Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3

Devil's claw (Harpagophytum procumbens) is an herb traditionally used in southern Africa for pain and inflammatory conditions. In recent decades, its use for musculoskeletal pain, especially backache, has been explored in clinical research. Several randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and systematic reviews have investigated the efficacy of devil's claw extract for low back pain. A 2016 Cochrane review concluded that there is moderate-quality evidence supporting the short-term effectiveness of standardized devil’s claw extracts (particularly those containing 50–100 mg harpagoside daily) in reducing low back pain compared to placebo. The effect size was similar to standard NSAIDs, with fewer adverse effects reported. A meta-analysis published in 2007 also found devil's claw to be more effective than placebo and comparable to rofecoxib (a COX-2 inhibitor) for pain relief in patients with chronic low back pain. The proposed mechanism involves harpagoside and other iridoid glycosides that exhibit anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.

However, the quality of studies varies, and most trials are short-term (4–12 weeks), so long-term safety and efficacy remain unclear. While devil’s claw is generally well tolerated, gastrointestinal side effects may occur. Overall, there is scientific evidence (rated 3/5) supporting the use of devil’s claw extract for short-term relief of backache, but further high-quality, long-term studies are needed.

More about devil's claw
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Other ingredients used for Backache

Other health conditions supported by devil's claw

Products containing devil's claw

Nature's Sunshine Devil's Claw
Nature's Sunshine Nerve Eight
Nature's Sunshine Nervous System (30 Day Program)