Review A Comprehensive Systematic Pharmacological Review on Harpagophytum procumbens DC. (Devil’s claw)

Abstract

Popularly known as Devil’s claw, Harpagophytum procumbens DC. (Pedaliaceae) is native to the Kalahari savannas of southern Africa and Namibia. It has been widely used to treat rheumatism. Its secondary tuberous roots contain iridoid glycosides (procumbide, procumboside, harpagoside) as the active principles. This species seems to stimulate migration of interleukins and leucocytes to painful and inflamed joint areas. The drug is indicated for osteoarthritis, degenerative disease of the joints and arthritic processes. Although, in vivo pharmacological studies have been carried out in different animal models, with different methodologies and different types of extracts, producing contradictory results, recent clinical studies have shown that H. procumbens could be a valid alternative to conventional drugs, especially in the treatment of lumbar pain.