Overview

Cissus quadrangularis is a vine that grows in Africa and parts of Asia. Traditionally, its plant parts are dried and made into powder to use as medicine.

Cissus quadrangularis might have antioxidant, pain-relieving, and anti-inflammatory effects. It might also help stimulate bone growth.

People use Cissus quadrangularis for obesity, fractures, joint pain, low bone mass, and many other conditions, but there is no good scientific evidence to support most of these uses.

Uses & Effectiveness

Possibly Effective for

  • Obesity. Taking Cissus quadrangularis extract by mouth, alone or with other ingredients, seems to help reduce body weight in people who are overweight or obese.

There is interest in using Cissus quadrangularis for a number of other purposes, but there isn't enough reliable information to say whether it might be helpful.

Side Effects

When taken by mouth: Cissus quadrangularis is possibly safe when used for up to 10 weeks. It's usually well-tolerated. Side effects might include headache, diarrhea, and insomnia.

Special Precautions and Warnings

When taken by mouth: Cissus quadrangularis is possibly safe when used for up to 10 weeks. It's usually well-tolerated. Side effects might include headache, diarrhea, and insomnia.

Pregnancy and breast-feeding: There isn't enough reliable information to know if Cissus quadrangularis is safe to use when pregnant or breast-feeding. Stay on the safe side and avoid use.

Surgery: Cissus quadrangularis might lower blood sugar levels and could interfere with blood sugar control during and after surgical procedures. Stop using Cissus quadrangularis at least 2 weeks before a scheduled surgery.

Interactions

    Moderate Interaction

    Be cautious with this combination

  • Medications for diabetes (Antidiabetes drugs) interacts with Cissus Quadrangularis

    Cissus quadrangularis might lower blood sugar levels. Taking Cissus quadrangularis along with diabetes medications might cause blood sugar to drop too low. Monitor your blood sugar closely.

Dosing

Cissus quadrangularis extract has most often been used by adults in doses of 300 mg by mouth daily for up to 10 weeks. Powdered whole herb and dried stem products have also been used. Speak with a healthcare provider to find out what type of product and dose might be best for a specific condition.
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CONDITIONS OF USE AND IMPORTANT INFORMATION: This information is meant to supplement, not replace advice from your doctor or healthcare provider and is not meant to cover all possible uses, precautions, interactions or adverse effects. This information may not fit your specific health circumstances. Never delay or disregard seeking professional medical advice from your doctor or other qualified health care provider because of something you have read on WebMD. You should always speak with your doctor or health care professional before you start, stop, or change any prescribed part of your health care plan or treatment and to determine what course of therapy is right for you.

This copyrighted material is licensed from Therapeutic Research Center, LLC. Information from this source is evidence-based and objective, and without commercial influence. For professional medical information on natural medicines, see Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database Professional Version.
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