Devil’s claw is a herb that is found growing in the Kalahari Desert in Namibia, Southern Africa. Amongst the indigenous population it has long been used in folk remedies, especially for complaints of the liver and gall bladder, but also in dysfunction of the kidneys, pancreas and stomach. It has mild analgesic properties and has been used in febrifuge. In order to obtain the best results, only the secondary roots are used. These are collected at the end of the short rainy season and processed immediately to prevent oxidation. The roots are sensitive to oxygen as they grow deeply in the ground. Much clinical research has been conducted and has demonstrated that Devil’s Claw can help relieve joint pains and reduce serum cholesterol and uric acid levels. Pharmacological studies show that Devil’s Claw possesses an anti-inflammatory and analgesic effect similar to the drug Phenylbutazone.

It can give relief from Rheumatoid Arthritis, but its effect on Osteoarthritis is more erratic. There is experimental evidence of success with arterial blood pressure and cardiac arrhythmia. The main active components of Devil’s Claw are saponins, specifically bitter iridoids, harpagoside and procumbid. Action on arthritis is from the iridoids and harpagoside. These bitter principles are most effective against arthritis with accompanying inflammation. Devil’s Claw is an anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic muscle relaxant, and the iridoids are claimed by some authors to help strengthen the immune system. It is classified in certain EU countries as a herbal medicine, with the following allowable claims:

• Belgium: Indicated for painful articular conditions.
• France: Traditionally used for the symptomatic treatment of minor painful arthritic conditions.
• Germany: For loss of appetite, dyspeptic complaints, supportive therapy for degenerative conditions of the motor system.