Devil’s Claw Extract (Harpagophytum procumbens L.) comes from Southern Africa and is known as the ‘spear plant’ because of its structural shape which allows it to grab onto animal’s fur.

It’s medicinal properties were first exploited in the 1950s but was traditionally used throughout by the southern African countries. It is taken to relive the pain and inflammation of arthritis and alleviate joint pains. It is also an appetite stimulant and digestive tonic.

The actives called harpagosides are mainly found in the root. Nexira supply a spray-dried water extract from the roots containing 5 or 20% harpagosides.

Side Effects

Generally, Devil’s Claw is considered safe to use over the short-term and at recomended doses. There are some side effects however, associated with taking this particular herbal. It is not known whether using it for longer than four months is effective or safe, advises the National Institutes of Health (NIH).

In some people, the herb produces nausea and vomiting, headaches, loss of appetite and taste and types of tinnitus which is a ringing in the ears.

Arrythmias and Altered Heartbeats

Devil’s claw is a heart stimulant and can alter the force of pumping and the rate of your heartbeats, according to NIH. If you have heart disease or abnormal heart rhythms, consult your cardiologist or primary care physician before trying this herb.

Anticoagulant Effects

The risk of excessive bleeding is increased by the taking of the herb. It is recommended that taking devil’s Claw is stopped before surgery or if anticoagulants and coagulants are prescribed such as warfarin.

Effects on Pregnant Women

Avoid devil’s claw if you are pregnant or breastfeeding because some adverse oxytoxic effects have been documented. An oxytoxic effect means childbirth is stimulated due to uterine contractions.

Gastrointestinal Reflux And Stomach Acidosis

If you have a stomach ulcer, gallstones or a duodenal ulcer, you should avoid devil’s claw unless being supervised by a health care professional. It can alter acid production levels throughout the gastrointestinal tract, according to the NIH.

Diabetes

Patients with diabetes or generally low blood sugar levels as in hypoglycaemia should reduce their intake of the herb/drug. It is thought to lower blood sugar levels which is a benefit in controlling diabetes but may be unwanted when these levels are severely reduced by the condition. Care is required if other drugs or medicines are prescribed to manage the condition.

The NIH and UK health services always advises that you have your serum glucose levels monitored by a health care provider who can determine if adjustments to any medication are necessary.