Finger Cactus
Cissus quadrangularis
Cissus quadrangularis is a traditional medicine plant primarily used in Ayurvedic and traditional Thai practices. It has been traditionally employed for treating hemorrhoids, among other conditions, based on its pharmacological activities. Scientific evidence suggests potential benefits in regulating glycemia, lipids, blood pressure, and aiding weight reduction, though these findings are preliminary and require further investigation. The plant's extracts have shown promise in increasing GLP-1 levels and reducing DPP-4 activity, contributing to improvements in body composition and metabolic parameters. Additionally, Cissus quadrangularis-loaded titanium dioxide nanoparticles exhibit potent antimicrobial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory activities with high biocompatibility. No major safety issues or recorded drug interactions have been identified thus far.
- Best evidence
- A
- Cautions
- —
Informational only. Traditional use does not mean proven effectiveness. Evidence and safety vary — check the cited sources.
What the science says
- This systematic review found that Cissus quadrangularis showed potential in regulating glycemia, lipids, blood pressure, and contributing to weight reduction, though evidence is preliminary.
- The study identified Cissus quadrangularis among other plants used traditionally in Thailand for treating hemorrhoids, based on their pharmacological activities.
- Supplementation with Dichrostachys glomerata or Cissus quadrangularis extracts increased GLP-1 levels and reduced DPP-4 activity, leading to improvements in body composition and metabolic parameters.
- The study found that Cissus quadrangularis-loaded titanium dioxide nanoparticles showed potent antimicrobial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory activities, along with high biocompatibility.
Frequently asked questions
What is Finger Cactus?
Finger Cactus (Cissus quadrangularis) is a plant documented in FolkKB's traditional-medicine reference, drawn from sourced literature and cross-checked against the evidence.
What does the scientific evidence say about Finger Cactus?
4 sourced findings are recorded for Finger Cactus; the strongest carries evidence grade A. For example: This systematic review found that Cissus quadrangularis showed potential in regulating glycemia, lipids, blood pressure, and contributing to weight reduction, though evidence is preliminary.
How strong is the evidence for Finger Cactus?
The strongest finding for Finger Cactus carries evidence grade A — strong evidence. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).
Is Finger Cactus safe? What are the side effects?
No major safety issues are recorded for Finger Cactus in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.
Does Finger Cactus interact with medications?
No drug interactions are recorded for Finger Cactus in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.
What are the common names of Finger Cactus?
Finger Cactus is also known as: Cisse à quatre angles.
Is Finger Cactus a proven treatment?
No. FolkKB is informational only. Traditional use and early findings are not proof of efficacy or safety — consult a qualified professional and never self-treat.
Sources
- T2 Evaluation of use and efficacy of African traditional medicine for metabolic syndrome: a systematic review. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Effects of Dichrostachys glomerata and Cissus quadrangularis Extracts on GLP-1 Secretion and DPP-4 Activity in Overweight and Obese Individuals: A Randomized Controlled Trial. literature abstract metadata
- T2 An ethnobotanical review of medicinal plants used for treating hemorrhoids in Thailand. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Green Synthesis of Cissus Quadrangularis-loaded Titanium Dioxide Nanoparticles (CQ-TiO 2 ) and Evaluation of its Antimicrobial, Antioxidant, Anti-inflammatory, and Biocompatibility activity in Human Periodontal Ligament Cells. literature abstract metadata