The main constituents of devil's claw root include iridoid glycosides, especially harpagoside, harpagide, and procumbide. The plant has a positive effect on rheumatism, joint inflammation, and arthritis. Harpagosides and other valuable compounds (flavonoids) in the root have a beneficial influence on the musculoskeletal system, particularly the joints, and the digestive tract. The plant is attributed with anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and appetite-stimulating properties.

Raw material description:
The subterranean, branching secondary roots of the devil's claw are dried and crushed after harvesting. A gentle extraction process using an ethanol-water mixture (70:30) yields the desired root extract. The characteristic bitter taste of devil's claw is due to the iridoid glycosides it contains, especially the main constituent harpagoside, which stimulate salivation and digestive juices. The devil's claw extract has a harpagoside content of at least 5%. The product contains no other additives such as preservatives, colorings, or flavorings. The gelatin used in the hard gelatin capsules is BSE/TSE-tested pharmaceutical-grade gelatin.

References:
Chantre P. et al.: Efficacy and tolerance of Harpagophytum procumbens versus diacerhin in treatment of osteoarthritis, Phytomedicine 2000; 7: 177–183.
Chrubasik JE:, Roufgalis BD, Chrubasik S.: Evidence of effectiveness of herbal anti-inflammatory drugs in the treatment of painful osteoarthritis and chronic low back pain, Phytother Res 2007; 251: 675-683.
Denner SS: A review of the efficacy and safety of devils claw for pain associated with degenerative musculoskeletal diseases, rheumatoid, and osteoarthritis, Holist Nurs Pract 2007; 21: 203–207.
Grant L. et al.: A review of the biological and potential therapeutic actions of Harpagophytum procumbens, Phytother Res 2007; 21: 199–209.