Cissus quadrangularis Extract
Also known as: Veldt grape, Devil's backbone, Asthisamharaka, Cissus quadrangularis
Overview
Cissus quadrangularis is a perennial plant traditionally used in Ayurvedic and African medicine, primarily for bone healing, weight management, and metabolic disorders. The extract, typically derived from stems and leaves, is applied to support bone fracture healing, aid in obesity/weight management (often in combination products), and potentially offer anti-diabetic effects. Research on Cissus quadrangularis is moderately mature, with several randomized controlled trials and systematic reviews available. While evidence quality varies, it shows promise for bone health and metabolic improvements, though more rigorous studies are needed to confirm efficacy and optimal dosing for all indications.
Benefits
Cissus quadrangularis offers several potential benefits. For bone health, systematic reviews and meta-analyses suggest it can reduce bone pain and promote fracture healing by enhancing osteoblast proliferation and collagen synthesis. Clinical trials have shown improvements in bone healing markers, though the evidence quality is low to moderate due to study heterogeneity and sample sizes. In weight management, combination products containing Cissus quadrangularis have demonstrated statistically significant reductions in body weight (approx. -5.2 kg), LDL cholesterol, triglycerides, total cholesterol, and fasting blood sugar compared to placebo. However, isolated Cissus extract lacks sufficient evidence for weight loss benefits. Preclinical and some clinical data also indicate potential anti-diabetic effects, with Cissus extracts possibly improving glycemic control by modulating antioxidant defense and reducing inflammation, partly due to quercetin-rich fractions. Benefits typically manifest over weeks to months depending on the specific indication and formulation.
How it works
Cissus quadrangularis primarily exerts its effects through multiple mechanisms. It promotes osteogenesis by stimulating osteoblast proliferation and collagen synthesis, which enhances bone formation and osseointegration, crucial for fracture healing. The plant also possesses significant anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, contributing to its metabolic benefits, including improved lipid profiles and glycemic control. Its molecular targets involve the modulation of oxidative stress pathways and inflammatory cytokines. Key bioactive compounds, such as quercetin and other flavonoids, are believed to be responsible for these effects. The bioavailability and potency of the extract depend on the extraction method, with water and methanolic extracts being common, and quercetin content often quantified to ensure standardization.
Side effects
Cissus quadrangularis is generally well tolerated, with clinical trials reporting no serious adverse effects. Common side effects are rare and typically mild, primarily involving gastrointestinal discomfort. While no significant drug interactions or contraindications have been conclusively identified, caution is advised for individuals with diabetes due to the potential for hypoglycemic effects. Patients on blood sugar-lowering medications should monitor their glucose levels closely. Long-term safety data for Cissus quadrangularis remain limited, suggesting that while short-term use appears safe, more research is needed to fully understand its effects over extended periods. Pregnant or breastfeeding women and individuals with pre-existing medical conditions should consult a healthcare professional before use.
Dosage
Effective dosages of Cissus quadrangularis vary depending on the specific indication and formulation. For bone healing, clinical studies have typically utilized standardized extracts in doses ranging approximately from 500 mg to 1000 mg daily. In weight management studies, Cissus is often part of combination products, with its contribution usually around 300-600 mg daily. Optimal dosing is influenced by the standardization of active constituents, such as quercetin, as extraction methods can significantly impact potency. The timing and duration of supplementation are also dependent on clinical goals, but treatment courses often span several weeks to months to observe benefits. It is crucial to follow product-specific recommendations and consult a healthcare professional for personalized dosing advice.
FAQs
Is Cissus quadrangularis effective alone for weight loss?
Evidence suggests Cissus quadrangularis is primarily effective for weight loss when used in combination products, not as an isolated extract.
Is it safe for long-term use?
Short-term use of Cissus quadrangularis appears safe, but comprehensive long-term safety data are currently insufficient.
How quickly do benefits appear?
Bone healing effects may be noticeable within weeks, while metabolic benefits typically require a longer duration of consistent use.
Research Sources
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28165166/ – This systematic review and meta-analysis evaluated the efficacy and safety of Cissus quadrangularis. It found significant benefits for bone pain and fracture healing, and noted that combination products containing Cissus reduced weight and improved lipid/glucose profiles, though isolated Cissus effects were less clear. The study highlighted heterogeneity in study designs as a limitation.
- https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/Efficacy-and-Safety-of-Cissus-quadrangularis-L.-in-Sawangjit-Puttarak/1cbd8643f6bef55572622106d41d116b26343041 – This source, likely the full text or a detailed summary of the Sawangjit et al. 2017 meta-analysis, provides in-depth findings on Cissus quadrangularis. It confirms efficacy for bone pain and fracture healing, and for weight management and metabolic improvements when used in combination products. It also discusses the limitations of current research, such as study heterogeneity.
- https://www.texilajournal.com/thumbs/article/36_TJ2817.pdf – This systematic review, focusing on the osteogenic potential of Cissus quadrangularis, synthesized findings from in vitro, animal, and clinical studies. It concluded that Cissus supports osteoblast proliferation, collagen synthesis, and bone formation, thereby enhancing bone healing. The review emphasized the need for more rigorous, high-quality clinical trials to further validate these findings.
- https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/pharmacology/articles/10.3389/fphar.2024.1415670/full – This research explored the anti-hyperglycemic effects of Cissus quadrangularis through experimental and clinical studies. It identified that Cissus exerts its effects via antioxidant and anti-inflammatory pathways, with quercetin being a key active compound. The study provides preliminary evidence for its role in glycemic control but indicates a need for further clinical validation.
