Harpagophytum

Native to the semi-desert regions of South Africa,harpagophytum, which means " plant harpoon," is a herbaceous plant of the Pedaliaceae family. Harpagophytum grows wild in southern Africa, particularly in the heart of the Kalahari Desert, located between Namibia, South Africa, and Botswana, extending to Angola, due to the hot climate and clay soil rich in iron oxide.

Used for centuries in traditional medicine, often in crushed herbal tea, to treat fevers, labor pains, and liver and kidney pain, this medicinal plant is now recognized for its properties and numerous health benefits. 

In particular, it improves mobility and flexibility in joints and tendons, helps maintain joint comfort, combats digestive problems, prevents premature cell aging, and can support weight loss. All these benefits give it a lasting place in herbal medicine and natural dietary supplements.

Appearance and composition 

Also known as " devil's claw " because of its hook-shaped fruits, this creeping plant has long been considered a pest for local animals. Its main root grows vertically into the ground and can reach up to 50 cm in length. Its secondary roots, called tubers, can reach up to 2 meters deep underground, allowing it to easily store nutrients and water up to 90% of their weight. The reddish-purple leaves and circular fruits with hooks bloom at the base of this plant.

The plant contains numerous active ingredients, including:

  • Harpagoside, the main constituent of harpagophytum.
  • Terpenoids, flavonoids, and glycosides interact with harpagoside.
  • Vitamins B and C: energy production and anti-inflammatory. 
  • Tetraphene compounds, including beta-carotene: acts as an antioxidant and contributes to the proper functioning of the body.
  • Minerals: calcium, phosphorus, iron, copper, magnesium, and potassium.

These essential elements work together to provide a complete medicinal plant, ideal as a dietary supplement or natural treatment for joint and muscle discomfort.

Section image

The benefits of harpagophytum 

Harpagophytum is an excellent ally for relieving joint, muscle, and tendon pain, rheumatism, and lower back pain, as well as for stimulating appetite and aiding digestion.

  • Reduces inflammatory reactions and pain: composed of iridoids, it is a plant-based anti-inflammatory with healing and pain-relieving properties. It relieves rheumatic conditions such as osteoarthritis and osteoporosis, localized inflammatory pain in the lower back, and protects cartilage. 

 

  • Improve muscle comfort: it is one of the most effective plants for naturally relieving joint pain, particularly that associated with osteoarthritis and tendon inflammation. It also improves everyday flexibility and reduces feelings of joint stiffness.

 

  • Digestive disorders: Devil's claw has beneficial effects on digestive health. It is a purifying remedy for loss of appetite and dyspepsia (bloating and flatulence). Its bitterness stimulates the taste buds and signals the stomach to produce the gastric juices essential for good digestion. It also treats liver disorders, balances intestinal transit, and calms aerophagia.

 

  • Detoxifying: harpagophytum acts as a detoxifier and eliminates toxins from the body that have accumulated due to an unbalanced diet or poor digestion.
Section image

How to use harpagophytum?

You can use harpagophytum in several ways: 

  • Dry extract in capsules or tablets.
  • Aqueous extract, mother tincture, or ampoules (oral solution).
  • Dried plant for infusion or decoction.
  • Massage cream or gel for local use.



The recommended daily dose depends on the form (capsule, infusion, liquid extract). In general, a course of treatment lasts several weeks to achieve a noticeable effect.


At Santarome, the Harpagophytum Bio 2000 is complemented by a trio of organic blackcurrant, birch and pine, all in the form of a 2,000 mg ampoule, equivalent to one dried plant.

Dilute 1 ampoule per day in a 20 cl glass of water, before meals for 20 days. Shake the ampoule before use, then break one of the two tips using a paper tissue. Pour the contents of the ampoule into a glass, breaking the second tip, then add the water.

Section image

Devil's claw, an ally in the fight against 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 whether devil's claw is appropriate for you. A professional will be able to recommend the best form of consumption and dosage, and monitor for any drug interactions.

Section image

The benefits of harpagophytum for athletes

Many athletes use harpagophytum before exercise to relieve joint pain and thus maintain flexibility, keep their joints healthy, and combat exercise-related sensitivity in order to recover quickly.

Known for its anti-inflammatory action, analgesic properties, healing virtues, and ability to reduce edema, harpagophytum helps relieve the following types of pain:

  • Arthritis
  • Tendinitis
  • Low back pain
  • Sciatica
  • Rheumatism
Section image

★★★★★ - Fiorine – MYOSTÉO MUSCLE RELAXANT

"I often had tension in my neck and lower back because I do a lot of weight training. I tried everything: cold gel, hot water bottles, massages... but nothing really worked. Now, as soon as I feel any pain, it disappears within 15 minutes!"

Section image

Frequently Asked Questions

Didn't find the answer you were looking for?

Contact us