The benefits and properties of Harpagophytum
Write the 14/02/2023 by Santarome Bio
The history of harpagophytum
Native to the semi-desert regions of South Africa, harpagophytum, which means “plant harpoon”, is a herbaceous plant in the pedaliaceae family. Harpagophytum grows in its wild state, exclusively in African regions, notably in the heart of the Kalahari Desert, located between Namibia, South Africa and Botswana, up to Angola, due to the warm climate and soil clayey and rich in iron oxide.
Used for centuries, in crushed herbal tea, to treat fevers, childbirth pains and liver and kidney pain, this plant is today recognized for its effectiveness and its numerous health benefits. It notably improves the mobility and flexibility of joints and tendons , helps maintain joint comfort , fights against digestive disorders and prevents premature aging of cells. It is a plant that also promotes weight loss. All these virtues give it a lasting place in herbal medicine.
Appearance and composition
Also called “ devil’s claw ” because of its fruits with hooked, claw-shaped thorns, the creeping plant has long been considered a harmful species for nearby animals. Its main root extends vertically into the ground and measures up to 50 cm long. Its secondary roots, called tubers, can reach up to 2 meters deep underground, which allows it to easily store nutrients and water up to 90% of their weight. The purplish-red leaves and circular fruits composed of hooks bloom at the base of this plant.
The plant is made up of numerous active ingredients, including:
Harpagoside , main constituent of harpagophytum.
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Terpenoids , flavonoids and glucosides interact with harpagoside and are also known for their pain-relieving, anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
Vitamins B and C : energy production and anti-inflammatory.
Tetraphenes including beta-carotene: act as an antioxidant and contribute to the proper functioning of the body.
Minerals : calcium, phosphorus, iron, copper, magnesium and potassium.
All these essential elements act in synergy and make harpagophytum a quality and complete place.
The benefits of harpagophytum
Harpagophytum is an excellent ally for relieving joint pain in muscles and tendons, rheumatism, lower back pain but also for stimulating the appetite and facilitating digestion.
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Reduce inflammatory and analgesic reactions : composed of iridoids, harpagophytum is a plant anti-inflammatory with healing and pain-relieving properties. The plant relieves rheumatism such as osteoarthritis and osteoporosis, inflammatory pain localized in the lower back and protects the cartilage.
Improve muscle comfort : harpagophytum is one of the most effective plants for naturally relieving joint pain, particularly linked to osteoarthritis and inflammation of the tendons. It also helps improve daily flexibility and reduces feelings of joint stiffness.
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Digestion disorders : harpagophytum has beneficial effects on the health of the digestive system. It is a purifying remedy for lack of appetite and dyspepsia (bloating and flatulence). Indeed, its bitterness stimulates the taste buds and tells the stomach to produce gastric juices essential for good digestion. It also treats liver disorders, balances intestinal transit and calms aerophagia.
Detoxifier : harpagophytum acts by detoxifying and eliminates toxins from the body, accumulated and caused by a dietary imbalance or disturbed digestion.
What is the most effective plant for osteoarthritis?
When it comes to finding the most effective herb for relieving osteoarthritis symptoms , harpagophytum, also known as devil's claw, stands out as one of the most popular and popular options. recommended.
It can relieve joint pain , particularly those related to osteoarthritis, by reducing inflammation and protecting cartilage .
Is devil's claw recommended for osteoarthritis?
Devil's claw is often recommended to relieve the symptoms of osteoarthritis due to its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties .
However, it is necessary to seek advice from a healthcare professional before using it. Each case of osteoarthritis is unique, and a doctor will be able to assess your health and determine if devil's claw is appropriate for you. A professional will be able to recommend the best form of consumption, the dosage and monitor possible drug interactions.
The interest of harpagophytum among athletes
Many athletes use harpagophytum, before exercise, to relieve joint pain and thus maintain flexibility, keep their joints in good health and fight against exercise-related sensitivities in order to recover quickly.
Recognized for its anti-inflammatory action , its analgesic properties , its healing properties and its ability to reduce edema, harpagophytum helps soothe the following pains:
Arthritis
Tendonitis
Low back pain
Sciatica
Rheumatism
How to consume harpagophytum
Dry extract, ointment, mother tincture, herbal tea or decoction, there are many ways to take this therapeutic plant.
At Santarome, the Harpagophytum Bio 2000 formula is supplemented by a trio of organic blackcurrant , birch and pine buds , all in the form of a 2,000 mg ampoule, the equivalent of a dry plant.
Dilute 1 ampoule per day in a 20cl glass of water, before meals for 20 days. Shake the ampoule before use, then break one of the two tips using a tissue. Pour the contents of the ampoule into a glass, breaking the second tip, then add the water.
Food supplement based on harpagophytum: capsule or ampoule?
When you plan to take a food supplement based on harpagophytum , you have two options: the capsule or the ampoule.
The capsules are easy to swallow and convenient to take with you. If you prefer a discreet and simple consumption method, capsules may be the best option.
If you prefer a liquid form or have difficulty swallowing capsules, ampoules may be the most suitable solution.
Dilute 1 ampoule per day in a 20cl glass of water, before meals for 20 days. Shake the ampoule before use, then break one of the two tips using a tissue. Pour the contents of the ampoule into a glass, breaking the second tip, then add the water.
Precautions for use
- Store the harpagophytum away from light at a temperature below 25°C.
- Do not exceed the recommended daily dose.
- Not recommended for people under 18 years of age, pregnant or breastfeeding women and people suffering from heart problems, hyper or hypotension.
- Not recommended in cases of ulcers or gallstones.
- Not recommended for people on anticoagulant treatment or suffering from allergies to salicylate derivatives.
- Harpagophytum reduces blood glucose levels. It is therefore recommended to monitor blood sugar levels in people with diabetes.
