Tinospora Cordifolia (Guluchi)

Introduction

Tinospora cordifolia, commonly known as Giloy, is a famous medicinal plant in India, well known in Ayurveda for its health-boosting and immune-strengthening powers. It belongs to the Menispermaceae family.

Common Names

• Amrita

• Amritaballi

• Guduchi

• Guluchi

• Giloy

• Vani Asa

Plant Description (Morphological Features)

• Giloy is a climbing plant (twiner) without hair on its surface.

• The older stems grow up to 2 cm thick with a rough, cork-like outer layer.

• Aerial roots (hanging roots) grow from the marks (scars) on the stem.

• Stems and branches have white vertical spots called lenticels.

• The bark is grey-brown or creamy white, thin like paper, and peels off easily.

• Leaves are 5-15 cm long, heart-shaped, soft when young, and turn leathery as they grow.

Important Properties

Giloy is considered a natural immunity booster and has:

• Tonic (strength-giving)

• Alterative (restores body function)

• Diuretic (promotes urine flow)

• Aphrodisiac (boosts reproductive health)

• Liver-protective and fever-reducing actions

Medicinal Uses and Benefits

Giloy is used for treating:

• Chronic and malarial fevers

• Liver problems like:

  • Liver cirrhosis

  • Jaundice

  • Fatty liver

  • Hepatitis

• General weakness and tiredness

• Loss of appetite

• Urinary disorders

• Diabetes

• Joint pain and Rheumatism

• Indigestion and acidity

Other health benefits:

• Boosts WBC count (White Blood Cells)

• Improves immunity and disease resistance

• Useful for cardiac disorders (heart problems)

• Helpful in anaemia (low blood levels)

• Treats spermatorrhoea (unwanted semen discharge)

• Acts as a natural health tonic for overall well-being