# Hadjod (Cissus quadrangularis)

**Canonical URL:** https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/ingredients/hadjod
**Data Source:** Hermetica Superfoods Ingredient Encyclopedia
**Updated:** 2026-03-19
**Evidence Score:** 6 / 10
**Category:** Ayurveda
**Also Known As:** Cissus quadrangularis, Asthisamharaka, Bone Setter, Veld Grape, Devil's Backbone, Adamant Creeper, Pirandai

## Overview

Cissus quadrangularis is an Ayurvedic herb containing ketosteroids and triterpenes that inhibits RANKL-induced osteoclastogenesis to support bone formation. Clinical studies demonstrate its effectiveness for fracture healing and [bone health](/ingredients/condition/bone-health), particularly in postmenopausal women.

## Health Benefits

• [Bone health](/ingredients/condition/bone-health) support - Preclinical evidence shows ethanol extract inhibited RANKL-induced osteoclastogenesis and improved bone health in estrogen-deficient rat models
• Traditional fracture healing - Used in Ayurveda for over 2,000 years as 'bone setter' for fractures and joint pain (traditional use only)
• Potential gastroprotective effects - Phytochemical profile suggests possible gastric benefits through flavonoids and triterpenoids (mechanism-based, no clinical evidence)
• Weight management support - Traditional use in African and Indian systems (no clinical evidence provided)
• General tonic properties - Traditionally employed as general health tonic due to vitamin C and carotenoid content (traditional use only)

## Mechanism of Action

Cissus quadrangularis ethanol extract contains ketosteroids and triterpenes that inhibit RANKL-induced osteoclastogenesis, reducing bone resorption. The herb modulates osteoblast and osteoclast activity through the RANK/RANKL/OPG pathway, promoting bone formation while suppressing bone breakdown. Additional mechanisms include [anti-inflammatory](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) effects via cyclooxygenase inhibition and enhanced [collagen synthesis](/ingredients/condition/skin-health).

## Clinical Summary

Preclinical studies in estrogen-deficient rat models show significant [bone health](/ingredients/condition/bone-health) improvements with Cissus quadrangularis extract. Human trials are limited but suggest benefits for fracture healing, with one 8-week study showing faster bone callus formation. Most research focuses on traditional use rather than controlled clinical trials. Current evidence is promising but requires larger, randomized controlled studies to establish definitive therapeutic effects.

## Nutritional Profile

Hadjod (Cissus quadrangularis) is not consumed as a macronutrient food source; its value lies in its bioactive phytochemical profile. Key compounds include: • **Ketosteroids** – notably ketosterone and related phytosteroids, which are believed to contribute to its osteogenic activity; concentrations vary by plant part but are most concentrated in the stem (exact quantification varies, roughly 0.1–0.5% dry weight in stem extracts). • **Ascorbic acid (Vitamin C)** – unusually high for a medicinal herb, reported at approximately 478–500 mg per 100 g of fresh stem, contributing to [collagen synthesis](/ingredients/condition/skin-health) relevant to bone repair. • **Carotenoids** – β-carotene (~16–20 mg/100 g dry weight) and vitamin A precursors present in aerial parts. • **Calcium** – significant mineral content in stem, approximately 2.0–4.0% dry weight, contributing directly to [bone mineralization](/ingredients/condition/bone-health); calcium bioavailability may be enhanced by concurrent vitamin C content. • **Phosphorus** – ~0.6–1.0% dry weight, supporting hydroxyapatite formation. • **Iron** – trace amounts (~3–5 mg/100 g dry weight). • **Flavonoids** – quercetin and kaempferol glycosides identified via HPLC, typically 0.5–2.0% of dry extract, acting as [antioxidant](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant)s. • **Stilbenes** – resveratrol and piceatannol detected in small quantities (stilbene content ~0.01–0.05% dry weight); these contribute [anti-inflammatory](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) and antioxidant effects. • **Tannins** – ~3–5% dry weight, contributing astringent and gastroprotective properties. • **Triterpenoids** – including friedelin and related compounds (~0.2–0.8% dry weight), with anti-inflammatory activity. • **Fiber (mucilage)** – stem is rich in dietary fiber and mucilaginous polysaccharides (~10–15% dry weight), which may aid gastrointestinal function. • **Protein content** – modest, approximately 5–7% dry weight in stem. • **Bioavailability notes** – The ketosteroid and flavonoid fractions show enhanced absorption when taken with lipid-based carriers or as ethanol/hydroalcoholic extracts (as used in most clinical studies, typically standardized to 2.5–5% ketosteroids). Water-soluble components (vitamin C, minerals) are readily bioavailable. Calcium absorption is likely improved by the plant's inherent vitamin C and organic acid content. Standard commercial extracts (e.g., Cissus quadrangularis extract, CQR-300) are typically standardized at 300–500 mg per dose with ~2.5% ketosteroids.

## Dosage & Preparation

No clinically studied dosage ranges for humans are available in the research. Preclinical extraction used 90% ethanol Soxhlet extract from stems (yield ~10% w/w), but human dosing and standardization parameters are not established. Consult a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement.

## Safety & Drug Interactions

Cissus quadrangularis is generally well-tolerated with few reported adverse effects in traditional use. Mild gastrointestinal upset may occur in sensitive individuals. No significant drug interactions have been documented, but caution is advised with anticoagulant medications due to potential effects on bleeding time. Safety during pregnancy and lactation has not been established through clinical studies.

## Scientific Research

The research dossier reveals a significant gap in human clinical trials - no RCTs, meta-analyses, or PubMed PMIDs for human studies were found. The only scientific evidence comes from a single preclinical study where ethanol extract demonstrated osteoprotective effects via reduced bone loss in vitro and in estrogen-deficient rat models.

## Historical & Cultural Context

In Ayurvedic medicine, Cissus quadrangularis (Sanskrit: Asthisamharaka, Hadjod) has been used for over 2,000 years primarily for bone fractures, joint pain, and as a bone setter to promote healing and strength. The herb is also traditionally employed for gastric issues, weight management, and as a general tonic in both African and Indian traditional medicine systems.

## Synergistic Combinations

Calcium, Vitamin D3, Magnesium, Boswellia serrata, Turmeric

## Frequently Asked Questions

### How long does Cissus quadrangularis take to work for bone health?

Traditional use suggests benefits within 6-8 weeks for fracture healing. Preclinical studies show osteoclast inhibition occurs within days, but measurable bone density improvements typically require 2-3 months of consistent use.

### What is the effective dosage of Cissus quadrangularis for bones?

Traditional Ayurvedic preparations use 500-1000mg daily of standardized extract. Research studies have used 300-500mg of ethanol extract twice daily. Optimal human dosing requires further clinical validation.

### Can Cissus quadrangularis replace calcium supplements for bone health?

Cissus quadrangularis works through different mechanisms than calcium, inhibiting bone breakdown rather than providing mineral substrate. It may complement but should not replace adequate calcium intake for optimal bone health.

### Does Cissus quadrangularis help with osteoporosis in postmenopausal women?

Preclinical studies in estrogen-deficient models show promise for postmenopausal bone loss. The herb's ability to inhibit RANKL-induced osteoclastogenesis suggests potential benefits, but human clinical trials in postmenopausal women are needed.

### What are the active compounds in Cissus quadrangularis responsible for bone benefits?

Key bioactive compounds include ketosteroids, triterpenes, and flavonoids like quercetin. The ethanol-soluble ketosteroid fraction demonstrates the strongest anti-osteoclastogenic activity in laboratory studies.

### Is Cissus quadrangularis safe to take with osteoporosis medications like bisphosphonates?

While Cissus quadrangularis is generally well-tolerated, there is limited clinical data on interactions with bisphosphonates or other prescription bone medications. It is advisable to consult with a healthcare provider before combining Cissus quadrangularis with pharmaceutical osteoporosis treatments to avoid potential additive effects or absorption interference. No serious adverse interactions have been reported in traditional use, but individual medical histories should be considered.

### Who should avoid taking Cissus quadrangularis supplements?

Pregnant and nursing women should avoid Cissus quadrangularis due to insufficient safety data in these populations, despite its traditional use in bone health. Individuals with kidney stones or those prone to hyperoxaluria should exercise caution, as the plant contains oxalates. People on anticoagulant medications should consult a healthcare provider before use, as some traditional applications suggest mild blood-thinning properties.

### What is the difference between using Cissus quadrangularis extract versus the whole plant form for bone health?

Standardized ethanol extracts of Cissus quadrangularis are used in most clinical research and concentrate the bioactive compounds responsible for bone health benefits, making them more potent per dose. Whole plant preparations have been used traditionally for centuries but may have variable potency depending on growing conditions and processing methods. Extract forms typically offer more consistent dosing and faster absorption compared to whole plant material, though both are used in modern supplementation.

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