For any of you that are unaware as to what Giloy is, let’s address that first... Botanically referred to as Tinospora cordifolia, Giloy is an ancient Indian Ayurvedic herb that helps build immunity. Owing to its beneficial properties, it is also called ‘nectar’, ‘Amrita’ or Guduchi by various Ayurvedic experts. Heart-leaved in shape, mainly found in the tropical regions of the Indian subcontinent, it is employed to treat various disorders and infections of the body.

Recently, the Indian Ministry of AYUSH, Ayurveda, Yoga and Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha and Homeopathy, cleared 3 ancient herbs for clinical trials to be conducted in the wake of the COVID-19 crisis. Its effectiveness against Coronavirus is yet to be tested to its fullest potential. However, for more information regarding this topic and to find out the names of other herbs cleared for testing against COVID can be found in our blog post here.

The purpose of this blog is different. To acquaint you with Giloy’s qualities as an immunomodulating ingredient, used to your advantage. Let’s begin, shall we?

Giloy has been approved by the Food and Drug Administration of India to be used as a remedial herb. Moreover, its root and stem have been cleared for consumption for various medical benefits.

  • It has been known to boost immunity considerably.
  • In addition, it also helps to manage chronic fever in patients.
  • Bowel related issues are also treated as Giloy is an excellent recourse for digestion and constipation.
  • Giloy’s hypoglycemic agents often come in handy to treat individuals with Type 2 diabetes.
  • Having adaptogenic properties helps this herb to alleviate stress and anxiety.
  • Loaded with anti-inflammatory benefits, Giloy can also efficiently manage the condition of arthritis or common joint pain. This very property also tends to fight respiratory issues such as frequent coughs and colds or the problem of tonsillitis.

After all, Giloy is medication and the ways to consume it properly have been listed out by researchers and experts before us.

Here are 3 of its intake methods that can lead to positive results:
  1. Giloy has been compressed to tablets that are to ideally be taken twice a day, by adults. Whereas, children above the age of 10 years can be given one tablet a day.
  2. A popular Giloy juice recipe also exists and includes boiling a finger-long stem of Giloy in two glasses of water. Watch the water reduce to about half its size and consume while it is still warm. One glass a day should do the trick.
  3. A concoction enhancing the nutritional value of Giloy is one where 2 inches of ginger, 3-4 tulsi leaves, 1 finger long Giloy stem, two black peppers and 2 corn are also added to the mix. Once a day and half a glass is the recommended dosage for this.

It goes without saying that this is popular information and has proved beneficial for individuals in the past. But I urge you not to self medicate and consult an expert who knows your case history before taking steps on your own.

Medically reviewed by Rishabh Verma, RP

giloy-and-resistance-to-infections