Journal

Devil’s Claw

July 2, 2026 · Omnia Sana
Harpagophytum procumbens
Family: Pedaliaceae  ·  Parts used: Secondary root tuber  ·  Also known as: Grapple plant, Wood spider

Key actions

Analgesic (pain relief)Anti-inflammatory

Traditional & clinical uses, by strength of evidence

  • Back painStrong
  • Pain (general)Strong
  • Arthritis / joint painGood
  • HeadacheGood
  • Inflammation (general)Good
  • Skin irritationGood

Selected studies & references

ReviewThe Fight against Infection and Pain: Devil's Claw (Harpagophytum procumbens) a Rich Source of Anti-Inflammatory Activity: 2011-2022 (2022)
ReviewDevil's claw (Harpagophytum procumbens) and chronic inflammatory diseases: A concise overview on preclinical and clinical data (2019)
ReviewDevil's Claw – a review of the ethnobotany, phytochemistry and biological activity of Harpagophytum procumbens (2012)
ReviewDevil's Claw (Harpagophytum procumbens DC): an evidence-based systematic review by the Natural Standard Research Collaboration (2006)
ReviewDevil's Claw (Harpagophytum procumbens) as a treatment for osteoarthritis: a review of efficacy and safety (2006)
ReviewHarpagophytum procumbens for osteoarthritis and low back pain: a systematic review (2004)
ClinicalDevil's claw extract as an example of the effectiveness of herbal analgesics (2004)
PreclinicalHarpagophytum procumbens Root Extract Mediates Anti-Inflammatory Effects in Osteoarthritis Synoviocytes through CB2 Activation (2022)

All 15 studies in the Knowledge Finder →

Educational use only. This profile summarises traditional and scientific sources for reference. It is not medical advice and not a substitute for a qualified practitioner. Some plants carry safety cautions and drug interactions — always check before use.

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