Cissus

Cissus is a genus of approximately 350 species of woody vines in the grape family (Vitaceae). They have a cosmopolitan distribution, though the majority are to be found in the tropics.

Uses

Medicinal

Cissus quadrangularis has been evaluated for potential medical uses. As a source of carotenoids, triterpenoids and ascorbic acid the extracts may have potential for medical effects, including "gastroprotective activity" and benefits in terms of "lipid metabolism and oxidative stress".Cissus quinquangularis was used by the Maasai people of Kenya to relieve some of the symptoms of malaria.

Ornamental

Cissus antarctica, Cissus alata and Cissus incisa are cultivated as garden plants, depending on area of the world. Succulent members of the genus such as Cissus quadrangularis are also found in the nursery trade but tend to be frost tender and are thus not widely cultivated.

Ecology

Cissus species are used as food plants by the larvae of some Lepidoptera species including Hypercompe eridanus and Hypercompe icasia.

Cissus (disambiguation)

Cissus (from Greek kissos, ivy) may refer to:

In Ancient Greece

In Botany

See also

Cissus (Mygdonia)

Cissus or Kissos (Ancient Greek: Κισσός, Modern Greek Chortiatis), was a town and mountain of Amphaxitis,Macedon, not far from Rhaecelus, which appears to have been the name of the promontory where Aeneas legendarily founded his city. Cissus, along with Aeneia and Chalastra, contributed to the aggrandizement of Thessalonica (315 BC). Cissus was the birthplace of Cisseus, a Thracian chief mentioned by Homer.

There was also a mountain of the same name nearby, on which were found the lion, ounce, lynx, panther, and bear.

References

 This article incorporates text from a publication now in the public domain: Smith, William, ed. (1854–1857). "^{article name needed}". Dictionary of Greek and Roman Geography. London: John Murray.