Devil’s claw: A medicinal herb that can boost heart health

02/27/2025 / By Zoey Sky

Devil’s claw (Harpagophytum procumbens), a plant native to southern Africa, is a medicinal plant known for its anti-inflammatory, analgesic and antioxidant properties.
Its name comes from the claw-like appearance of its fruit. Indigenous communities have used its tuberous roots for centuries to treat ailments like inflammation and digestive issues.
Indigenous tribes in the Kalahari Desert and Namibia traditionally used devil’s claw for pain, fever and digestive problems.
Devil’s claw contains bioactive compounds like flavonoids, harpagoside, phenolic acids, procumbide and triterpenes. These contribute to its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and joint-supporting properties, making it a valuable natural remedy.
Due to its bitter taste, devil’s claw is rarely used in cooking but can be consumed as tea, tincture or supplement. Popular preparations include anti-inflammatory teas, smoothies and herbal broths.

Devil’s claw (Harpagophytum procumbens) is a potent natural remedy with a rich history and diverse health benefits, offering a natural solution for inflammation, pain and chronic conditions.

Devil’s claw, a plant native to the arid regions of southern Africa, has long been revered for its potent medicinal properties. Known by a variety of evocative names — such as grapple plant, wood spider and most commonly, devil’s claw — this herbaceous plant derives its moniker from the peculiar appearance of its fruit, which is covered in hook-like protrusions resembling claws.

For centuries, indigenous communities have harnessed the power of its tuberous roots to treat a wide range of ailments, from inflammation to digestive disorders.

Today, devil’s claw is gaining global recognition as a natural remedy and superfood, celebrated for its anti-inflammatory, analgesic and antioxidant properties.

Devil’s claw: A closer look

Devil’s claw is a low-growing perennial plant with sprawling stems and striking, trumpet-shaped flowers that range in color from pink to purple.

The plant’s most distinctive feature is its fruit, which is brown and covered in sharp, claw-like appendages.

The roots, which are the primary medicinal component, are thick, tuberous and brownish in color. When dried and ground, the root has a bitter, earthy taste, making it less palatable as a standalone ingredient but ideal for incorporation into teas, tinctures or capsules. (Related: The health benefits of mango: A sweet and nutrient-packed superfruit.)

Historical and cultural significance

The use of devil’s claw dates back centuries, with indigenous tribes in the Kalahari Desert and Namibian regions employing it as a traditional remedy for pain, fever and digestive issues.

European colonists first encountered the plant in the early 19th century, and by the 20th century, its medicinal properties had garnered attention in Western herbal medicine.

Today, devil’s claw is primarily cultivated in Namibia, Botswana and South Africa, where it thrives in sandy, well-drained soils. Sustainable harvesting practices are essential to preserve this valuable plant, as overharvesting has led to concerns about its long-term availability.

Nutritional composition and phytonutrients

Devil’s claw owes its therapeutic effects to a rich array of phytonutrients and bioactive compounds. The most notable of these include:

Flavonoids – Antioxidants help combat oxidative stress and support overall health
Harpagoside – An iridoid glycoside with potent anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties
Phenolic acids – Compounds known for their anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties
Procumbide – Another iridoid glycoside that contributes to the plant’s anti-inflammatory effects
Triterpenes – Phytochemicals that may support joint health and reduce inflammation

These compounds work synergistically to provide the plant’s wide-ranging health benefits, making it a valuable addition to both traditional and modern wellness practices.

Health benefits and potential therapeutic uses

Devil’s claw has been extensively studied for its potential to prevent, manage or reverse a variety of health conditions. Below are some of the plant’s most well-documented benefits:

Supports digestive health – Traditionally used to stimulate appetite and relieve indigestion, devil’s claw may also help soothe stomach ulcers.
Boosts heart health – Preliminary research suggests that devil’s claw may help lower cholesterol levels and improve circulation.
Reduces inflammation – Devil’s claw is particularly effective in alleviating inflammation associated with arthritis, osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.
Eases pain – Its analgesic properties make it a natural alternative for managing chronic pain, including back pain, muscle pain and headaches.
Promotes joint health – By reducing inflammation and supporting cartilage repair, devil’s claw can improve mobility and flexibility in individuals with joint disorders.
Combats oxidative stress – The flavonoids and phenolic acids in devil’s claw help neutralize free radicals, reducing the risk of chronic diseases.
Supports skin health – Topical application of devil’s claw extract may help soothe skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis.

Culinary applications and recipe ideas

While devil’s claw is not commonly used as a culinary ingredient due to its bitter taste, it can be incorporated into various recipes in the form of teas, tinctures or powdered supplements.

Below are some creative ways to include devil’s claw in your regular diet:

Anti-inflammatory devil’s claw tea – A soothing blend of dried devil’s claw root, ginger and honey.
Devil’s claw smoothie – Combine powdered devil’s claw with pineapple, turmeric and almond milk for a refreshing, anti-inflammatory drink.
Herbal broth –Add devil’s claw root to a homemade vegetable or bone broth for a nutrient-rich, healing soup.

Despite its ominous name, devil’s claw is a remarkable example of nature’s ability to provide powerful remedies for some of humanity’s most persistent health challenges. From its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties to its potential to support heart and digestive health, this ancient superfood continues to prove its worth in modern wellness practices.

While its bitter taste may limit its culinary applications, devil’s claw’s versatility as a supplement or herbal remedy makes it an invaluable addition to any health-conscious individual’s toolkit.

This story is not medical advice and is not intended to treat or cure any disease. Always consult with a qualified naturopathic physician for personalized advice about your specific health situation or concern.

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