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.

Indications

• Arthrosis (osteoarthritis)
• Arthritis
• Low back pain
• Tendonitis
• Gout
• Back pain
• Meniscus rupture

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

• Devil's claw tablet or capsule
• Devil's claw tea (infusion)
• Devil's claw drops
• Devil's claw decoction