Devil's claw (Harpagophytum procumbens): is the buzz in Google justified?

Area of Science:

• Pharmacognosy
• Herbal Medicine
• Consumer Safety

Background:

• Chronic muscle and joint pain are prevalent, with limited safe treatment options.
• Plant-based remedies, like devil's claw, are increasingly researched as alternatives.
• Devil's claw is a traditional African remedy from the sesame family.

Purpose of the Study:

• To critically analyze devil's claw products based on 16 criteria, focusing on consumer information and safety.
• To compare the reliability and consumer information of herbal medicinal products versus food/dietary supplements.
• To assess potential risks like drug interactions and adverse reactions in devil's claw products.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of 88 devil's claw products using 16 criteria (drug interactions, adverse reactions, dosage).
• Categorization and comparison of products labeled as herbal medicinal products, food supplements, and dietary supplements.
• Evaluation of consumer information provided on product labeling and packaging.

Main Results:

• Herbal medicinal products demonstrated consistent pharmaceutical reliability.
• Food and dietary supplements exhibited questionable reliability with significant consumer information gaps.
• Misleading product names and packaging were common in food/dietary supplement categories.
• Limited clinical studies and poor methodological quality were noted for supplements.

Conclusions:

• Herbal medicinal products offer superior consumer safety and reliability for devil's claw.
• Food and dietary supplements often prioritize financial interests over consumer protection.
• Enhanced regulation and clearer labeling are needed for supplements to ensure consumer safety.