Devil’s Claw (Harpagophytum procumbens) an herbal remedy for pain and inflammation.

Devil’s Claw is known for its many actions on both the human body and in horses. It has been found to be anti-inflammatory, analgesic (pain relieving), somewhat sedative, have anti-rheumatic properties, and due to its bitter qualities – a diuretic and stimulant to the liver. This makes it beneficial for people and pony’s (horses) with poor appetites and indigestion.

While it is the tuber that is used medicinally, the botanical name in Greek, Harpagophytum, means “hook plant”. A name derived from its hard, claw-like fruit.

It can be used both internally and externally but is most often taken internally. If used in small amounts it can be top dressed on the horse’s grain ration if they’re a good eater. But beware, Devil’s Claw is extremely bitter. It also can be dosed in a 60cc syringe mixed with a tablespoon of applesauce and, if needed, a drizzle of honey. In an acute situation with a horse not used to the taste of Devil’s Claw, I would recommend using the syringe. If the situation is chronic, with patience, your horse most likely will develop a taste for it (or at least a tolerance for it) and if not used in high doses, a topdressing may be suitable. I have used it both ways.

It is worth consideration in the treatment of arthritis and similar chronic conditions and may be effective in any kind of degenerative joint disorder, or bony changes that result in inflammation.

“Several studies show that taking devil’s claw for 8 to 12 weeks can reduce pain and improve physical functioning in people with osteoarthritis. One 4-month study of 122 people with knee and hip osteoarthritis compared devil’s claw and a leading European medication for pain relief. The people who took devil’s claw had as much pain relief as the people who took the medication. Those who took devil’s claw had fewer side effects and needed fewer pain relievers throughout the study.

An analysis of 14 studies using devil’s claw to treat arthritis found that higher quality studies showed devil’s claw may relieve joint pain. And a review of 12 studies using devil’s claw for treating arthritis or low back pain found that devil’s claw was at least moderately effective for arthritis of the spine, hip, and knee.” 1

Devil’s Claw is commonly used in both Germany and France to reduce inflammation, relieve arthritis pain, headache, and low back pain. Extensive German studies have likened its anti-inflammatory properties to that of cortisone and phenylbutazone, more commonly called “Bute,” but without the toxicity or undesirable side-effects.

“Side effects of phenylbutazone are similar to those of other NSAIDs. Overdose or prolonged use can cause gastrointestinal ulcers, blood dyscrasia, kidney damage (primarily dose-dependant renal papillary necrosis), oral lesions if given by mouth, and internal hemorrhage. This is especially pronounced in young, ill, or stressed horses which are less able to metabolize the drug. Effects of gastrointestinal damage include edema of the legs and belly secondary to leakage of blood proteins into the intestines, resulting in decreased appetite, excessive thirst, weight loss, weakness, and in advanced stages, kidney failure and death. Phenylbutazone can also cause agranulocytosis.” 2

For those who enter their horse(s) in competitions, you will have to verify whether the use of Devil’s Claw is allowed. Although not banned, according to the FEI, Devil’s Claw is considered a controlled substance. While it may be used outside of competition, it may not be in your horse’s system during a competition. It is thought to give the horse an unfair advantage. Here is the link: http://prohibitedsubstancesdatabase.feicleansport.org/search/ You will need to inquire about and follow all rules pertaining to the use of Devil’s Claw in any horse show(s) your horse is entered in.

For those who enter their horse(s) in competitions, you will have to verify whether the use of Devil’s Claw is allowed. Although not banned, according to the FEI, Devil’s Claw is considered a controlled substance. While it may be used outside of competition, it may not be in your horse’s system during a competition. It is thought to give the horse an unfair advantage. Here is the link: http://prohibitedsubstancesdatabase.feicleansport.org/search/ You will need to inquire about and follow all rules pertaining to the use of Devil’s Claw in any horse show(s) your horse is entered in.

References & Resources:

• 1 http://pennstatehershey.adam.com/content.aspx?productId=107&pid=33&gid=000237
• 2 https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Phenylbutazone
• Equine Herbs & Healing by Maya Cointreau & E. Barrie Kavasch
• Equine Herbal Energetics by Stacey Small & Andrea Baldwin
• A Modern Horse Herbal by Hilary Page Self
• https://www.herbazest.com/herbs/devil’s-claw

The Herbs & The Bees, LLC, or its staff do not diagnose or prescribe. Our purpose is to provide information, products and suggested wellness programs to those whowill share responsibility for their personal well being. Our services are not a substitute for medical advice. If you are seeking medical advice, please consult a licensed physician. If you are seeking medical advice for your equine, please consult a licensed veterinarian.