Cissus quandragularis Linn and Bone Health: A Comprehensive Review

Cissus quadrangularis Linn. (CQL) is a fleshy plant found in major parts of the world, especially in Asia, Africa, and a few other warm tropical regions. It is one of the common food items in India. Apart from other pharmacological activities of CQL has been used by common folk in India for promoting the fracture healing process. It was prescribed in the ancient Ayurvedic texts as a general tonic and analgesic, with specific bone fracture healing properties. Hence, herein we aimed to document on traditional medicinal uses of CQL and its role and mechanism of action with special reference to one healing process. In conclusion, CQL is a climbing herb commonly known as Hadjod and Asthisamadhani in India and traditionally used in the management of many illnesses. The major pharmacological activities of the plant include bone healing, antimicrobial, anti-diabetic, antiinflammatory, anti-obesity, anti-oxidant, cardiovascular and hepatoprotective. Therefore, Cissus quadrangularis appears worthy of pharmacological investigations for new drug formulations especially in bone and joint health formulations.