Devil's Claw: Uses, Benefits, Dosage & Safety
Last updated: June 2026 · Reviewed by the FactoWiki Editorial Team for clarity and source accuracy
Quick summary
Devil's claw is a South African root with reasonable evidence for easing osteoarthritis and lower-back pain, comparable in some studies to mild pain relievers. It's one of the better-supported joint botanicals.
What is Devil's Claw?
Devil's claw (Harpagophytum procumbens) is a plant from southern Africa named for its hooked fruit. Its tuber contains harpagosides and is used as an anti-inflammatory for joint pain, osteoarthritis and lower-back pain.
What Devil's Claw is commonly used for
In supplements, Devil's Claw is most often included for joint & bone health support. It is used as nutritional support, not as a treatment for any medical condition — the distinction matters, because the claims on a sales page are often stronger than the evidence allows.
How Devil's Claw works
Harpagosides and related compounds appear to dampen inflammatory signalling, which underlies devil's claw's use for arthritis and back pain. Standardisation to harpagoside content is used to ensure an active dose.
What the evidence says
Here's an honest snapshot of what published research suggests about Devil's Claw — including where the evidence is limited.
- Several trials suggest devil's claw can reduce osteoarthritis and lower-back pain, with effects comparable to some conventional pain relievers in a few studies. (PubMed research)
- It is one of the better-supported joint botanicals, though long-term data are limited. (PubMed research)
Typical dosage used in studies
Studies have used extracts standardised to provide roughly 50-100 mg of harpagoside per day. This is research information for context, not a recommendation — confirm what's appropriate for you with a healthcare professional.
Side effects and safety
Generally well tolerated; the main side effect is mild digestive upset. It may increase stomach acid.
Medication interactions and who should avoid Devil's Claw
Medication & safety check
It may affect blood sugar, blood pressure and blood clotting, and can interact with blood thinners and stomach-acid-related drugs. Avoid with active stomach ulcers and in pregnancy.
This is general information, not personal medical advice. If you take any medication, confirm it's safe to combine with Devil's Claw with your doctor or pharmacist first.
Sources & further reading
The summary above is drawn from peer-reviewed research and authoritative references. For general, authoritative background you can also consult:
- PubMed research on Devil's Claw
- NIH Office of Dietary Supplements
- NIH National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health
- MedlinePlus (U.S. National Library of Medicine)
Frequently asked questions
Does devil's claw help arthritis?
Yes — it has reasonable evidence for easing osteoarthritis and back pain.
How does it work?
Its harpagosides appear to reduce inflammatory signalling.
Is devil's claw safe?
Generally yes; it can cause mild digestive upset and isn't suitable with ulcers.
Who should avoid it?
People with stomach ulcers, on blood thinners, or pregnant.
Related ingredients to explore
Ingredients often studied or formulated alongside Devil's Claw — useful for understanding the full picture of a formula.