Giloy

Scientific name: Tinospora Cordifolia, Ayurveda name: Gudici

The English name for this herb is Heart-leaved moonseed owing to the shape of its leaves. However, in Sanskrit, it is referred to as amrita which translates ‘plant of immortality’, signifying its innumerable benefits. This herb is used to treat various diseases like urinary infections, anemia, jaundice, and so on. Apart from that, consuming giloy can help improve one’s immunity and prevent illnesses. Grown in India. Myanmar and Sri Lanka, this herb requires a warm climate to grow and in countries with a tropical climate. The entire plant of giloy can be used including the stem and root. 

Benefits of giloy:

• Considered as a rasayani or a rejuvenator, giloy helps calms one’s nerves, stimulating relaxation and preventing anxiety. Consuming this herb also cures sleep-related problems. 
• Consuming giloy helps pacify vata dosha and relieves constipation and other bowel-related issues. 
• Nearly all Ayurveda medicines contain giloy as it increases the immunity and strengthens the body against diseases like cold, cough, and fever. 
• Another property of giloy, according to Ayurveda, is krimihara. This means that it prevents intestinal problems, especially worms. 
• Giloy has benefits for parts of the entire body including the lungs. Ayurveda defines another characteristic of this herb as shwasa which indicates its ability to prevent respiratory diseases like asthma and bronchitis. 
• Agnideepani is another property associated with giloy. This indicates the herb’s ability to improve digestion and prevent disorders related to urinary tracts. 

How can giloy be used?

Giloy is available in the form of powders, capsules, and liquid extracts. One tablespoon of the powder can be added to boiled water to form a kashaya (concoction) and consumed daily after filtering it to improve immunity. 

The extract can be mixed with honey to prevent constipation and other bowel-related problems. To prevent cold and other seasonal allergies, the extract or the powder can be used along with black pepper, ginger, and a pinch of turmeric which can be made into a paste with honey. Consuming this once a day with water results in improved immunity and prevent allergies.  

Side effects:

There are no major side effects if one is not allergic to it. However, diabetes patients consuming it must be wary if they are taking it along with other medicines because their blood sugar levels might become extremely low. It is recommended to get a doctor’s advice before using this herb. Pregnant women and nursing mothers must also consult their physician before using giloy.