Opt for a natural anti-inflammatory with Harpagophytum

Mainly native to the Kalahari Desert and the steppes of Namibia, devil's claw (also called harpagophytum) is known to relieve pain in the joints (osteoarthritis), muscles and tendons. Effective for humans, this plant is also effective for animals. It is also a good ally in stimulating appetite and facilitating digestion. Depending on the pain to be relieved, the recommended dose of devil's claw varies. For this reason, your veterinarian will be able to refer you to the most suitable dosage for your pet's needs. 

Active subtances

Harpagophytum contains many active ingredients that contribute to its multiple benefits.

• Monoterpene glucosides (harpagoside, harpagide, procumbide) with anti-inflammatory, analgesic and antispasmodic properties.
• Flavonoids (luteolin and kaempferol) and phytosterols (sitosterin, stigmasterin) antioxidants which potentiate the anti-inflammatory effect of harpagoside.
• Phenols with diuretic properties
• Many essential minerals: calcium, magnesium, iron, potassium, phosphorus and copper.
• Vitamins: antioxidant beta-carotene and vitamin C, and all the B vitamins which play an important role in cell metabolism.

Benefits

Joint pain

Devil's claw is primarily known to relieve symptoms of inflammation, especially pain associated with osteoarthritis. It is harpagoside that is believed to be responsible for the anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties of the plant.

The Escop (European Scientific Cooperative on Phytotherapy) also recommends harpagophytum to treat osteoarthritis and lower back pain.

Lower back pain

A first study carried out in 20023 on 250 patients suffering from nonspecific back pain, treated with doloteffin (a patented extract of Harpagophytum) dosed at 60 mg of harpagoside per day, concluded that "doloteffin deserves to be taken into account in osteoarthritis pain in the knee and hip and in non-specific lower back pain

A year later, another German study4 compared doloteffin and Vioxx (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory treatment). According to the results of this study, doloteffin was found to be as effective as anti-inflammatory treatment.

Bowel problems, loss of appetite

It is its strong bitterness that gives devil's claw its effectiveness on appetite and the secretion of digestive juices (choleretic action) necessary for good digestion. ESCOP, WHO (World Health Organization) and Commission E recognize the use of harpagophytum in the symptomatic treatment of loss of appetite and digestive disorders. The European Medicines Agency recognizes the traditional use of harpagophyton "to relieve minor joint pain, as well as bloating, gas and temporary loss of appetite".