Hadjod

Hadjod (Cissus quadrangularis) is a medicinal plant belonging to the grape family (Vitaceae). In Ayurveda, it is classified as a Balya (strength-promoter) and Sandhaniya (healing) herb. The name itself is derived from the Hindi words Had (bone) and Jod (join), reflecting its primary traditional use in accelerating the union of fractured bones.

The plant contains high concentrations of Vitamin C and beta-carotene, alongside specialized compounds like ketosteroids, which have been shown to influence bone cell (osteoblast) activity. Modern pharmacological studies suggest it may play a role in increasing bone mineral density, making it a subject of interest for managing age-related bone thinning.

Hadjod (Cissus quadrangularis) is called by different names based on regional culture and language. In Sanskrit, it is called Asthisamharaka or Asthishrinkhala, meaning bone setter, which highlights its traditional use in bone healing. In Hindi, it is also called Hadjor, which means "bone joiner." In Tamil, the plant is known as Pirantai and Veldt Grape in English; 

Hadjod, commonly known as Cissus Quadrangularis, is used in traditional Ayurvedic medicine. Hadjod benefits involve supporting bone health, but it also has anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and analgesic benefits.

1. Promotes bone healing and fracture repair

Hadjod is most renowned for its osteogenic potential and has long been used to support bone healing and fracture recovery. It contains phytosterols, triterpenoids, flavonoids, calcium, and phosphorus, which collectively support bone regeneration. These compounds may stimulate osteoblast activity by interacting with oestrogen receptors, thereby accelerating bone formation and remodelling. Clinical observations suggest that Hadjod can reduce fracture healing time by approximately 30–50% when used alongside standard immobilisation. Its anti-inflammatory properties also help reduce pain and swelling during the early stages of fracture healing, making it particularly beneficial for athletes and physically active individuals.

2. Supports bone density and helps manage osteoporosis

Hadjod is traditionally used to help manage bone demineralisation and conditions such as osteoporosis. Its mineral content, combined with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, helps combat oxidative stress in bone tissue, which is a known contributor to bone loss. Regular use may assist in maintaining bone density, strength, and structural integrity, particularly in individuals at higher risk of fractures.

3. Reduces inflammation and relieves pain

Hadjod exhibits significant anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects, making it useful in managing conditions such as arthritis, joint pain, and muscle discomfort. By reducing inflammatory markers, it helps alleviate pain associated with rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, haemorrhoids, and other inflammatory disorders, thereby improving mobility and overall comfort.

4. Supports weight management and metabolic health

Hadjod has gained attention for its potential role in weight management and metabolic regulation. Studies suggest that it may improve lipid metabolism by influencing enzymes involved in fat breakdown and energy regulation. By reducing blood lipid levels, including cholesterol and triglycerides, Hadjod may help limit fat accumulation and support individuals with metabolic syndrome or weight-related concerns.

5. Improves gastrointestinal health

Traditionally, Hadjod has been used to support digestive health by strengthening the gastric and intestinal mucosal lining. This protective effect may help manage conditions such as gastric ulcers, abdominal cramps, and irritation caused by excess stomach acid. It also contributes to overall gastrointestinal comfort and function.

6. Supports cardiovascular health

Hadjod is rich in antioxidants that help reduce oxidative stress, a key contributor to cardiovascular disease. By lowering inflammation and improving lipid profiles, it may support heart health and reduce the risk of hypertension and atherosclerosis. Its role in managing cholesterol and triglyceride levels further enhances its cardiovascular benefits.

7. Promotes hormonal balance and reproductive health

Hadjod is widely used in traditional medicine to support reproductive health, particularly in women. It may help regulate hormonal imbalances, ease menstrual cramps, and manage conditions such as dysmenorrhoea and irregular menstrual cycles. Its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties contribute to pain relief during menstruation, while its systemic action supports overall reproductive health.

Hadjod is popular for its bone healing, weight management, and inflammation reduction properties. But just like any herbal medicine or drug, there are particular precautions regarding the dosage of Hadjod that should be heeded by those who have health issues.

Pregnant and lactating mothers

There is a lack of scientific evidence regarding whether Hadjod is safe for breastfeeding moms. Hadjod has many benefits, but there is a lack of data about its use while breastfeeding and transmitting active compounds through breast milk. So, it is advisable for the women who are breastfeeding to get in touch with a medical practitioner before they start Hadjod.

Patients with diabetes 

There are also reports that Hadjod helps reduce blood sugar, which is helpful for diabetes. Studies also showed that it can benefit carbohydrate and lipid metabolism and improve insulin sensitivity. However, in the case of patients with diabetes who are taking medications to lower blood sugar levels, they should be careful when consuming this herb. If you are diabetic, combining Hadjod with antidiabetic medicines might cause hypoglycemia (low blood sugar).

Individuals with Heart Disease

Research suggests that Cissus quadrangularis may assist in lipid modulation and the reduction of oxidative stress, which are beneficial for cardiovascular health. However, its potential to mildly influence blood pressure requires clinical oversight for those on antihypertensive therapy. Patients taking medications for blood pressure or cholesterol should be aware that Hadjod could potentially potentiate the effects of these drugs, leading to hypotension (low blood pressure). Professional medical consultation is required before combining Hadjod with pharmaceutical cardiovascular interventions.

People with Kidney Disease

Limited studies are available about the use of Hadjod in patients with kidney-related problems. Given that Hadjod is rich in calcium, it could mean a danger for those with kidney stones or patients experiencing chronic kidney diseases as they have an impaired calcium metabolism. Therefore, people with kidney stones must be careful and not consume excessive calcium.

Hadjod With Alcohol

While there is no particular known research correlating Hadjod with alcohol, it isn't considered safe to take herbal supplements, which can influence metabolism and inflammation along with consuming alcohol. The body's metabolism can be altered by alcohol, and inflammation can also increase, hindering the benefits of Hadjod. Additionally, alcohol can be very detrimental in certain conditions, such as osteoporosis, and combining it with Hadjod to manage bone problems is likely to nullify the benefits.

Hadjod is in many forms, like powder, tablets, or capsules. Every form is administered differently, and the dosage depends on what is being treated. 

1. Hadjod Powder

• Dose: 1-2 tsp powder of Hadjod to be taken daily in the morning.
• Directions To Use: Mix the Hadjod powder in warm water or milk. You can mix it with honey or ghee to make the taste bearable.
• How to Take: Consume about 300 mg continuously for 10 weeks for bone healing, digestion, and weight loss.

2. Hadjod Tablets

• Dose: 1–2 tablets (500 mg–1 g) twice daily
• Directions To Use: Take these tablets with water after a meal.
• How to Take: Take one tablet daily after meals for bone fractures, joint pain, and general supplements. The Hadjod tablet uses can make a big difference in your health.

3. Hadjod capsules

• Dose: 1-2 capsules (500 mg to 1 g) twice daily.
• Direction of Use: Take the capsules after meals with water.
• How To Take: Take capsules daily and take them for the long term to prevent osteoporosis or weight loss.

4. Hadjod Paste (External Use)

• Dose: Make a fine paste of Hadjod powder with water or carrier oil.
• Directions to Use: The paste can be applied externally to the affected area (fractures or joint pain) for its anti-inflammatory properties.

The appropriate dose of Hadjod will depend on its response and tolerance, but there is no normal dosage for this supplement. The general dosage of Hadjod powder is 1 to 2 teaspoons (3 to 6 grams) daily, which may be mixed with a suitable vehicle like warm water, milk, or honey and taken post-meals, preferably once or twice a day.

Take Hadjod Tablets/Capsules twice a day after meals. This form makes more sense for long-term use for conditions like bone health, body weight, or inflammation. Besides, for conditions of bone fractures or inflammation, Hadjod paste can be applied topically for muscle pain and to treat wounds. Hadjod juice can be taken in a dose of 5 ml twice a day and about 1 teaspoon twice daily for its ghee version. Patients with certain health conditions, such as diabetes and kidney disease, must take medical advice before starting Hadjod.

Disclaimer: The dosage information provided is for general reference only and should not be considered a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified Ayurveda practitioner before starting, changing, or discontinuing Hadjod, especially if there are underlying medical conditions, pregnancy, or ongoing treatment.

Though Hadjod is safe for most people, it can cause side effects in some cases if not taken under the care of a healthcare provider or if excess dosage is used.

1. Gastrointestinal Issues

Some people may experience digestive discomfort at higher doses, such as nausea, bloating, diarrhea, or stomach cramps.

2. Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar)

If your blood sugar is too low, you should be cautious about taking Hadjod, especially if you have diabetes or are consuming blood-sugar-lowering drugs.

3. Allergic reactions

It could also provoke allergic reactions in rare cases, like itching, rash, and swelling.

Hadjod may interact with some medications to either potentiate or reduce their effect. 

• Diabetes medications: Hadjod may decrease blood sugar levels. Consuming together with anti-diabetic measures, it may bring about low glucose;
• Cholesterol-lowering medications: Hadjod might increase the effects of statins or other lipid-lowering medications, increasing the risk of excess cholesterol reduction.
• Antihypertensive medications: The hypotensive effects of Hadjod may have potentiation by interaction with antihypertensive drugs.
• Calcium supplements: The presence of calcium in Hadjod may increase the risk of kidney stones when taken with calcium supplements.
• Hormonal Medications: The presence of phytoestrogens in hadjod may interact with hormonal medications, potentially affecting hormone levels.

• Bone Health: Hadjod is commonly used to improve bone regeneration and strengthen bone.
• Anti-inflammatory: It reduces swelling, which helps to provide relief from joint pain and arthritis.
• Weight Management: It improves lipid metabolism and controls body fat.
• Medications: Caution is advised for those who have diabetes, heart, or kidney disorders 
• Drug interactions: When taking blood sugar, cholesterol, blood pressure, and hormonal medications, seek medical advice.

Conclusion

Hadjod is renowned for its exceptional ability to promote bone healing and enhance overall skeletal strength. Revered for centuries, this plant offers a natural approach to managing fractures, reducing inflammation, and promoting tissue repair. Its rich nutrient profile and additional benefits for digestive health further enhance its therapeutic value. Whether used in traditional remedies or modern supplements, Hadjod continues to play a vital role in holistic health practices, making it a trusted choice for those seeking natural support for bone and joint wellness.