Inhibition of TNF-alpha synthesis in LPS-stimulated primary human monocytes by Harpagophytum extract SteiHap 69

Phytomedicine. 2001 Jan;8(1):28-30. doi: 10.1078/0944-7113-00002.

Abstract

Harpagophytum procumbens (Devil's Claw) is often used in the supportive treatment of inflammatory and degenerative diseases of the skeletal system. Here we studied the anti-inflammatory properties of the Harpagophytum extract SteiHap 69 (Steiner Harpagophytum procumbens extract 69) on primary human monocytes, a useful model of peripheral inflammation. After eliminating lipopolysaccharides of bacterial origin, SteiHap 69 prevented the LPS-induced synthesis of tumour necrosis factor alpha (TNFalpha) in stimulated primary human monocytes in a dose-dependent manner. Harpagide and harpagoside had no effect on LPS-induced TNFalpha-release. Our data provides evidence that the Harpagophytum extract SteiHap 69 has anti-inflammatory properties. Further studies are required in order to elucidate the molecular mechanism of Devil's claw anti-inflammatory effects.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Anti-Inflammatory Agents / pharmacology*
  • Dose-Response Relationship, Drug
  • Humans
  • Lipopolysaccharides
  • Magnoliopsida*
  • Monocytes / drug effects*
  • Plant Extracts / pharmacology
  • Plants, Medicinal*
  • Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha / biosynthesis*
  • Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha / drug effects*

Substances

  • Anti-Inflammatory Agents
  • Lipopolysaccharides
  • Plant Extracts
  • Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha