A review on phytochemical and pharmacological aspects of Cissus quadrangularis L.

Abstract

Cissus quadrangularis L. (Vitaceae) is a common perennial climber, which is distributed throughout Bangladesh. Though almost all of its parts are used in traditional systems of medicines seeds, stem, roots and shoots are the most important parts which are used medicinally. The article reveals that wide numbers of phytochemical constituents have been isolated from the plant which possesses activities like anti‑inflammatory, anti‑tumor, gastro‑protective, antioxidant, antimicrobial and various other important medicinal properties. The stem juice of plant is used in menstrual disorders, epistaxis and leaves is used against bowel infections. For the last few decades or so, extensive research work has been done to prove its biological activities and pharmacology of its extracts. The current review deals with the enormous amount of updated information of scientific research and reports available in different aspects of this plant involving phytochemical and pharmacology. This review also includes reports on taxonomy, morphology, monographs, distribution, tissue culture and traditional medicinal uses of the plant. Key words: Cissus quadrangularis, phytochemical constituents, pharmacological activity, traditional uses