Harpagophytum procumbens in animal supplements: natural support for joints and mobility

Harpagophytum procumbens, better known as devil’s claw, is a plant native to southern Africa that has been used for decades to support the musculoskeletal system in humans and animals. In the world of animal supplements, devil’s claw is a popular ingredient in formulas for joints, mobility, and recovery. Thanks to its anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties, Harpagophytum precumbens represents a natural alternative or supplement to NSAIDs and other conventional treatments in animal supplements, especially for dogs and horses suffering from osteoarthritis or other chronic joint problems.

What is Harpagophytum procumbens?

Devil’s claw is a desert plant named after the hooked projections on its fruits. However, its medicinal properties lie in the tubers, which are rich in harpagoside, an iridoid glycoside with anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.

In addition to harpagoside, the plant also contains phytosterols, flavonoids and phenolic acids that contribute to a broader antioxidant and supportive effect.

Application in animals

Dogs

Devil’s claw is often included in weight-management or mobility formulas for older dogs or dogs with arthritis. It can help:

  • Improved joint flexibility

  • Reduced stiffness

  • Support for mild to moderate pain

It is usually combined with glucosamine, chondroitin, MSM or omega 3.

Horses

In horses, devil’s claw is primarily used for chronic tendon or joint problems, sport horses in recovery, or senior horses with osteoarthritis. It works slowly but deeply and is often combined with turmeric, boswellia, or hyaluronic acid.

Please note: Harpagophytum is on the FEI list of prohibited substances in competition.

Extract forms and formulation

At Nutriliq we work with:

  • Dry extracts standardized to harpagoside
    This ensures consistent efficacy and easy dosing

  • Powdered or liquid extract
    Suitable for inclusion in powders, pastes, or soft chews

  • Combination formulas
    Devil’s claw is rarely used as a sole active ingredient. Smart synergy with MSM, green-lipped mussel, boswellia, omega-3, or collagen enhances its effect.

Points of interest

  • Not recommended for pregnant animals (possible stimulating effect on the uterus)

  • Possible interaction with NSAIDs or anticoagulants

  • Slow effect: devil’s claw only works after several days to weeks, depending on the animal species and dosage

  • Taste: slightly bitter. Taste masking is recommended for dogs and cats, e.g., with soft chews.

Develop natural joint support?

If you’re looking to develop a supplement formula focused on natural joint support, Harpagophytum procumbens is an excellent ingredient. We’re happy to help you choose the right extract type, dosage, and an attractive presentation (soft chew, paste, liquid, or powder). Contact us for a sample formula or advice on raw materials.