• Scientific name: Harpagophytum procumbens
• Other Common Names: Grapple plant, harpagon, wood spider
• Origin: Southern Africa particularly the Kalahari desert, Namibia and Madagascar
• Part use: Root
• Organ it affects: Liver, stomach, joints, and kidneys.
• Available forms: tincture, liquid extract and tea.
• Major active ingredient: Harpagoside, a medicinal component thought to have anti-inflammatory activity.

Devil's claw is a perennial plant with trumpet shaped red to purple flowers, its green leaves have white, hairy undersides. The fruits have long, branching arms with "claw­like" hooks; this is where the name devil's claw comes from. The root is the source of its medicinal benefits. The traditional use of devil's claw by tribes in Africa involved the root being chopped and dried in the sun for three days to make medicinal preparations.

Medicinal Benefits:

• It is a blood cleanser which removes deposits in the joints and aids in elimination of uric acid from the body. It is effective in cases of rheumatism, gout, lumbago, and arthritis. It is recommended that devil's claw be taken for a least 2-3 months before any effect may be experience.
• The bitter preparation was used in folk tradition in treatment of fever, allergies, menopausal symptoms
• It is used traditionally as an appetite stimulant.
• Devil's claw can also be used as a digestive stimulant; it helps in the relief of constipation, diarrhea and flatulence.
• It is use as topical applications for wounds, ulcers, various skin lesions and pain relief.

Preparation and Dosage:

• Infusion: Steep 30 min. 1-2 cups daily.
• Decoction: Simmer 15 min. Take 6 oz. 3 times daily.
• Tincture: Take ½ - 1 tsp 3 times daily.

Safety: Devil's claw appears to be well tolerated if taken in proper dosage. Most clinical trials reported no side effects other than occasional cases of mild gastrointestinal upset.

Warning:

• Devil's claw should not be taken by people with gastric or duodenal ulcers because it is considered a bitter herb, which thought to stimulate gastric acid.
• People with allergies may react to devil's claw.
• Pregnant and breast feeding women should not take devil's claw.