Asthishrinkhala (Asthishrinkhala (Granthimana, Asthisamhari, Vajrangi))
Asthishrinkhala, known as Cissus quadrangularis, is an Ayurvedic herb traditionally used for bone-related disorders. Modern research explores its potential in bone healing, joint health, and weight management.
Botanical name: Cissus quadrangularis. Also known as: Winged Treebine, Veldt Grape, Bone Setter, Edible Stemmed Vine, Adamant Creeper, Devil's Backbone, Asthishrinkhala, Asthisamhara, Vajravalli, Asthisamharaka, Hadjod, Hadjora, Hadjod, Hadsankal, Kandvel, Pirandai, Pindai, Nalleru, Nallerutige, Phet Sang Khat.
Properties
Increases calcium uptake into bone tissue, Improves collagen synthesis, Stimulates osteoblast activity, Reduces inflammation
Dosage
Fresh Juice: 10-20 ml; Paste: 5-10 grams; Powder: 3gm, 1 to 2 times a day or 1-3 g twice daily; General Bone Health (as Asthishrinkhala Ghee): 1-2 teaspoons twice daily; Fracture Healing (as Asthishrinkhala Ghee): 2 teaspoons twice daily until complete recovery; Arthritis/Joint Pain (as Asthishrinkhala Ghee): 2 teaspoons twice daily; Capsules: 2 to 4 capsules (typically 470-500mg each) daily
Classical attributes
- Rasa: Madhura (Sweet), Kashaya (Astringent)
- Virya: ["Ushna (Hot)"]
- Vipaka: ["Madhura (Sweet)"]
Benefits
- Asthisanhara (Promotes bone union)
- Vatahara (Alleviates Vata)
- Kaphahara (Alleviates Kapha)
Traditional uses
- Asthibhagna (Fractures)
- Sandhishoola (Joint pain)
- Agnimandya (Digestive weakness)
- Arsha (Hemorrhoids)
Dosha effects
- vata: balancing
- kapha: balancing
- pitta: balancing
Preparation methods
- Fresh Juice: The fresh stem can be crushed to extract the juice.
- Paste: The stem can be ground into a paste.
- Powder: The stem can be dried and powdered.
- Decoction (Kashaya): Coarse powder can be boiled in water and reduced to a quarter of the original volume.
- Ghee (Medicated Butter): Asthishrinkhala stems and leaves are traditionally purified, processed, and slow-cooked with A2 Bilona Ghee.
- Vati (Tablets): Asthishrinkhala powder can be processed with its decoction and made into tablets.
- Mixed with milk and ghee: Mix Asthishrinkhala with milk and ghee.
- Mixed with warm milk and turmeric: Mix Asthishrinkhala with warm milk and turmeric.
- Taken with honey: Take Asthishrinkhala with honey.
- Added to soups or used in light cooking: Add Asthishrinkhala to soups or use in light cooking.
- Young shoots' ashes: Young shoots' ashes (obtained by burning in closed vessels) are used for dyspepsia.
- Stem juice for earaches: Stem can be heated in a flame and the juice used as ear drops for earaches.
Contraindications
- Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Due to insufficient safety data, it is best avoided during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
- Peptic Ulcer Disease: Use with caution; it is recommended to take it with milk or honey to buffer potential irritation.
- Bleeding Disorders: It may affect platelet aggregation, so individuals on anticoagulants should consult their physician before use.
- Hypertension: It's always best to consult with a healthcare provider.
Side effects
- Mild gastric discomfort
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Intestinal gas
- Dry mouth
- Diarrhea
- Insomnia
- Nausea (high doses)
- Constipation (high doses)
Interactions
- May lower blood sugar levels; monitor blood sugar closely if taking antidiabetic drugs. Dosage adjustments of diabetes medication might be necessary.
- Potential additive effects with NSAIDs and blood thinners; disclose all medications to your healthcare provider.
Clinical evidence
Meta-analyses of up to 15 RCTs and databases tracking 20+ RCTs show that Cissus quadrangularis may accelerate bone fracture healing, improve joint health by reducing pain and inflammation, and support weight management. These effects are thought to be related to its ability to stimulate collagen synthesis and increase osteoblast activity. Further research is needed to confirm these findings and establish optimal dosages.
Ayurvedic karmas
- Asthisanhara (Promotes bone union)
- Vatahara (Alleviates Vata)
- Kaphahara (Alleviates Kapha)
Classical clinical indications
- Asthibhagna (Fractures)
- Sandhishoola (Joint pain)
- Agnimandya (Digestive weakness)
- Arsha (Hemorrhoids)