Giloy : Benefits, Methods of Consumption, and Potential Side Effects

Benefits of Giloy, Identification, Methods of Consumption, Advantages of the Fruit, Tablet and Juice Benefits, Side Effects, Optimal Consumption Timing, Plant Overview, and Usage

Giloy, known in English as Tinospora, is also referred to as Guduchi. It predominantly thrives in tropical regions, including India, Myanmar, and Sri Lanka. This plant belongs to the Menispermaceae family, characterized by its climbing vine structure. It serves both as a dietary supplement and a medicinal herb. In regional languages, it is known as Gallo in Punjabi, Galochi in Pali, Guluncha in Bengali, Guduchi in Marathi, and Gurjo in Nepali.

Comprehensive Information on Giloy

Giloy Plant

The Giloy plant is a type of climbing vine, with its tendrils extending up to 15 centimeters. The leaves resemble small betel leaves and are heart-shaped in appearance. Typically found thriving in the rugged soil of forests or mountainous regions, this plant bears small seeds clustered together, which are green initially and turn red upon ripening. A notable characteristic of Giloy is its ability to absorb the beneficial medicinal properties of the trees it entwines. For instance, when it grows on neem trees, its therapeutic potential is significantly enhanced. Learn more about the benefits and uses of neem here.

History of Giloy

For centuries, the Giloy plant has been revered for its medicinal properties. Originating in India, this herb plays a significant role in Ayurvedic medicine, utilized in the treatment of various ailments. Ancient Hindu physicians recommended it for gonorrhea, while European settlers in India employed it as a tonic and diuretic.

Officially recognized in the Indian Pharmacopoeia, Giloy is used in the formulation of medications for a range of conditions, including general weakness, fever, indigestion, dysentery, gonorrhea, urinary disorders, hepatitis, skin diseases, and anemia. The roots of its tendrils are also applied in treating intestinal disorders. In Ayurveda, Giloy is known by several names, such as Chakrangini and Amrita. This herb is so vital that its absence would render the practice of Ayurvedic medicine incomplete.

Botanical Name of Giloy

The botanical name of Giloy is Tinospora cordifolia. Its consumption is highly effective, with the potential to inhibit the progression of cancer. Additionally, it offers protection against leprosy, jaundice, and swine flu.

Protection Against Five Ailments with Giloy

Aids in Digestion:

According to Vaidya Ashutosh Jaibhart, Giloy is instrumental in maintaining robust digestive health. It is particularly effective in treating intestinal disorders. For relief from constipation, regular consumption of Giloy combined with jaggery and Indian gooseberry is recommended as it enhances digestive function. In cases of indigestion, mixing Giloy with half a gram of powdered amla yields positive results. Additionally, consuming Giloy juice with buttermilk can also prove beneficial. Learn more about the benefits and properties of curd here.

Assists in Managing Diabetes:

Giloy is also beneficial in managing diabetes. Dr. Manoj Ahuja from Fortis Hospital asserts that Giloy acts as a hypoglycemic agent, making it particularly helpful for individuals suffering from Type 2 diabetes. Consuming Giloy juice can aid in reducing blood sugar levels.

Supports in Arthritis Relief:

Giloy possesses anti-inflammatory and anti-arthritic properties, making it an effective remedy for arthritis. Dr. Ashutosh suggests that consuming Giloy powder with warm milk and ginger can offer significant relief from arthritis. Learn more about the benefits and uses of ginger here.

Assistance in Asthma and Respiratory Ailments:

Dr. Manoj K. Ahuja from Fortis Hospital advises that if an individual experiences chest tightness, breathing difficulties, wheezing, or persistent coughing, these are indicative of asthma symptoms. In such cases, chewing the root of Giloy may provide some relief from these respiratory challenges.

Beneficial in Treating Anemia:

Anemia is a common issue, particularly among women. To alleviate this condition, women can mix Giloy with ghee and honey and consume it regularly. This remedy can help in addressing iron deficiency and improving blood levels.

The Role of Giloy During the COVID-19 Pandemic

The COVID-19 pandemic is a well-known global crisis, and since its arrival in India, there has been a significant surge in the demand for Giloy. This increase in popularity is largely due to the medicinal properties inherent in Giloy. Yes, Giloy is renowned for its efficacy in combating various ailments. Among its most noteworthy benefits is its ability to enhance immunity, or the body’s disease resistance. In these challenging times, boosting immunity has become imperative, which explains the widespread use of Giloy across India.

Benefits of Giloy (Giloy Benefits)

Health Benefits of Giloy:

According to Anshul Jaibharat, a nutritionist based in Delhi, Giloy is revered in Sanskrit as ‘Amrit,’ which translates to the “root of immortality” due to its medicinal properties. This term underscores its significant therapeutic value, as even its roots are utilized. In Ayurveda, Giloy is available in various forms such as juice, powder, and capsules, each offering a range of health benefits, which include:

Enhancement of Immunity:

Giloy plays a crucial role in bolstering our immune system. It is a rich source of antioxidants, which are vital in maintaining the health of our cells and helping them combat diseases. Additionally, Giloy aids in detoxifying the body by purifying the blood, eliminating toxins, and fighting harmful bacteria that often cause illnesses. It is also beneficial in treating liver disorders and urinary tract obstructions. Furthermore, Giloy is considered valuable in managing heart diseases and infertility.

Relief from Fever:

Dr. Ashutosh Gautam, an Ayurvedic practitioner, emphasizes that Giloy is effective in alleviating fever. Its inherent antipyretic properties make it particularly useful in reducing the symptoms of dangerous diseases like dengue, swine flu, and malaria. Giloy also helps in increasing the platelet count in the blood. When consumed with honey, even a small piece of Giloy can provide relief in cases of malaria. Read more about the benefits and uses of honey here.

Improvement in Oxygen Levels:

Giloy is also known to assist in alleviating respiratory ailments. It is commonly used in the treatment of cough, cold, and tonsillitis, and helps ease breathing difficulties.

Enhancement of Vision:

Giloy contributes to maintaining and improving vision. For this purpose, Giloy powder is boiled in water, and once cooled, this water is used to wash the eyelids. This process can enhance eyesight.

Aid in Reducing Mental Stress:

Giloy is effective in alleviating mental stress and anxiety. By eliminating residual toxins from the body, it promotes mental tranquility and is also instrumental in enhancing memory.

Skin Benefits of Giloy:

Effective in Treating Acne:

Giloy is highly beneficial for the skin. Applying a paste made from its seeds to the face can effectively prevent issues such as pimples and acne.

Reduces Wrinkles and Dark Spots:

Giloy possesses anti-aging properties that help mitigate the effects of aging on the skin, such as the formation of wrinkles, dark spots, and fine lines. It is particularly effective in preserving the skin’s youthful appearance.

Purifies Blood:

The use of Giloy is instrumental in purifying the blood, as it aids in maintaining healthy cells and eliminating toxins. This results in clearer, more radiant skin that is free from blemishes and imperfections.

Alleviates Allergies:

Giloy is also effective in eliminating allergies and protecting against severe skin conditions such as psoriasis. Those suffering from skin allergies or irritations on the hands, feet, or other areas should consistently use Giloy both internally and topically. It provides significant relief.

Benefits of Giloy Juice

Consuming Giloy juice on an empty stomach in the morning is highly beneficial. The stems of Giloy are rich in starch, making its juice particularly advantageous. Here are some of its key benefits:

• Though the taste may be slightly bitter, Giloy juice is remarkably effective in treating skin issues like pimples, eczema, and psoriasis. Its natural blood-purifying properties help eliminate these problems from the root.
• Giloy juice aids in alleviating imbalances related to pitta, kapha, and vata doshas.
• It also offers protection against various viral infections, acting as a natural defense mechanism.
• Additionally, Giloy juice has a calming effect on the mind, promoting mental tranquility.

Methods of Consuming Giloy

Giloy can be consumed in various forms and combined with different ingredients to harness its health benefits and protect against ailments. Here are some effective methods:

As a Tea:

Consuming Giloy as a tea is highly beneficial. It is simple to prepare and not overly bitter, making it an enjoyable experience.

Preparation of Giloy Tea:
To prepare a cup of Giloy tea, take 5 to 6 fresh leaves of Giloy, wash them thoroughly, and boil them in a cup of water. Add 5 black peppercorns, half a teaspoon of cumin, and a small amount of palm candy. You may also mix in sugar or honey according to your taste. This tea is a simple and effective home remedy that reduces mental stress, enhances memory, and provides overall relaxation.

As a Juice:

Giloy juice is available in packaged form in the market, but it can also be made at home.

Preparation of Giloy Juice:
Take a one-foot-long vine of Giloy, remove the outer layer, and grind it thoroughly. Boil it in six glasses of water along with a few cloves. Once the water reduces to half, strain the mixture and consume the juice. This preparation is particularly effective in relieving joint pain. Giloy juice manufactured by Baba Ramdev’s Patanjali is also widely available.

As a Powder:

Giloy can also be consumed in powdered form, which is readily available in the market. Patanjali offers it under the name “Giloy Churna.” You can consume this powder with water.

Preparation of Giloy Powder:
Begin by gathering the stems of the Giloy plant. Separate the leaves, and cut the stems into small pieces. Soak these pieces in water for a while to allow the starch to mix with the water. After soaking, strain the mixture and let the water settle so that the starch collects at the bottom. Discard the clear water on top, dry the settled starch, and grind it into a fine powder for consumption.

Giloy Decoction:

A decoction made from Giloy leaves is one of the most beneficial ways to consume this potent herb. The preparation is straightforward and can be easily incorporated into your daily routine.

Preparation Method:

Begin by crushing some ginger and black pepper. Take 2 cups of water and add Giloy leaves, along with ajwain (carom seeds), black pepper, basil leaves, ginger, cinnamon, and other such ingredients. Allow these to soak for approximately 15 minutes. After soaking, bring the mixture to a boil on the stove for 15 to 20 minutes until it reduces to just one cup. Once boiled, let it cool, and then consume it. If fresh Giloy leaves are unavailable, you may use dry Giloy powder from the market. Simply boil the powder in water and prepare the decoction in the same manner.

Giloy Tablets:

Another effective way to incorporate Giloy into your routine is through tablets. Yes, Giloy is available in tablet form in the market, making it convenient for daily consumption. You can take two tablets with water twice a day. Patanjali’s Giloy Ghanvati is a well-regarded option if you prefer a ready-made supplement. However, if you wish, you can also prepare Giloy tablets at home.

Preparation Method:

The process of making Giloy tablets is similar to that of preparing its powder. First, create the powder as previously described. Then, gradually add small amounts of water to the powder, forming it into small tablets. Once formed, allow the tablets to dry completely before use.

Apart from tablets, Giloy can also be consumed with other ingredients, such as the following:

With Ginger:

Giloy, when consumed with ginger, is utilized to alleviate arthritis, also known as rheumatoid disorder.

With Ghee:

For the treatment of arthritis, it is applied with castor oil and consumed with ghee.

With Sugar:

To maintain the health of the skin and liver, this is ingested with sugar.

With Jaggery:

Additionally, to prevent constipation, it is consumed with jaggery.

Side Effects of Giloy

Giloy is generally considered safe, with no significant adverse effects reported. Being herbal, natural, and secure, its use is widely accepted. However, excessive consumption of any substance can yield undesirable outcomes. The following potential drawbacks should be noted:

For Diabetic Patients:

Giloy has the ability to lower blood sugar levels. Therefore, individuals suffering from diabetes should use it sparingly and avoid prolonged use.

For Pregnant Women:

Pregnant women are advised to refrain from using Giloy. Additionally, lactating mothers should also avoid its consumption.

For Children:

Giloy is safe for children aged five years and above. However, it should be administered to older children in limited doses, preferably for no more than one week. Overconsumption may lead to stomach irritation.

In conclusion, while Giloy is beneficial for various ailments, it is crucial to use it or its derived products, medications, or capsules under the supervision of a qualified healthcare professional.

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