Harpagophytum is a plant originating from the south of the African continent which grows wild, particularly in the Kalahari desert (Namibia, Botswana). Its name "devil's claw" comes from its fruits, which have sharp, curved hooks and are caught in the fleece and hooves of antelopes.

It is the traditional plant for joints. Its effectiveness is universally recognised. Used for hundreds of years by the people of southern Africa for its multiple benefits on the joints, its secondary roots are used in phytotherapy, as they are the parts richest in active ingredients.