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Supplementation with Cissus quadrangularis extract (CQ) may bring about various health benefits. In research trials, CQ has shown antioxidant, antiepileptic, antidiabetic, analgesic, sedative, and antibacterial properties.
It is currently recommended by some doctors in the US for high cholesterol, hypertension (high blood pressure), symptoms of metabolic syndrome and cardiovascular disorder, ulcers, hemorrhoids, and more.
Cissus quadrangularis has also been used as a natural medicine for over a thousand years in Indian and African cultures. In countries like Thailand and Sri Lanka, CQ is still one of the most prescribed remedial agents.
Today, it is popular among bodybuilders who want to increase lean muscle mass and as a weight loss supplement that promotes a reduction in body fat percentage.
What are the reported benefits and side effects of taking Cissus quadrangluaris extract and how should this supplement be used to enhance human health?
Bone Health
Bodybuilding
Weight Loss- Promotes joint health & pain reduction
- Sedative & muscle relaxing properties
- Supports weight loss & workout recovery
Top Cissus Products* ❯Cissus Quadrangularis Extract
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Bone Healing Capacity
One primary traditional use of CQ is as a remedy for fractured bones and/or weak bones (osteoporosis).
It was historically given the nickname “Bonesetter”; modern clinical evidence is growing in support of its bone healing capacities.
In various studies, Cissus has been shown to increase the proliferation and differentiation of osteoblasts, which are cells used to develop bone tissue. It may also promote the transformation of mesenchymal cells into viable osteoblasts.
Cissus supplements have also been shown effective for decreasing joint pain, especially pain caused by intense athletic exertion. Baseline synthesis of osteoblast collagen at mRNA levels increased as much as 106% in one study following administration of Cissus quadrangularis extract.
In another study, male athletes were administered 3200mg of CQ each day for eight weeks. When using the pain score portion of the WOMAC Osteoarthritis scale, a 31% reduction in joint pain was reported. Further, Cissus extracts have been effective at improving range of joint motion and in alleviating irritation associated with rheumatoid arthritis.
Concerning the repair of bone fractures, CQ has demonstrated effectiveness only in animal studies. The limited amount of data available from human tests seem to indicate no significant improvement in fracture healing over placebo groups.
Rodent studies have also shown CQ to be effective as a remedy for osteoporosis – a condition characterized by loss of bone tissue. In research trials, Cissus Quadrangularis extract prevented up to 86% of bone thickness reduction caused by degeneration.
Anti-inflammatory and Antioxidant Properties
Cissus quadrangularis extract contains certain antioxidant compounds that activate HO-1, a substance known to decrease inflammatory responses. Further, CQ contains a number of currently unidentified tannin-like substances that seem to inhibit COX, another structure believed widely to impede inflammation.
Cissus quadrangularis extract inhibits and/or prevents the free radical-induced breakdown of the structural bilayers which constitute cellular integrity. This in turn diminishes the destructive effects of oxidation, leading to decreased probabilities for developing the majority of preventable diseases.
Cissus supplement usage seems to exhibit anticancer properties in early testing. It is known to contain a ketosteroid called betulinic acid, a recognized anticancer agent. In rodent testing, CQ has been found effective at retarding the development and progression of certain cancer cells.
Cardiovascular Effects
Cissus quadrangularis extract also contains certain constituents that act as vasodilators. Vasodilation is the process by which blood vessels dilate (widen) so that circulation is improved.
By relaxing the endothelium (inner lining) of the heart and blood carrying vessels, greater blood volume can be delivered to our cells.
This is associated with improved oxygen supply, increased glucose utilization and better removal of waste product build-up.
As more blood is delivered with the same or lower pressure throughout the body, various risk factors for developing a number of cardiovascular conditions may be reduced. This is largely because, with more blood delivered comes more nutrients, beneficial hormones, and enzymatic substances.
The vasodilatory effects of Cissus quadrangularis extract seem to be especially valuable for those with constrictive blood delivery conditions, like atherosclerosis.
Cissus Quadrangularis Extract Benefits for Sexual Health
The other main traditional use of CQ has been for treating problematic and/or painful issues of menstruation. It is also under renewed investigation addressing its capacities to stimulate the libido.
CQ seems to have libido-enhancing effects on ovariectomized rodents when administered over the course of two months. However, the effect may be due to estrogen increases associated with the ovariectomies.
The research on Cissus quadrangularis extract has been very promising so far. However, more research still needs to be done, especially long-term, large-scale human trials, as most of of the research previously has been done on animal models. At this time, Cissus is available only as a health supplement in the US, and the FDA has not approved Cissus quadrangularis as a drug to prevent or treat any conditions.
Cissus Quadrangularis Extract Side Effects and Safety
In various rodent-based clinical studies, CQ has shown no observable side effects. Likewise, in hundreds of years of usage in various cultures, few ill side effects are recognized. In the USA, there have been insufficient clinical trials with Cissus extract for the FDA to officially determine whether it is safe. However, the prevalence of its use is a testament to its safety record.
Even though apparently safe for human supplementation, CQ is not recommended for certain groups. As it may affect glucose utilization, those with Type II diabetes mellitus should not use CQ. Also, not enough evidence exists to warrant CQ as generally safe for pregnant women or nursing mothers.
Those with chronically low blood pressure should avoid supplementation. Individuals scheduled for surgical procedures should discontinue any CQ supplementation at least 3 weeks before their appointments. In all cases, it is recommended to speak with a doctor about Cissus Quadrangularis extract usage before deciding to buy this product.
Article last updated on: May 5th, 2018 by Nootriment