The Use of Irvingia Gabonensis (Bush Mango)and Cissus Quadrangularis to Reduce Weight and Blood Lipids

The Effect of Combining Cissus Quadrangularis and Irvingia Gabonensis on Obesity and Obesity Related Diseases

Hypothesis: Cissus quadrangularis as well as Irvingia gabonensis are used in weight management and related conditions. This study set out to investigate if a combination of the two could have additional benefits to overweight and obese people.

To assess and compare the effects of administration of Cissus quadrangularis (Linn) and a Cissus quadrangularis /Irvingia gabonensis combination on body weight blood pressure, fasting blood glucose, plasma total and LDL cholesterol in 72 overweight and obese subjects.

The study was a 10 week randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled design, involving 72 obese or overweight participants. Participants were randomly divided into three groups (24 participants/ group):

Group 1 - Placebo; Group 2 - Cissus quadrangularis (CQ); Group 3 - Cissus quadrangularis and Irvingia gabonensis (CQ-IG).

The placebo (250mg) or active formulations ((150 mg CQ and 250 mg CQ-IG) were administered twice daily before meals. Weight as well as fasting blood was taken at baseline, and at 4, 8 and 10 weeks.

No major dietary changes or exercises were suggested during the study.

Inclusion Criteria:

• BMI>26kg/m2

Exclusion Criteria:

• Diabetics
• Pregnant and lactating
• Subjects on any other weight loss program
• Following any specific low calorie diet