Amazing Health Benefits of Giloy। Guduchi benefits

Ayurveda is a traditional Indian medicine system which combines the natural laws of healing and the scientific processes for improving your health and well-being. 

One such natural medicine which has generated a lot of recent interest includes Giloy or Guduchi. There are many Guduchi benefits, and here I have discussed the properties and benefits of Giloy.

What is Giloy?

Giloy or Guduchi (Tinospora Cordifolia) is an Ayurvedic herb which has been described as a 'Tridosha Nashak', i.e., can be used for treating all the illness related to the three doshas. It has been compared to Amrita, i.e., “that which causes immortality”. 

It is regarded to be one of the best Ayurvedic herbs since it can treat the diseases related to all the doshas.

Giloy Leaves

Giloy mainly eliminates the ama (toxic waste) produced in our body and hence is helpful for treating all the diseases related to the accumulation of toxins in the blood. Many scientific studies have reported that Giloy possesses several beneficial properties such as anti-inflammatory, carminative, hepato-protective, anti-oxidising effects, immunomodulatory,  cardioprotective etc. 

The Giloy stem has the maximum benefits, however, its roots are used in some cases. The stem is used for making Giloy juice which is very effective, however, powdered stem can also be consumed.

However, it must be consumed properly only under the guidance of an Ayurvedic practitioner for maximising its benefits.

Read about the Tridoshas and different diseases related to the different doshas

Benefits of Giloy-

Improves your Immunity -

This is the primary benefit of consuming Giloy rejuvenates your body. It boosts your immunity by activating the body’s immune system and getting rid of the disease-causing microbes. 

Giloy contains many anti-oxidising compounds which eliminate the free oxygen radicals in the blood and keeps the cells healthy. It enhances memory, improves health and increases vitality.

Helps fight respiratory ailments -

Giloy shows many anti-inflammatory properties which help fight respiratory conditions like colds, coughs, flu, tonsils, etc.

Detoxifies Liver - 

Giloy detoxifies the liver and improves its proper functioning. It is an effective remedy for treating fatty liver disease. 

It is also helpful in stimulating the regeneration of damaged liver tissue. Giloy also detoxifies the blood and eliminates harmful toxins.

Reduces Fever -

Giloy is anti-pyretic in nature and helps in controlling high and recurring fevers. Hence, it is an effective remedy for treating severe diseases like malaria, dengue and swine flu. 

In fact, studies have shown that regular consumption of Giloy juice by dengue patients increased their platelet count. Guduchi helps in bringing high fever under control before it reaches the brain and causes permanent damage. 

Arthritis -

Giloy displays anti-inflammatory properties which help in treating inflammatory conditions like gout and arthritis. This herb can also be combined with ginger for decreasing the pain associated with rheumatoid arthritis. 

Improves Digestion -

Giloy is very effective in treating all bowel-related issues and improving digestion. It is used as a common component in Ayurvedic digestive powders, like churna. 

Consuming giloy and amla juice can keep all your digestive issues at bay. Furthermore, it helps in reducing hyperacidity, colitis, abdominal pain, worm infestations, vomiting, excessive thirst or a lack of appetite. 

Cardioprotective activity -

Studies have shown that consumption of giloy juice can significantly decrease the serum cholesterol levels, and increase lipid metabolism, which indirectly improves our heart health.

Anti-diabetic -

Giloy acts as a hypoglycaemic agent, which activates the pancreas and decreases the high blood glucose levels. It is very effective in treating patients suffering from Type 2 Diabetes.

Reduces Anxiety and Stress -

Giloy has the ability to cross the blood-brain barrier. Hence, it improves memory and the cognitive functioning of the body. It acts as an adaptogen and relieves stress and anxiety.

Anti-ageing -

Giloy contains many antioxidants which decrease the oxidising radicals in the body that can cause premature ageing. It reduces pimples, acne, dark spots, and fine lines, keeping your skin supple and young.

Recipe for making Giloy Juice

Giloy Stem

Wash 2-3 branches of the Giloy plant. Use a knife to scrape the dried outer bark of the branches, till a fresh, green portion is exposed. Take the green region and cut it into small pieces. In a blender, add these pieces with 1 glass of room-temperature water and blend to form a smooth juice. Sieve this mixture and your Giloy Juice is ready.

Check out this Baidyanath Boost Immunity Natural Giloy Juice if you are unable to procure Giloy stems

How to consume Giloy?

Giloy can be generally consumed in the form of powdered stem or juice. It is also applied topically for treating skin diseases.

Generally, you can take 1-2 tbsp of Giloy juice every day, in the morning, on an empty stomach. If you are consuming dried powder, add 1-2 tbsp of dried Giloy powder in 1 glass of warm water. Please consult an Ayurvedic practitioner if you want to take Giloy for a specific disease.

Giloy is a natural plant and can be consumed for a long period of time (a few years) without any negative effects. However, diabetic patients need to be careful while consuming giloy and check their blood sugar levels regularly to avoid complications.

Though there are no side effects of consuming this herb, it can cause mild constipation and stomach irritations in some people. Also, avoid the consumption of Giloy if you are pregnant or breast-feeding.