The Indian Ministry of Ayush has recently drawn attention to the safety of Giloy/Gudduchi (Tinospora cordifolia), a plant known for its medicinal properties in various traditional medicines. This announcement came in response to reports falsely linking this plant to liver damage. The safety of a drug, the ministry points out, is largely determined by its usage and dosage.
About Guduchi
Guduchi, a climbing shrub found on other trees, hails from the Menispermaceae family. Primarily native to India, it also grows in China, tropical regions of Australia, and Africa. Historically, people turned to Guduchi as a remedy for a broad spectrum of health issues such as fever, infections, diarrhea, and even diabetes.
Medicinal Applications of Guduchi
Guduchi’s potential as an immune booster and its effectiveness against various metabolic disorders has received much focus in the field of phytotherapy. Additionally, its antioxidant properties make it beneficial in combating oxidative stress-induced cellular damage.
In managing high blood sugar levels or hyperglycemia, Guduchi demonstrated a profound anti-hyperglycemic effect. Similarly, its anti-hyperlipidemic quality helps regulate cholesterol levels in the body.
Another noteworthy aspect of Guduchi is its hepatoprotective nature, offering a shield to the liver against detrimental agents. Cardiovascular protective, neuroprotective, and osteoprotective properties of Guduchi contribute to the overall health and wellness by safeguarding vital organs.
Guduchi also boasts radioprotective characteristics, protecting cells from harmful radiation effects. Known for its calming and anxiety-relieving qualities, it serves as a useful adaptogenic and analgesic agent.
In addition to its anti-inflammatory response, Guduchi provides antipyretic solutions assisting in the reduction of fever. Its anti-diarrheal and anti-ulcer properties soothe gastrointestinal disturbances and ulcer-related discomfort.
Guduchi’s anti-microbial nature fights against various pathogens, while its anti-cancer properties are being explored for possible applications in the oncology field.
Guduchi’s Role in Treating Various Ailments
Due to its vast healing properties, Guduchi is widely used in therapeutics for alleviating metabolic, endocrinal, and other ailments. By improving bodily functions and immunity, it contributes to enhancing human life expectancy.
Guduchi in Covid-19 Management
Guduchi’s reputation as a formidable herb with extensive therapeutic applications extends to the management of Covid-19. Its immunomodulatory, anti-inflammatory, and antipyretic properties have been especially beneficial in the fight against this pandemic, resulting in its widespread use in treatments.
As long as usage guidelines are followed and appropriate dosages are adhered to, Guduchi can be a potent ally in health care and disease prevention.