Cissus quadrangularis CQR-300®

Cissus quadrangularis, an ancient medicinal plant from the grape family (Vitaceae), is native to India, Southeast Asia, and Africa. For centuries, it has been revered in Ayurvedic medicine for its profound ability to support bone fracture healing, enhance joint health, and contribute to overall well-being. CQR-300® represents a premium, standardized extract of Cissus quadrangularis, meticulously processed to ensure consistent potency and efficacy. This standardization typically focuses on specific ketosterones, which are considered the primary bioactive compounds responsible for its diverse therapeutic effects. The plant itself is characterized by its distinctive succulent, quadrangular stems, giving it its botanical name. Its rich historical use underscores a long-standing recognition of its health-promoting properties, which are now being validated and elucidated by modern scientific research, making this standardized extract an ideal component for advanced supplement formulations.

Cissus quadrangularis is rich in a complex array of phytochemicals, most notably ketosterones, alongside triterpenoids, flavonoids, and stilbenes. The ketosterones, such as 3-ketosterone, are widely believed to be central to its remarkable osteogenic and anti-inflammatory actions. Scientific research suggests that Cissus may support bone health by promoting osteoblast proliferation and differentiation, while simultaneously inhibiting osteoclast activity, thereby contributing significantly to bone mineral density and accelerating fracture healing. A notable study published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology (2003) highlighted its role in accelerating the bone fracture repair process. Furthermore, its potent anti-inflammatory properties, potentially mediated through the inhibition of cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes, may effectively help alleviate joint discomfort and promote joint mobility, offering substantial benefits for conditions such as osteoarthritis. Beyond musculoskeletal support, Cissus has also been investigated for its promising role in weight management, possibly by influencing lipase activity and supporting healthy metabolic processes.

CQR-300® is a highly versatile ingredient, making it an excellent candidate for incorporation into a wide range of supplement formulations. Its primary applications include products targeting bone and joint health, sports nutrition for enhanced recovery, and comprehensive weight management supplements. It is frequently utilized in formulations aimed at improving overall musculoskeletal integrity and reducing exercise-induced discomfort. For optimal efficacy, CQR-300® extracts are rigorously processed to ensure precise standardization of key ketosterones, often to 2.5% or higher, signifying a commitment to quality and consistency. Robust quality control measures, encompassing thorough testing for purity, potency, and absence of contaminants, are paramount to guarantee a safe and effective final product. Clinical trials have consistently demonstrated its efficacy; for instance, a study in Lipids in Health and Disease (2007) reported significant improvements in weight loss and various metabolic parameters in overweight individuals. Another trial, published in Phytotherapy Research (2006), provided strong evidence supporting its role in reducing joint pain and improving functional indices in people with osteoarthritis. These compelling findings underscore its evidence-based utility across diverse health applications, cementing its value as a foundational component for innovative supplement development.