Ah, giloy! Such a gem in the world of Ayurveda. In Malayalam, you’ll hear it being called “Amruthu” or “Chittamruthu”. Yep, it’s quite the magical herb used for centuries in Kerala, and you should find it easily in most Ayurvedic shops there.
Giloy is excellent for boosting immunity and fighting fevers. In Kerala, it’s pretty common to use giloy as a decoction especially when dealing with cold or fever. You could make a simple giloy tea by boiling the stems about 15 minutes with some tulsi (holy basil) leaves and a bit of ginger. And hey, add a dash of honey after it cools down a smidge for sweetness and extra zing.
For form varieties, it often comes as powder, juice or capsules. Maybe juice or a fresh decoction is considered more potent cause you’re getting all juicy phytonutrients raw. But capsules are super convenient, especially if you’re on the go. So, pick what fits your lifestyle best!
About daily use, it’s typically safe for general health, but always wise to start with small quantities and observe how your body responds. Growing at home could be fun if you have a small patch of space or a pot, since it’s a climber and not picky about soil.
However, always remember caution matters. It’s generally safe but not advised for pregnant women or if someone’s got autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis, as it might stimulate immune responses. Also, chit-chatting with a local Ayurvedic expert, especially before giving it to kids, is not a bad idea to nail the right dosage.
People in Kerala often cherish this herb for tackling chronic issues, thanks to its powerhouse of benefits. But moderation is key, too much of anything ain’t always the best thing! Hope that helps, and feel free to take a little exploration into the world of giloy. Stay safe and healthy!



