Devil's Claw

The African Devil's Claw (Harpagophytum procumbens) belongs to the sesame family and has its roots on the African continent. Naturally, it is mainly found in Botswana, Namibia, Zimbabwe, and South Africa. It prefers desert steppes.

Devil's Claw does not thrive in this country. It likes heat, dry soils, and strong temperature fluctuations. You could try planting it in a room greenhouse. Use very sandy and mineral-rich soil for this.

Devil's Claw is not known as a food. It is mainly used in traditional folk medicine. South African peoples have long used it for fever and pain; soldiers brought it to us in the 20th century. There is evidence that Devil's Claw might have an effect on osteoarthritis and other inflammations. Oral intake is said to have a positive effect on rheumatism and gastrointestinal complaints. External use in the form of ointments is used for muscle pain.

The African Devil's Claw is one of those plants that still contain pure bitter substances. In addition, it contains phenol glycosides, flavonoids, and many carbohydrates. The substance harpagoside is probably important for the effect of Devil's Claw.

The herbaceous Devil's Claw develops runners on the ground that can grow up to two meters long. It usually does not grow taller than fifteen centimeters. It has gray-green, egg-shaped leaves that are distinctly wavy. In December, January, and February, it produces vibrant pink to violet bell-shaped flowers about five centimeters in diameter.

The root of the African Devil's Claw is interesting: it has a taproot from which tuberous storage roots branch off. These are the parts used in herbal medicine. The storage roots regenerate after harvest, so the herb itself remains intact.

Devil's Claw owes its name to its fruits, which have small barbs. The capsules, which are between ten and fifteen centimeters long, catch on the fur of animals. This way, they carry the seeds further and help the plant spread.