DEPARTMENT OF BOTANY
MEDICINAL PLANTS

Cissus quadrangularis L.

Cissus quadrangularis, commonly known as veld grape, bone setter, or Adamant creeper, is a medicinal plant native to Africa and Asia, especially in tropical regions of India, Sri Lanka, Indonesia, and parts of Africa. It belongs to the family Vitaceae, which is the same family as the grapevine. This plant has been used for centuries in traditional medicine for a variety of ailments, particularly related to bone health and joint disorders.
Botanical Details:
• Scientific Name: Cissus quadrangularis L.
• Family: Vitaceae
• Genus: Cissus
• Species: quadrangularis
Common Names:
• English: Veld Grape, Bone Setter, Adamant Creeper, Devil’s Backbone
• Malayalam: ചങ്ങലംപരണ്ട Chagalamparanda
• Tamil: Pirandai (பரைட)
Synonyms:
• Cissus rotundifolia (L.) Lam.
• Vitis quadrangularis (L.) Roxb.
• Cissus angustifolia (Vahl) H.B.K.
Botanical Description:
1. Plant Characteristics:
o Cissus quadrangularis is a climbing, perennial herb with quadrangular stems (hence the name “quadrangularis”).
o The plant has fleshy, succulent stems that are typically green to reddish-brown in color.
o The stems are jointed, with distinct nodes and internodes that give the plant its characteristic angular appearance.
o The plant can grow up to 3-5 meters (10-16 feet) in length, using nearby structures or supports to climb.
Uses:
1. Medicinal Uses:
o Bone Health: The plant is especially well-known for its use in bone fractures and joint disorders. It is often referred to as the “bone setter” because of its reputed ability to speed up the healing of broken bones.
 In traditional medicine, the plant is used to enhance bone density, and to treat fractures, dislocations, and joint pain.
 Studies have shown that Cissus quadrangularis may stimulate osteoblast activity (cells responsible for bone formation), leading to quicker bone healing.
o Anti-inflammatory and Pain Relief: The plant is used to treat arthritis, rheumatism, and gout. It is believed to reduce inflammation and pain in the joints and muscles.
 Cissus quadrangularis is sometimes included in formulations for anti-inflammatory and analgesic (pain-relieving) effects.
o Digestive Health: The plant is also known for its role in improving digestion. It is used as a remedy for constipation, indigestion, and gastritis.
 The roots of the plant are sometimes made into decoctions or pastes to improve stomach function and to treat stomach ulcers.
o Antioxidant Properties: Cissus quadrangularis contains compounds that have antioxidant properties, which help in neutralizing free radicals and prevent oxidative stress in the body.
o Wound Healing: The plant’s antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties make it effective in treating wounds, cuts, and skin infections.
o Weight Loss: Some studies suggest that Cissus quadrangularis may help with weight loss by reducing appetite and improving fat metabolism. It is sometimes included in dietary supplements for obesity management.