Giloy, Amrita or Guduchi : Health Benefits, Uses, Dosage and Side Effects

Giloy Health Benefits: Also known as Amrita or Guduchi, Giloy is a wonder herb useful for the body by enhancing immunity. The leaves are shaped into a heart shape and look like a betel leaf. Bitter in taste, Giloy helps manage blood glucose levels and manages weight. It also improves metabolism. Giloy is consumed in many ways, in the form of powder, tea, tablets, juice, sattva, etc.

Giloy juice improves the immune system, and its antipyretic property manages the fever. Giloy also increases platelet count, and hence it is very useful in dengue. Removal of toxins for better skin and hair is achieved by either consuming Giloy or applying its paste on the affected area. Ropan or healing properties of Giloy regenerate the skin, increasing the collagen level. 

What are the other names of Giloy?

Different names know Giloy in different regions. Scientifically, it is known as Tinosporacordifolia. Apart from this, the other names associated with Giloy are Guduchi, Madhuparni, Amruta, Amritavallari, Chhinnaruha, Chakralakshanika, Somvalli, Rasayani, Devnirmita, Gulvel, Vatsadani, Jwarari, Bahuchinna, Amrita.

Health Benefits of Giloy

Giloy is very beneficial for health. Here are some wonderful health benefits of Giloy: -

• Giloy helps in curing dengue.

Giloy possesses anti-inflammatory and antipyretic properties, which is indeed helpful in the case of dengue fever. The Giloy consumption also strengthens the immunity and hence developing the platelets in the body. Hence, it is a great cure for treating dengue.

• Reduces the cholesterol level in the body

Deepan and Pachan properties of Giloy prevent cholesterol production in the body. It improves the metabolic system and flushes the toxins out of the body, reducing the cholesterol level.

Tips: - Take 2-3 teaspoons of Giloy juice with water to reduce the body's cholesterol level.

• Beneficial for aiding gout disease

Gout is a Vatarog or is caused by an imbalance of Vata dosha. Hence, Giloy purifies the blood and balances the Vata dosha making it beneficial for curing gout disease.

• Cures the problem of Diarrhea

Giloy possesses Pachan or digestive properties, which might help cure diarrhea and poor digestion.

Tips: - Mix ¼ - ½ teaspoon of Giloy powder with warm water. Drink it twice daily after a meal.

• Heal the wounds

Skin problems like allergy, wounds, inflammation, or any other disease is managed with the help of Giloy. Giloy holds Ropan or healing properties and Kshya or astringent properties as per Ayurvedic studies and hence is considered useful in treating all skin infections, including wounds

Grind the Giloy leaves to make a paste and apply it to the affected area with honey or rose water. Rinse the paste with fresh water. 

• Beneficial for rheumatoid arthritis

Arthritis is a disease that causes pain and inflammation in the body. Giloy inhibits pro-inflammatory cytokines production and reduces arthritic inflammation. However, it is an autoimmune disease that attacks the immune system of the body. Hence, do consult a doctor before consuming Giloy in case of rheumatoid arthritis.

• Aids weight loss and reduces obesity

MedaDhatu fluctuations and an increased amount of Ama or toxins are responsible for obesity or weight issues. This is caused due to unhealthy dietary regime and bad lifestyle. Giloy manages the digestive fire and decreases the number of toxins or Ama in the body for its Ushna or hot potency. This, in turn, reduces weight and manages obesity. 

• Helpful in reducing the eye problem

Ropan and Kashaya or healing and astringent properties of Giloy reduce the eye problems like burning, redness, and itching. 

Add water and Giloy leaves to a pan and boil it properly. Let it cool well. Apply that water on the eyelids and leave for some time. Wash your eyes properly.

• Prevent the hair loss

Giloy has Katu or pungent, Kashaya, or astringent properties. These two bits help in controlling hair loss and dandruff problems. Moreover, the Rasayan properties of Giloy also increase hair growth. 

• Tips:- Grind the Giloy leaves with honey or rose water to make a smooth paste. Use this paste as a hair mask and leave it for 2-3 hours. Wash the scalp properly with a mild shampoo.

Treating Diseases/Health Problems Using Giloy

We will be dealing with the uses of Giloy in treatments methods of different diseases from scientific and Ayurvedic point of view:

• Fever

Science	Ayurveda
Anti-inflammatory or antipyretic properties of Giloy improve immunity and fight against various infections. The macrophage activity is also regulated with the consumption of Giloy, which in turn cures the fever.	Giloy possesses Javarghana or antipyretic properties. The fever is caused due to an increase in toxin or the Ama level in the body with some digestive issues. Deepan or appetizing and Pachan or digestive properties of Giloy reduces the Ama in the body hence improving the immunity fights against fever. The Rasayana property of Giloy also aids the symptoms of fever.

 Type I and Type II diabetes mellitus

Science

Ayurveda

As per modern science, Giloy reduces the blood sugar level and enhances insulin production. Due to this, it manages diabetes well in heavy or obese individuals.

Vata dosha is responsible for diabetes in humans. The improper digestion system and increased level of toxins or Ama cause the improper secretion of insulin. Moreover, the pancreatic cells are also affected due to enhanced Vata dosha. Deepan or appetizing and Pachan or digestive properties of Giloy helps in reducing the toxin level. The insulin secretion normalizes, and the digestion system is also improved with the consumption of Giloy. Apart from this, Giloy also has a bitter taste, which maintains the blood sugar level, helping in the ailment of diabetes.    Tips ½ teaspoon of Giloypowder should be consumed with a glass of water daily to cure type 1 and type 2 diabetes mellitus.

 Hay fever

Science	Ayurveda
Symptoms of hay fever, also known as allergic rhinitis, are cured by hay fever. Nasal discharge, sneezing, nasal obstruction, and nasal itching are reduced with the increased leukocyte cells in the body.	Fluctuations in Kapha dosha leads to Hay fever. The Kapha dosha problems lead to the accumulation of toxins or Ama in the body. Deepan or Pachan properties of Giloy improve the immunity, hence helping the body to fight against infections.  Tips: - Mix ¼ - ½ teaspoon of Giloy churn with honey and consume it daily after lunch or dinner.

 Cancer

Science	Ayurveda
Giloy is considered useful in hindering the growth of breast cancer cells and prevents its proliferation. Hence, it is considered good for decreasing breast cancer risk for women.	Imbalance of Vata- Kapha – Pitta dosha is responsible for cancer cells in the body. Hence, Giloy balances all three doshas with its Tridosha property, and Rasayan property increases the body's immunity.  Tips: - Take 2-3 teaspoons of Giloy juice with water to combat cancer.

  Liver Damage

Science	Ayurveda
Antioxidant and hepatoprotective properties of Giloy manage the liver health and acts as a shield against any major liver disease.	Liver disease is caused by the fluctuations in pachakagni or digestive fire. Giloy regulates the pachakagni and helps in the instant digestion of the food. Deepan or appetizing and Pachan or digestive properties of Giloy also clears the digestive tract and excrete out the liver toxins. Hence, it combats liver diseases in the best manner.

 Asthma and Cough

Science	Ayurveda
The anti-inflammatory property of Giloy hinders the growth of pro-inflammatory agents. The reduction in inflammation clears the respiratory tract and controls the mucus formation. Giloy also reduces the production of goblet cells hence reducing the accumulation of asthma.	Giloy, when consumed orally, is useful in controlling cough. As per Ayurveda, cough is known as Kapha disorder. Accumulation of stool or mucus in the respiratory tract causes cough. Kapha balancing properties of Giloy excrete excessive mucus from the lungs and respiration tract. Moreover, Ushna or hot properties of Giloy is also helpful for cough ailment.

 Arthritis

Science	Ayurveda
Reduction in inflammation due to hindered growth of pro-inflammatory cytokines is made by Giloy. The growth of osteoblasts is regulated with the help of Giloy, hence preventing bone and cartilage damage. However, consult your doctor before consuming Giloy in case of rheumatoid arthritis, an autoimmune system.	Impairment of digestive fire increases the toxins in the body, which results in increased pain and swelling in the body. Giloy helps decrease the toxins or Ama in the body with the help of Deepan and Pachan properties, hence reducing the pain and swelling in the body. Tips Swallow Giloy churna or Giloy tablets with lukewarm water after any meal in a day.

 Respiratory Problems

Science	Ayurveda
Traces of antimicrobial constituents in Giloy helps in managing the problem of respiration. Giloy acts as a shield for many infectious diseases and hence reduces respiratory problems.	Vata and Kapha dosha is mainly responsible for respiratory problems as per ayurvedic studies. Giloy balances the Vata and Kapha dosha, removing excess mucus or stool from the lungs. Difficulty in breathing is due to the respiratory tract's obstruction by imbalanced Vata and Kapha; hence, Giloy is known to help relieve symptoms of respiratory problems.

 Skin Infections

Science

Ayurveda

The presence of phenolic compounds, glycosides, and steroids in Giloy gives it a wound healing property, which improves skin health. The tensile strength of the tissues increases, leading to collagen production and hence reducing the contraction. It is also beneficial in the case of insect and snake bites as it heals the skin faster. Moreover, it possesses antibacterial and antioxidant properties, which are good for skin health.

Skin problems like allergy, wounds, inflammation, or any other disease is managed with the help of Giloy. Giloy holds Ropan or healing properties as per Ayurvedic studies and hence is considered useful in treating all skin infections.  Tips Use Giloy oil directly on the affected area for maintaining skin health. Giloy powder mixed with rose water, honey, milk, or banana can be applied on the face, neck, or affected area to get rid of any skin problem.

Forms of Giloy in Ayurveda with Recommended Dosage

Giloy is the Ayurvedic treatment is used in the form of juice, tea, churna, tablet, extract, or powder form. Each of these forms of Giloy can be used to create different types of dishes and can be consumed in various forms, either with milk, water, or in the form of Kwath. If you have not consulted with your doctor regarding the dosage amount for each form of Giloy, you can then follow these dosage recommendations:

• Giloy Powder: - Take 1/4 or 1/2 teaspoon of Giloy powder with water twice daily for the treatment of various health problems. For external application, Giloy powder should be used in the quantity of ½ - 1 teaspoon with rose water.
• Giloy juice: - Take 2-3 teaspoons of Giloy juice with water to combat different illnesses. 
• Giloy tablet: Swallow 1-2 tablets of Giloy with water after the meal, twice daily.
• Giloy oil: - Giloy oil should be applied externally either on the skin or for earache. Apply 1 or 2 teaspoons of Giloy oil only once a day. Giloy oil can be applied mixed with honey or rose water as per the requirement on the hair as well. 
• Giloy Capsules: - Ingest 1-2 capsules either once a day or twice a day to cure different diseases ad health problems. 
• Giloy extract: - Consume a pinch of Giloy extract twice daily with water.  
• In case you have consulted with a doctor, then follow the dosages as per their recommendations.

Types of Ayurvedic Care with Giloy

• Giloy Powder

Giloy is also available in powder form made by grinding the dried Giloy, which helps in treating constipation, skin problems, etc.

Tips:  As prescribed by your doctor, you can mix the Giloy powder in milk or water for consumption. You can use the Giloy powder to make any other product like Giloytea or Ladoo.

Giloy powder can be consumed by using the following method: -

- Mix ½ teaspoon of Giloy hurna with water or honey

- Drink the same twice a day after lunch or dinner.

• Giloy Ladoo

Giloy taken as a sweet will not only be an interesting alternative to powder form or oil but will also help as effectively as any other form.

Tips:  

-Take Giloy powder and mix them in roasted atta.

-You can add salt, black pepper, or any other additive for an enhanced taste.

-Mix all the ingredients properly to form a dough.

-In a circular motion, give a 'Ladoo' shape to the small dough balls.

-Store up to 10-12 days or consume them at once.

• Giloy capsules

Giloy capsules are used as alternative Giloypowder. It is recommended to swallow 1-2 Giloy capsules with warm water as a medicine for various health problems and diseases.

• Giloy tablets

- Giloy tablets are also available for consumption about treating the health conditions mentioned above.

- Take one tablet of Giloy mixed with warm water or honey after lunch and dinner, twice a day, or as prescribed by your doctor.

• Giloy juice

Giloy can be consumed in the form of juice too. Take few Giloy leaves and grind them to mix with water and for juice. Giloy juice can also be taken directly. Add 1-2 teaspoons of Giloy juice in water and drink it every day empty stomach to aid weight loss.

• Giloy tea

Gilroy is also consumed in the form of tea or Kwath. It is one of the most used forms of Giloy as it is easier to consume and offers many benefits to health.

Tips: -

• Boil a cup of fresh water in a pan
• Add tea leaves to the boiling water.
• 1 cup of milk can also be added for better taste and texture.
• Boil the mixture for few minutes.
• Add a teaspoon full of Giloy powder.
• Strain the tea and consume it as a medicine.
• GiloyKwath
• Giloy powder can be taken in the form of Kwath for curing ailments like digestive issues, jaundice, diarrhea, etc.

Tips:

-Boil 2 cups of water in a pan.

-Add 1 teaspoon of Giloy powder

-Let it mix completely in water.

-Boil till the mixture reduces to half.

-Take 1-2 teaspoons of the same and mix in warm water.

-Drink one cup every day before the meal.

For external Application

Giloy is applied externally, either in the form of oil or powder, to cure many skin problems and enhance skin health. 

• Raw Giloy

Crush some Giloyleaves and mix it with rose water to apply to the affected area. Leave it on the area for some time and wash thoroughly with fresh water. Pat dry the face to get smoother skin.

• Giloy powder

Giloy powder is applied in the form of a paste with honey or rose water. Application of Giloy face pack or skin pack helps in reducing the blemishes and makes skin healthier.

Tips

1. Mix ½ or 1 teaspoon of Giloy powder with rose water
2. Apply the paste on the affected area, face, or neck
3. Leave the pack for 5-7 minutes
4. After it is properly dried, wash the pack with fresh water
5. Dry the face and use a moisturizer

Giloy oil

Giloy oil can be massaged on the face and neck properly to moisturize the skin and give it a healthier look.

Side Effects of Giloy

While Giloy is magically infused with healing properties, it is also found to have certain Side Effects of Giloy if over consumed, especially in people suffering from abdominal issues, pregnant ladies, diabetic patients, and breastfeeding women. Both science and Ayurvedic experts recommend taking Giloy inappropriate amount or as per the recommended dosage. Do follow the time period for which Giloy should be consumed as per the doctor's consultation. 

Precautionary guide while using Giloy

For Diabetic Patients

• View of Science Experts

According to scientific experts, Giloy is responsible for lowering the blood sugar level subsequently. Hence, it is highly advisable to keep an update on the blood sugar level if you are using Giloy, that too, with an anti-diabetic drug.

For Pregnant Ladies

• View of Ayurvedic Experts

Pregnancy calls for extra care and precautions. Giloy is high in Ushna or hot potency. Hence, it is advisable to consult the doctor before consuming Giloy during pregnancy.

• View of Scientific Experts

According to scientific experts, consumption of Giloy is not advisable for pregnant women. In the case of an urgent situation, it is strongly advisable to consult the doctor before consuming Giloy.

For Ladies, while Breastfeeding

• View of Science Experts

According to scientific experts, the consumption of Giloy is safe for breastfeeding women. However, it is still advisable to consult the doctor before consuming Giloy if it is urgently required for any breastfeeding women. 

People with hypersensitive skin

• View of Ayurvedic experts

Giloy should be applied on the skin, either with milk, rose water, or honey by the people who are prone to allergies and have hypersensitive skin as it can cause allergy if applied alone due to its Ushna or hot potency.

For patients allergic to Giloy

• According to scientific experts

Giloy can cause allergy to people who are allergic to it. Hence, it is advisable to consult the doctor before consuming Giloy.

Precautions while on any other medication

• Giloy strengthens the immune system and makes it more active. Hence avoid are consuming Giloy with the immunosuppressant drug.

Other precautionary measures

• Do consult a doctor for the consumption of Giloy if you are an autoimmune patient. Autoimmune disorders include rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, etc. Giloy boosts immunity; however, if you are suffering from an autoimmune disorder, it might overstimulate the immunity leading to side effects. 
• Giloy is responsible for altering blood sugar levels. Hence avoid consuming Giloy at least 2 weeks before surgery. 

FAQ's about Giloy

1. How Giloy-Satva is made?

As per Ayurveda, the starch extracted from any medicinal plant is Sattva.

GiloySattva is very helpful in many ways. Below are the steps to make GiloySattva:-

• Crush the Giloy stem and vessels and soak them for a night in a vessel.
• In the morning, softened stem and vessels should be mashed completely in the same water.
• Let the starch settle at the bottom for some time.
• Remove the upper layer of clear water.
• Dry the left sediment to obtain GiloySattva.

2. What are the steps to make Giloy Kadha?

There are two methods to prepare a decoction or GiloyKadha.

- Take 1 tablespoon of Giloy powder

- Boil the same with 2 cups of water.

- Wait till it becomes one-fourth.

- Cool and drink

Boil the fresh Giloy leaves in water, reducing it to one fourth. Strain and let it cool for the finished product. 

3. Is the combination of Giloy and Amla juice beneficial for health?

Giloy and Amla juice combinations are helpful for the body when taken in the morning. It is not recommended to consume it at night. It will be useful to drink it on an empty stomach. 

4. What are the benefits of using Giloy leaves?

1. As per the scientific study

Fresh Giloy leaves help cure many illnesses, including arthritis. Consumption of Giloy leaves juice removes toxins from the body leading to better skin and immune systems. Giloy leaves also cure digestion problems.

2. As per an Ayurvedic study

Deepan and Pachan properties of Giloy leaves improve the body's digestive system, hence improving many other health conditions. It is used for anorexia and nausea. Astringent and Ropan properties of Giloy improves skin health and reduces burn, dryness, and inflammation. Giloy leaves are also beneficial for hair health if applied properly.

5. Is Giloy Leaves safe for consumption?

Giloy leaves are beneficial for consumption. It can be chewed daily for better health. 

​6. Is Giloy juice a stress reliever?

1=> According to a scientific study

Adaptogenic properties of the Giloy plant reduce the sympathetic nervous system's activation for reducing anxiety and mental stress. It also has a calming effect on the mind.

2=> According to an Ayurvedic study

Ayurveda suggests that stress and anxiety are due to increased VataDosha in the body. Vata balancing properties of Giloy reduces mental stress, and anxiety suppressing the hyperactive system. 

Tips: - 2-3 teaspoons of Giloy juice with water should be consumed empty stomach every morning to relieve the stress.

7. Is Giloy helpful during aflatoxicosis of the kidneys?

1=> According to a scientific study

Aflatoxicosis is the process of removing aflatoxins from the body. The presence of alkaloids in Giloy gives it an antioxidant property, which in turn helps to hinder the production of free radicals. The entire process hence helps in preventing kidney problems which occur during aflatoxicosis.

2=> According to an Ayurvedic study

Rasayana property of the Giloy improves the kidney functions. Extra toxins are removed, increasing blood flow in the body, hence improving kidney functions.

Tips: - Swallow one giloy tablet after meal

8. Can we take Giloy if suffering from an autoimmune disorder? 

Do consult a doctor for the consumption of Giloy if you are an autoimmune patient. Autoimmune disorders include rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, etc. Giloy boosts immunity; however, if you are suffering from an autoimmune disorder, it might overstimulate the immunity leading to side effects. 

9. How safe is Giloy for kids?

Consumption of Giloy by kids is safe if you are consuming it in an appropriate amount. It manages the digestive system, reduces any disability, and cures fever in a kid. 

10. Does Giloy juice aids in weight loss?

MedaDhatu fluctuations and an increased amount of Ama or toxins are responsible for obesity or weight issues. This is caused due to unhealthy dietary regime and bad lifestyle. Also manages the digestive fire and decreases the number of toxins or Ama in the body for its Ushna or hot potency. This, in turn, reduces weight and manages obesity. 

11. Can Giloy cure the PCOS?

There is no certain evidence that proves the use of Giloy in curing PCOS; however, it improves the immune system of the people suffering from PCOS.

12. What is the time period for which Giloykadha should be consumed?

Giloy Kadha is very helpful in treating many diseases. However, it is recommended to consult a doctor to know the time period of consumption as it may differ for every disease.

13. Is it safe to consume Giloyjuice on an empty stomach?

Giloy juice, if consumed empty stomach, helps in managing various diseases like liver problems, stress, and fever. 

Tips: - Drink 2-3 teaspoons of Giloy juice mixed with empty water stomach every morning. 

14. Can Giloy cause constipation?

Giloy is not responsible for constipation; however, if you are already facing this problem, consume it with lukewarm water. 

 15. Can Giloy be used to increase immunity? 

According to a scientific study

The immunomodulation property of Giloy is useful for improving immunity. The presence of magnoflorine in Giloy helps in activating the lymphocytes, which are also the immunity-boosting cells. The immunity-boosting cells then act as a shield against various diseases improving the immune system. 

• According to an Ayurvedic study

Rasayanaproperty or rejuvenation property of Giloy helps in boosting the immunity. It hinders the growth of pathogenic bacteria and reduces the risk of any disease.

Tips:- Mix 2-3 teaspoons of Giloy juice with water and drink it twice a day before lunch and dinner for improved immunity.

16. Can Giloyenhance digestive health?

1. According to a scientific study

As per the scientific study, amylase content in the stem is relatively high, which aids in the digestion of starch and increases overall digestive strength.

• According to an Ayurvedicstudy

Giloy contains Ushna or hot properties apart from Pachan and Deepan properties. Hence, it is proved to be beneficial for curing digestive problems. The consumption of Giloy also increases digestion and appetite. Giloykwath or decoction with water should be consumed twice daily to cure digestive problems like nausea, acidity, and dysentery.

17. Is Giloy useful in fighting respiratory problems?

1. According to a scientific study

Giloy contains many antimicrobial constituents which help in curing respiratory problems. Hence, Giloy acts as a shield and kills many infectious microbes helping in reducing respiratory problems. 

• According to an Ayurvedic study

Vata and Kapha dosha is mainly responsible for respiratory problems as per ayurvedic studies. Giloy balances the Vata and Kapha dosha, removing excess mucus or stool from the lungs. Difficulty in breathing is due to obstruction of the respiratory tract by imbalanced Vata and Kapha. Hence Giloy is known to help relieve symptoms related to respiratory problems.

18. Can Giloy be used to increase platelets?

1. According to a scientific study

Traces of phytochemical constituents with some antioxidants and immunomodulatory properties increase platelets' production in the bone marrow. 

• According to an Ayurvedic study

Rasayana or rejuvenation properties of Giloy increase the platelet count in the body. It also enhances immunity. 

19. How is Giloy stem helpful?

• According to a scientific study

The immunomodulation property of Giloy stem does wonders for the body enhancing immunity. Amylase content in the stem is relatively high, which aids the digestion of starch and increases overall digestive strength. 

• According to an Ayurvedic study

Giloy stem, as per Ayurveda, strengthens the immune system and protect the body against various diseases. It also regulates the digestive fire with its Tridosha healing properties.

20. How is Giloy beneficial for skin health? 

1. According to a scientific study

The presence of phenolic compounds, glycosides, and steroids in Giloy gives it a wound healing property, which improves skin health. The tensile strength of the tissues increases, leading to collagen production and hence reducing the contraction. It is also beneficial in the case of insect and snake bites as it heals the skin faster.

• According to an Ayurvedic study

All three doshas are responsible for skin health, and fluctuations in any of them make the skin sore, dry, itched, and irritated. Giloy oil possesses Tridosha balancing properties and Snigdha and Ropana properties, which helps to cure skin problems. Moreover, the presence of Kashaya or astringent properties helps reduce inflammation giving a healthy skin.