Devil's claw (Harpagophytum spp) is one of the most well-documented and researched medicinal plants. Devil's claw naturally grows in southern Africa. It is a traditional medicine of the San people from Namibia and is used as a supplement by humans, as well as in animals such as dogs and horses. Researchers have established its effectiveness and it is a safe herb to give long-term. Studies have found that devil's claw has anti-inflammatory properties and also has antibacterial effects, supports the liver, and helps regulate the immune system. Its effectiveness in arthritis and osteoarthritis has been well researched.

Devil's claw for dogs

Devil's claw has also been studied in dogs. An Italian study a few years ago showed that all symptoms of arthritis in a group of dogs decreased by using a devil's claw supplement. The dogs were less lame, showed less pain when touching and moving their joints, had more flexible and less swollen joints. Bone formation also improved, and there were fewer signs of oxidative stress and waste products in the blood. Devil's claw also protects the cartilage. No negative effects of using devil's claw were found.

Active ingredients

The root tubers of devil's claw contain so-called iridoids. These are secondary metabolites found in several plant species. Iridoids display a wide range of medicinal properties, with their anti-inflammatory effects being the most well-known. The devil's claw root contains two types of glucoiridoids: procumboside and harpagoside. These substances support metabolism in ligaments, tendons, and joints and have a positive effect on the entire musculoskeletal system. Devil's claw also purifies the blood and helps eliminate uric acid, preventing painful crystal formation in the joints. There is evidence that an extract of devil's claw works better than just an isolate of one of the active ingredients. In other words, multiple ingredients of devil's claw contribute to the herb's effectiveness. There are supplements that only contain harpagoside, but an extract of the root is likely more effective. The lateral roots of devil's claw work best, especially when they are older than twelve years. These roots contain twice as many iridoids as the main root.

Safe

Devil's claw is commonly used for osteoarthritis due to its pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory properties. It is a safe supplement that can be used long-term. Devil's claw should not be given during pregnancy or lactation. It is advisable to consult with a veterinarian before using devil's claw for dogs with liver problems. A liquid extract of devil's claw is the most absorbable for your dog. Other herbs and plants such as willow and horsetail can support the effects of devil's claw.

Sources

1. Viljoen, Mncwangi, N., Vermaak, I. 2012. Anti-Inflammatory Iridoids of Botanical Origin. Current Medicinal Chemistry, Volume 19, Number 14. Link

Nadia Musco, Giuseppe Vassalotti, Vincenzo Mastellone, Laura Cortese, Giorgia della Rocca, Maria Luce Molinari, Serena Calabrò, Raffaella Tudisco, Monica Isabella Cutrignelli, Pietro Lombardi. 2019. Effects of a nutritional supplement in dogs affected by osteoarthritis. Veterinary Medicine and Science. DOI Link

Brendler, T. From Bush Medicine to Modern Phytopharmaceutical: A Bibliographic Review of Devil’s Claw (Harpagophytum spp.). Pharmaceuticals 2021, 14, 726. DOI Link