Giloy
Giloy
Giloy, also known as Amrita or Guduchi in Hindi, is an herb that helps improve digestion and boost immunity. It has heart-shaped leaves that resemble betel leaves. All parts of the plant are used in Ayurvedic medicine. However, the stem is thought to have the most beneficial compounds. In the Ayurvedic textbook ‘Bhavaprakasha’, the properties of Giloy are described in below shloka:
काश्मरी तुवरा तिक्ता वीर्योष्णा मधुरा गुरु।
दीपनी पाचनी मेध्या भेदिनी भ्रमशोषजित्। दोषतृष्णाऽऽमशूलार्शोविषदाहन्धरापहा ॥
तत्त्फलं बृंहणं वृष्यं गुरु केश्यं रसायनम्। वातपित्ततृषारक्तक्षयमूत्रविबन्धनुत् ॥
स्वादु पार्क हिमं स्निग्धं तुवराम्लं विशुद्धिकृत् । हन्याद दाहतृषावातरक्तपित्तक्षतक्षयान् ॥ - भावप्रकाश
Giloy is Titka (bitter) in taste and Ushna (hot) in potency. After metabolization, it becomes Madhura (sweet) and Guru (heavy) in nature. It has Deepan (appetizer) and Pachan (digestive) properties which help in improving digestion. Giloy also helps to reduce excessive thirst, pain, and burning sensation because of its Tridosha balancing property. Regular use of Giloy can boost energy and immunity because of its Balya (strength provider) and Rasayana (rejuvenating) qualities.
The bitter taste of Giloy may help manage blood glucose levels in diabetic patients. Giloy also helps in weight management by improving overall metabolism.
Drinking fresh Giloy juice helps to improve immunity and can be used to manage fevers due to its antipyretic activity. It also increases platelet count and might help in dengue fever.
Giloy powder, Kadha (tea), or tablets can also be used for various skin problems as it helps to remove toxins from the body.
You can apply Giloy leaf paste on the skin to fasten the wound healing process as it helps increase collagen production and skin regeneration[1-3][5].
काश्मरी तुवरा तिक्ता वीर्योष्णा मधुरा गुरु।
दीपनी पाचनी मेध्या भेदिनी भ्रमशोषजित्। दोषतृष्णाऽऽमशूलार्शोविषदाहन्धरापहा ॥
तत्त्फलं बृंहणं वृष्यं गुरु केश्यं रसायनम्। वातपित्ततृषारक्तक्षयमूत्रविबन्धनुत् ॥
स्वादु पार्क हिमं स्निग्धं तुवराम्लं विशुद्धिकृत् । हन्याद दाहतृषावातरक्तपित्तक्षतक्षयान् ॥ - भावप्रकाश
Giloy is Titka (bitter) in taste and Ushna (hot) in potency. After metabolization, it becomes Madhura (sweet) and Guru (heavy) in nature. It has Deepan (appetizer) and Pachan (digestive) properties which help in improving digestion. Giloy also helps to reduce excessive thirst, pain, and burning sensation because of its Tridosha balancing property. Regular use of Giloy can boost energy and immunity because of its Balya (strength provider) and Rasayana (rejuvenating) qualities.
The bitter taste of Giloy may help manage blood glucose levels in diabetic patients. Giloy also helps in weight management by improving overall metabolism.
Drinking fresh Giloy juice helps to improve immunity and can be used to manage fevers due to its antipyretic activity. It also increases platelet count and might help in dengue fever.
Giloy powder, Kadha (tea), or tablets can also be used for various skin problems as it helps to remove toxins from the body.
You can apply Giloy leaf paste on the skin to fasten the wound healing process as it helps increase collagen production and skin regeneration[1-3][5].
What are the synonyms of Giloy?
Tinospora cordifolia, Guduchi, Madhuparni, Amruta, Amritavallari, Chhinnaruha, Chakralakshanika, Somvalli, Rasayani, Devnirmita, Gulvel, Vatsadani, Jwarari, Bahuchinna, Amrita
What is the source of Giloy?
Plant Based
Benefits of Giloy
Modern Science View
Giloy is useful in managing dengue fever.
It has anti-inflammatory and antipyretic (that reduce fever) properties. Regular intake of Giloy during dengue helps in improving the immune system. It also helps in increasing platelet count. Together, it helps to manage dengue fever[5][6].
It has anti-inflammatory and antipyretic (that reduce fever) properties. Regular intake of Giloy during dengue helps in improving the immune system. It also helps in increasing platelet count. Together, it helps to manage dengue fever[5][6].
Modern Science View
Giloy is an anti-inflammatory, antipyretic (that reduce fever) herb and is useful in building up the immune system and the body's defense against infections. It enhances the activity of macrophages (the cells responsible for fighting foreign bodies as well as microorganisms) and thus helps in early recovery[1].
Ayurvedic View
Giloy helps in reducing fever due to its Javarghana (antipyretic) property. As per Ayurveda, there are two factors leading to high fever, first is Ama and second is any foreign particle or organisms. Giloy helps reduce fever by improving digestion and absorption due to its Deepan (appetizer) and Pachan (digestive) properties which in turn prevents the formation of Ama. It also improves immunity to fight foreign particles or organisms due to its Rasayana property.
Tip:
1. Take 2-3 teaspoon of Giloy Juice.
2. Add the same quantity of water to it and drink it on an empty stomach in the morning once a day.
Tip:
1. Take 2-3 teaspoon of Giloy Juice.
2. Add the same quantity of water to it and drink it on an empty stomach in the morning once a day.
Modern Science View
Giloy reduces the symptoms of Hay fever which is also known as allergic rhinitis. It reduces the symptoms like nasal discharge, sneezing, nasal itching, nasal obstruction. It also increases the count of the leukocytes (white blood cells) to fight against infection[4][11].
Ayurvedic View
Allergy occurs due to the imbalance of Kapha as a result of the accumulation of Ama (toxic remains in the body due to improper digestion) in the body. Giloy prevents the formation of Ama due to its Deepan (appetizer) and Pachan (digestive) nature and helps in balancing Kapha. It also helps improves immunity due to its Rasayana (rejuvenating) properties.
Tip:
1. Take 1/4-1/2 teaspoon of Giloy churna
2. Add 1 teaspoon honey.
3. Have it after lunch and dinner.
Tip:
1. Take 1/4-1/2 teaspoon of Giloy churna
2. Add 1 teaspoon honey.
3. Have it after lunch and dinner.
Modern Science View
Giloy might be useful in managing diabetes by improving blood glucose levels. It also helps to manage diabetes-related complications such as ulcers, wounds, kidney damage due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties[2].
Ayurvedic View
Giloy helps control high blood sugar level and various diabetic complications by improving digestion and absorption due to its Deepan (appetizer) and Pachan (digestive) properties which in turn prevents the formation of Ama.
Tip:
Take 1/2 teaspoon of Giloy Churna twice a day with water after taking lunch and dinner.
Tip:
Take 1/2 teaspoon of Giloy Churna twice a day with water after taking lunch and dinner.
Modern Science View
Liver injury due to an overdose of alcohol can be managed by using Guduchi Satwa, an Ayurvedic formulation prepared from Giloy. It acts by lowering total cholesterol level in the liver. It also improves the level of antioxidant enzymes (reduces damage by free radicals) and oxidative-stress markers thereby enhancing overall liver function[9].
Ayurvedic View
Giloy helps to improve metabolism and liver functions due to its Deepan (appetizer) and Pachan (digestive) properties. Giloy also inhibits degeneration and promotes new cell growth due to its Rasayana (rejuvenating) quality.
Tip:
1. Take 2-3 teaspoon of Giloy Juice.
2. Add the same quantity of water to it and drink it on an empty stomach in the morning once a day.
Tip:
1. Take 2-3 teaspoon of Giloy Juice.
2. Add the same quantity of water to it and drink it on an empty stomach in the morning once a day.
Modern Science View
Giloy might be useful in managing breast cancer because of its anti-proliferative property.
Rutin and quercetin present in Giloy inhibit cell proliferation and growth of breast cancer cells due to its anti-cancer property. It also changes the expression of apoptotic genes and induces apoptosis (cell death) in breast cancer cells[8].
Rutin and quercetin present in Giloy inhibit cell proliferation and growth of breast cancer cells due to its anti-cancer property. It also changes the expression of apoptotic genes and induces apoptosis (cell death) in breast cancer cells[8].
Ayurvedic View
Giloy might reduce the risk of cancer by balancing Vata-Pitta-Kapha and also by controlling the growth and spread of cancer cells. Giloy also prevents cell damage due to its Rasayana property.
Tip:
1. Take 2-3 teaspoon of fresh Giloy juice.
2. Add the same quantity of water and drink it on an empty stomach in the morning.
3. Continue for at least 2-3 months for better results.
Tip:
1. Take 2-3 teaspoon of fresh Giloy juice.
2. Add the same quantity of water and drink it on an empty stomach in the morning.
3. Continue for at least 2-3 months for better results.
Ayurvedic View
Giloy helps to control high cholesterol level in the body by improving the metabolism and eliminating toxins from the body which are responsible for high cholesterol. This is due to its Deepan (appetizer), Pachan (digestive) nature and Rasayana (rejuvenating) properties.
Tip:
1. Take 2-3 teaspoons of Giloy juice.
2. Add to 1 glass of water and drink it.
Tip:
1. Take 2-3 teaspoons of Giloy juice.
2. Add to 1 glass of water and drink it.
Ayurvedic View
Giloy is used in Vata rog like Gouty arthritis due to its Vata balancing and blood purifying actions.
Modern Science View
Giloy might be beneficial for the management of pain and inflammation in arthritis.
Giloy suppresses arthritic inflammation by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines (molecules that promote inflammation). In case of auto-immune disease, the body's own immune system attacks the body and Giloy is known to boost the immune system. When you take Giloy in case of autoimmune diseases, it may over-stimulate the immune system[4].
Giloy suppresses arthritic inflammation by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines (molecules that promote inflammation). In case of auto-immune disease, the body's own immune system attacks the body and Giloy is known to boost the immune system. When you take Giloy in case of autoimmune diseases, it may over-stimulate the immune system[4].
Ayurvedic View
Giloy helps to reduce digestion related problems like indigestion, hyperacidity, and flatulence due to its Pachan (digestive) properties.
Tip:
1. Take 1/4-1/2 teaspoon of Giloy powder.
2. Add to 1 glass of lukewarm water and mix well.
3. Have it after lunch and dinner.
Tip:
1. Take 1/4-1/2 teaspoon of Giloy powder.
2. Add to 1 glass of lukewarm water and mix well.
3. Have it after lunch and dinner.
How effective is Giloy?
Likely effective
Dengue, Hay fever
Insufficient evidence
Cancer, Diabetes, Diarrhea, Fever, Gonorrhea, Gout, High cholesterol, Liver disease, Lymphomas, Rheumatoid arthritis, Stomach ulcers, Syphilis
Precautions when using Giloy
Advice from Experts
Modern Science View
Giloy may cause the immune system to become more active which could further increase the symptoms of autoimmune diseases. Therefore, it is advisable to avoid Giloy if you are suffering from autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, multiple sclerosis and lupus (systemic lupus erythematosus)[4].
Modern Science View
Giloy may interfere with the blood sugar levels during or after surgery. Therefore, it is advisable to avoid Giloy at least 2 weeks before a scheduled surgery[4].
Allergy
Modern Science View
Use Giloy or its constituents only under a doctor’s supervision if you are allergic to it[4].
Breastfeeding
Modern Science View
Avoid medicinal use of Giloy during breastfeeding due to the lack of scientific evidence[4].
Moderate Medicine Interaction
Modern Science View
Giloy may cause the immune system to become more active. Therefore, it is advisable to avoid Giloy along with immunosuppressants[4].
Patients with diabetes
Modern Science View
Giloy may lower blood glucose level. So it is generally advised to monitor the blood glucose if you are taking Giloy along with anti-diabetic drugs[4].
Pregnancy
Modern Science View
Avoid medicinal use of Giloy during pregnancy due to the lack of scientific evidence[4].
Side Effects
Important
Modern Science View
Giloy is safe when used for short-term and in the recommended dosage[4].
Recommended Dosage of Giloy
- Giloy Juice - 2-3 teaspoon of juice, once or twice a day.
- Giloy Churna - ¼-½ teaspoon twice a day.
- Giloy Tablet - 1-2 tablet twice a day.
- Giloy Capsule - 1-2 capsule twice a day.
- Giloy Extract - 1 pinch twice a day.
How to use Giloy
1. Giloy Juice
a. Take 2-3 teaspoon of Giloy juice.
b. Add the same quantity of water.
c. Drink it preferably before meals once or twice a day to boost your immunity[5].
2. Giloy Satva
a. Take 1 pinch of Giloy satva.
b. Mix it with honey and take it twice a day after taking food, for effective relief in liver disorders[9].
3. Giloy Churna
a. Take ½ teaspoon of Giloy churna.
b. Mix it with honey or drink it with lukewarm water.
c. Take it preferably after meals twice a day.
4. Giloy Kwath
a. Take 1-2 teaspoon of Giloy powder.
b. Add to 2 cups of water and boil it till the volume reduces to 1/2 cup.
c. Drink it twice a day, preferably before or after lunch and dinner.
5. Giloy Ghan Vati (Tablet)
a. Take 1-2 Giloy Ghan vati.
b. Swallow it with water after taking food twice a day.
6. Giloy Capsule
a. Take 1-2 Giloy capsule.
b. Swallow it with water after taking food twice a day.
a. Take 2-3 teaspoon of Giloy juice.
b. Add the same quantity of water.
c. Drink it preferably before meals once or twice a day to boost your immunity[5].
2. Giloy Satva
a. Take 1 pinch of Giloy satva.
b. Mix it with honey and take it twice a day after taking food, for effective relief in liver disorders[9].
3. Giloy Churna
a. Take ½ teaspoon of Giloy churna.
b. Mix it with honey or drink it with lukewarm water.
c. Take it preferably after meals twice a day.
4. Giloy Kwath
a. Take 1-2 teaspoon of Giloy powder.
b. Add to 2 cups of water and boil it till the volume reduces to 1/2 cup.
c. Drink it twice a day, preferably before or after lunch and dinner.
5. Giloy Ghan Vati (Tablet)
a. Take 1-2 Giloy Ghan vati.
b. Swallow it with water after taking food twice a day.
6. Giloy Capsule
a. Take 1-2 Giloy capsule.
b. Swallow it with water after taking food twice a day.
Frequently asked questions
Ayurvedic View
According to Ayurveda, Satva is the process of extracting starch to use it for medicinal purpose.
How to make Giloy Satva:
1. Take Giloy stem and a vessel.
2. Crush roughly and soak in enough water for about 6-8 hours in the vessel.
3. After this, mash the stem properly to enable the release of starch into the water.
4. Place the vessel undisturbed for sometime to allow the starch to settle down at the bottom.
5. Take out the clear water carefully without disturbing the starch sediment.
6. Dry this starch completely under shade to get Giloy Satva.
How to make Giloy Satva:
1. Take Giloy stem and a vessel.
2. Crush roughly and soak in enough water for about 6-8 hours in the vessel.
3. After this, mash the stem properly to enable the release of starch into the water.
4. Place the vessel undisturbed for sometime to allow the starch to settle down at the bottom.
5. Take out the clear water carefully without disturbing the starch sediment.
6. Dry this starch completely under shade to get Giloy Satva.
Ayurvedic View
Giloy Kadha (decoction) can be made by these two processes:
1. Take a few fresh Giloy leaves or stem and boil them in water (400ml) till the water is reduced to one fourth. Cool the liquid and strain.
2. In case of unavailability of fresh Giloy leaves or stem, you can buy Giloy powder from any Ayurvedic store. Use 1 tablespoon of the powder and boil it in 2 cups of water. Boil until the volume is reduced to one fourth. Cool and strain.
1. Take a few fresh Giloy leaves or stem and boil them in water (400ml) till the water is reduced to one fourth. Cool the liquid and strain.
2. In case of unavailability of fresh Giloy leaves or stem, you can buy Giloy powder from any Ayurvedic store. Use 1 tablespoon of the powder and boil it in 2 cups of water. Boil until the volume is reduced to one fourth. Cool and strain.
Ayurvedic View
You can drink Giloy and Amla juice every morning but avoid taking at night. For better results, drink it on an empty stomach in the morning.
Modern Science View
Giloy leaves are very beneficial for health. One can chew fresh leaves of Giloy for improving general health as well as to manage arthritis. You can also consume Giloy juice for skin diseases as it helps to flush out toxins from the body. Furthermore, consumption of a decoction made from boiling Giloy leaves helps to manage gout, fever and indigestion.
Ayurvedic View
Giloy leaves can be used as a decoction which is generally given in the conditions of indigestion, anorexia and nausea as its help improve digestion due to its Ushna (hot), Deepana (appetizer) and Pachana (digestion) properties. The leaves are used as a paste that can be applied on wounds as well as for problems like itching, burning or redness of the eyes. This is due to its Kashaya (astringent) and Ropana (healing) properties. Giloy leaves paste can also be applied on the scalp to prevent hair problems like hair fall due to its Katu (pungent) and Kashaya (astringent) properties.
Modern Science View
Yes, Fresh leaves of Giloy can be chewed on a daily basis for maintaining a healthy body.
References
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Disclaimer
The content is purely informative and educational in nature and should not be construed as medical advice. Please use the content only in consultation with an appropriate certified medical or healthcare professional.