Note: Herbal monographs are an effective way to present information on an individual herb, however please be aware that these are for information and eduction purposes only. We always advise seeing a professional medical herbalist if you are taking medication, pregnant or are suffering from a medical complaint.

Name: Harpagophytum procumbens (Pedaliaceae) Devil's Claw
Parts Used: rhizome / tuber
Native To: Southern and Eastern Africa
Trad Use: Tonic for digestive problems. Used for arthritis and rheumatism.
Mod Use: Anti-inflammatory, anodyne, hepatic
Pharmacy: Decoction: 1/2 to 1 teaspoonful of rhizome in cup of water, bring it to the boil, simmer for l0-l5 minutes. TID. Take at least 1 month
Tincture: Tincture 1:5 25%
Indications: Inflammatory conditions including arthritis
Inflammed Joints: Arthritis (may be due to the presence of harpagoside). Misc:
Constituents:
Iridoid glycosides; harpagide, harpagoside and procumbide
Flavonoids; kaempferol and luteolin glycosides
Phenolic acids; chlorogenic and cinnamic acid
A quinine; harpagoquinone
Miscellaneous; triterpenes, oleanolic & ursolic acid derivatives, esters, sugars (especially stachyose).
Phytosterols; -sitosterol
Actions: The iridoid glycosides are the most bitter of all plant components. Healing properties for arthritis and myalgia. Also diuretic, stimulates liver and gallbladder and lymphatic system and lowers blood sugar.
Contraindications: Not recommended for someone with gastic or duodenal ulcer, gallstones or stomach inflammation. Not recommeded during pregnancy
References: References