Pharmacological and Therapeutic Activity of Cissus quadrangularis: An Overview

Since ancient ages plants have served human beings as a natural source of treatments and therapies, amongst them medicinal herbs have gain attention because of its wide use and less side effects. In current scenario focus on plant research has increased throughout the world and a huge amount of evidences have been collected to show immense potential of medicinal plants used in various traditional systems. More than 15000 plants have been studied during the last 5 year period. Recently scientists are using these renewable resources to produce a new generation of therapeutic solutions. Inspite of many synthetic compounds, the most efficient drugs available are directly or indirectly related with the plant kingdom. Many of the plant extracts have proven to posses pharmacological actions. Production and cost advantages of plant-made pharmaceuticals can allow more capital to be invested in research and development of new therapeutics, giving patients access to new drugs faster. This review highlights some of the phytochemical and pharmacological aspects of Cissus quadrangularis Linn. Cissus quadrangularis, a perennial climber widely used in traditional medicinal systems of India has been reported to posses bone fracture healing, antibacterial, antifungal, antioxidant, anthelmintic, antihemorrhoidal and analgesic activities. Cissus quadrangularis Linn. Has been recognized as a rich source of carotenoids, triterpenoids and ascorbic acid and is proved to have potential for medical effects, including “Gastroprotective activity” in conjugation with NSAID therapy and in “Lipid metabolism and oxidative stress”. Needless to say that versatile uses and various therapeutic activities has made the plant a valuable medicinal herb.