Botanical Overview
Cissus quadrangularis belongs to the Vitaceae family and is commonly known as Veldt Grape, Hadjod, and Asthisamharaka. The primary part used medicinally is the stem. This plant is native to regions in Africa, Asia, the Middle East, India, and Sri Lanka.
Energetics
It is considered cooling in temperature with neutral moisture. The taste profile includes bitter, astringent, and salty flavors. It has a tonifying effect predominately on the qi aspect of the body.
Primary Actions
- Bone healing
- Anti-inflammatory
- Analgesic
- Antioxidant
- Anti-osteoporotic
Indications
Western
Symptoms: bone fractures, bone pain, inflammation, joint pain, osteoporosis
Syndromes: fracture healing, osteopenia, inflammatory conditions
TCM
Symptoms: joint pain, muscle weakness, bone weakness
Syndromes: Bi syndrome, bone marrow deficiency
Ayurveda
Symptoms: bone fractures, joint pain, skin disorders
Syndromes: Asthisandhivata (bone and joint disorders), Vata imbalance
Unani
Symptoms: bone fractures, joint pain
Syndromes: Skeletal weakness
Constituents & Mechanisms
The plant contains ketosteroids, flavonoids, triterpenoids, ascorbic acid, calcium, and carotene which contribute to its bone healing, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant effects.
Dosage & Preparations
- Powder: 500 mg to 2 g daily
- Extract standardized: 200 to 400 mg daily
- Decoction: 20 to 40 g dried stem per day
Safety & Contraindications
Generally considered safe and well tolerated. Caution is advised during pregnancy and lactation due to insufficient safety data. Avoid in those allergic to the Vitaceae family. Potential interactions include additive effects with anticoagulants.
Astrological Correspondences
No reliable data on planetary or elemental rulers were identified for this species.
Selected References
- Cissus quadrangularis: A Review on Its Phytochemistry and Pharmacological Aspects
- Herbal Medicine: Biomolecular and Clinical Aspects. 2nd edition
- Ethnomedicinal, Phytochemical and Pharmacological Profile of Cissus quadrangularis L.
- Cissus quadrangularis L. — A Review on Its Traditional Uses, Chemistry, and Pharmacology