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Grapple Plant (Devil’s Claw): Africa’s Pain-Relieving Powerhouse
- KhadiYah Preciado
- Sep 21
- 3 min read
Updated: 6 days ago
There’s a reason traditional healers across Southern Africa have trusted grapple plant (Harpagophytum procumbens) for generations. Known more commonly as Devil’s Claw, this twisted, hook-like root has been used for centuries to ease joint pain, soothe inflammation, and help people stay mobile as they age.
But this isn’t just folklore. Modern research confirms what African elders already knew: grapple plant is one of the most effective herbs for arthritis, back pain, and joint stiffness. Its anti-inflammatory compounds rival over-the-counter pain medications—without the gut damage and long-term risks.
This is the plant you want on your shelf if pain is stopping you from fully living your life.
Want the quick-reference version?
What is Grapple Plant (Devil’s Claw)?
The grapple plant gets its name from its dramatic seed pods, which are covered in little hooks that “grapple” onto animals as a way to spread. But the real medicine is in the thick, starchy tuberous roots, which are dug up, dried, and prepared as tea, tincture, or capsules.
Scientific Name: Harpagophytum procumbens
Common Names: Devil’s Claw, Grapple Plant, Wood Spider
Family: Pedaliaceae
Parts Used: Roots and tubers
Energetics: Cooling, bitter
Actions: Anti-inflammatory, analgesic, anti-rheumatic, digestive stimulant
Traditional African Uses
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