Last updated on September 8th, 2023 at 01:45 pm

It’s often said you can’t judge a book by its cover. And that’s certainly the case with devil’s claw, a plant with a rather ominous name and a hook-like appearance that could easily be mistaken for something out of a horror movie. But don’t let its intimidating exterior fool you — devil’s claw has been used for centuries to treat a wide range of ailments, especially arthritis pain. Let’s take a closer look at devil’s claw and its impressive traditional herbal properties and explore its function as the homeopathic medicine Harpagophytum.

What is devil’s claw?

Devil’s claw is a plant that grows in the Kalahari desert regions of southern Africa. The name “devil’s claw” comes from the plant’s unique appearance — fruits that have long, curved, hook-like structures that resemble claws. Its other common names include grapple plant and wood spider.

The roots of the devil’s claw plans have been used for hundreds of years by the San and Khoi people of the region to treat a range of ailments, including pain, indigestion, and fever. Research has shown that its active compounds, especially harpagoside, harpagide and procumbide, have anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce swelling and alleviate joint pain. The devil’s claw plant is available in various oral herbal supplement forms, including capsules and tinctures.

Benefits of homeopathic devil’s claw

One of the most well-known traditional herbal uses of devil’s claw is its ability to help ease pain, particularly in those with arthritis and the same is true in homeopathy. After the roots undergo the homeopathic process, the active ingredient takes the Latin name of the plant, Harpagophytum. The homeopathic form is indicated for the relief of minor aches and pains associated with arthritis.*

How to use devil’s claw for pain relief

You’ll find devil’s claw tincture as one of the two active ingredients in Boiron’s new Arnicare Arthritis Cream. Combined with Arnica montana, this topical medicine provides dual action relief for minor muscle and joint pain associated with arthritis.* The cream is applied directly to the affected area and is quickly absorbed by the skin, providing targeted relief where it is needed most.

Visit the Boiron Store Locator to find Harpagophytum and other Boiron arthritis pain relief medicines at your nearest retailer.

*Claims based on traditional homeopathic practice, not accepted medical evidence. Not FDA evaluated.