Devil's
claw
Genus:
Harpagophytum
 english name:
grapple plant, wood spider
Family:
Pedaliaceae
Compounds: Harpagoside and Beta sitosterol
Parts used: the sliced and dried secondary roots
Properties: Analgesic, sedative, anti-inflammatory
effects and diuretic
Uses
internal uses:
Devil's Claw is also claimed to be beneficial for treating diseases
of the liver, kidneys, gallbladder and bladder, arthritis and
rheumatism
external uses:
Devil's claw is used externally to treat swollen, arthritic joints
as well as boils, sores and skin ulcers.
The
plant has anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties similar to
those of non-steroid anti-inflamatory drug, but without any side
effects of these drugs (devil's claw has three important agents:
harpagoside, harpagide, and procumbide, all three are monoterpenic
glucosides that do not harm the stomach). The plant's active agents
make it useful in the treatment of rheumatic disorders in heavily
affected articulations and in the treatment of degenerative affections
of the locomotor system.
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