Cissus quadrangularis: Everything You Need to Know
Medically reviewed by Allison Herries, RDN
Cissus quadrangularis is a species of perennial plant that has been used medicinally for centuries. It mainly grows in tropical climates and is part of the Vitaceae family (grape family).
Although many parts of the Cissus quadrangularis plant are known to contain phytonutrients, the stems are thought to be especially abundant in chemicals and substances that may have health benefits.
Bioactive compounds found in Cissus quadrangularis include flavonoids, phenols, tannins, plant sterols (including beta-sitosterol), and resveratrol. Cissus quadrangularis is also a source of calcium, phosphorus, vitamin A, vitamin C, and other nutrients.
Historically, Cissus quadrangularis has been used to treat scurvy, hemorrhoids, stomach ulcers, menstrual disorders, gout, syphilis, diarrhea, and other health conditions. However, there is very little evidence that supports Cissus quadrangularis as an effective treatment for any ailment.
This article will discuss the potential uses of Cissus quadrangularis, looking specifically at the available scientific evidence. It will also cover the plant's side effects, dosage information, and sources.
Getty Images / Penpak Ngamsathain
What Are the Uses of Cissus quadrangularis?
Cissus quadrangularis has a long and varied usage in alternative medicine practices, including Ayurveda. It has been used to treat:
Diabetes
High cholesterol
Bone fractures
Upset stomach
Weight loss
Painful menstruation
Wound healing
Bone health
Proponents believe that Cissus quadrangularis is a plant with many uses and benefits. Yet, scientific evidence for this is limited, with very few well-structured human trials available. Although much has been learned about Cissus quadrangularis through such research, more human studies must be performed.
The following sections provide an overview of the science behind some of the more compelling uses of Cissus quadrangularis.
Bone Fractures
Research has found that Cissus quadrangularis contains anabolic steroidal substances that may aid in the bone fracture healing process. Calcium and antioxidants are also present in Cissus quadrangularis and are vital to healing bones as well.
A few small human trials have studied the role of Cissus quadrangularis in fracture healing.
In one study, 60 young adults with mandible (jawbone) fractures received (at random) either a placebo or a Cissus quadrangularis capsule that contained 300 milligrams of dried stem. Researchers measured their levels of osteopontin, a protein found in bones, at zero, four, and six weeks during the trial. The study discovered that the osteopontin levels of those who took the Cissus quadrangularis supplements significantly increased compared to those who took the placebo supplement, suggesting better fracture healing.
A very small pilot study of adults with facial fractures met with similar results. In this study, one group of participants was given 1,500 milligrams of Cissus quadrangularis per day, while another group acted as the control. Researchers found that those who took Cissus quadrangularis experienced reductions in pain and swelling at their fracture sites plus increased levels of calcium and phosphorus, two minerals that are vital to bone formation.
Larger-scale human trials are necessary to further confirm these positive findings.
Osteoporosis
Aside from bone fracture, some research shows that Cissus quadrangularis may help bones in other ways.
There is evidence that Cissus quadrangularis may protect against the onset of osteoporosis. According to laboratory research, Cissus quadrangularis decreases the activity of osteoclasts, which are cells that break down bone.
Because the risk of osteoporosis increases after menopause, some researchers have studied Cissus quadrangularis as a possible means of prevention.
In one study, just over 100 post-menopausal individuals with osteopenia (a risk factor for osteoporosis) randomly received either a placebo or Cissus quadrangularis at a dose of either 1.2 or 1.6 grams per day. After 24 weeks, both doses of Cissus quadrangularis delayed bone loss. Notably, though, bone mineral density did not significantly improve in either group.
Few other human trials have studied Cissus quadrangularis as a treatment for osteoporosis. As a result, more research is necessary.
Arthritis
Emerging research points to Cissus quadrangularis as a possible treatment for various types of arthritis, including osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. However, human research is necessary to determine if this role indeed exists.
In an animal study, Cissus quadrangularis reduced joint swelling in rats with induced arthritis. The study also associated Cissus quadrangularis supplementation with reduced levels of tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-alpha, an inflammatory biomarker that is often elevated in people with arthritis.
Researchers from another animal study focused on the anti-arthritic potential of Cissus quadrangularis stem extract in rats with knee osteoarthritis. In this study, the stem extract improved the rats' symptoms of knee osteoarthritis better than Cissus quadrangularis plus naproxen (an anti-inflammatory drug) did.
Diabetes Management
Promising animal studies have found a potential link between Cissus quadrangularis and diabetes management.
In rats with induced cardiomyopathy caused by diabetes, six weeks of Cissus quadrangularis supplementation led to improvements in glucose levels and insulin resistance. The Cissus quadrangularis extract also reduced high cholesterol levels (hypercholesterolemia) and inflammation.
Another study administered varying doses of Cissus quadrangularis to test the plant's effects on rats with high blood sugar (hyperglycemia), liver dysfunction, and low antioxidant levels caused by diabetes. Cissus quadrangularis at a dose of either 100 or 200 milligrams per kilogram improved the rats' hyperglycemia. Antioxidant levels and liver dysfunction also improved.
Additional animal studies have associated Cissus quadrangularis supplementation with positive effects on diabetes symptoms and side effects. However, completed human studies have yet to take place.
Side Effects of Cissus quadrangularis
Research generally considers Cissus quadrangularis safe to use. Available research has reported very few possible side effects.
In one older study, a small number of participants experienced various side effects after taking Cissus quadrangularis. Headaches and gas were the most commonly reported side effects in the study. Other reported side effects included insomnia, diarrhea, and dry mouth.
However, additional evidence of these and other side effects of Cissus quadrangularis remains limited. Regardless, side effects remain possible, especially with heavier doses.
Additionally, people who are pregnant or breastfeeding should avoid using Cissus quadrangularis, at least until more safety information is available.
Interactions
Some supplements negatively interact with medications, herbs, foods, or other supplements. These interactions can impact how your body metabolizes medications or nutrients.
There is no solid evidence of interactions for Cissus quadrangularis. However, interactions may still exist.
Due to the potential blood sugar-lowering effects of Cissues quadrangularis, it may interact with other medications commonly taken to treat diabetes or hyperglycemia. Taking Cissus quadrangularis along with diabetes medications may cause exceedingly low blood sugar.
It's worth noting, however, that an interaction between Cissus quadrangularis and diabetes medications has never been officially reported. Therefore, it's important to talk with a healthcare provider about taking Cissus quadrangularis if you use other supplements or medications that reduce your blood sugar.
It is essential to carefully read the ingredient list and nutrition facts panel of a supplement to know which ingredients and how much of each it includes. Please review supplement labels with a healthcare provider to discuss any potential interactions with foods, other supplements, and medications.
Dosage: How Much Cissus quadrangularis Should I Take?
Explainer
Always speak with a healthcare provider before taking a supplement to ensure that the supplement and dosage are appropriate for your individual needs.
Cissus quadrangularis dosage tends to vary by the product and the reason you're taking it. However, there are no general dosage recommendations for Cissus quadrangularis.
More research is necessary to determine the safe and proper dosage information for Cissus quadrangularis. The majority of research on Cissus quadrangularis has been performed on animals rather than humans, making it difficult to confirm optimal dosage.
Some human research is available regarding the use of Cissus quadrangularis for bone fractures. In one study, a dose of 300 milligrams per day of dried Cissus quadrangularis stem taken for eight weeks yielded positive results. A different study found that 1,500 milligrams of whole, dried Cissus quadrangularis taken daily for six weeks also yielded positive results.
With such wide variations in dosage, it's important to follow the dosage directions provided on your supplement's label or packaging. A healthcare provider can also help determine the proper dosage if necessary.
Sources of Cissus quadrangularis and What to Look For
Although parts of the Cissus quadrangularis plant are edible, it is most commonly taken as a supplement.
Cissus quadrangularis is widely available online through Amazon, other retail stores, and supplement websites. It is also available in certain specialty nutrition or supplement shops.
When it comes to supplements, Cissus quadrangularis mostly takes the form of capsules, but it is also available as a powder. Keep in mind that some capsules are made from gelatin, an animal-derived product. However, a number of Cissus quadrangularis products are made with vegan capsules.
It's important to do your due diligence before purchasing a new supplement.
Takeaway
Dietary supplements aren't regulated in the same way drugs are in the U.S. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) doesn't approve supplements or test them for safety and efficacy before they hit the market. However, the FDA may take supplements off the market if they make false claims or are reported as unsafe.
Whenever possible, choose supplements that have been tested and approved by a trusted independent organization, such as ConsumerLab, the National Science Foundation (NSF) International, or the U.S. Pharmacopeia (USP). These and other organizations ensure that ingredient lists are accurate and no contaminants are in the supplements.
However, a seal of approval from one of these organizations doesn’t necessarily mean the supplements are safe for everyone or effective. Therefore, you should check with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement to make sure it's a safe option.
Summary
Cissus quadrangularis is a medicinal plant popularly used in Ayurveda and other forms of alternative medicine. It is known to possess various bioactive substances that may offer health benefits. However, there is not enough scientific evidence to support many of its marketed uses.
If you're interested in trying Cissus quadrangularis or learning more about it, start by consulting a healthcare provider or registered dietitian nutritionist.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Cissus quadrangularis help with weight loss?
Some small studies have found a potential link between Cissus quadrangularis and weight loss. In one study, participants classified as having obesity took either a placebo or 300 milligrams of Cissus quadrangularis stem and leaf extract per day for eight weeks. Compared to the placebo group, participants in the Cissus quadrangularis group experienced more significant weight loss.
More research on the potential role of Cissus quadrangularis in weight loss is necessary. In the meantime, keep in mind that no supplement can offer long-term, healthy weight loss on its own.
Who should not take Cissus quadrangularis?
Very little safety information is available for Cissus quadrangularis supplements. Though it is generally considered safe for most people, some sensitive populations shouldn't use Cissus quadrangularis.
Currently, there isn't enough research to know whether Cissus quadrangularis is safe for people who are pregnant or breastfeeding. Therefore, it's best to play it safe and avoid using Cissus quadrangularis if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
People who use medications for diabetes or hyperglycemia may also need to avoid using Cissus quadrangularis. Combining Cissus quadrangularis with these medications may cause exceedingly low blood sugar.
Is Cissus quadrangularis a steroid?
Cissus quadrangularis contains substances that act similarly to anabolic steroids. These substances may help with bone fractures and general bone health. However, Cissus quadrangularis itself is not a steroid.
When is the best time to take Cissus quadrangularis?
Whether one time of day is better than others to take Cissus quadrangularis is unknown. In general, staggering supplements and medications in case of interactions is recommended.
A healthcare provider can help you devise a daily schedule for taking supplements and/or medications.
Read the original article on Verywell Health.
