in the Joint Bone Spine journal, the plant’s extract containing 60mg of harpogoside compound was able to alleviate pain, enhance mobility and minimize the need for backup drugs in 61 participants who had hip or knee arthritis.  

These claims were further supported by a review of studies in Phytochemistry done in 2013. It suggested that regular use of the herb has the potential to alleviate osteoarthritic pain by about 60% compared to a placebo. 

2. Back Pain

A review that was published in the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews assessed trials published in the past regarding the use of herbs for back pain. Upon reviewing 14 random controlled trials, it was found that the herb’s extract (containing between 50mg and 100mg of harpagoside) was far better than a placebo in providing temporary relief to lower back pain. 

In regards to analgesic effects, the herb’s extract was found to be almost equivalent to consuming a rofecoxib or Vioxx dose of 12.5 milligrams. However, even after such a positive revelation, the researchers claimed the studies were of moderate quality at best. 

3. Rheumatoid Arthritis

This is an autoimmune condition whereby the immune system unknowingly attacks the body’s joints. Unlike osteoarthritis, whereby inflammatory substances like interleukin 6 trigger the symptoms, in rheumatoid arthritis, the issue is with proteins known as autoantibodies. These proteins direct the body’s defenses to the joints which leads to acute pain as well as inflammation.

This herb might seem to hamper IL-6 production, making it idea for those suffering from osteoarthritis. In reality,  its mechanism only makes it nominally effective in reversing inflammation associated brought about by rheumatoid arthritis.

Devil’s claw seems to be effective for some situations, but more research is required for several claims.