Devil's Claw - how much pain relief?

[QueenT]

I've heard that Deveil's Claw Root has some degree of pain relief and it is FEI restricted due to that - but how much pain relief can a horse get from a plant? Do any of you have any experience with using this over a prolonged period? Do you need to give it in advance to "build up" the effect? Thanks!

 

[ycbm]

Lots of drugs were originally produced from plants, aspirin, for example. Devil's Claw is a scientifically proven anti inflammatory pain reliever due to it containing harpagoside.

https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/jvp.12716

I'm confused what you're asking about, long term use or quick acting on the day of an event? I've seen good results used long term on arthritis and the latest research says it doesn't cause the ulcer issues that can occur with bute. It wouldnt be my choice for an on-the-day one use drug, where I'd probably use paracetamol or aspirin if I wanted non-prescription.


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[southerncomfort]

I've used it for older horses that are starting to show a bit of stiffness. I've found it to be really effective, surprisingly so! If I remember rightly it takes a few days to get in to the system.

I wouldn't recommend it to be used in place of painkillers in a lame or sore horse but it's a really useful supplement for older horses (and dogs!) that are starting to show their age.

 

[bubsqueaks]

I started using Devils Claw on my arthritic 18 year old pony about 5 weeks ago - she hasn't previously been on any other meds or supplements & didn't want to turn to bute so thought it worth a try.
I was at the point of thinking I would have to retire her or turn to bute but this last week she has really very noticeably got a little spring back in her - Im delighted I must say & am now determined to shift some more pounds to help her & pick her back up.
My reckoning was if its banned it must be proven to help! I do stress though for the first four weeks nothing happened then boing off she goes!

 

[Micky]

I also use it on my 22yr old who has arthritis, took a good while to kick in and when I have to hack difficult routes (unavoidable steep hills here) I add a Bute in his tea the night before and the same day to take the edge off, however I’ve not down this for a while and he has def improved re stiffness..keeping legs warm at night if stabled helps enormously too (stable wraps)

 

[The-Bookworm]

I use it for part of the year to ease my mares discomfort with her seasons. Vet is aware and ok with this.

Liquid gets in the system quicker than powder.
The proof is simply seeing her transform, plant or not.
Regumate had the same effect but I was only allowed that for one winter.

 

[supertramp]

I feed Harpgyl to my 18 year old, and he feels very well, stiffness has improved, I buy a pot that lasts me a year so its really good value for money.
https://www.petdrugsonline.co.uk/audevard-harpagyl-horse-musculoskeletal-support

 

[QueenT]

Thanks a lot for your input! How strong do you think it is - would it f.ex remove all, most or some arthritic pain?

 

[ycbm]

Depends on the horse's temperament and how much pain it's in. You need to try it for at least a month to find out. My impression is that the effect is cumulative over time.

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