Devil's Claw (Harpagophytum procumbens)


Family

  • Pedaliaceae

Constituents

  • Bitter principles
  • Iridoids: harpagoside
  • Arpagoside
  • Phytosterols

Parts used

  • Roots

Properties

  • Anti-inflammatory
  • Cartilage protector
  • Analgesic

Note: The anti-inflammatory effects of this plant appear quickly, but full efficiency usually appears only after 3 weeks of treatment.

Side effects

  • Gastrointestinal complications such as stomach burning (gastritis) and pain (in some cases hemorrhagic-type burning with gastrointestinal bleeding)
  • Headaches
  • Duodenal ulcers
  • Allergies with the appearance of red spots
  • Hallucinations

Contraindications

  • Pregnancy and lactation
  • Gastrointestinal ulcers
  • Allergy to this plant
  • Children under 3 years of age

Interactions

  • Certain anticoagulants
  • Cardiovascular drugs, such as those against hypertension (risk of hypotension)
  • Cholesterol-lowering drugs
  • NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs)

Preparations