1. Did you know?
In 1904, in Southwest Africa, a Western doctor obtained a decoction of a mysterious root, which witches gave to many wounded. This is how Harpagophytum was first identified! Harvesting Harpagophytum roots requires mastery and perfect knowledge of the soil. Sometimes the roots grow 2m deep underground.
Harpagophytum*, from the Greek Harpagos (meaning "grapple hook"), got its name from its fruit with a curved hook. It is often referred to as the "devil's claw" because it clings to the animal's fur then frantically struggles in all directions to get rid of it, in an almost "crazy" motion.
Harpagophytum is native to southern Africa. It has long been known to the African tribes. This plant grows wild in Namibia, the heart of the Kalahari Desert. To ensure its innovation and sustainability, the main producing countries have implemented harvesting management policies to conserve the crop.
The first Western descriptions of the plant date back to 1820, but the plant was officially introduced into Western medicine in the early 20th century, by a German physician who discovered the its medicinal uses in contact with indigenous peoples.
2. Attributes of Harpagophytum
Harpagophytum is a traditional plant species. Its effectiveness is widely recognized. Although used for hundreds of years by the peoples of southern Africa for its many benefits to joints, Harpagophytum was introduced into Western medicine in 1953 and within a few years became a reference plant. in herbal medicine. Its accessory roots are used, which are the parts that are most rich in active ingredients.
A WHO (World Health Organization) monograph mentions that the harpagosides and procumbides found in the roots of Harpagophytum have "anti-inflammatory and analgesic activity, by inhibiting the synthesis of substances involved in the inflammatory response." ".
3. The main characteristics of Harpagophytum are as follows:
Has natural "anti-inflammatory" properties
Helps maintain healthy joints
Helps relieve joint pain
Promotes joint mobility and flexibility
Many athletes also use it to preserve joint flexibility and combat stress-related sensitization.
Today, devil tree extract has become the first choice for diseases related to bones and joints in Europe.
