Cissus Quadrangularis: Benefits and Applications

Cissus quadrangularis, sometimes called Veld Grape, Devil’s Backbone, or in Thai, Sarn-Jee-Ra-Ka, is a perennial vine widely recognized across India, Africa, and Southeast Asia. With a long history in Ayurvedic and Thai traditional herbal practices, the plant is valued for its stem extract, which contains several bioactive compounds beneficial in modern formulations.

Today, Cissus quadrangularis plays a growing role in the nutraceutical, sports nutrition, cosmetic, and herbal wellness industries due to its antioxidant activity and natural plant sterols.

What Makes Cissus Quadrangularis Unique?

The plant’s four-angled stems contain a rich profile of phytochemicals, including:

Ketosterones
Ascorbic acid (Vitamin C)
Carotenoids
Calcium compounds
Flavonoids
Triterpenoids

These natural constituents give Cissus its strong antioxidant capacity and make it suitable for wellness-focused products.

Benefits of Cissus Quadrangularis

1. Antioxidant-Rich Botanical for Wellness Support

Cissus extract contains flavonoids and triterpenoids that help neutralize oxidative stress. This makes it valuable in supplements designed for:

general wellness
vitality blends
active lifestyle formulas

Antioxidants are also key in skin protection products.

2. Traditionally Used to Support Bone & Joint Wellness

In traditional Ayurvedic practice, Cissus has been used for generations to support:

bone strength
joint flexibility
post-activity recovery

While traditions emphasize bone and connective tissue support, modern supplement formulations highlight its general musculoskeletal wellness properties.

3. Ideal Ingredient for Sports Nutrition Supplements

Due to its traditional link with physical recovery, Cissus quadrangularis is frequently included in:

pre-workout supplements
post-exercise recovery capsules
joint support formulas
active lifestyle tonics

Its natural plant sterols make it popular among athletes seeking botanical-based support.

4. Skin-Conditioning Applications in Cosmetics

Cissus extract is rich in antioxidants and vitamin C, making it beneficial in:

anti-aging skincare
soothing gels
herbal serums
moisturizers for sensitive skin

Its hydrating and skin-conditioning potential also suits botanical cosmetic lines.

5. Natural Health Beverage & Functional Food Ingredient

In Southeast Asia, the stems are sometimes used to prepare herbal drinks and teas. In modern formulations, the extract can be incorporated into:

functional beverages
antioxidant drinks
vitality tonics

Its mild taste and clean-label appeal make it suitable for herbal beverages.

Industrial Applications of Cissus Quadrangularis

1. Supplement & Nutraceutical Industry

Cissus extract is widely used in products marketed for:

joint comfort
physical performance recovery
bone support
antioxidant supplementation
general vitality

It is available in powder, capsule, extract, and liquid tincture form.

2. Cosmetic & Personal Care Industry

Cissus offers skin benefits such as:

hydration
protection from environmental stress
antioxidant support

It is used in:

natural skincare lines
herbal beauty formulations
anti-aging serums
restorative creams

3. Functional Food & Beverage Industry

Cissus extract is compatible with:

herbal tonic drinks
wellness beverages
energy and activity support drinks
fortified gummies (pectin-based)

Its traditional use makes it appealing for natural health-themed products.

Why Cissus Quadrangularis Is Gaining Popularity

As consumer demand grows for botanical ingredients, sports-friendly herbs, and traditional remedies backed by modern science, Cissus stands out because it offers:

A long cultural history in herbal practices
Compatibility with clean-label products
Versatile extraction (powder, liquid, standardized)
Broad applications in supplement, cosmetic, and beverage categories

This makes it an excellent choice for brands in wellness and herbal industries.

Conclusion of Cissus Quadrangularis

Cissus quadrangularis is more than a traditional herbal vine, it is a versatile ingredient shaping modern wellness products. With its antioxidant-rich composition, traditional association with bone and joint wellness, and suitability for cosmetics and supplements, Cissus continues to grow in relevance across global industries.

Whether you’re developing nutraceuticals, botanical skincare, or natural tonics, Cissus extract offers a reliable and heritage-rich herbal foundation.

References

Udupa, K. N., & Prasad, G. C. “Biological and Physiological Properties of Cissus quadrangularis.” Journal of Research in Ayurveda, 1964.
Muthusami, S., et al. “Cissus quadrangularis enhances bone health: A review.” Journal of Bone Biology and Medicine, 2009.
Shirwaikar, A., et al. “Effects of Cissus quadrangularis on bone fracture healing.” Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 2003.
Potu, B. K., et al. “Influence of Cissus quadrangularis on bone health and antioxidant activity.” Indian Journal of Pharmacology, 2010.

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