Wild Crafted Devils Claw Root (Harpagophytum zeyheri)

Herbs are Sold By the Ounce, Price is Per Ounce

Devil's Claw Root (Harpagophytum zeyheri & Harpagophytum procumbens)

Family: Pedaliaceae
Common Names: Devil's Claw, Grapple Plant, Wood Spider
Origin: Native to the Kalahari Desert region of southern Africa, particularly in Namibia, Botswana, and South Africa.

Description and Habitat:

Devil's Claw is a low-growing, herbaceous perennial plant with creeping stems and tuberous roots. It thrives in arid environments, where it grows in sandy soils and full sun. The plant produces characteristic hook-like fruit, which gives it its name, "Devil's Claw."

Parts Used:

• The tuberous roots (secondary tubers) are primarily used for medicinal purposes.

Historical and Traditional Uses:

Devil's Claw has been traditionally used by the Khoisan people of southern Africa for centuries. It was mainly used to treat pain, digestive disorders, and fevers. In European herbal medicine, it gained popularity in the 20th century as a remedy for arthritis and other inflammatory conditions.

Medicinal Constituents:

• Harpagoside: The primary active iridoid glycoside responsible for its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.
• Procumbide: Another iridoid glycoside contributing to its effects.
• Phenolic acids, Flavonoids, and Phytosterols: These compounds also play a role in the plant's overall therapeutic effects.

Energetics and Taste:

• Taste: Bitter
• Energetics: Cooling, drying

Medicinal Actions:

• Anti-inflammatory: Helps reduce inflammation, particularly in conditions like osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.
• Analgesic: Provides pain relief.
• Antirheumatic: Beneficial for conditions involving joint and muscle pain.
• Digestive tonic: Traditionally used to stimulate digestion and alleviate indigestion.

System Affinities:

• Musculoskeletal System: Especially joints and connective tissue.
• Digestive System: Enhances appetite and digestive functions.

Modern Uses:

• Arthritis and Joint Pain: Devil's Claw is commonly used to manage pain and inflammation associated with osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and back pain.
• Digestive Aid: It is sometimes used to treat loss of appetite and mild digestive complaints.

Cautions:

• Pregnancy and Lactation: Not recommended due to a lack of safety data.
• Gastrointestinal Disorders: Use cautiously in individuals with peptic ulcers or gallstones, as it can increase gastric acid production.
• Medication Interactions: May interact with anticoagulant and antiplatelet medications, increasing the risk of bleeding. It might also interfere with blood sugar control, so those on diabetes medications should consult a healthcare provider.

Scientific Studies:

1. Arthritis: A study found that Devil's Claw significantly reduced pain and improved mobility in patients with osteoarthritis .
2. Back Pain: Research has shown that Devil's Claw can effectively reduce chronic lower back pain .
3. Digestive Health: Studies suggest it may enhance digestive functions and appetite, though more research is needed.