Benefits of Guduchi (Giloy) Powder, Uses, Dosage & More! 

Guduchi is a herb that has been used in Ayurveda for thousands of years. It is also known as giloy, amrita, or tinospora cordifolia. It is one of the most versatile and potent herbs in Ayurveda, as it can balance all three doshas (vata, pitta, and kapha), rejuvenate the body, and enhance immunity. 

In this article, we will explore the health benefits of guduchi powder, how to use it, and what precautions to take, so, let’s begin.

What is Guduchi?

Guduchi is a climbing shrub that grows in tropical and subtropical regions of India, Sri Lanka, Myanmar, and Bangladesh. It has heart-shaped leaves, yellow flowers, and red berries. The stems, roots, leaves, and fruits of the Guduchi plant are all used for medicinal purposes.  

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The stem of Guduchi is the most commonly used part of the plant, as it contains the highest concentration of active constituents. Guduchi is also called amrita, which means nectar or immortal, because of its ability to restore health and vitality.

Nutritional Composition of Guduchi

Guduchi is rich in various phytochemicals, such as alkaloids, terpenoids, steroids, and flavonoids. These compounds have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-microbial, anti-diabetic, immunomodulatory, and hepatoprotective properties. Guduchi also contains minerals, such as calcium, iron, zinc, and manganese, and vitamins. 

According to a study, 100 grams of guduchi stem powder contains about 5.9 grams of protein, 1.9 grams of fat, 76.4 grams of carbohydrates, 3.6 grams of fiber, and 283 calories.

Benefits of Guduchi Powder

Guduchi powder benefits the body in many ways, such as:

Boost Immunity

Guduchi powder is one of the best natural immune boosters. It can enhance the production and activity of white blood cells and natural killer cells. These cells are responsible for fighting against infections, viruses, bacteria, and toxins. It also increases the levels of antibodies, which are essential for regulating the immune response. 

Guduchi can help prevent and treat common cold, flu, fever, cough, and other respiratory infections. It can also protect the body from chronic diseases, such as cancer and diabetes.

Support Digestive Health

Guduchi can improve the digestion and absorption of food. It can stimulate the secretion of digestive enzymes, bile, and gastric juices. It can also balance the pH of the stomach and intestines and prevent the growth of harmful bacteria that cause ulcers and gastritis. 

Besides this, it can also relieve digestive problems, such as constipation and diarrhea. It can also detoxify the liver and kidneys and remove toxins and waste products from the body.

Treats Inflammatory Conditions

Guduchi powder can treat inflammatory conditions and reduce pain and swelling. It has inflammatory mediators, such as histamine, prostaglandins, and leukotrienes. This can modulate the activity of inflammatory enzymes, such as cyclooxygenase and lipoxygenase. 

It can also reduce the redness and stiffness associated with arthritis and osteoarthritis. It can also prevent the damage and degeneration of cartilage and joints and improve mobility and flexibility.

Soothes Irritated Skin

Guduchi powder has anti-microbial, anti-fungal, and anti-allergic properties. Due to that, it can prevent and treat skin infections, such as acne, boils, eczema, ringworm, and scabies. It can also heal wounds, cuts, burns, and ulcers and prevent scarring and infection. 

Not only this, but it can also soothe the skin and reduce the itching, burning, and inflammation caused by allergies. It can also nourish and moisturize the skin and improve the complexion and texture of the skin.

Regulate Blood Sugar Levels

On top of that, guduchi also has anti-diabetic and hypoglycemic effects. Which helps to lower blood glucose levels and improve insulin sensitivity. It can also prevent the complications of diabetes and cardiovascular diseases. It can also regulate the metabolism of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. Which ultimately avoids the accumulation of excess glucose in the blood. 

Guduchi powder can also reduce the oxidative stress and inflammation caused by high blood sugar levels. This helps in protecting the pancreas, liver, and kidneys from damage.

Precautions and Side Effects of Guduchi

Guduchi is generally safe and well-tolerated by most people, as it has no known toxicity or adverse effects. However, some precautions and side effects of Guduchi are:

• It should be taken under the guidance of a qualified health practitioner. Because the dosage may vary depending on the individual’s health condition.

• Pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid Guduchi. As there is not enough evidence to support its safety and efficacy in these groups.

• Guduchi should be used with caution by people who have diabetes as it may lower blood sugar levels. Therefore, regular monitoring of blood sugar levels and dosage is required.

• It may cause some mild side effects, such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and headache in some people. These side effects are usually temporary and subside with discontinuation of use. However, if the side effects persist or worsen, medical attention should be sought immediately.

Recommended Dosage of Giloy

The recommended dosage of giloy may vary depending on the form, quality, and purpose of use. Here are some general guidelines:

• For powder form, the usual dosage is 1 to 3 grams per day, taken with water, honey, milk, or juice after meals.
• For capsule form, the usual dosage is 1 to 2 capsules per day, taken with water after meals.
• For extract form, the usual dosage is 10 to 20 drops per day after meals.
• For juice form, the usual dosage is 15 to 30 ml per day, taken with water after meals.

How to Use Guduchi

Guduchi can be used in various ways, such as:

• As a powder, guduchi can be mixed with water, honey, milk, or juice and consumed orally. It can also be added to soups, smoothies, or teas and enjoyed as a beverage.
• As a capsule, guduchi can be swallowed with water, preferably after meals.
• As an extract, guduchi can be diluted with water and taken orally. It can also be applied topically to the skin as a lotion, cream, or gel for treating skin problems.
• As a juice, guduchi can be diluted with water and consumed orally. It can also be used as a mouthwash, gargle, or nasal spray for treating oral and respiratory infections.
• As a decoction, guduchi can be boiled with water and strained. The liquid can be consumed orally or used as a wash, compress, or bath for treating wounds, ulcers, and skin infections.
• As a paste, guduchi can be made by grinding the fresh or dried stem of guduchi with water and applying it to the affected area. It can also be mixed with other herbs, such as amla, neem, turmeric, or sandalwood, to enhance the effects.

Conclusion

Guduchi is a powerful herb that can benefit the body in many ways. It can boost immunity, support digestive health, treat inflammatory conditions, soothe irritated skin, and regulate blood sugar levels. It can also rejuvenate the body and improve overall well-being. Guduchi can be used in various forms depending on the preference and purpose of use. 

However, guduchi should be used with caution and under the guidance of a qualified health practitioner, as it may have some precautions and side effects. Guduchi is a herb that can help you achieve a healthy and balanced life.

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