What Are the Health Benefits of Giloy Herb and How Is It Used in Ayurveda?

Question

I recently came across the Giloy herb, which is widely used in Ayurveda for its immunity-boosting properties. I want to understand the benefits of Giloy, how it is used in Ayurvedic treatments, and whether it is safe for long-term consumption.

From what I understand, Giloy is called Amrita in Sanskrit, meaning "the root of immortality." What exactly makes it so powerful? I have read that it helps in boosting immunity, but how does it work inside the body? Does it fight infections and improve overall resistance to diseases?

Some people say Giloy is good for fever and is commonly used to treat viral infections, dengue, and malaria. Does it really help in reducing fever naturally? If so, what is the best way to consume it—juice, tablets, or powder? How often should it be taken?

I also heard that Giloy helps in managing diabetes by regulating blood sugar levels. Is this true? Can diabetics take Giloy daily, and are there any precautions they should follow?

Another thing I want to know is whether Giloy is good for digestion and liver health. Some sources claim it detoxifies the liver and helps in treating acidity and constipation. Has anyone tried it for digestive issues?

Additionally, can Giloy be used for skin and hair health? Does applying Giloy paste help in treating acne, rashes, or skin allergies? How is it different from Neem in terms of skin benefits?

One of my concerns is whether Giloy has any side effects. Some say excessive consumption can cause low blood sugar or digestive issues. Who should avoid taking Giloy, and what is the recommended dosage for general health maintenance?

If anyone has personally used Giloy herb for health benefits, please share your experience. How effective was it, and how long did it take to see results?

I am looking for detailed and practical information on how to use Giloy herb effectively in daily life. Please share any insights!

Dr. Harsha Joy · Accepted Answer

Giloy (Tinospora cordifolia), also known as Amrita or the "root of immortality," is highly regarded in Ayurveda for its immune-boosting, detoxifying, and anti-inflammatory properties. It is effective in enhancing the body's resistance to infections by stimulating white blood cells, improving the body’s ability to fight off pathogens, and supporting overall immune function. Its ability to balance the doshas—particularly Vata and Pitta—helps treat conditions like fever, viral infections, and chronic conditions such as malaria and dengue. The best way to consume Giloy depends on individual preferences: it can be taken as juice, powder, or in tablet form, typically 1-2 teaspoons of powder or 15-30 mL of juice per day, depending on your body's constitution. It helps in reducing fever, detoxifying the liver, and improving digestion, making it beneficial for conditions like acidity, constipation, and skin allergies. Giloy’s anti-inflammatory properties may also aid in promoting clearer skin and healthy hair, though it works differently from Neem, which is more focused on purifying the blood. For diabetics, Giloy has shown promise in regulating blood sugar levels, but it should be used under medical supervision, as it may lower blood sugar too much in some individuals. Excessive consumption can lead to digestive disturbances or low blood sugar, so it’s important to stick to recommended doses. Long-term use can generally be safe, but those with specific conditions (like hypotension or low blood sugar) should consult a healthcare provider. In terms of results, individuals usually notice improvements in immune health and energy levels within a few weeks of consistent use.

Dr. Ayush Varma · Answer

Ah, Giloy, or 'Amrita', really does brim with potential—it's kinda fascinating, right? In Ayurveda, it's hailed for boosting immunity, partly because it ramps up the body's response to diseases and pathogens. Think of it as a natural immune system supercharger! It’s often used during viral fevers like dengue and malaria because it naturally reduces fever by reducing toxins in the blood—pretty cool, huh?

For consumption, Giloy can be taken as a juice, tablet, or powder. Juice is popular for its quick absorption. If you're using juice, 1-2 tbsp daily should do the trick. Tablets or powders are convenient for those on-the-go, but the dosage can vary—usually 500 mg to 1 gram, twice a day. Always, see how your body responds, you know?

Now, about diabetes, yeah, Giloy can play a role in regulating blood sugar levels (it’s believed to improve insulin response), but it's super important to monitor blood sugar closely when you start it. I'd say diabetics should chat with their doc before adding it to their daily routine, just to be safe.

For digestion, it's known to aid liver function and alleviate issues like acidity and constipation due to its detoxifying properties. Nice little liver cleanse, right? Some folks find relief from digestive discomfort by sipping on Giloy juice.

Skin health? Absolutely! Giloy paste can help treat acne and rashes thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties. Compared to Neem, it’s generally less astringent but still effective in calming irritated skin.

But hey, don’t ignore potential side effects: some people might experience low blood sugar or mild digestive issues. Pregnant or nursing women, and folks with autoimmune diseases—probably need to steer clear or be cautious.

Dosage? For general maintenance—the usual 1-2 tablets or spoonfuls of juice each day should be fine, but keep it within limits. Otherwise, might overdo it, and we want to keep it holistic and balanced, right?

Lastly, results vary person to person. Some experience benefits within weeks, for others it might take longer. It’s all about consistency and tuning into your own body’s signals.

What Are the Health Benefits of Giloy Herb and How Is It Used in Ayurveda? - #11476

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