In the world of traditional Indian remedies, Giloy holds a special place. It is also known as Tinospora cordifolia or Guduchi. And also called the "root of immortality" in Ayurveda, this powerful herb has been used for centuries to support immunity, fight infections, and promote overall vitality.
With rising interest in natural immunity boosters and herbal solutions, Giloy has made its way into juices, tablets, powders and even skincare products. Backed by both ancient wisdom and modern studies, it is now recognised for its ability to combat fever, manage blood sugar levels, reduce stress and even detox the body.
Let’s explore the top health benefits of Giloy and how this humble climber plant could become a key part of your everyday wellness routine.
Introduction to Giloy
Giloy is a climbing shrub native to India. The plant’s stem, roots and leaves are utilised in various forms like juice, tablets and powders to harness its therapeutic properties. Rich in alkaloids, glycosides, steroids and other compounds and it is known for its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and immunomodulatory effects.
Get a second opinion from trusted experts and makeconfident, informed decisions.
Giloy’s medicinal properties are attributed to its bioactive compounds like tinosporin, cordifolide and syringin. These compounds exhibit a wide range of pharmacological activities like:
Antioxidant activity: Neutralising free radicals to prevent cellular damage.
Anti-inflammatory effects: Reducing inflammation by inhibiting pro-inflammatory cytokines.
Immunomodulatory properties: Enhancing the body's immune response.
Top Health Benefits of Giloy
Boosts Immunity
Giloy is renowned for its ability to enhance the immune system. The herb stimulates the activity of macrophages, the white blood cells responsible for fighting infections. Regular consumption of Giloy can help the body to boost its immune system and fight pathogens.
Giloy Benefits for Females
Women can benefit immensely from Giloy. The herb helps in regulating menstrual cycles, reducing symptoms of premenstrual syndrome (PMS) and managing hormonal imbalances.
Giloy’s also has anti-inflammatory properties that can ease menstrual cramps and reduce the severity of other gynaecological issues.
Supports Digestive Health
Giloy is great for helping with stomach issues like acidity, colitis and indigestion. Its natural anti-inflammatory effects can soothe your stomach lining, while it helps keep your stomach acids balanced for better digestion.
Giloy Ghanvati Benefits
Giloy Ghanvati is a popular tablet form of Giloy that many people use for its strong health benefits. It’s known to help with long-lasting fevers, improve liver health and manage respiratory problems like asthma and bronchitis.
Giloy Juice Benefits
Drinking Giloy juice can be refreshing and revitalising. Regularly enjoying this juice may help with weight control, enhance your skin’s appearance and give you more energy. It’s also helpful for keeping blood sugar levels in check, which is great for those with diabetes.
Giloy and Amla Juice Benefits
Mixing Giloy with Amla (or Indian gooseberry) boosts its benefits significantly. Amla is packed with Vitamin C, which works well with Giloy to strengthen your immune system, improve your skin health and detox your body.
Anti-Aging Properties
Giloy is rich in antioxidants, which help fight the effects of aging. By combating harmful free radicals, Giloy can help keep your skin looking youthful, reduce wrinkles and promote a healthy glow.
Respiratory Health
Giloy is helpful for respiratory issues like coughs, colds and asthma. Its anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties can lessen mucus buildup and improve how well your lungs function. Regular use of Giloy can help prevent frequent respiratory infections.
Stress and Anxiety Relief
Giloy acts as an adaptogen, helping your body deal with stress and promoting mental clarity. It has a calming effect on the nervous system, making it beneficial for those dealing with anxiety and depression.
Liver Health
Giloy supports your liver by helping it detoxify the body. It protects the liver from harmful substances, help in better digestion and overall well-being.
Giloy Tablet Benefits
Giloy tablets offer a simple way to include this beneficial herb in your daily routine. They are especially good for managing ongoing health issues like arthritis, diabetes and respiratory problems.
How to Use Giloy
Dosage and Preparation
The amount of Giloy you should take can differ depending on how it's prepared and what health issue you're trying to treat. It's best to talk to a doctor for advice tailored to your needs.
Generally dosages are suggested:
Giloy juice: 15-30 ml, once or twice a day.
Giloy tablets: One to two tablets, twice a day.
Giloy powder: 1-3 grams, mixed with water or honey, once or twice a day.
Disadvantages or Side Effects of Giloy
Giloy is considered safe for most people when used in proper quantities but excessive or long-term use can lead to certain side effects—especially without medical guidance.
Possible Side Effects of Giloy:
Lowered Blood Sugar Levels: Giloy may reduce blood sugar, which could be risky for people with diabetes or those on glucose-lowering medications.
Immune System Overactivity: Because Giloy boosts immunity, it might overstimulate the immune system in individuals with autoimmune diseases like lupus, rheumatoid arthritis or multiple sclerosis.
Digestive Upset: In some cases, Giloy can cause constipation or stomach irritation when taken in large amounts or for extended periods.
Liver Toxicity (Rare): Prolonged or unsupervised use, especially in the form of extracts or capsules, may stress the liver in sensitive individuals.
Allergic Reactions: Skin rashes, itching or other allergic symptoms may occur in rare cases.
Who should avoid Giloy?
Pregnant or breastfeeding women.
People on diabetes, immunosuppressant or liver-related medications
Anyone with autoimmune disorders (consult a doctor first)
Your health is everything - prioritize your well-being today.
Giloy is a helpful herb that can support your health in many ways. It boosts your immune system, aids digestion, improves skin health and can even assist with managing ongoing health issues.
By adding Giloy to your meals or routine, you can take advantage of its natural benefits and start feeling better in many aspects of your life.
Frequently Asked Questions
Giloy is commonly used in Ayurvedic medicine to boost immunity, manage fever, aid digestion, and support overall wellness. It’s also believed to help in conditions like dengue, diabetes and respiratory infections.
Yes, Giloy can be taken daily in moderate amounts. However, long-term use should be done under medical supervision to avoid possible side effects like low blood sugar or liver strain.
Giloy is not recommended during pregnancy due to a lack of sufficient safety research. Always consult a doctor before using any herbal supplement while pregnant or breastfeeding.
Yes, Giloy is known for its immuno-boosting properties. It enhances the body's natural defence mechanisms and may help reduce the frequency of infections.
Giloy can be consumed in various forms, including juice, tablets, powder or as a decoction made from its stem. The best form depends on individual preferences and health needs. For general immunity, Giloy juice or tablets are commonly used.