By Chisom Ibemere
Devil’s Claw, also know as Harpagophytum procumbens is a medicinal plant native to Southern Africa, mainly found in Namibia, Botswana, and South Africa. It gets its name from its hook-like fruit, which resembles claws. Traditionally, it has been used for treating inflammation, joint pain, and digestive issues.
Devil’s Claw contains harpagosides, which reduce inflammation and pain in osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. It is used as a natural pain reliever for back pain, joint stiffness, and muscle soreness.
It helps with indigestion, bloating, and loss of appetite. It acts as a natural anti-inflammatory, reducing swelling and pain.
It helps detoxify the liver and improve its function. It help reduce blood sugar levels and improve metabolism.
It is used in traditional medicine for treating sores and wounds. It is used to treat kidney and bladder infections. It helps the body fight infections and diseases.
Devil’s Claw is not commonly found in Nigeria, so it does not have widely known local names. However, some herbalists refer to it using descriptive names in local languages:
• Yoruba: “Ewe Apari” (used for general medicinal herbs with pain-relieving properties)
• Hausa: “Ganyen Maganin Zafi” (loosely translates to pain-relieving leaves)
• Igbo: May not have a specific name but is used in herbal medicine for inflammation.
How to Prepare Devil’s Claw
Ingredients: 1 teaspoon of dried Devil’s Claw root, 2 cups of boiling water, Honey or lemon (optional)
Preparation:
1. Boil water and add dried Devil’s Claw root.
2. Simmer for 10–15 minutes.
3. Strain and add honey or lemon for taste.
4. Drink once or twice daily for pain relief.
Devil’s Claw can be prepared into powder for joint pain and inflammation, ointment for external pain relief.
Devil’s Claw is a powerful natural pain reliever and anti-inflammatory herb used mainly for arthritis, muscle pain, and digestive issues. Though not widely known in Nigeria, it can be found in herbal shops or imported as supplements, tea, or powders.
