🌿 Giloy (Tinospora cordifolia): The Divine Immunity Herb of Ayurveda
Giloy, also known as Guduchi in Sanskrit, is one of Ayurveda's most celebrated herbs. Often referred to as “Amrita” (the divine nectar of immortality), Giloy is widely used for boosting immunity, detoxifying the body, improving digestion, and treating chronic fevers and inflammation. It is a tridoshic herb, meaning it can balance all three doshas—Vata, Pitta, and Kapha.
🔬 Botanical Identity
- Sanskrit Name: Guduchi, Amrita
- Botanical Name: Tinospora cordifolia
- Family: Menispermaceae
- Common Names: Giloy, Heart-leaved Moonseed
🌿 Ayurvedic Properties (Dravyaguna)
- Rasa (Taste): Tikta (Bitter), Kashaya (Astringent)
- Guna (Qualities): Laghu (Light), Snigdha (Unctuous)
- Virya (Potency): Ushna (Hot)
- Vipaka (Post-digestive Effect): Madhura (Sweet)
- Prabhava (Special effect): Jwaraghna (Antipyretic), Rasayana (Rejuvenator)
⚖️ Dosha Effect
- Pacifies: Tridosha – Vata, Pitta, and Kapha
- Safe for all body types: Works adaptively without aggravating any dosha
🩺 Medicinal Benefits of Giloy
Giloy is one of the most versatile herbs in Ayurveda. Known for its deep detoxifying and anti-inflammatory actions, it is frequently used in fevers, metabolic disorders, and immune imbalance.
1. Chronic Fever & Viral Infections
Giloy is called "Jwaraghna" (fever-destroyer) and is used in treating all types of fevers — especially viral, dengue, malaria, and recurring fevers. It acts as an immunomodulator and antipyretic.
2. Immunity Booster
Giloy strengthens the immune system by stimulating macrophages, increasing white blood cells, and enhancing pathogen resistance. It helps the body combat infections and seasonal illnesses.
3. Liver and Detox Support
Giloy purifies the blood and detoxifies the liver. It is especially useful in treating jaundice, fatty liver, and toxic overload from drugs or alcohol.
4. Diabetes & Metabolism
Giloy regulates blood glucose levels and improves insulin response. It is used in Prameha (diabetes) and related metabolic syndromes.
5. Skin Health & Allergies
Its anti-inflammatory and blood-purifying action makes it ideal for treating eczema, psoriasis, and skin allergies. Giloy soothes itching and redness.
6. Arthritis & Joint Pain
Used in treating rheumatoid arthritis and gout, Giloy reduces inflammation, joint stiffness, and uric acid levels.
7. Stress & Cognitive Function
Giloy acts as an adaptogen. It promotes mental clarity, reduces stress hormones, and enhances memory and cognitive performance.
🧪 Active Constituents
- Alkaloids (berberine, tinosporin)
- Glycosides, Diterpenoids
- Flavonoids
- Polysaccharides
📜 Classical References
Giloy is mentioned in Charaka Samhita under "Rasayana" and "Jwaraghna" herbs. Sushruta and Bhavaprakasha praise its use in Tridosha shamak conditions, particularly for treating fevers, skin disorders, and liver disease.
💊 Common Forms of Use
- Giloy Juice: 10–20 ml with water, twice daily
- Giloy Churna: 2–3 grams with honey or warm water
- Giloy Satva: A starch extract used in chronic fevers
- Giloy Kwath (Decoction): Boil stem pieces for deep detoxification
- Tablets/Capsules: 250–500 mg, standardized extract
⚠️ Precautions
- Monitor blood sugar if on diabetic medication
- Not recommended during pregnancy without medical advice
🥣 Home Remedies Using Giloy
- For Fever: Boil Giloy stem with Tulsi and ginger; drink warm
- For Immunity: Mix Giloy juice with Amla and turmeric daily
- For Skin Glow: Giloy juice + Neem + Aloe vera every morning
💡 Who Should Use Giloy?
Ideal for:
- People with frequent fevers or infections
- Those with autoimmune disorders, arthritis, or liver toxicity
- Anyone seeking natural immunity and metabolic balance
Explore More:
Written by Amidha Ayurveda
No comments:
Post a Comment