what is Giloy? uses and side effects

what is Giloy? benefits and side effects

Before the sun sets, gentleman, take this kadha (herbal tea) to cure your fever.
Every time I sneezed or complained about feeling weak, my grandmother would say that. She would enter the garden, cut off a few green, heart-shaped stems from a creeper that was climbing our mango tree, crush them, boil them, and then serve me a cup of the bitterest beverage I had ever tasted.

I had no idea what it was at the time. But now I realize it was Giloy.

Giloy (Tinospora cordifolia) has been used as a traditional remedy in many Indian homes, particularly in rural and urban areas. Generations of people have trusted this herbal lifeline. Ayurvedic texts extol it, grandmothers swear by it, and contemporary researchers are just now starting to learn more about it.

In Ayurveda, Giloy is known as Amrita, that is to say it is the root of immortality. And indeed this climbing shrub has shown to manage fever, infections, stress, diabetes, skin issues, and also chronic fatigue

But what what is Giloy? benefits and side effects
How can it benefit your health?
Also what side effects or issues should you be aware of?

We are going to look at the science, history and practical application of this old world herb that is making a come back around the globe.

What is Giloy?

The climbing shrub that is native to India’s tropical regions is giloy (Tinospora cordifolia). For thousands of years it has been used to treat a number of health issues which include but are not limited to fever, infections, stress, diabetes, and skin conditions. It is a very important herb in Ayurvedic and folk medicine. While the roots and leaves do have therapeutic value the stem is the most common part used.

In the Ayurvedic system which uses a host of plants like moringa and ashwagandha it is found that the best components are in the stem. Also the stem has earned authority by the Indian Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia.

Giloy is used to treat.

• fever
• eye conditions
• asthma
• dysentery
• urinary problems
• skin infections

People also like to think of it as a natural immunity booster and Ayurvedic herb for fever, but what it does is go beyond that.

Benefits of Giloy

1. Boosts Immunity Naturally

Giloy is an antioxidant powerhouse that fights free radicals and, at the same time, helps in maintaining cell health.

In terms of natural ways to build a strong immune system, Giloy has been passed down in Indian homes for generations. My uncle, a retired Ayurvedic practitioner from Gujarat, often tells how Giloy helped him avoid seasonal infections, which in turn reduced his dependency on antibiotics.

Strong anti-inflammatory and antioxidant compounds found in giloy aid the body’s defense against dangerous infections. White blood cell production, which is essential for immunity, is supported by it. According to Ayurveda, Giloy maintains the body’s resistance to infections by balancing the three doshas of Pitta, Kapha, and Vata.

It is a natural immune booster because it increases the body’s resistance to infections. A lot of people regularly drink Giloy juice to boost their immunity.

2. Reduces Fever and Infections

Giloy has long been used to treat chronic fever. It works well to treat viral fever, dengue, and malaria because of its anti-inflammatory and antipyretic (fever-lowering) qualities. In Ayurvedic treatment for dengue fever, giloy is frequently suggested.

Expert opion:
As per Ayurvedic scriptures and journal publications such as Ancient Science of Life, Giloy breaks the cycle of fever by expelling toxins and soothing inflammation.

3. Enhances Digestion

Poor digestion results in bloating, acidity, constipation, and even fatigue and Giloy has been a first recourse Ayurvedic treatment for such problems for centuries. Ayurvedic professionals say that Giloy stimulates the digestive fire (Agni), boosts healthy functioning of the liver, and balances Pitta dosha, which controls digestion in the body. I recall one friend who used to face bloating and acidity after each meal, even after using antacids and diet modifications. Her grandmother had recommended a simple homemade Giloy remedy, and within weeks, there was a marked difference in her digestion.

Personal Experience:
I remember a friend who struggled with bloating and acidity after every meal, despite trying antacids and dietary changes. Her grandmother suggested a simple homemade Giloy remedy, and within weeks, her digestion noticeably improved.

4. Regulates Blood Sugar Levels

Giloy is usually suggested in Ayurveda due to its anti-diabetic action. It regulates insulin levels and lowers blood sugar levels naturally, which is why diabetic patients usually consume Giloy tablets for controlling sugar levels. As suggested by Dr. Vasant Lad, an internationally known Ayurvedic physician, Giloy regulates Prameha. An Ayurvedic term for diabetes and other metabolic disorders.

5. Reduces Stress and Anxiety

Stress and anxiety are now a part of our day-to-day life in today’s fast-paced life. From office stress to insomnia, our mental health tends to take the last. That’s where Giloy can really excel as more than a traditional herb, but as a natural adaptogen which keeps your body in the best position to handle emotional and physical stress.

Bonus :

if you are struggling with anxiety and stress add Giloy juice your morning routine. it’s improves your sleeping quality, less irritability, and improved energy levels during the day.

Research indicates that Giloy has an ability to balance cortisol, the stress hormone. It also calms the nervous system and clears the mind.

6. Enhances Respiratory Health

In developing nations, They emphasis constructing new structures, bridges and felling the trees and these activities contribute to pollution. as the reason Most individuals today experience difficulties in breathing because of pollution, seasonal changes, or pre-existing conditions such as asthma and bronchitis. Giloy, rich in anti-inflammatory and immunity-boosting properties, is commonly utilized in Ayurveda to provide healthy lungs and ease respiratory distress.

7. Anti-Aging and Good for Skin

I was fighting with dull and acne skin in my late 20s. Then my Aunt recommended me home remedies. Giloy juice. Initially, I was Skeptical. But within a month of consistent use, my skin felt fresher, and acne significantly decreased.

Giloy is packed with antioxidants that will shield your skin from damage. These antioxidants battle harmful things in the body that lead to wrinkles, dullness, and aging signs. Giloy also cleanses your blood, reduces swelling, and promotes the natural production of collagen. which tightens your skin, smoothes it, and makes it radiant.

How to Use Giloy?

Giloy is available in many forms like:

• Giloy Juice
• Giloy Powder
• Giloy Capsules
• Giloy Tablets
• Giloy Kadha (Herbal Decoction)

Most people prefer taking Giloy juice in the morning on an empty stomach for the best results. Always consult an Ayurvedic practitioner or doctor before beginning regular use.

Side Effects of Giloy

While Giloy is considered safe for most people when taken in the right dosage, excessive or improper use can lead to side effects. Here are a few things to watch out for:

1. May Lower Blood Sugar Too Much

Giloy is frequently complimented for its ability to control blood sugar levels without the use of medicines. However, if you are already consuming diabetic medication, taking Giloy along  with it can cause your blood sugar level to fall too low, hypoglycemia.

Always consult your physician first if you’re on any diabetes patients or consuming medicine with combining giloy juice. Monitoring your level regularly is necessary to prevent unwanted sugar crashes.

2. Not Advised in Autoimmune Diseases

Individuals with autoimmune conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, or multiple sclerosis should not take Giloy because it acts as an immune system stimulant, which can increase symptoms.

Here’s the reason why:
Giloy acts as an immune system stimulant. In a healthy individual, that’s beneficial. But in individuals with autoimmune conditions. where the body mistakenly attacks its own tissues this stimulation actually makes things worse.

3. Digestive Disturbances

In certain instances, an excessive intake of Giloy can cause constipation or gastric discomfort. Take small doses at all times.

It’s worth noting that excessive intake can at times cause discomfort to your stomach.  Other individuals have reported occurrences such as constipation, bloating, or feeling heavy upon the use of Giloy on a frequent basis particularly when consumed in the absence of guidance.

I recall one such case, who began consuming Giloy juice on a daily basis after watching it in a health vlog. Within seven days, he began to feel constipated and lethargic. Why? because he used to take it on an empty stomach and with a high concentration without complementing it with a balanced diet or hydrating properly.

Always consult your doctor before adding Giloy to your routine

4. Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Ayurvedic practitioners usually recommend Giloy to enhance immunity or decrease inflammation, but in pregnancy, the body of a woman is extremely sensitive. Giloy can overexcite the immune system, and that might be dangerous. Even while breastfeeding, the same caution should be taken because the effect of Giloy on a breastfeeding infant is still not known.

Who Should Take Giloy?

• Low-immunity persons
• Seasonal infection-prone individuals
• Stress or insomnia sufferers
• Mild digestive problem patients
• Individuals seeking natural herbal supplements

Who Should Not Take Giloy?

• Individuals who have autoimmune disorders
• Pregnant or lactating women
• Individuals taking blood sugar medication (without consulting the doctor)
• Children aged below 5 years (except on prescription)

(FAQs)