12brands analyzed for rankings. 19hours spent in research. 45+ references used for information gathering.
Cissus Quadrangularis or commonly known as Devil's Backbone has been used since ancient times as a bone health supplement.
It is popularly known as "bone setter" due to its ability to heal the fractured bones.
It is a succulent plant found in warmer geographical regions such as India, Malaysia, Sri Lanka, and West Africa. [1]
Cissus quadrangularis is said to have multiple scientifically proven health benefits such as promoting stronger bones, improving joint health, reducing inflammation and its symptoms, supporting fat loss and promoting muscle gain.
It is also studied to act on insulin resistance and blood glucose regulation.
It could serve as an excellent menopause supplement due to its ability to help to regain the bone strength, support healthy weight management, regulate sugar and cholesterol levels and keep the cells protected against the free radical activity. [2]
Comparison Table: Top Cissus Quadrangularis Supplements
Here is a quick comparison table of the top brands for you -
Double Wood Supplements is a manufacturer of pure dietary supplements and nootropics. Their products are manufactured within the USA.
The supplement contains 150 capsules with a serving size of 2 capsules. The key ingredient Cissus Quadrangularis Extract is of 1000 mg per serving size.
Other ingredients include gelatin, cellulose and rice flour. The product as claimed by the manufacturer is made in the USA by a cGMP facility regularly inspected by the FDA.
Independent testing on the potency and purity of the product is done regularly. The product is non-GMO and gluten-free.
Some of the key USPs of the product are:
Independently tested for purity and potency regularly
Highly potent with 1000 mg extract per serving size
100 % money back guarantee on customer dissatisfaction
The Key Nutrients of this Supplement are :
Here are Key Pros and Cons based on Analysis of Customer Reviews -
Keter Wellness is a supplement manufacturing company based in the USA.
Keter Wellness claims that they manufacture herbal supplements for consumers in certified cGMP facilities. Their products are claimed to be approved by FDA and third-party tested.
Cissus Pro 1000 is a third party tested natural product containing 120 vegetarian capsules with a serving size of 2.
The key ingredient of the product is Cissus Quadrangularis Extract of 1000 mg per serving.
The product does not contain any artificial toxic ingredients and is regularly tested for purity, potency and heavy metals.
Focusing our attention on the key USPs of the product, we observed that:
100 % plant based with no additives
Highly potent pure Cissus Quadrangularis extract
cGMP certified non-GMO product and purely organic
The Key Nutrients of this Supplement are :
Here are Key Pros and Cons based on Analysis of Customer Reviews -
Based in California, USA, Nature Bell is a supplement manufacturing company which manufactures natural supplements to meet the individual needs of consumers.
The product, Nature Bell - Premium Cissus Quadrangularis Extract consists of 180 capsules with a serving size of 2.
The key ingredient of the product is Cissus Quadrangularis Extract of 1000 mg per serving. The product is soy free, dairy free, non-GMO and gluten-free.
Some of the key USPs of the product are:
Natural and non-GMO
Third party tested for purity and potency
Highly potent with 1000 mg extract in each serving
The Key Nutrients of this Supplement are :
Here are Key Pros and Cons based on Analysis of Customer Reviews -
Vita Monk, based in the USA is a manufacturer of health supplements to serve the daily needs of its consumers.
VitaMonk Cissus Quadrangularis consists of 120 capsules with a serving size of 2. The key ingredient of the product is Cissus Quadrangularis Extract of 1000 mg per serving.
Other ingredients include rice flour, capsule and vegetable hypromellose. The capsules are vegan and do not contain artificial fillers.
Some of its key USPs are:
The product has been formulated by doctors
Non-GMO, and no dairy, gluten, artificial flavors or colors
Highly potent 5% extract of ketosterones
100 % money-back guarantee on customer dissatisfaction
The Key Nutrients of this Supplement are :
Here are Key Pros and Cons based on Analysis of Customer Reviews -
PrimaForce is a manufacturer of a range of health products for its consumers.
Their products are manufactured by pharmaceutical grade and clinically tested ingredients. PrimaForce Cissus Supplement consists of 120 capsules with a serving size of 2.
The key ingredient of the product is Cissus Quadrangularis Extract of 1000 mg per serving.
Other ingredients include:
Cellulose
Magnesium Stearate
Silicon Dioxide
The product is produced in a GMP certified facility and is standardized to 40 % ketosterones. It is regularly tested for purity and potency.
Going through its key USPs, we can find that:
Pharmaceutical-grade and clinically tested ingredients for quality assurance
Third party tested for potency and purity
Ingredients support weight loss and health management
The Key Nutrients of this Supplement are :
Here are Key Pros and Cons based on Analysis of Customer Reviews -
Phytochemical studies have shown that leaves of Cissus quadrangularis contain quinones, sterols, phenolic compounds, anthocyanins, triterpenes, saponins, and flavonoids.
The extracts of this plant are also rich in beta-carotene and vitamin C.
The plant comprises of other various phytonutrients like quercetin, kaempferol, stilbene derivatives, Cissus quadrangularins A, B, C, resveratrol, piceatannol, pallidol, parthenocissus, and phytosterols. [3] [4]
Stem extracts of Cissus quadrangularis are rich in calcium and phosphorous. Root extracts are rich in minerals like calcium, potassium, sodium, and magnesium.
Pharmacology: Cissus Quadrangularis
Important pharmacological properties of Cissus quadrangularis include antioxidant activity, bone-healing abilities, anti-inflammatory effects, and anti-diabetic effects.
Cissus quadrangularis supplements are also reported to support healthy weight management, have anti-bacterial effects and anti-anxiety and anticonvulsant effects.
The phytonutrients present in this herb are said to have an anabolic effect on the muscles.
The phytonutrients present in CQ stimulate the formation of osteoblasts, bone-forming cells, which are crucial for the healing of bone fractures and also prevent them.
CQ is said to increase the serotonin levels, which is a neurotransmitter associated with bone metabolism, [5] appetite, [6] mood, and pain alleviation.
It is also said to lower the blood cholesterol levels, which is crucial for preventing various cardiovascular disorders.
Health Benefits of Cissus Quadrangularis
Here are scientifically proven health benefits of Cissus Quadrangularis.
1. Cissus Quadrangularis Promotes Bone Health and Healing of Bone Fractures
Cissus Quadrangularis is proven to promote healing of bone fractures by blocking the cytokine gene expression and promoting the growth of osteoblasts [7] [8] and bone mineralization process. [9] [10]
As women enter menopause stage, bone strength is drastically reduced and the bones are at high risk of fractures and various bone disorders like osteoporosis and osteopenia.
Supplementation of CQ can positively impact bone health and prevent bone diseases.
Confidence Level: High
In 2013, a placebo-controlled study was conducted, wherein one group was treated with 600mg of CQ and other with placebo.
The study concluded that Cissus Quadrangularis speeds up the fracture healing process and also brings about the remodeling of fracture callus. [11]
Another study conducted in 2015 has shown that supplementation of 1500mg CQ daily for six weeks can help in reducing inflammatory symptoms related to bone fractures and also accelerate the healing of jaw bone fractures. [12]
This study also reported an increase in the levels of calcium and potassium in the serum.
In a metanalytical study of 2017 that involved 1108 subjects, it was observed that CQ supplementation had a positive impact on the healing of bone fractures. [13]
2. Cissus Quadrangularis Helps In Alleviating The Ill Effects Of Inflammatory Disorders
Cissus Quadrangularis has strong anti-inflammatory properties [14] that are found to have an active role in the fracture healing process and helping the patients deal with symptoms associated with various inflammatory disorders.
CQ promotes joint health and thereby helps in preventing and delaying the progression of various types of arthritis.
Due to these properties, CQ is helpful in soothing menstrual cramps and menstrual discomfort.
Confidence Level: High
In 2012, a study has reported that Cissus quadrangularis serves as an inhibitor of cyclooxygenase (COX) and 5-lipoxygenase(5-LOX). CQ led to upregulation of HO-1.
It also downregulated iNOS and TNFα, which regulate the immune response. [15]
A study conducted in 2013, has reported that 8-week supplementation of 3200mg CQ reduces joint pain in exercise-trained men. [16]
Simultaneous in vitro and in vivo studies conducted on CQ's impact on osteoarthritis has concluded that CQ exhibits potent anti-inflammatory and chondroprotective activities, when exposed to inflammatory markers like cytokines, prostaglandins, free radicals, etc.
CQ was reported to have higher chondrocyte proliferation too. [17]
3. Cissus Quadrangularis Supplementation Promotes Weight Loss
Cissus quadrangularis acts in two ways to promote healthy weight management.
Firstly, it boosts the body’s metabolism process and stimulates fat burning. Secondly, it acts as an appetite suppressant [18] and thereby promotes fat metabolism.
Confidence Level: High
A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study conducted in 2007 concluded that CQ extract supplementation could lower the weight in individuals with obesity.
Reduced levels of total cholesterol, LDL-cholesterol, triglycerides, fasting blood sugar and C-reactive proteins were also observed. [19]
In 2008, a study reported that consuming Cissus quadrangularis and Irvingia gabonensis in combination for 10 weeks is helpful in the management of obesity and its complications.[20]
In 2019, a study found that the 300mg of stem and root extract of CQ (CQR-300) could effectively reduce the body fat and also improve the blood parameters of metabolic syndrome. [21]
Extracts of CQ is reported to be immunomodulatory [22] and antimicrobial in function. It may help the body fight against various infections.
CQ is said to be effective against Gram+ bacterial namely Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus cereus, and Bacillus subtilis. [23]
Confidence Level: Moderate
An in vitro study conducted in 2017 has shown that CQ extracts reduce the hatching of Haemonchus contortus eggs, which is a blood-feeding and highly pathogenic parasite. [24]
As a powerful antioxidant, CQ suppresses the activity of free radicals that cause various health complications and thereby enhance the immune defense of the body. [25]
Cissus quadrangularis may have a positive impact on blood sugar levels by increasing insulin sensitivity.
The polyphenols and vitamins present in CQ are reported to protect the body against oxidative injury, which is important for suppressing insulin resistance.
Confidence Level: Moderate
In an animal study conducted in 2010, it was reported that stem extract of CQ improved the insulin sensitivity, reduced liver damage and oxidative stress in the body cells. [26]
Another animal study conducted in 2014 has shown that supplementation of Cissus quadrangularis addresses various diabetic complications by enhancing the antioxidant defense system. [27]
6. Cissus Quadrangularis Regulates The Cholesterol Levels In The Body
Phytonutrients present in Cissus Quadrangularis may reduce the cholesterol levels in the body and in turn, reduce the risk of various cardiovascular complications.
Confidence Level: Moderate
In a double-blind placebo-controlled study, Cissus Quadrangularis supplementation (proprietary extract – CQR-300 and proprietary formulation – CORE) led to a significant reduction in body fat, total cholesterol, triglycerides and fasting blood glucose levels over the trial period. [28]
Another 10-week study conducted in 2008 showed that a combination of Cissus quadrangularis and Irvingia gabonensis can reduce the levels of plasma cholesterol and LDL cholesterol. [29]
7. Cissus Quadrangularis May Be a Potential Anti-Convulsant
Cissus quadrangularis is studied to have an impact on the central nervous system and the activity of neurotransmitters. CQ possesses anxiolytic and anticonvulsant properties. CQ may also have a role in mood regulation via serotonin synthesis regulation.
Confidence Level: Low
An animal study carried out in 2018 showed that CQ supplementation could increase the latency of first clonic and tonic-clonic seizures, and decrease the number and duration of these seizures.
The study concluded that CQ was an anticonvulsant with potential anxiolytic effects in animal models of epilepsy. [30]
Free radicals lead to reduced liver functions, which if ignored, can cause serious health complications, which can even be fatal at times.
With its antioxidant abilities, CQ protects the liver cells against oxidative stress and promotes optimum functioning of the liver.
Confidence Level: Low
In an animal study conducted in 2010, CQ’s hepatoprotective abilities were evaluated.
CQ was observed to successfully lower the lipid peroxidation and accelerate the antioxidant activities of reduced glutathione, catalase, and superoxide dismutase.
It was concluded that CQ’s hepatoprotective properties come from its ability to restore the body’s in-built protective mechanism against oxidative cell damage. [31]
Recommended Dosage
Studies are yet to be conducted on the ideal dosage for Cissus Quadrangularis.
However, one study has shown that consuming 500mg of Cissus Quadrangularis extract thrice a day for 6 weeks could help in alleviating pain, edema and reducing fracture mobility.
The supplement was also able to speed up the fracture healing. [32]
It should also be noted that there are no studies conducted on the effects and benefits of long term usage of cissus.
So, it is better to consult a healthcare professional before deciding on using Cissus supplements for the long term.
Precaution
Adverse effects
As per the studies conducted so far, Cissus supplementation is generally regarded as safe with no allergenic effects or serious adverse effects. [33]
However, adverse effects like headache, GI disturbances, dry mouth, and insomnia have been reported.
Nevertheless, it is safe to consult a healthcare professional before using Cissus supplements.
Usage during Pregnancy, Lactation, and Childhood
Due to insufficient data, it is advised that pregnant women, nursing mothers, and children consult a healthcare professional before consuming Cissus Quadrangularis supplements.
However, one study shows that supplementation of CQ during pregnancy helps in stimulating fetal bone growth. [34]
Known Medical Conditions
Cissus supplementation is reported to reduce the blood sugar levels and therefore has to be avoided by individuals with hypoglycemia.
It is necessary for individuals with other known medical conditions to discuss with a healthcare professional before using this supplement.
Overdose
There is no relevant information on the effects of Cissus Quadrangularis overdose.
It is advised that individuals discuss with their healthcare professionals before consuming Cissus Quadrangularis supplements.
Drug-Interaction
Anti-diabetic Drugs
Cissus Quadrangularis supplements are known to reduce blood sugar levels.
Consuming anti-diabetic drugs with these supplements might reduce the blood sugar content to dangerous levels and lead to complications.
Therefore, it is important to monitor the blood sugar closely when Cissus quadrangularis and anti-diabetic drugs are taken together.
Key anti-diabetics that Cissus might interact with are glimepiride, glyburide, insulin, pioglitazone, rosiglitazone, tolbutamide, glipizide, and others.
5-HT Receptor Agonists
Cissus quadrangularis may interact with molecules that mimic serotonin and impact weight management.
Cissus quadrangularis may also interact with antidepressants, antibiotics, cholesterol-lowering medicines, supplements that alter the functions of the immune system and nervous system.
FAQs
Cissus quadrangularis and Serotonin
Scientific studies have proven that Cissus quadrangularis can increase the levels of serotonin. As a neurotransmitter, serotonin has the following functions: 1) Mood Regulation 2) Maintain Bone Health 3) Healthy Bowel Movements 4) Sleep 5) Blood Clotting
Lower levels of this hormone are associated with behavioral and emotional disorders like OCD, anxiety, and depression.
Cissus supplements help in supporting overall wellbeing by maintaining healthy levels of serotonin.
Cissus Quadrangularis and Moringa Oleifera
Both plants are scientifically proven to heal bone fractures and promote bone health.
Cissus plant is rich in minerals, vitamins along with vital nutrients that act as antioxidants, anti-inflammatory agents, and pain relievers.
On the other hand, moringa leaves and stems are rich in calcium.
The phytonutrients present in the plant, exhibit strong anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial and muscle relaxant properties.
This combination could serve as an ideal supplement for athletes, middle-aged individuals and elders without any side effects.
When is the Best Time to Consume Cissus Quadrangularis Supplements?
It is believed that the best time to consume Cissus supplements is 20-30 minutes before the meals.
CQ has gum forming properties, which lead to reduced food intake and thereby promotes weight loss.
Final Words
Cissus Quadrangularis supplements are helpful for bone health, inflammation, weight loss, and improved immunity and many more. But it is important to choose the right supplement to get these benefits.
Here are our top picks for this supplement once again for you. Check out their specs, reviews, price and offers on Amazon -
