The Power of Asthishrunkhala (Cissus quadrangularis): The Bone-Healing Creeper Revolutionizing Orthopedics
In the rugged terrains of India, a resilient creeper known as Asthishrunkhala or Hadjod (Cissus quadrangularis) thrives, wrapping itself around trees and rocks. Revered in Ayurveda as the "Bone-Joiner," this herb has been used for centuries to mend fractures, strengthen bones, and rejuvenate the skeletal system. Modern science is now catching up, with studies validating its remarkable bone-healing and anti-inflammatory properties. This article explores Hadjod’s traditional Ayurvedic uses, its mechanisms of action, scientific evidence, and practical applications for bone and joint health.
What is Hadjod (Asthishrunkhala)?
- Sanskrit Name: Asthishrunkhala ("bone-joiner" or "bone-knitter")
- Common Names: Hadjod, Bone-Setter Herb, Veldt Grape
- Botanical Name: Cissus quadrangularis
- Family: Vitaceae
- Habitat: Native to India, Sri Lanka, and parts of Africa and Southeast Asia; thrives in hot, arid climates.
Hadjod’s succulent, quadrangular stems are rich in bioactive compounds, making it a cornerstone of Ayurvedic medicine for skeletal health. Its ability to accelerate fracture healing, enhance bone density, and reduce joint inflammation has earned it a growing reputation in both traditional and modern therapeutic contexts.
Ayurvedic Properties of Hadjod
In Ayurveda, Hadjod is classified based on its effects on the body’s doshas (bio-energies), dhatus (tissues), and therapeutic actions. Below is a detailed breakdown of its Ayurvedic properties:
| Ayurvedic Property | Description |
|---|---|
| Rasa (Taste) | Kashaya (Astringent), Madhura (Sweet) |
| Guna (Quality) | Laghu (Light), Ruksha (Dry) |
| Virya (Potency) | Ushna (Hot) |
| Vipaka (Post-Digestive Effect) | Katu (Pungent) |
| Dosha Effect | Balances Vata and Kapha; may aggravate Pitta in excess |
| Dhatu (Tissue) Affinity | Asthi (Bone), Mamsa (Muscle), Majja (Bone Marrow) |
| Therapeutic Actions | - Sandhaniya: Promotes bone regeneration and tissue union - Shothahara: Reduces inflammation - Rasayana: Rejuvenates tissues, especially bone and muscle - Vedanasthapana: Alleviates pain - Balya: Enhances strength |
How Hadjod Works in Ayurveda
Ayurveda views bone health as governed by Asthi dhatu (bone tissue), which is nourished by proper digestion and metabolism of nutrients. Hadjod’s Ushna virya (hot potency) and Kashaya rasa (astringent taste) stimulate Agni (digestive fire), improving nutrient absorption for bone repair. Its Sandhaniya property directly supports the regeneration of Asthi dhatu, while its Shothahara and Vedanasthapana actions reduce swelling and pain in joints and fractures. By balancing Vata (responsible for movement and degeneration) and Kapha (responsible for stability and lubrication), Hadjod promotes structural integrity and tissue healing.
Scientific Validation: How Hadjod Works
Modern research has identified key bioactive compounds in Hadjod that explain its efficacy:
| Compound | Role | Effect |
|---|---|---|
| Ketosteroids | Stimulate osteoblast activity | Promote bone formation and mineralization |
| Flavonoids | Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory | Reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in bones/joints |
| Triterpenoids | Anti-inflammatory and analgesic | Alleviate pain and swelling in arthritis and injuries |
| Vitamin C | Collagen synthesis | Supports ligament, tendon, and bone matrix repair |
| Carotenoids | Antioxidant | Protect bone cells from damage |
Mechanisms of Action
-
Fracture Healing:
- Hadjod enhances callus formation (the initial bone bridge in fractures) by stimulating osteoblasts (bone-forming cells).
- A 2011 study in Journal of Ethnopharmacology found that Hadjod extract reduced fracture healing time by 30–40% in animal models compared to controls, with increased mineralization and callus strength.
- It upregulates enzymes like alkaline phosphatase, critical for bone mineralization.
-
Bone Density:
- Hadjod promotes osteoblast proliferation and inhibits osteoclast activity (cells that break down bone), improving bone mineral density.
- A 2013 clinical trial showed significant improvements in bone density in postmenopausal women with osteoporosis after 6 months of Hadjod supplementation.
-
Anti-inflammatory and Analgesic Effects:
- Flavonoids and triterpenoids inhibit pro-inflammatory cytokines (e.g., IL-6, TNF-α), reducing joint inflammation in arthritis.
- Hadjod’s analgesic effects are comparable to NSAIDs but without gastrointestinal side effects, as shown in preclinical studies.
-
Cortisol-Related Bone Protection:
- Hadjod counters cortisol-induced bone loss by modulating the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis, protecting against stress- or steroid-related osteoporosis.
-
Collagen and Tissue Repair:
- Vitamin C and other compounds enhance collagen synthesis, crucial for ligaments, tendons, and the bone matrix.
- Studies suggest Hadjod accelerates healing in ligament tears and soft tissue injuries.
Conditions Hadjod Helps
Hadjod’s versatility makes it effective for various musculoskeletal conditions:
| Condition | How Hadjod Helps | Scientific Evidence |
|---|---|---|
| Fractures | Accelerates callus formation and bone union | Clinical trials show 30–40% faster healing |
| Osteoporosis | Increases bone density, reduces fracture risk | Improved BMD in postmenopausal women |
| Arthritis/Spondylosis | Reduces joint inflammation and pain | Anti-inflammatory effects in animal models |
| Ligament/Tendon Injuries | Enhances collagen synthesis and tissue repair | Preclinical evidence of faster recovery |
| Obesity-Related Joint Stress | Supports weight loss and joint health | Preliminary studies on metabolic benefits |
How to Use Hadjod Safely
Hadjod can be used in various forms, with dosages tailored to individual needs under professional guidance.
Forms of Hadjod
| Form | Description | Best Use |
|---|---|---|
| Capsules/Extract | Standardized to 5–10% ketosteroids | Convenient for daily use |
| Ghana Vati | Concentrated tablets | Traditional Ayurvedic preparation |
| Laxadi Guggul | Combines Hadjod with Guggulu, Arjuna, Ashwagandha | Fractures, arthritis, bone loss |
| Decoction (Kashayam) | Boiled fresh/dried stems | Internal use for acute conditions |
| Paste | Crushed stems applied externally | Fractures, joint pain |
Dosage Guidelines
- Capsules/Extract: 250–500 mg twice daily, post-meals.
- Laxadi Guggul: 1–2 tablets (250–500 mg each) twice daily, after meals.
- Decoction: 10–20 mL of fresh stem decoction, once or twice daily.
-
Paste: Apply a thin layer on affected areas, 1–2 times daily.
Note: Always consult an Ayurvedic practitioner or doctor, as dosages depend on age, health status, and condition severity.
Synergistic Combinations
To enhance Hadjod’s effects:
- Guggulu: Detoxifies tissues and reduces inflammation.
- Ashwagandha: Boosts muscle strength and recovery.
- Sesame (Til) Oil: External massage nourishes Asthi dhatu.
- Sunlight Exposure: Enhances Vitamin D synthesis for calcium absorption.
Precautions
- Contraindications: Avoid during pregnancy due to insufficient safety data.
- Drug Interactions: Use cautiously with steroids, blood thinners, or antidiabetic drugs, as Hadjod may affect metabolism or clotting.
- Side Effects: Rare, but potential for mild digestive upset or allergic reactions.
- Quality: Choose products from reputable brands to ensure purity and avoid contaminants.
Why Orthopedic Surgeons Should Take Note
Hadjod bridges the gap between traditional wisdom and modern science. Its ability to:
- Accelerate fracture healing by 30–40%,
- Enhance bone density in osteoporosis,
- Reduce inflammation without NSAID-related side effects, and
- Support soft tissue repair makes it a promising adjunct to conventional treatments.
Orthopedic surgeons could consider Hadjod as a complementary therapy for:
- Patients with delayed fracture union.
- Postmenopausal women or elderly patients with osteoporosis.
- Individuals with arthritis or ligament injuries seeking non-invasive options.
While more large-scale human trials are needed to standardize protocols, Hadjod’s low side-effect profile and holistic benefits make it a compelling option for integrative orthopedics.
Final Word
Asthishrunkhala (Hadjod) is more than a humble creeper—it’s a powerhouse of bone regeneration, joint health, and tissue repair. Rooted in Ayurveda and validated by science, it offers a natural, effective alternative or complement to screws, plates, and calcium supplements. By healing not just fractures but the entire skeletal system, Hadjod embodies the synergy of ancient wisdom and modern innovation. Consult a healthcare provider to incorporate Hadjod into your wellness routine and unlock its bone-knitting potential.
