The efficacy of cissus quadrangularis in the management of osteoporosis in India

Abstract

Background: Osteoporosis, is a medical condition which leads to reduced bone density, affects millions in India and significantly increases fracture risk. Conventional treatments, such as bisphosphonates and hormone replacement therapy, are associated with high costs and side effects. In contrast, Cissus quadrangularis (CQ), an Ayurvedic herb, has shown promise in supporting bone health through its anti-inflammatory and osteogenic properties, presenting a potential natural alternative for osteoporosis management, particularly in low-resource settings. 

 Methods: This scoping review assesses the effectiveness of CQ in managing osteoporosis by synthesizing evidence from clinical trials, ethnobotanical studies, and systematic reviews published between 2014 and 2024. A comprehensive search was conducted across databases including PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science and grey literature. The impact of CQ on bone mineral density (BMD), bone turnover markers, fracture risk, pain relief, and quality of life was analysed to determine its potential role in both clinical and public health contexts. 

 Results: By the 16 selected studies for review, the findings indicate that CQ can contribute to slowing bone loss by influencing bone turnover markers, particularly reducing serum osteocalcin levels. While its effect on BMD showed mixed results, CQ demonstrated clear benefits when combined with other natural treatments, in its different forms and slow down the osteoporotic condition. The anti-inflammatory effects of CQ were noted to reduce pain and enhance mobility in osteoporosis patients. Additionally, ethnobotanical evidence supports its traditional use in bone healing, especially in resource-constrained regions. Despite promising results, further research is necessary to assess the long-term effects of CQ on fracture prevention and its broader public health impact. 

Conclusion: CQ shows potential as a complementary therapy for osteoporosis, especially in low-resource settings where access to conventional treatments may be limited. Its ability to address both bone health and inflammation underscores its value in public health strategies targeting osteoporosis prevention and management. However, more rigorous research is needed to establish standardized dosages, confirm long-term efficacy, and validate its role in fracture prevention, particularly in public health frameworks that emphasize accessible and cost-effective interventions.