Author Details
Scientific View By
MSc (Clinical Embryology), M.Tech (Biotechnology)
Ayurvedic View By
BAMS
Reviewed By
MD (Pharmacology), MBBS
Last updated
12 Apr 2019 | 02:38 PM (IST)

We provide you with authentic, trustworthy and revelant information

Want to know more

Have issue with the content?

Report Problem

Giloy

Giloy
Giloy, also known as Amrita is a herb that helps boost immunity.
Giloy is bitter in taste and the leaves are heart-shaped much similar to betel leaves. Giloy helps the body to respond to infections in case of dengue fever and ensures early recovery.
Since Giloy is bitter in taste, it is a useful herb for diabetes management. It is also used in the management of heart diseases, cancer, liver disease, allergies and upset stomach[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

What are the benefits of Giloy for Dengue?

scientific
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].

What are the benefits of Giloy for Fever?

scientific
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
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.

What are the benefits of Giloy for Hay fever?

scientific
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
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.

What are the benefits of Giloy for Diabetes?

scientific
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
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.

What are the benefits of Giloy for Liver disease?

scientific
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
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.

What are the benefits of Giloy for Cancer?

scientific
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].
ayurvedic
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.

What are the benefits of Giloy for High cholesterol ABC?

ayurvedic
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.

What are the benefits of Giloy for Gout?

ayurvedic
Ayurvedic View
Giloy is used in Vata rog like Gouty arthritis due to its Vata balancing and blood purifying actions.

What are the benefits of Giloy for Rheumatoid arthritis?

scientific
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].

What are the benefits of Giloy for Diarrhoea?

ayurvedic
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.

How effective is Giloy?

Likely effective
Dengue, Hay fever
Insufficient evidence
Cancer, Diabetes, Diarrhoea, Fever, Gonorrhea, Gout, High cholesterol ABC, Liver disease, Lymphomas, Rheumatoid arthritis, Stomach ulcers, Syphilis

Precautions when using Giloy

Advice from Experts
scientific
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].
scientific
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
scientific
Modern Science View
Use Giloy or its constituents only under a doctor’s supervision if you are allergic to it[4].
Breastfeeding
scientific
Modern Science View
Avoid medicinal use of Giloy during breastfeeding due to the lack of scientific evidence[4].
Moderate Medicine Interaction
scientific
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
scientific
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
scientific
Modern Science View
Avoid medicinal use of Giloy during pregnancy due to the lack of scientific evidence[4].
Side Effects
Important
scientific
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.

Benefits of Giloy

1. Eye Problem
Giloy reduces the risk of eye problems like burning sensation, redness and itching due to its Kashaya (astringent) and Ropan (healing) nature.
Tip:
1. Boil some Giloy leaves in water.
2. Let the water cool for some time.
3. Apply this Giloy water over the eyelids.
4. Wait for 10-15 minutes and wash your eyes with lukewarm water.

2. Wounds
Giloy helps in healing of wound, cuts or abrasions due to its Kashaya (astringent) and Ropan (healing) properties.
Tip:
1. Make a fine paste of Giloy leaves.
2. Add honey or rose water to it.
3. Apply it on the affected area and leave it for at least 2-3 hours.
4. Wash with plain water afterward.

3. Hair loss
Giloy helps to control hair loss and dandruff because of its Katu (pungent) and Kashaya (astringent) nature. Giloy also helps in hair growth due to its Rasayana (rejuvenating) properties.
Tip:
1. Make a fine paste of Giloy leaves.
2. Add honey or rose water to it.
3. Apply it on the scalp and leave it for at least 2-3 hours.
4. Wash it with any herbal shampoo.

Precautions when using Giloy

Allergy
scientific
Modern Science View
Apply Giloy to a small area first to test for possible allergic reactions.
scientific
Modern Science View
Always use Giloy or its constituents only under doctor’s supervision if you are allergic to Giloy.
Tip:
Use Giloy with honey or milk for external applications.

Recommended Dosage of Giloy

  • Giloy Juice - 1-2 teaspoon or as per your requirement.
  • Giloy Powder - ¼-½ teaspoon or as per your requirement.

How to use Giloy

1. Giloy Paste with Milk
a. Take ¼-½ teaspoon of Giloy powder.
b. Mix it with milk and apply on the skin.
c. Use this remedy 2-3 times a week to control blemishes and hyperpigmentation.

2. Giloy Juice with Honey
a. Take 1-2 teaspoon of Giloy juice.
b. Mix it with honey and apply evenly on the skin.
c. Use this remedy 2-3 times a week to control dryness and wrinkles.

Frequently asked questions

Q. What is Giloy satva and how it is prepared?

ayurvedic
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.

Q. How to make Giloy kadha?

ayurvedic
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.

Q. Can I consume Giloy and Amla Juice every morning and before bed?

ayurvedic
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.

Q. Can Giloy (Guduchi) cure asthma and cough?

scientific
Modern Science View
Giloy is used for the management of asthma and chronic cough. It has good anti-inflammatory property and inhibits the response of pro-inflammatory agents (molecules that promote inflammation). This reduces the inflammation of air passages in case of asthma and cough. Giloy extract also controls mucus hypersecretion due to an increase in the number of goblet cells (cells which secretes mucus) associated with asthma[5].
ayurvedic
Ayurvedic View
Giloy plant has an excellent result in Kapha related disorders like asthma, cough and nasal allergy. It works on Kapha related problems through two ways: Giloy helps to balance Kapha due to its Ushna Virya property and it boost the immune system to fight foreign particles or organisms due to its Rasayana property.
Tip:
Take 1-2 tablet of Giloy Ghan vati with honey after taking light food twice a day.

Q. Can Giloy juice act as a stress reliever?

scientific
Modern Science View
Giloy plant is also known as an adaptogenic (manages stress hormone) herb. It works by suppressing overactivation of the sympathetic nervous system thus reducing mental stress and anxiety. It exerts a calming effect on the mind[3].
ayurvedic
Ayurvedic View
According to Ayurveda, stress or anxiety occurs due to involvement of aggravated Vata in the body. Giloy (Guduchi) has Vata balancing property because of which it helps reduce mental stress or anxiety and also suppresses hyperactive nervous system.
Tips:
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.

Q. Can Giloy (Guduchi) cure arthritis?

scientific
Modern Science View
Giloy is useful for the management of arthritis. Giloy reduces inflammation in arthritis by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines (molecules that promote inflammation).
It also stimulates the growth of osteoblasts (cells that helps in bone formation) thus helping in bone formation as well as prevents damage of bone and cartilage[1].
However, Giloy is said to boost the immune system and might not be favorable in the case of rheumatoid arthritis (an autoimmune disease). In such a case, consult your doctor before taking Giloy or Giloy supplements[4].
ayurvedic
Ayurvedic View
In Ayurveda, Giloy or Guduchi is one of the useful herbs for treating arthritis. Ayurveda believes that Ama has the main involvement in any types of arthritis and Giloy works to reduce Ama by improving digestion and absorption due to its Deepan (appetizer) and Pachan (digestive) properties. Giloy works on reducing Ama, thereby decreasing pain and swelling in the body.
Tip:
Take Giloy churna or Giloy Ghan vati twice a day with warm water after taking foods.

Q. Can Giloy (Guduchi) help during aflatoxicosis (aflatoxin-induced poisoning) of the kidneys?

scientific
Modern Science View
Giloy protects the kidneys against aflatoxin-induced nephrotoxicity (toxicity in the kidneys due to aflatoxin). This is due to the presence of alkaloids in it. Giloy has antioxidant property and destroys free radicals generated during aflatoxicosis thus preventing kidney damage[1].
ayurvedic
Ayurvedic View
Giloy helps to improve kidney functions because of its Rasayana property. It also removes extra toxins by increasing blood flow to the kidney due to its Shodhan quality.
Tip:
Take 1-2 Giloy Ghan vati (tablet) after taking food.

Q. Can Giloy be taken if you have autoimmune disorders?

scientific
Modern Science View
It is advisable to consult a doctor before taking Giloy if you are having any autoimmune disorders like rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus or other conditions.
In the case of auto-immune disorders, 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].

Q. Is Giloy safe for kids?

scientific
Modern Science View
Giloy can be given to children for a short period of time to manage the loss of appetite, stomach problems, fever and to improve general debility[10].

Q. Can Giloy (Guduchi) juice help in weight loss?

ayurvedic
Ayurvedic View
Yes, Giloy juice helps to control weight when taken regularly for atleast 1-2 months. This is because an increase in weight is due to unhealthy food habits and lifestyle which leads to a weak digestive fire. This increases accumulation of Ama (toxic remains in the body due to improper digestion) causing an imbalance in Meda dhatu and thus resulting in obesity. Using Giloy helps to improve the digestive fire and reduces Ama which is the prime cause of obesity. This is due to its Deepan (appetizer) and Pachan (digestive) properties.

Q. Is Giloy useful in PCOS?

ayurvedic
Ayurvedic View
Although there are not enough scientific evidence on the direct use of Giloy for PCOS. It is said to improve the immunity of people with PCOS[12].

Q. Is Giloy juice good for high blood pressure?

ayurvedic
Ayurvedic View
Giloy juice helps to maintain overall health. According to Ayurveda, Giloy can help control high blood pressure due to digestive problems. Giloy improves metabolism and helps maintain a good digestive system. This helps reduce the risk of high blood pressure levels.

Q. Can I take Giloy Kadha for one year or lifetime?

ayurvedic
Ayurvedic View
Giloy or Giloy Kadha can be taken for various health benefits. But it is advisable to consult your doctor in order to know how long Giloy or Giloy kadha can be taken.

Q. Can I take Giloy juice on an empty stomach?

scientific
Modern Science View
Yes, Giloy juice can be taken on an empty stomach in the morning to manage fever, liver disorders and stress[1][9].

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.

Q. Does Giloy cause constipation?

ayurvedic
Ayurvedic View
Generally, Giloy does not cause constipation but if you face this problem you can take Giloy powder with lukewarm water.

References

  1. Saha S, Ghosh S.Tinospora cordifolia: One plant, many roles. Anc Sci Life. 2012; 31(4):151–159.
  2. Sharma R, Amin H, Prajapati K, et al.Antidiabetic claims of Tinospora cordifolia (Willd.) Miers: Critical appraisal and role in therapy.Asian Pac J Trop Biomed.2015;5(1):68-78.
  3. Upadhyay AK, Kumar K, Kumar A, et al.Tinospora cordifolia (Willd.) Hook. f. and Thoms. (Guduchi) – Validation of the Ayurvedic pharmacology through experimental and clinical studies.Int J Ayurveda Res.2010;1(2):112–121.",https://www.webmd.com/vitamins-supplements/ingredientmono-1157-tinospora%20cordifolia.aspx,"Lalla JK, Ogale S, Seth S. A review on dengue and treatments.RRJPTS.2014;2(4).
  4. Sharma V, Pandey D.Beneficial effects of Tinospora cordifolia on blood profiles in male mice exposed to lead.Toxicol Int.2010;17(1):8–11.
  5. Tiwari M, Dwivedi UN, Kakkar P.Tinospora cordifolia extract modulates COX-2, iNOS, ICAM-1, pro-inflammatory cytokines and redox status in murine model of asthma.J Ethnopharmacol.2014;153(2):326-37.
  6. Ansari JA, Rastogi N, Ahmad MK, et al.ROS mediated pro-apoptotic effects of Tinospora cordifolia on breast cancer cells.Front Biosci (Elite Ed).2017;9:89-100.
  7. Chavan T, Ghadge A, Karandikar M, et al.Hepatoprotective activity of Satwa, an Ayurvedic formulation, against alcohol-induced liver injury in rats.Altern Ther Health Med.2017;23(4):34-40.
  8. Mishra A, Kumar S, Pandey AK.Scientific validation of the medicinal efficacy of Tinospora cordifolia.Scientific World Journal.2013.
  9. Kalikar MV, Thawani VR, Varadpande UK, et al. Immunomodulatory effect of Tinospora cordifolia extract in human immuno-deficiency virus positive patients. Indian J Pharmacol.2008;40(3):107-110.
  10. Siriwardene SAD, Karunathilaka LPA, Kodituwakku ND, et al. Clinical efficacy of Ayurveda treatment regimen on Subfertility with Poly Cystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS).Ayu.2010;31(1): 24–27.
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.

INDIA’S LARGEST HEALTHCARE PLATFORM

260m+
Visitors
31m+
Orders Delivered
1800+
Cities
Get the link to download App
Reliable

All products displayed on Tata 1mg are procured from verified and licensed pharmacies. All labs listed on the platform are accredited

Secure

Tata 1mg uses Secure Sockets Layer (SSL) 128-bit encryption and is Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS) compliant

Affordable

Find affordable medicine substitutes, save up to 50% on health products, up to 80% off on lab tests and free doctor consultations.

LegitScript approved
India's only LegitScript and ISO/ IEC 27001:2022 certified online healthcare platform

Know more about Tata 1mgdownArrow

Access medical and health information

Tata 1mg provides you with medical information which is curated, written and verified by experts, accurate and trustworthy. Our experts create high-quality content about medicines, diseases, lab investigations, Over-The-Counter (OTC) health products, Ayurvedic herbs/ingredients, and alternative remedies.

Order medicines online

Get free medicine home delivery in over 1800 cities across India. You can also order Ayurvedic, Homeopathic and other Over-The-Counter (OTC) health products. Your safety is our top priority. All products displayed on Tata 1mg are procured from verified and licensed pharmacies.

Book lab tests

Book any lab tests and preventive health packages from certified labs and get tested from the comfort of your home. Enjoy free home sample collection, view reports online and consult a doctor online for free.

Consult a doctor online

Got a health query? Consult doctors online from the comfort of your home for free. Chat privately with our registered medical specialists to connect directly with verified doctors. Your privacy is guaranteed.