Harpagophytum
Latin name:
Harpagophytum procumbens D.C.
Common names:
Harpagophytum, Devil's claw,
Windhoek root
Family:
Pedaliaceae
Origin:
Central and Southern Africa
Part of the plant used:
Secondary root
Description
Harpagophytum, nicknamed "devil's claw" because of the shape of its fruit with sharp hooks, is a plant specific to the south of the African continent. The decoction of its roots is traditionally used as a bitter tonic to treat migraines, pain, injuries or fevers. Its analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties were discovered by German botanical missions. These properties are mainly due to a molecule: harpagoside. Tested very recently, it has shown its anti-inflammatory effects on arthritis and back pain.
The benefits
- Relieves painful articular manifestations, whether they are of rheumatic origin (osteoarthritis type) or traumatic (strains, tendonitis).
