The most important health benefits of Cissus Quadrangularis may include its ability to reduce inflammation, boost bone strength, improve respiratory conditions, strengthen the immune system, and soothe the pain. It also helps ease menstrual issues, protects your teeth, prevents diabetes, optimizes cardiovascular function, and reduce weight loss issues.
What is Cissus Quadrangularis?
Closely related to common grapes, Cissus quadrangularis is a perennial plant with a number of common names, including Devil’s Backbone and Veldt Grape. Although it isn’t completely certain where Cissus quadrangularis first arose, India or Sri Lanka are two high contenders. However, this perennial plant is now found throughout Africa and Asia and is even exported to the United States due to its beneficial health qualities. [1]
Cissus quadrangularis has also been used in Ayurvedic treatments for generations. The extracts of the plant have proven to be very useful in herbal medicine, and can now be accessed in supplement form in many parts of the world. The active ingredients in Cissus quadrangularis that make it powerful include a range of carotenoids, triterpenoids, vitamins, and minerals. [2]
Cissus quadrangularis is a vine that grows in Africa and parts of Asia. Photo Credit: Shutterstock
The initial popularity of the plant almost solely focused on its role in potential weight loss, but as more research was done, it was clear that the unique chemical composition of this seemingly unremarkable plant could benefit many other aspects of human health.
Health Benefits of Cissus Quadrangularis
To fully understand why this plant is so highly sought after, let’s take a more detailed look at the many health benefits of Cissus quadrangularis.
May Aid in Weight Loss
The most valuable benefit of Cissus quadrangularis is its significant and proven impact on weight loss. For people combining dietary changes and exercise to promote healthy weight loss, adding Cissus quadrangularis can boost those efforts by helping suppress the appetite and stimulating the metabolism to burn weight calories faster and use nutrients more efficiently. In dozens of studies over the past decade, Cissus quadrangularis consistently displays fat-burning powers, making it a hot new item in the weight loss markets everywhere. [3]
May Improve Heart Health
Cissus quadrangularis has also been directly linked to lower cholesterol levels, possibly due to its strong impact on metabolic factors in the body. By reducing LDL or bad cholesterol in the body, Cissus quadrangularis can help protect your cardiovascular system from excess strain, atherosclerosis, heart, attacks, strokes, and elevated blood pressure. [4]
May Strengthen Bones
Cissus quadrangularis actually affects bone health in a very important way. This surprisingly powerful plant can help prevent the degradation of bone matter in the body and stimulate bone growth. Research has revealed that Cissus quadrangularis stimulates the production of osteoblasts, which are the cells in the body responsible for growing bone. This plant is also commonly suggested as an herbal remedy for people who have recently broken bones as a way to speed the healing process. [5]
May Reduce Inflammation
The general possibly anti-inflammatory properties of certain organic compounds found in Cissus quadrangularis can help reduce swelling and irritation throughout the body, but the most conclusive studies have focused on its role in treating or lessening the symptoms of hemorrhoids. This painful condition is a difficult one to solve, but there is a definite correlation between Cissus quadrangularis supplements and reduced inflammation in that sensitive area. [6]
Possibly Remedial For Respiratory Disorders
The effects of Cissus quadrangularis are sometimes akin to steroids for your system, and when it comes to the respiratory system and conditions like asthma, supplementation with Cissus quadrangularis can prevent attacks or lessen their severity. [7]
May Aid in Diabetes Management
Cissus quadrangularis extracts have anti-diabetes potential, which also extends to fighting against the conditions induced by diabetes. This is attributed to its antioxidant content, amongst its other properties. Furthermore, it is potentially rich in quercetin. A study published in the journal Redox Reports: Communications in Free Radical Research concludes that this deems it suitable as a food supplement for people fighting diabetes. [8]
An animal study has also found this plant to be effective in improving histological, biochemical, and biomechanical bone changes in rats with diabetes. [9]
May Improve Immunity
The high levels of ascorbic acid found in Cissus quadrangularis mean that your body gets an extra defensive shield against pathogens and foreign substances in the body, as well as additional antioxidant protection. Ascorbic acid, more commonly known as vitamin C, stimulates the production of white blood cells to fight infections and illness, thereby improving your overall health. [10]
May Fasten Wound Healing
Vitamin C is also a crucial component of collagen, the material used by the body to build everything from muscle tissue to blood vessels and arteries. High levels of vitamin C help in growth and repair, meaning that wound healing can be sped up and recovery from injury and illness can be quicker. [11]
May Aid in Dental Care
In a similar way, as Cissus quadrangularis can help your bones, it can also help your teeth. Studies have shown a correlation between great oral health and Cissus quadrangularis supplementation. [12]
May Provide Relief from Menstruation Cramps
One of the most common side effects of menstruation is cramping and bloating, and mood swings and hormonal imbalances. Cissus quadrangularis is able to relieve cramping and discomfort during menstruation, making it highly desirable in the market of herbal remedy world. [13]
Word of Caution: Cissus quadrangularis does not have any commonly reported allergenic effects, but some people do experience mild headaches, nausea, or flatulence, particularly when they are first exposed to the plant. As with any herbal remedy, there are potential complications with medication individuals may already be taking, so always consult your medical professional before changing your herbal supplement regimen.
