10 Health Benefits of Giloy – The Ultimate Immunity Booster

Introduction

There’s a growing trend nowadays towards using natural products such as herbs for managing health issues, although this practice is not new. Especially in India, the traditional medicine systems, such as Ayurveda, Unani, and Siddha ,which mainly use herbs to manage diseases, have been followed since ages¹. Giloy is one such medicinal herb that is highly valued in Ayurveda. and is said to have several potential health benefits. It aids in treating different types of fevers and other health related problems. It is believed to be one of the ‘immortality’ plants and called as amrita or amritavalli in Sanskrit². Let’s have a detailed look at this wonder herb in this guide.

What Is Giloy?

Giloy scientifically is the Tinospora Cordifolia plant, belonging to the family Menispermaceae. Commonly known as Guduchi, Gurcha, and heart-leaved moonseed, this plant is cultivated in tropical and subtropical region and is known for its rich nutritional value. The stem, root and leaves of this plant are used in ayurvedic medicines to manage several health conditions. Fresh plant is more commonly used than dried plant, because of its high effectiveness³. Although it tastes bitter, according to ayurveda, it aids in removing Vata and Kapha dosha from the body¹. In India, it is one of the traditional medicinal herbs which is said to have various health benefits.

Nutritional Value of Giloy

Giloy contains several essential nutrients such as copper, iron, manganese, zinc, calcium, and phosphorous. It also has alkaloids, steroids, glycosides, sesquiterpenoid, essential oils, fatty acids, and aliphatic compounds³. The main nutritional content of giloy is:

•  Fiber : 15.8%
•  Fat: 3.1%
• Carbohydrates: 61.66%
• Protein: 4.5% – 11.2%

There are about 292.54 calories per 100g of giloy³.

Owing to its rich nutrient value, Giloy may have the following properties- anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antimicrobial, antispasmodic and immuno-boosting^3,4. 

Potential Health Benefits of Giloy

Giloy is used in Ayurveda for managing several health conditions. These include:

1. Managing Fevers

• Chronic Fever: Giloy is used to manage chronic and recurrent fevers. It is an anti-inflammatory, antipyretic herb that aids in improving your immunity in order to fight against infection and also helps in speedy recovery⁵.
•  Dengue Fever: Giloy is well known for its antipyretic property. Intake of giloy during dengue fever may help in improving the immunity and increasing the platelet count. This may avoid the risk of dengue fever complications and aid in speedy recovery. You can also take it along with tulsi leaves to help improve the platelet count⁵.
•  Hay Fever: Giloy is said to be useful in managing hay fever/allergic rhinitis. It reduces symptoms like runny nose, sneezing, nasal obstruction, and watering of eyes. To reduce temperature, you may mix Giloy powder with honey and eat have before sleep⁵.

Over the years, I have observed that Giloy may have promising anti-HIV effects. It has been found to decrease the recurrent resistance of the HIV virus, which can improve the effectiveness of HIV therapy. Additionally, it has been shown to stimulate certain immune cells, such as B lymphocytes, macrophages, and polymorphonuclear leucocytes, and enhance the percentage of hemoglobin, suggesting its potential application in managing the disease¹⁰.

Dr. Rajeev Singh, BAMS

2. Fighting Infections like Corona-virus Infection

Initial research showed that giloy may improve immunity and help fight viral infections like SARS-COVID-19 infection⁶. Though there is no evidence that Giloy can cure coronavirus infection but it can raise your immunity to fight against it. You can take Giloy kadha or Giloy juice two times per day or you can also combine giloy with ashwagandha which further aids in avoiding infection risk^5,6.

3. Controlling Blood Sugar Levels

In Ayurveda, Giloy is known as a ‘Madhunashini’ which means ‘destroyer of sugar’. It may aid in the insulin secretion and utilisation, which ultimately leads to improved blood sugar levels. Initial research has shown that regular consumption of Giloy juice can help lower blood glucose levels in individuals with type -2 diabetes⁷. Giloy may also be useful for avoiding the risk of diabetes complications like ulcers, and kidney problems⁵.

4. Enhancing Immunity

This herb can activate the immune system of our body, thereby improving immunity and increasing the vitality in an individual. It helps activate immune cells, modulates inflammatory pathways and boosts body’s defense mechanism, thereby improving overall health^2,8.

In my experience, I have observed that the extract of Giloy leaves may have hepatoprotective effect. This effect is believed to be due to its ability to neutralize harmful free radicals and inhibit lipid peroxidation, which can damage liver cells. The combined action of Giloy’s constituents and micronutrients work synergistically to protect the liver and promote its normal functioning.

Dr. Siddharth Gupta, B.A.M.S, M.D (Ayu)

5. Improving Digestion

Giloy may aid in improving  digestion and it may also reduces digestion-related problems like diarrhea, colitis, vomiting, hyperacidity, abdominal pain, loss of appetite, and excessive thirst. It also helps in detoxifying body and enhancing liver function².

6. Reducing Stress and Anxiety

Giloy may help ease mental stress and anxiety by maintaining normal physiological functions. It also aids in soothing your body and promotes sleep. Giloy also has the ability to improve your memory and cognitive functions by crossing the blood brain barrier². 

7. Managing Arthritis

Giloy contains anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may aid in reducing arthritis by reducing the inflammation and oxidative stress in your body. Some studies conducted on anti-arthritic property of giloy show that it mainly reduces the inflammation and bone damage due to the ethanoic content present in it³.

8. Good for Eyesight

Giloy is potentially effective in improving eyesight when applied topically. All you need to do is boil Giloy powder or Giloy leaves in water, once it cools down apply it over the eyes².

9. Improve Respiratory Health

Giloy has been used as a medicine to treat bronchitis and chronic cough. Giloy can help ease the inflammation and irritation in the respiratory tract to help you breathe more freely and therefore it is used for managing asthma by ayurveda².

10. Skin Benefits

Since giloy is high in antioxidants, it can avoid oxidative damage to the skin and that may slow down aging in skin. It may also improve blood circulation, which in turn bestows a natural glow to your skin⁹. It also known for its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory property and used as a medicine to deal with skin infections, eczema and psoriasis³.

Even though initial studies are conducted to understand the medicinal properties and health benefits of giloy, further large-scale human research is needed to support it more scientifically in managing diseases. Yet, it seems to be a promising age-old ayurvedic option for several health conditions. 

I have observed that Giloy may have potential anti-cancer activity. It has been found to show promising effects in reducing the metastatic potential of B16-F10 melanoma cells, which are associated with its spread. Giloy may work by increasing the levels of certain pro-inflammatory cytokines and anti-angiogenic agents, which can help inhibit the growth and development of blood vessels that support tumor growth¹⁰.

Dr. Smita Barode, B.A.M.S, M.S.

Also Read: What Is Hantavirus? Symptoms, Causes, & Effective Prevention

How to Consume Giloy?

As per Ayurveda, Giloy can be consumed in either a powdered form, in the form of kadha (decoction) or even as juice. You can take 2-3 teaspoons of giloy juice with equal ratio of water in empty stomach for good results⁶. Nowadays it is also available in capsule and readymade powder. You may take ½ teaspoon of Giloy powder in 1 glass of lukewarm water twice a day. Giloy can also be applied topically as a paste for skin problems⁸.

Remember, the right dose and formulation vary based on condition being treated and even from one individual to another.

Monsoon Immunity Routine

In traditional Indian wellness practices, Giloy is sometimes  included in seasonal routines, particularly during the monsoon, a time when seasonal infections tend to be more common. However , it is important to understand that its  , traditional use is based on longstanding practice and should not be considered a  proven cure or a guaranteed way to prevent illness.

Some traditionally followed combinations include:

• Giloy + Tulsi decoction (morning): A warm kadha made with Giloy and Tulsi (holy basil) is a long-standing traditional preparation often taken in the morning for general wellness.
• Giloy + Ashwagandha (evening): Ashwagandha is an adaptogenic herb, meaning it is traditionally used to help the body cope with general wellness. This combination is sometimes used in the evening as part of a supportive routine.

It is important to remember that these herbal preparations are supportive measures only. The foundations of good immunity remain simple, everyday habits, such as:

• Staying well hydrated.
• Maintaining good personal and food hygiene.
• Eating a balanced, nutritious diet.
• Getting adequate rest and sleep.
• Keeping vaccinations up to date, where appropriate 

If you choose to use Giloy or other herbal products, use them under the guidance of a qualified healthcare practitioner, particularly if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, have liver disease, autoimmune disorders, or take prescription medicines, as herbal products may not be suitable for everyone and can interact with certain medications 

Dosage of Giloy

Giloy is available in several forms, and the appropriate amount can differ depending on the form used. The following are general ranges commonly described in traditional practice and product guidance. These are indicative only and should not replace personalised advice⁴.

• Powder (churna): Around ½ to 1 teaspoon (approximately 1 to 3 grams) once or twice a day, usually mixed in lukewarm water.
• Juice: Around 2 to 3 teaspoons (approximately 10 to 20 ml), often diluted with an equal amount of water and taken on an empty stomach.
• Tablets or capsules: Commonly available in strengths of around 250 mg to 500 mg of extract, taken as directed on the product or by a practitioner.

It is important to understand that the right dose varies considerably based on a person’s age, overall health, the condition being addressed, and the specific formulation, as the strength of extracts can differ between products⁵.

Taking more than the recommended amount does not improve benefits and may instead lead to side effects, such as digestive discomfort or, in some cases, an excessive lowering of blood sugar (discussed later).

For these reasons, it is best to begin with the lowest suggested amount and to use Giloy under the guidance of a registered Ayurvedic practitioner or doctor, particularly if you have any health conditions or take regular medication. Medical supervision helps ensure the dose and duration are appropriate for you.

Also Read: Brinjal (Baingan): Uses, Benefits, Side Effects and More!

Safety Warning

While Giloy has a long history of traditional use,  concerns have been raised about its potential to cause liver injury in some individuals, particularly following reports published from India in 2021. Several patients with suspected Giloy-associated liver injury developed acute hepatitis, and some experienced severe illness requiring liver transplantation or resulting in death. Although these reports do not prove that Giloy will harm everyone who uses it, they highlight that serious liver injury can occur in rare cases 

The exact reason why some people develop liver injury is not fully understood. Many reported cases involved prolonged unsupervised use or the use of herbal preparations of varying quality, although a direct causal role for these factors has not been established. Some tested products also contained contaminants such as heavy metals or other compounds, which may have contributed in certain cases. 

A balanced view is important here. Giloy is not being declared unsafe, but the reports highlight why responsible use matters. To stay on the safer side:

• Avoid taking Giloy continuously for long periods without medical advice.
• Ensure the product is correctly identified and sourced from a reputable supplier.
• If you use Giloy long-term, your doctor may advise periodic liver function tests to monitor liver health.
• Stop use and seek medical advice if you notice symptoms such as yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine, persistent tiredness, nausea, or abdominal discomfort.

When in doubt, consult a qualified practitioner before starting or continuing Giloy.

Side Effects of Giloy

While generally safe, side effects may be observed in some individuals:

•  When it is overdosed, it may lead to constipation
• When Giloy is taken with other diabetic medications, it may lead to low blood sugar levels.
• Giloy may cause the immune system to become more active which may worsen the symptoms of autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis.
• Its effect is unknown to both pregnant and lactating mothers. So, it’s good to remain on the safer side and avoid Giloy during lactation and pregnancy⁸.

Remember moderation in consumption is key. Discuss with an ayurvedic practitioner about the right dose for you. Also, as giloy might interact with some drugs,  it’s best to discuss it with a medical doctor before including it your routine diet especially if you have any medical conditions/are on any medications.

Drug Interactions with Giloy

Giloy may interact with certain prescription medicines, which is why it should be used cautiously if you are already on treatment for a health condition. Understanding these interactions in simple terms can help you use it more safely¹¹.

• Diabetes medicines: Giloy is traditionally been used to support healthy blood sugar levels, and some studies suggest it may lower blood glucose. If taken alongside diabetes medications, this combined effect may lower blood sugar too much, leading to hypoglycaemia (abnormally low blood sugar). Symptoms of low blood sugar can include shakiness, sweating, dizziness, and confusion. People taking diabetes medicines should be cautious and monitor their blood sugar closely under medical guidance.
• Immunosuppressant medicines: Some people take medicines that deliberately reduce the activity of the immune system, for example after an organ transplant or for certain autoimmune conditions. Because Giloy is thought to stimulate the immune system, it may work against these medicines and reduce their effectiveness. This combination is best avoided unless specifically approved by a doctor.
• Medicines affecting the liver: Cases of liver injury associated with Giloy have been reported, although they appear to be uncommon. People with existing liver disease or those taking medicines that may affect liver function should consult their doctor before using Giloy. 
• Other chronic medications: Giloy may also need to be used with caution alongside other long-term medicines, such as those for blood pressure or other ongoing conditions, as the combined effects are not always well studied.

Because these interactions can have real consequences, it is strongly advised to consult your doctor before combining Giloy with any prescription medicine. Your doctor can help you decide whether it is suitable and how to use it safely alongside your existing treatment.

Who Should Avoid Giloy?

Giloy is not suitable for everyone. The following groups should avoid it or use it only under medical supervision, for the reasons explained below¹².

• Pregnancy: Best avoided, as there is insufficient safety data on Giloy use during pregnancy, and its effects on the developing baby are not well understood.
• Breastfeeding: Best avoided, or used only under medical supervision, again because safety information during lactation is limited.
• Autoimmune diseases (such as rheumatoid arthritis or lupus): Giloy may stimulate the immune system. In autoimmune conditions, where the immune system is already overactive, this could potentially worsen symptoms.
• People on immunosuppressant therapy: As Giloy may boost immune activity, it could counteract medicines designed to suppress the immune system, reducing their effectiveness.
• Individuals with liver disease: Given the concerns about possible liver injury, those with existing liver conditions should use caution or avoid Giloy, depending on their doctor’s advice.
• People with uncontrolled chronic conditions (such as diabetes or high blood pressure): Giloy may affect blood sugar and other parameters, so use should only be considered under proper medical supervision.

If you fall into any of these groups, it is safest to speak to a doctor or qualified Ayurvedic practitioner before considering Giloy.

Also Read: 8 Preventive Measures for Dengue That are Simple & Effective

Conclusion

Giloy is an ancient medicinal herb used to manage several health problems in Ayurveda and Unani system. It is well known for its immune boosting ability and for treating various type of fevers.  Although it can be used as medicine for short or long term with very minimal side effects, its best to know the right dose and duration from an ayurvedic doctor. Moreover, it’s advisable to consult your healthcare provider before starting any new herbs including Giloy to avoid unnecessary complications, especially if you are on any medications.

Also Read: Lavender: Uses, Benefits, Side Effects, Precautions & More!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

References

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7. Dutta R, Rai A. An Experimental Study to Assess the Effectiveness of ‘Giloy Juice’ for reducing Blood Glucose Level among Diabetic Type-II adults in selected Community Area, Bhilai, C.G. International Journal of Nursing Education and Research. 2022; 10(4):361-8. Available from: https://ijneronline.com/HTMLPaper.aspx?Journal=International%20Journal%20of%20Nursing%20Education%20and%20Research;PID=2022-10-4-18
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