Guduchi : Uses, Benefits, Side effects and More!
By Dr Anuja Bodhare +2 more
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By Dr Anuja Bodhare +2 more
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Guduchi, scientifically known as Tinospora cordifolia, is a vital remedy in the Indian system of medicine. It belongs to the Menispermaceae family and has been used as a medicament since ancient times. It is also known as Giloy, Amrita or Indian bitter. It is found in dense and dry forests all over India, growing over small trees and bushes at high altitudes. The stem, roots and leaves of Guduchi all have medicinal properties.1,2
In the traditional Ayurveda classical textbooks, such as Charaka, Sushruta and other texts, Guduchi is mentioned, under different names, as a medicine to treat a range of ailments.1
Did You Know?
I came across a fascinating study regarding Guduchi lotion. It has been found that Guduchi lotion might help treat scabies. Thus, using it as a therapeutic option for scabies infections may be a valuable choice for managing scabies and promoting skin health.
Dr. Siddharth Gupta, B.A.M.S, M.D (Ayu)
The stem and the leaves of Guduchi have different nutritional values.
| Nutritional Components | Value |
| Calcium | 102.23 ppm |
| Phosphorus | 24.81 ppm |
| Iron | 26.058 ppm |
| Copper | 3.733 ppm |
| Zinc | 7.342 ppm |
| Manganese | 12.242 ppm |
| Crude fibre | 56.42 % |
| Crude protein | 7.74 % |
Table 1: Nutritional value present in stem of Guduchi2
| Nutrients | Fresh leaves | Dehydrated leaves |
| Carbohydrate (g) | 3.34 | 7.53 |
| Protein (g) | 2.30 | 5.23 |
| Fat (g) | 0.36 | 1.05 |
| Fibre (g) | 11.321 | 52.295 |
| Iron (mg) | 5.87 | 22.55 |
| Calcium (mg) | 85.247 | 210 |
| Vitamin C (mg) | 56 | 16 |
| Beta-carotene ( µg) | 303.7 | 428.5 |
| Energy (kcal) | 88.64 | 240 |
| Polyphenols (mg) | 4.8 | 12.2 |
| Flavonoids (mg) | 6.76 | 18.28 |
Table 2: Nutrients present in 100 grams of Guduchi leaves2
I would like to highlight the anti-microbial activities of Guduchi. Guduchi extracts have been found to potentially fight against various bacteria, including E. coli and S. aureus. Thus, Guduchi might be your microbial-fighting squad ready to save the day!
Dr. Rajeev Singh, BAMS
The dried, fully developed stem of Tinospora cordifolia constitutes the drug ‘Guduchi’. The therapeutic properties of Guduchi are:
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In ancient Ayurveda classical textbooks, it is mentioned to be useful in the treatment of leprosy, fever, jaundice, asthma, gout, etc. This herb holds a special place for tribals across India. They used Guduchi for managing various diseases ranging from ear pain, dysentery and cough to bone fractures, skin disease and women’s issues.1 Some of the benefits of Guduchi are described as follows:
In my observations, the Guduchi plant is like a medicine cabinet. People have been using it for ages, and even though the whole plant has medicinal properties, the stem is the star! It’s so special that it’s officially recognised by the Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India. Why? Because it’s packed with alkaloids that make it extra powerful.
Dr. Smita Barode, B.A.M.S, M.S.
Guduchi is useful for managing various bowel issues. One study has specifically shown that it is effective against amoebic infection of the digestive system. The consumption of powdered Guduchi mixed with amla or jaggery is an effective remedy for constipation. ‘Guduchi Satva’, the starch obtained from the stem of Guduchi, is especially beneficial for the digestive system.1,3
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Guduchi has been shown to reduce blood sugar levels, especially during fasting levels. The anti-diabetic effect is attributed to the various phytochemicals present in it. It regulates the blood sugar level by reducing oxidative stress, enhancing insulin release, and reducing the production and breakdown of glucose in the body. Guduchi is especially useful for type 2 diabetes.1,3
The stem of Guduchi helps in inflammation and arthritis. It also helps in alleviating joint pain and many other symptoms associated with arthritis. Rheumatoid arthritis can be managed by consuming powdered Guduchi stem mixed with ginger.3
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Guduchi can be used in the following ways:
You should always consult your Ayurvedic physician before consuming Guduchi for regular use. They will be the best person to prescribe you the correct form and dosage as per your health condition.
Also Read: Shilajit: Uses, Benefits & Side Effects
As far as side effects of Guduchi are concerned, no significant study has been documented.1 However, if you experience any adverse reactions to it, immediately contact your Ayurvedic physician who has prescribed it to you. They will be able to treat you appropriately.
Guduchi is generally considered to be safe if it is taken in the recommended dosages.1 However, general precautions have to be followed while consuming Guduchi.
Unfavourable reactions of Guduchi with any other drug have not been reported. However, evidence is insufficient to state that it is completely safe to use for all age groups and does not exhibit any drug interactions. Therefore, it is best to follow the advice of your Ayurvedic physician who has prescribed you this herb.
Also Read: Paneer Dodi: Uses, Benefits, Side Effects, and more!
One study has shown that 100 grams of dried Guduchi leaves have more protein, fibre, iron, calcium, carbohydrates, fats and energy as compared to the same quantity of fresh Guduchi leaves. But, fresh leaves of Guduchi had more beta-carotene and vitamin C as compared to the dried leaves.2
There are no studies that report Guduchi to be useful for hair fall. You may consult your Ayurvedic physician for further advice.
No studies are available to check for the safety of Guduchi during pregnancy. It is best to consult your Ayurvedic physician before consuming Guduchi in any form during pregnancy.
Guduchi is generally considered to be safe if it is taken in the recommended dosage.1
Because of its various health benefits, it is said that it can be included in the diet of children as well as adults.2 However, it is best to consult your child’s health care provider before including Guduchi in their diet.
In ancient Ayurvedic classical textbooks, there are several formulations mentioned that contain Guduchi as one of the major ingredients. These are given as follows:
Guduchyadi Churna
Guduchi Taila
Dashmoolarishtha
Sanjivani Vati
Kantakari Avaleha
Chyavanaprasha
Guduchi Satva
Brihat Guduchi Taila
Stanya Shodhana Kashaya Churana
Panchnimba Churna
Guduchi Ghrita
Amritaguggulu
Amritashtaka Churna1
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Last updated: Dec 13, 2023
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