Patha

Cissampelos pareira
Patha (Cissampelos pareira) is a perennial climbing plant prevalent across tropical and subtropical regions. In Ayurveda, its root, stem, and leaves are traditionally utilized for their supposed therapeutic properties, particularly for balancing Vata, Pitta, and Kapha doshas. This herb is known for its distinct chemical composition, contributing to its historical significance in traditional medicine systems.
PLANT FAMILY
Menispermaceae (Moonseed)
PARTS USED
Root, Stem, Leaves
AYURVEDIC ACTION
Vata ↓, Pitta ↓, Kapha ↓
ACTIVE COMPOUNDS
Tetrandrine (0.1-0.3%)

What is Patha?

Patha, scientifically known as Cissampelos pareira, is a perennial climbing plant belonging to the Menispermaceae (Moonseed) family. Widely distributed across tropical and subtropical regions globally, it is characterized by its heart-shaped leaves, inconspicuous flowers, and small, berry-like fruits. This plant often thrives in diverse habitats, twining around other vegetation.

Historically, various parts of the Patha plant, particularly its root, stem, and leaves, have been utilized in traditional medicine systems due to their distinct chemical composition and reported therapeutic properties.

Other Names of Patha

  • Laghu Patha
  • Velvet Leaf
  • Abuta
  • Pareira Brava
  • False Pareira

Benefits of Patha

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<h3> Absolute Contraindications of Patha </h3> <h4> Pregnancy (if you are pregnant)</h4> <ul> <li> 🤰</li> <li> Recommendation: Avoid using Patha products during pregnancy. If you are pregnant or suspect pregnancy, stop and consult your physician or an Ayurvedic doctor before using.</li> <li> Reasoning: Animal research shows leaf extracts of Cissampelos pareira change the estrous cycle and alter core reproductive hormones (LH, FSH, prolactin, estradiol) and reduce successful litters, indicating potential risk to pregnancy or early gestation.</li> <li> Scientific_Study_Title: Antifertility activity of the methanolic leaf extract of Cissampelos pareira in female albino mice.</li> <li> Scientific_Study_Authors: Mausumi Ganguly, Mridul Kr Borthakur, Nirada Devi, Rita Mahanta.</li> <li> Scientific_Study_Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17324540/</li> <li> Scientific_Study_Excerpt: <p>Paraphrase of key findings: In an experimental study in female albino mice, oral administration of methanolic leaf extract of Cissampelos pareira altered the estrous cycle by prolonging the cycle and increasing the diestrus phase, and significantly reduced the number of litters born. Hormonal assays in the study demonstrated changes in gonadotropin release (LH, FSH), prolactin and estradiol secretion consistent with a disruption of normal reproductive hormonal regulation. The authors concluded the extract has measurable antifertility effects in this animal model and reported an oral LD50 measured in mice.</p> <p>Implication: These hormone and fertility changes underlie why the plant is contraindicated during pregnancy or when pregnancy is desired.</p> </li> </ul> <h4> Planning pregnancy or actively trying to conceive</h4> <ul> <li> 🧬</li> <li> Recommendation: Do not take Patha preparations if you are trying to conceive. Discuss with your herbalist/doctor and stop herbal use at least several weeks before fertility treatments or planned conception.</li> <li> Reasoning: Same animal data show disruption of cycles and reproductive hormones that could reduce fertility; until human safety data exist, caution is prudent for anyone who wants to become pregnant.</li> <li> Scientific_Study_Title: Antifertility activity of the methanolic leaf extract of Cissampelos pareira in female albino mice.</li> <li> Scientific_Study_Authors: Mausumi Ganguly, Mridul Kr Borthakur, Nirada Devi, Rita Mahanta.</li> <li> Scientific_Study_Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17324540/</li> <li> Scientific_Study_Excerpt: <p>Paraphrase of key findings: The study’s hormonal measurements (reduced normal cyclicity, altered LH/FSH/prolactin/estradiol) and the observed fall in litter numbers imply an antifertility action in animals. While direct human studies are absent, these findings provide a biologically plausible basis for advising against use when conception is intended.</p> </li> </ul> <h4> Use of unverified / adulterated Patha raw material (quality unknown)</h4> <ul> <li> ⚠️</li> <li> Recommendation: Only use Patha sourced from reputable suppliers certified for botanical identity; avoid unlabelled or home-harvested material unless authenticated.</li> <li> Reasoning: Multiple different plant species (for example Cyclea peltata and Stephania japonica) are used or substituted for “Patha” in markets. Substitutions change chemical composition and therefore safety and effectiveness.</li> <li> Scientific_Study_Title: Molecular authentication of Cissampelos pareira L. var. hirsuta (Buch.-Ham. ex DC.) Forman, the genuine source plant of ayurvedic raw drug 'Patha', and its other source plants by ISSR markers.</li> <li> Scientific_Study_Authors: Deepu Vijayan, Archana Cheethaparambil, Geetha Sivadasan Pillai, Indira Balachandran.</li> <li> Scientific_Study_Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28324385/</li> <li> Scientific_Study_Excerpt: <p>Paraphrase of key findings: The authors used genetic ISSR markers to compare Cissampelos pareira var. hirsuta (accepted as genuine Patha) with two commonly used substitutes (Cyclea peltata and Stephania japonica). Results revealed clear genetic differences and high polymorphism among species, confirming substitution/adulteration occurs. The paper recommends molecular markers for authenticating raw material to ensure correct identity, because substitution can alter therapeutic outcomes and safety.</p> </li> </ul> <h3> Relative Contraindications of Patha </h3> <h4> Concurrent use with hormonal therapies / hormonal contraceptives (use with caution)</h4> <ul> <li> 💊</li> <li> Recommendation: Discuss with your prescribing clinician before taking Patha if you use hormonal contraceptives, hormone replacement therapy or other hormone-sensitive treatments; consider avoiding Patha until you consult.</li> <li> Reasoning: Animal evidence shows Patha extracts alter gonadotropins and estradiol; such hormonal modulation could theoretically interfere with the action or monitoring of exogenous hormonal medications or influence contraceptive reliability.</li> <li> Scientific_Study_Title: Antifertility activity of the methanolic leaf extract of Cissampelos pareira in female albino mice.</li> <li> Scientific_Study_Authors: Mausumi Ganguly, Mridul Kr Borthakur, Nirada Devi, Rita Mahanta.</li> <li> Scientific_Study_Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17324540/</li> <li> Scientific_Study_Excerpt: <p>Paraphrase of key findings: The study demonstrated disruption of the estrous cycle and alterations in LH, FSH, prolactin and estradiol after extract administration in mice-biochemical changes that could plausibly interact with exogenous hormone regimens; no direct clinical interaction trials exist, so clinical caution is advised.</p> </li> </ul> <h4> Use in children or when pediatric dosing is contemplated (use with caution)</h4> <ul> <li> 🧒</li> <li> Recommendation: Avoid or use only under expert supervision; pediatric safety and dosing data are lacking and animal LD50 values vary. Do not give to infants without professional guidance.</li> <li> Reasoning: Toxicology and safety data are limited; animal work gives LD50 estimates and pharmacologic effects in adults/rodent models, but pediatric effects and safe doses are not established.</li> <li> Scientific_Study_Title: Antifertility activity of the methanolic leaf extract of Cissampelos pareira in female albino mice.</li> <li> Scientific_Study_Authors: Mausumi Ganguly, Mridul Kr Borthakur, Nirada Devi, Rita Mahanta.</li> <li> Scientific_Study_Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17324540/</li> <li> Scientific_Study_Excerpt: <p>Paraphrase of key findings: The referenced animal study reports an oral LD50 in mice (7.3 g/kg for the tested extract) and measurable endocrine effects. These kinds of preclinical safety figures show there is measurable biologic activity but do not provide pediatric safety margins; hence pediatric use should be conservative and supervised.</p> </li> </ul>

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<h4> Hormonal disruption / possible menstrual irregularities</h4> <ul> <li> 🩺</li> <li> Side effect summary: In animal models Patha leaf extract changed the reproductive cycle and hormones; in people this could present as menstrual irregularities, altered cycle length or temporary changes in fertility.</li> <li> Recommendation: If you notice changes to your menstrual cycle while taking Patha, stop and check with a healthcare provider. Women planning pregnancy should avoid the herb until cleared.</li> <li> Reasoning: Experimental data show altered LH, FSH, prolactin and estradiol, which are the hormones controlling the menstrual cycle; such changes commonly produce cycle disturbances in mammals.</li> <li> Severity Level: Moderate</li> <li> Scientific_Study_Available: Yes</li> <li> Scientific_Study_Title: Antifertility activity of the methanolic leaf extract of Cissampelos pareira in female albino mice.</li> <li> Scientific_Study_Authors: Mausumi Ganguly, Mridul Kr Borthakur, Nirada Devi, Rita Mahanta.</li> <li> Scientific_Study_Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17324540/</li> <li> Scientific_Study_Excerpt: <p>Paraphrase of key findings: The methanolic leaf extract caused a significant extension of the estrous cycle and an increased diestrus phase in mice, accompanied by altered levels of gonadotropins and estradiol; there was a measurable reduction in the number of litters. These preclinical results indicate that the plant has endocrine-modulating effects that can translate into menstrual or fertility changes.</p> </li> </ul> <h4> Central nervous system depression (drowsiness, potentiation of sedatives) - seen in related Cissampelos species</h4> <ul> <li> 😴</li> <li> Side effect summary: Related Cissampelos species (C. mucronata) showed CNS depressant effects in animal studies-reduced motor activity and prolonged sleeping time with barbiturates-so there is reason for caution that Patha may also potentiate sedatives.</li> <li> Recommendation: Avoid combining Patha with sedatives, alcohol, benzodiazepines, opioids, or other CNS-depressant drugs unless a clinician advises it. If feeling excessive sleepiness or dizziness, stop and seek medical advice.</li> <li> Reasoning: Alkaloid and flavonoid constituents in Menispermaceae species may depress central nervous system activity; animal data for a closely related species show prolonged pentobarbitone sleep and reduced spontaneous motor activity-effects that can increase risk when combined with other depressants.</li> <li> Severity Level: Moderate</li> <li> Scientific_Study_Available: Yes (related species Cissampelos mucronata)</li> <li> Scientific_Study_Title: Evaluation of the sedative properties of the ethanolic root extract of Cissampelos mucronata.</li> <li> Scientific_Study_Authors: P. A. Akah, S. V. Nwafor, C. O. Okoli, C. U. Egbogha.</li> <li> Scientific_Study_Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12197425/</li> <li> Scientific_Study_Excerpt: <p>Paraphrase of key findings: In rodent experiments the ethanolic root extract of Cissampelos mucronata produced behavioural changes consistent with central nervous system depression, including reduced ephedrine-induced motor activity and prolongation of pentobarbitone-induced sleeping time; the authors suggested a CNS-depressant action likely due to alkaloid and flavonoid constituents. While not the same species as C. pareira, the genus similarity supports caution about sedative interactions.</p> </li> </ul> <h4> Allergic reaction / skin sensitivity (reported anecdotally; robust studies lacking)</h4> <ul> <li> 🤧</li> <li> Side effect summary: Traditional and vendor reports sometimes note rashes or sensitivity with topical or oral herbal preparations containing Patha or its substitutes; however, high-quality clinical evidence is limited.</li> <li> Recommendation: If you have known plant allergies or notice rash, swelling, breathing difficulty or severe skin irritation after use, stop immediately and seek medical care. Patch test topical products when indicated.</li> <li> Reasoning: Any botanical product can cause hypersensitivity in susceptible individuals; because different species are substituted for Patha, allergic responses may vary with composition.</li> <li> Severity Level: Mild to Severe (range depends on person; severe is possible)</li> <li> Scientific_Study_Available: NA</li> <li> Scientific_Study_Title: NA</li> <li> Scientific_Study_Authors: NA</li> <li> Scientific_Study_Link: NA</li> <li> Scientific_Study_Excerpt: NA</li> </ul>

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<h4> Hormonal contraceptives / hormone replacement therapy (HRT)</h4> <ul> <li> Interaction_Details: Animal data show Patha extracts alter key reproductive hormones (LH, FSH, prolactin, estradiol) and the estrous cycle. Because hormonal contraceptives and HRT rely on stable hormone levels and receptor activity, Patha could theoretically blunt, modify or unpredictably alter their effects.</li> <li> Severity: Moderate</li> <li> Recommendation: Consult your prescriber before taking Patha if you use hormonal contraception or HRT; avoidance is prudent until a clinician approves combined use.</li> <li> Scientific_Study_Available: Yes</li> <li> Scientific_Study_Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17324540/</li> <li> Scientific_Study_Title: Antifertility activity of the methanolic leaf extract of Cissampelos pareira in female albino mice.</li> <li> Scientfic_Study_Authors: Mausumi Ganguly, Mridul Kr Borthakur, Nirada Devi, Rita Mahanta.</li> <li> Scientific_Study_Excerpt: <p>Paraphrase of key findings: The methanolic leaf extract administered orally to female mice altered estrous cyclicity by increasing the length of the cycle and the diestrus stage and produced significant reductions in litter numbers; hormonal assays showed altered LH, FSH, prolactin and estradiol levels. These hormone changes create a plausible mechanism for interaction with exogenous hormone treatments, although clinical drug interaction trials are not available.</p> </li> </ul> <h4> CNS depressants (barbiturates, benzodiazepines, opioids, alcohol)</h4> <ul> <li> Interaction_Details: Related Cissampelos species demonstrated central nervous system depressant activity in animals - reduced motor activity and prolonged sleeping time with pentobarbital - suggesting potential additive sedation if combined with prescription sedatives or alcohol.</li> <li> Severity: Moderate</li> <li> Recommendation: Avoid combining Patha with CNS depressant drugs or alcohol; if co-use is necessary, do so only under medical supervision and with dose adjustments as needed.</li> <li> Scientific_Study_Available: Yes (related species)</li> <li> Scientific_Study_Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12197425/</li> <li> Scientific_Study_Title: Evaluation of the sedative properties of the ethanolic root extract of Cissampelos mucronata.</li> <li> Scientfic_Study_Authors: P. A. Akah, S. V. Nwafor, C. O. Okoli, C. U. Egbogha.</li> <li> Scientific_Study_Excerpt: <p>Paraphrase of key findings: The ethanolic root extract of Cissampelos mucronata produced signs of central nervous system depression in rodents (decreased spontaneous motor activity; prolonged pentobarbitone-induced sleeping time), with an LD50 reported for the extract. While this is data from a related Cissampelos species rather than C. pareira, shared genus alkaloids support a reasonable concern for additive sedative effects when herbal extracts are combined with other CNS depressants.</p> </li> </ul> <h4> Antiviral/antimicrobial drug combinations (theoretical / investigational)</h4> <ul> <li> Interaction_Details: In vitro studies show Patha extracts can inhibit viral replication (including SARS-CoV-2) and modulate host transcriptional responses. There is no clinical evidence yet about combining Patha with prescription antivirals; co-administration could be neutral, additive, or theoretically interfere depending on pharmacodynamics.</li> <li> Severity: Mild</li> <li> Recommendation: If you are taking prescription antiviral therapy, discuss any herbal use with the treating clinician; do not self-combine for serious infections without supervision.</li> <li> Scientific_Study_Available: Yes (in vitro studies)</li> <li> Scientific_Study_Link: https://bmccomplementmedtherapies.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12906-022-03584-3</li> <li> Scientific_Study_Title: Anti-SARS-CoV-2 potential of Cissampelos pareira L. identified by connectivity map-based analysis and in vitro studies.</li> <li> Scientfic_Study_Authors: Madiha Haider, Vivek Anand, M. Ghalib Enayathullah, et al.</li> <li> Scientific_Study_Excerpt: <p>Paraphrase of key findings: Laboratory work found that whole-plant extracts and some isolated constituents reduced SARS-CoV-2 replication in Vero cell culture and scored positively in connectivity map analyses with known antivirals. The study describes molecular docking of constituents to viral targets and suggests host-pathway modulation. However, no human drug-herb interaction trials exist to define safety or efficacy when combined with standard antivirals.</p> </li> </ul> <h4> Anticoagulant / antiplatelet drugs</h4> <ul> <li> Interaction_Details: No robust human or in-vitro data demonstrate that Cissampelos pareira directly alters coagulation; therefore specific interaction evidence is lacking.</li> <li> Severity: Mild</li> <li> Recommendation: Because many herbs and flavonoid-rich extracts can affect platelet function or interact unpredictably, patients on anticoagulants should discuss Patha use with their clinician; monitor bleeding signs and INR as appropriate.</li> <li> Scientific_Study_Available: NA</li> <li> Scientific_Study_Link: NA</li> <li> Scientific_Study_Title: NA</li> <li> Scientfic_Study_Authors: NA</li> <li> Scientific_Study_Excerpt: NA</li> </ul>