Devilo

Indications

Devil's Claw (Harpagophytum procumbens) is a plant from southern Africa whose dried root is used as a herbal supplement. It is used to help ease:

• Joint pain and stiffness from osteoarthritis
• Ongoing low back pain
• Muscle and tendon aches

Some studies suggest a modest benefit for arthritis and back pain, but the evidence is limited. It is not a cure and should not replace treatment prescribed by your doctor.

How It Works

The root contains bitter substances called iridoid glycosides, mainly harpagoside. These are thought to reduce the production of chemicals in the body that cause inflammation and pain, giving a mild pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory effect. Its bitter taste also stimulates stomach acid and appetite.

Dosage and Administration

Take as directed on the label. Products are usually standardised to their harpagoside content, and studies have commonly used extracts giving about 50 mg to 100 mg of harpagoside a day, in divided doses with meals. It may take 2 to 3 months to notice the full benefit. Not recommended for children.

Interactions

Devil's Claw may increase the effect of blood thinners such as Warfarin and raise the risk of bleeding. It may increase stomach acid and so work against antacids, Omeprazole and similar acid-reducing medicines. It may add to the effects of medicines for diabetes and high blood pressure, and may affect how the liver handles some medicines. Tell your doctor about all supplements you take.

Contraindications

• Stomach or duodenal ulcer
• Gallstones
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding
• Known allergy to Devil's Claw

Side Effects

It is usually well tolerated. Possible side effects include:

• Diarrhoea, nausea, stomach upset or indigestion
• Loss of taste or appetite changes
• Headache
• Skin rash (rare)

Get urgent medical help if you notice black or bloody stools, vomiting blood, chest pain or a very irregular heartbeat, or signs of allergy such as swelling of the face or difficulty breathing.

Pregnancy and Lactation

Do not use during pregnancy, as it may stimulate the womb. Avoid during breastfeeding, as its safety has not been established.

Precautions and Warnings

• Use with care if you have heart disease, irregular heartbeat, diabetes or blood pressure problems.
• See a doctor if joints become hot, red or swollen, if back pain comes with numbness, weakness, fever or loss of bladder or bowel control, or if pain does not improve.
• Stop taking it about 2 weeks before planned surgery.
• Do not take more than the label dose.

Overdose

Large amounts may cause severe stomach upset and diarrhoea. Seek medical help if much more than the label dose has been taken or if a child has swallowed the product.

Therapeutic Class

Herbal anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving supplement

Storage

Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and out of the reach of children.