All-Grass of Common Cissampelos (Xi Sheng Teng)

All-Grass of Common Cissampelos (Xi Sheng Teng, 细生藤) refers to the whole plant of Cissampelos pareira, a medicinal herb used in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) and other herbal practices. It is known for its wide range of therapeutic properties.

Botanical Information:

• Scientific Name: Cissampelos pareira
• Family: Menispermaceae (Moonseed family)
• Common Names: Velvetleaf, Abuta, Pareira brava, Xi Sheng Teng (细生藤)
• Parts Used: Whole plant (leaves, stems, and roots)

Traditional Uses and Benefits:

1. Promotes Blood Circulation – Used to relieve pain, swelling, and improve circulation.
2. Anti-inflammatory & Analgesic – Helps with conditions like arthritis, muscle pain, and joint stiffness.
3. Diuretic – Supports kidney health and helps with urinary disorders.
4. Detoxification – Used for its potential benefits in clearing heat and toxins from the body.
5. Menstrual Regulation – Used traditionally to treat irregular menstruation and menstrual pain.
6. Respiratory Health – May assist in alleviating coughs and respiratory conditions.

Active Compounds:

• Alkaloids (e.g., berberine, cissampeline) – known for antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects.
• Flavonoids – contribute to antioxidant and immune-boosting properties.
• Tannins – support wound healing and digestive health.

Preparation and Usage:

• Decoction: The dried plant is often boiled to make a tea.
• Powder: Can be ground into powder and consumed in capsules.
• External Application: Used in poultices for wounds and skin conditions.

Precautions:

• Pregnancy & Breastfeeding: Should be used with caution as some alkaloids may have uterine-stimulating effects.
• Dosage: Always consult a qualified practitioner for appropriate dosage.
• Allergic Reactions: Some individuals may experience sensitivity.

Preparation & Modern Pharmacological Studies on Cissampelos pareira (Xi Sheng Teng)

Preparation & Usage in Traditional Medicine

1. Decoction (Herbal Tea)

   • Ingredients: 10–30g of dried Cissampelos pareira (whole plant).
   • Preparation: Boil the dried herb in about 500ml of water for 20–30 minutes.
   • Usage: Drink warm, 1–2 times daily, often used for pain relief, menstrual regulation, and respiratory issues.

2. Powder Form

   • Preparation: The dried plant is ground into a fine powder.
   • Usage: 1–3 grams mixed with warm water or honey, taken 1–2 times daily.
   • Benefits: Often used for anti-inflammatory and diuretic effects.

3. Poultice (External Use)

   • Ingredients: Fresh leaves or ground dried plant mixed with water.
   • Application: Applied directly to wounds, inflamed areas, or insect bites.
   • Benefits: Promotes wound healing and reduces swelling.

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Modern Pharmacological Studies & Findings

1. Anti-Inflammatory & Analgesic Effects

• Studies have shown that Cissampelos pareira contains alkaloids (e.g., cissampeline, hayatinin) that reduce inflammation and pain.
• It has been traditionally used for arthritis, muscle pain, and joint disorders.

2. Antimicrobial & Antiviral Properties

• Extracts from the plant exhibit antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus, E. coli, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa.
• Some studies suggest antiviral potential, including activity against respiratory infections.

3. Menstrual & Uterine Health

• Traditionally used for menstrual regulation, research indicates that alkaloids in Cissampelos pareira can have mild uterine-stimulating effects, which may explain its use for easing menstrual cramps.
• However, it should be avoided during pregnancy due to potential abortifacient properties.

4. Diuretic & Kidney Protection

• Used to promote urine flow and detoxification, making it beneficial for kidney health and conditions like urinary tract infections (UTIs).

5. Antioxidant Activity

• Rich in flavonoids and tannins, which help neutralize free radicals and reduce oxidative stress, supporting overall immune health.

6. Potential Anticancer Properties

• Preliminary research suggests that some bioactive compounds in the plant may have cytotoxic effects against certain cancer cell lines, though more studies are needed.

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Safety & Precautions

• Pregnancy & Breastfeeding: Avoid use, as it may stimulate the uterus.
• Liver & Kidney Conditions: Consult a healthcare professional before use, as alkaloids can affect liver metabolism.
• Dosage Control: Excessive intake may cause nausea or dizziness due to its bioactive alkaloids.

Sourcing High-Quality Cissampelos pareira Products

When seeking Cissampelos pareira (also known as Velvetleaf or Abuta), it's essential to choose reputable suppliers to ensure product purity and efficacy. Here are some options:

Tips for Ensuring Quality:

• Certifications: Look for products with organic certifications or third-party testing to ensure purity.
• Reputable Vendors: Purchase from well-established suppliers with positive reviews.
• Product Information: Ensure the product label provides clear information about the source, processing methods, and usage instructions.

Recent Clinical Studies on Cissampelos pareira

Recent research has explored various therapeutic potentials of Cissampelos pareira:

1. Anti-Anxiety Effects:

   • A study evaluated the anxiolytic effect of a 70% hydroethanolic extract of Cissampelos pareira leaves in animal models, suggesting potential benefits in reducing anxiety-like behaviors.
     PubMed Central

2. Anti-Arthritic Activity:

   • Research investigated the anti-arthritic potential of ethanolic extracts of Cissampelos pareira, demonstrating significant effects in reducing inflammation and symptoms associated with arthritis in animal models.
     openrheumatologyjournal.com

3. Antiviral Properties Against SARS-CoV-2:

   • In vitro studies revealed that whole-plant extracts and bioactive compounds of Cissampelos pareira can inhibit SARS-CoV-2 replication by modulating estrogen receptor 1 (ESR1) activity, indicating potential as an antiviral agent.
     news-medical.net

4. Neuroprotective Effects:

   • A study demonstrated that treatment with Cissampelos pareira resulted in strong protective effects by diminishing neuro-inflammatory mediators, suggesting potential benefits in neuroprotection.
     SAGE Journals

5. Skin Hydration and Elasticity:

   • An 8-week clinical trial showed that serum formulations containing Cissampelos pareira pectin significantly improved skin hydration and elasticity compared to placebo, highlighting its potential in skincare applications.
     MDPI

Note: While these studies are promising, many are preliminary or conducted in animal models. Further research, including human clinical trials, is necessary to fully understand the therapeutic potential and safety of Cissampelos pareira. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new herbal supplement.

 

Cissampelos pareira (Xi Sheng Teng) Usage by Age Group

1. Children (Under 12 Years)

✅ Potential Benefits:

• Mild relief for coughs and respiratory infections
• Gentle anti-inflammatory effects for minor injuries
• Traditional use for digestive support

⚠️ Safety Considerations:

• Dosage should be significantly lower than for adults due to sensitive metabolism.
• Avoid in infants and very young children unless advised by a pediatric herbalist.
• Not recommended for long-term use due to alkaloid content, which may impact liver enzymes.

📌 Suggested Use:

• Diluted Decoction (Tea): 2–5g of dried herb per cup of water, given in very small doses (1–2 teaspoons, 1–2 times daily).
• Topical Poultice: Can be applied to minor cuts, insect bites, or mild skin irritations.

🔴 Avoid:

• Internal use for extended periods without professional guidance.
• Use in children with pre-existing liver or kidney conditions.

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2. Adults (12–65 Years)

✅ Potential Benefits:

• Anti-inflammatory for arthritis, muscle pain, and joint health
• Supports urinary tract and kidney function (diuretic effect)
• Helps regulate menstrual cycles and alleviate cramps
• Mild sedative and anxiolytic properties for stress relief
• Antiviral and immune-boosting effects

📌 Suggested Use:

• Decoction (Tea): 10–30g dried herb per 500ml water, boiled for 20–30 minutes. Take 1–2 cups daily.
• Powder Form: 1–3g mixed with warm water, taken 1–2 times daily.
• Capsules: Standardized extracts (consult product-specific dosage).
• Poultice: Applied to inflamed areas, wounds, or skin conditions.

⚠️ Safety Considerations:

• Pregnancy: Avoid, as the herb has uterine-stimulating effects that may cause contractions.
• Liver & Kidney Health: Long-term use may affect liver enzymes, so periodic breaks in use are recommended.
• Monitor for Allergies: Though rare, some individuals may experience skin irritation or digestive upset.

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3. Seniors (65+ Years)

✅ Potential Benefits:

• Joint & Muscle Health: May help with arthritis, rheumatism, and inflammation.
• Urinary Tract Support: Assists in managing fluid retention and urinary infections.
• Cognitive Support: Some studies suggest neuroprotective benefits.
• Cardiovascular Health: Mild blood circulation improvement may help prevent clot formation.

📌 Suggested Use:

• Decoction (Tea): 5–15g per 500ml water, boiled for 20 minutes. 1 cup daily.
• Powder: 0.5–2g in warm water or juice, taken once daily.
• Capsules: Preferably standardized doses for controlled intake.
• Poultice: Useful for arthritis pain relief and skin issues.

⚠️ Safety Considerations:

• Monitor for Drug Interactions: If taking blood thinners, diuretics, or sedatives, consult a healthcare provider before use.
• Lower Dosage Recommended: The body's metabolism slows with age, so seniors should start with lower doses.
• Avoid Excessive Use: Continuous use beyond a few months should be monitored to prevent strain on the liver or kidneys.

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Final Thoughts & Recommendations

🔹 Children – Use with caution, mainly externally or in very diluted tea form.
🔹 Adults – Most flexible age group; can take higher doses but should monitor effects.
🔹 Seniors – Beneficial for pain relief and cognitive support but requires lower doses and caution with medications.