13 Health Benefits of Guduchi

Deemed as ‘Amrit’ or ‘the Divine nectar of immortality’, known as Guduchi, Guduchi, Giloy, and Gurcha in Hindi is one of the few herbs that is regarded highly in Ayurveda for its medicinal properties. Guduchi or Tinosporacordifolia grows as a vine-creeper on neem and mango trees, with the ones grown on neem trees being more beneficial medically. Researchers across the world are studying the amazing medicinal benefits the herb offers, and often call it a wonder herb. Let us know more about this wonderful herb and its health benefits.

Health Benefits of Guduchi (Giloy)

Guduchi comes with a variety of health benefits and all of the plants are used for medicinal purposes.

1. Boosts memory: It helps with the proper functioning of the nervous system and boosts memory and brain health.
2. Helps in recovering from hepatitis: A patient with hepatitis can be given fresh Guduchi juice mixed with candy.
3. Improves the liver and kidney health: It boosts the liver health by eliminating toxins that have build up. Whether it is jaundice or hepatitis, Guduchi can be a highly effective help in its treatment. In jaundice, curry made out of the stem and leaves is highly beneficial and aids in its treatment.
4. Treats digestive disorders: Whether it is acidity, worm infestation, abdominal pains, loss of appetite or vomiting, Guduchi can be an effective remedy for these digestive ailments.
5. Helps in conception: It acts as an aphrodisiac – boosting sexual potency and sperms to help couples reproduce.
6. Skin Disorders: The herb is very beneficial in the treatment of some chronic skin disorders like psoriasis and eczema. It also enhances the complexion, making the skin healthy and glowing. Just apply a paste with Guduchi and see a marked difference. Patients of vitiligo have also been found to reap its benefits. It is also beneficial in the early stages of leprosy. The juice out of its stem is beneficial in this condition.
7. Effective anti-diabetic agent: Guduchi has been seen to exhibit some properties that help controlling blood sugar levels. It acts on the enzymes responsible for raising sugar levels in the body.
8. Acts as an adaptogen: The herb has been found to have adaptogenic properties and increases the body’s resistance to stress, illnesses, depression, and anxiety.
9. Increases immunity: This herb activates the immune system of the body, boosting immunity and promoting vitality in a person.
10. Helpful in treating gout and rheumatic disorders: A decoction prepared with Guduchi and sunthi helps in strengthening tissues and helps in comfortable movement in the joints. Elevated uric acid levels can also benefit from the use of Guduchi.
11. Believed to treat cancer: Guduchi vine that grows on neem trees is believed to treat cancer and other blood-related disorders. When administered on test mice, it showed improvement in the beutrophil functions. Further studies is being conducted on this in Mumbai’s cancer research institute.
12. Detoxifies the body: Given its ability to rid the body of toxins, Guduchi is an excellent way to boost overall health and wellness due to the detoxification effect.
13. Acts as a febrifuge: The starchy part of Guduchi is used to treat fever and related ailments.

Side effects of Guduchi

• The herb has a hypoglycemic effect – hence people who have high blood sugar levels may experience a sudden drop in sugar if combined with medicines. Always seek your doctor’s advice if using it to reduce sugar levels.
• People who are suffering from systemic lupus erythematosus, multiple sclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis should take this herb with caution. People suffering from these autoimmune diseases might want to avoid it.
• If you are pregnant, avoid the herb because there is limited research on its benefits during the gestation period. Include it as a supplement only after discussing it with your doctor.
• There are no known drug interactions or contraindications reported against Guduchi.

What is Guduchi? (Giloy)

Tinosporacordifolia belongs to the vine of the family Menispermaceae native to the Indian subcontinent countries of India, Myanmar, and Sri Lanka. It grows as a shrub with several branches extending to climb the tree it is growing on. It bears simple, heart-shaped leaves with axillary flowers. The flowers are yellow, and the vine bears a drupe fruit that turns red on maturity. It has a succulent stem and papery bark. It is mostly found to grow on neem and mango trees. The vines that grow on neem trees are believed to be more potent medically since it soaks up the blood purifying properties from neem. Guduchi is essentially immunomodulatory, i.e., it modifies the immune response according to the disease it is fighting.

Ayurveda and Guduchi(Giloy)

The ancient Ayurveda medicine has acclaimed Guduchi as a ‘Divine nectar’. Ayurveda believes it to possess healing properties and fighting the excess of the 3 doshas – Vata, pitta, and kapha. Owing to its healing properties, it is believed to clear the body of the accumulated toxins, thus purifying the liver, kidneys, joints, and blood. Because it acts as a purifying agent and rids the body of harmful toxins, one notices a marked change in skin health too- it glows, shines, and looks much healthier. It also rejuvenates the body tissues, enhances reproductive health. Ayurveda believes Guduchi to have calming effects on the mind. The Ayurvedic medicine deems Guduchi as ‘Amrit’ because it is believed to promote vitality and longevity. Let us now sum up the health benefits of Guduchi.

Medicinal Benefits

Giloy is often used in ayurvedic preparations for its following benefits –

• Expectorant
• Anti-inflammatory
• Anodyne
• Thermogenic
• Anti-emetic
• Carminative
• Haematinic
• Alterant antispasmodic
• Astringent
• Antipyretic
• Galacto Purifier

FAQs

1. Can Guduchi be used to support mental clarity?

Yes, Guduchi may help support mental clarity. Known for its adaptogenic properties, it can reduce stress, which often leads to better focus and mental sharpness. Some users report improved concentration and memory with regular use. Many see it as a natural way to stay sharp without relying on caffeine.

2. Is Guduchi safe for children?

Guduchi can be beneficial for children, especially for immune support, but dosing matters. Ayurvedic practitioners sometimes recommend it for kids, but always consult a healthcare provider first. Children may require lower doses, and a professional can guide safe use.

3. Can Guduchi help with seasonal allergies?

Guduchi’s immune-modulating effects may provide relief from seasonal allergies. It can help regulate immune responses and may reduce symptoms like sneezing and runny nose. Many people use it seasonally to combat mild allergy symptoms.

4. Does Guduchi have any impact on energy levels?

Yes, Guduchi can boost energy by reducing stress and fatigue. By supporting liver health and immune function, it helps the body stay resilient. Many users feel more energized and balanced, especially when taken regularly as part of a healthy lifestyle.