15 Benefits of Guduchi with Nutritional Values

Marshmallow root (Althaea Officinalis) is a perennial herb commonly found in Europe, Western Asia, and Northern Africa. Over the centuries, people have used it as a herbal remedy for various illnesses. The leaves or roots are also used to form a protective layer on the skin, a lining on the digestive tract.

Discover how marshmallow root can improve your well-being by offering impressive benefits for respiratory, digestive, and skin health. Are you interested to know more about the health benefits of marshmallow roots? Keep reading this article to get a wholesome idea.

Team Digit

Health Benefits of Guduchi
Advantages of Using Guduchi
How to Use Guduchi?
Nutritional Values of Guduchi
Side Effects of Using Guduchi
Precautions for Using Guduchi
Who Should Avoid?
Frequently Asked Questions

15 Best Health Benefits of Guduchi

Guduchi has a deep-rooted Ayurveda tradition associated with several health benefits. It also contains natural substances that prevent infections and improve the body's immunity. Listed below are a few health benefits of Guduchi:

1. Aids in Digestion

Guduchi can help with a variety of gastrointestinal problems. According to one study, it is particularly beneficial against digestive tract amoebic infection. In addition, individuals can treat constipation successfully by consuming powdered Guduchi along with amla or jaggery. The starch derived from the stem of Guduchi, known as "Guduchi Satva," is particularly advantageous for the digestive system.

2. Helps to Reduce Diabetes

Guduchi is effective in lowering blood sugar, particularly at fasting levels. The different phytochemicals it contains are thought to be responsible for the anti-diabetic action, thereby reducing oxidative stress, improving insulin release, and lowering the body's generation and breakdown of glucose, which helps control blood sugar levels.

3. Beneficial for Arthritis

Guduchi's stem is beneficial for arthritis and inflammation. Additionally, it aids in easing several other arthritis-related symptoms, including joint discomfort.

4. Boosts Immunity

The phagocytic activity of macrophages, our body's first line of defence and an essential component of innate (nonspecific) and adaptive (specific) immunity, significantly increases with Guduchi, also known as Giloy. Additionally, it noticeably increases cytokine production, interleukin-6 (IL-6) up-regulation, and the antigen-specific recall response.

5. Comes With Antioxidant Properties

Tinospora cordifolia's capacity to scavenge free radicals is attributed to the presence of flavonoids and polyphenols. Guduchi is a source of nutraceuticals that reduce oxidative stress and aid in preventing and treating chronic degenerative diseases, all of which positively affect one's health.

6. Effective Against Osteoporosis

The herb Giloy promotes the differentiation of cells into the osteoblastic lineage and the mineralisation of bone matrix.

7. Benefits the Liver

Due to its capacity to scavenge free ROS and support liver regeneration, Tinospora Cordifolia, or Guduchi, is an effective hepatoprotective agent. Giloy also raises glutathione (GSH) levels and aids liver detoxification of harmful waste from the body.

8. Good for Heart Health

Through inhibiting glucuronide and cholesterol, Guduchi regulates lipid metabolism and, thanks to its antioxidant capabilities, guards the heart against infarction.

9. Good for the Brain

Significant neuroprotective activity is present in Guduchi, which regulates the brain's antioxidant enzyme system and maintains the dopaminergic neurons. In addition, Giloy also improves cognition (learning and memory) by boosting the production of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine.

10. Helps to Prevent Respiratory Illness

Traditional medicine has favoured Giloy to cure conditions like bronchitis and chronic cough. However, its potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant characteristics calm the respiratory system's mucous membrane and are particularly useful in treating respiratory conditions like tonsils, cough, and colds.

11. Comes With Anti-Ageing Properties

Guduchi is a powerful anti-ageing herb. Rich in flavonoids, it promotes the formation of new cells and prevents cell deterioration. It also nourishes the skin and boosts collagen formation to lessen the visible signs of ageing.

12. Improves Mental Health

Recent research suggests that Guduchi may be effective in reducing anxiety and stress levels. It helps to increase mental resistance and raise the spirits through its adaptogenic action. Incorporating Guduchi into your routine can be a natural way to promote emotional balance and a positive outlook.

13. Enhances Skin

Guduchi possesses properties such as fighting inflammation, eliminating germs, curing acne and eczema, and giving skin a more transparent, cleaner look. By nurturing your skin with Guduchi, you can embrace a more vibrant and youthful appearance.

14. Enhances Sexual Performance

Guduchi has been thought to enhance libido, enhancing sexual performance overall. Its ability to reduce tension and strengthen endurance can promote a better sex life. Embracing Guduchi may bring your relationships a renewed sense of vitality and intimacy.

15. Maintain Ideal Weight

Guduchi enhances weight management by increasing metabolic rate and promoting fat burning. This property is responsible for detoxification, which aids in weight control. Incorporating Guduchi into your lifestyle can be a supportive ally on your journey to achieving and maintaining your weight goals.

What are the Advantages of Using Guduchi?

Guduchi is integral to Ayurvedic medicine because of its many therapeutic uses. This versatility makes it applicable to multiple disease states, improving overall well-being: Some of the advantages of using Guduchi are:

S. No.	Advantages	Description
1	Treats Fever	Individuals can use it to treat fever brought on by swine flu, dengue fever, and malaria fever. It is well known that it raises blood platelet levels when given under certain circumstances.
2	Reduces Respiratory Issues	Due to its anti-inflammatory properties, Guduchi is beneficial in reducing respiratory issues such as recurrent colds and coughs, asthma, and tonsillitis. It works as a natural cure for respiratory infections.
3	Lowers Lipid Levels	In animal experiments, Guduchi successfully lowered phospholipids, cholesterol, and free fatty acid levels, which indicates its heart health benefits.
4	Aids in Leprosy Treatment	It helps with the treatment of leprosy. Historically, various cultures have exploited such attributes.
5	Promising for HIV Treatment	It has shown promising results in treating human immunodeficiency virus infection (HIV). The above case highlights how helpful it can be in treating HIV/AIDS as a complementary approach.
6	Protects Against Stress-Related Ulcers	One of the advantages of Guduchi is it guards against stress-related ulcers. This would be especially useful to someone with a chronic stress lifestyle.
7	Modulates Liver Function	According to clinical trials, Guduchi modulates aberrant liver function in those with infectious hepatitis—such an observation points to its potential as a treatment for liver diseases.
8	Prevents Decrease in White Blood Cells	It assists in preventing the decrease in white blood cells brought on by chemotherapy (cancer treatment). It is essential for cancer patients undergoing treatment to have access to such plants.
9	Dissolves Kidney Stones	It has been demonstrated that the liquid extract of the Guduchi stem can aid in the dissolution of kidney stones. So, this is an invaluable resource for finding natural remedies for people with this condition.
10	Reduces Post-Menopausal Symptoms	Clinical investigations have demonstrated that Guduchi effectively reduces post-menopausal symptoms without causing adverse side effects. Therefore, there is a recommendation for serving it as a substitute for hormone replacement therapy.
11	Affects Blood Pressure and Heart Rate	Animal studies have demonstrated that Guduchi induces a brief but noticeable drop in blood pressure and heart rate, increasing the heart's pumping effort and urine production.
12	Lowers Urea Levels	According to studies, it decreased the urea levels in people with elevated blood urea levels. Therefore, its role in kidney health and detoxification cannot be overemphasised.

How to Use Guduchi?

Tinospora Cordifolia (Guduchi) is a versatile herb known for its numerous health benefits. It can be incorporated into daily routines in various forms to enhance overall wellness. It can be used in the following ways:

Giloy powder, 1 gram of Trikatu (long pepper, ginger, black pepper), and two pinches of turmeric can be made into a paste using honey. Individuals with seasonal allergies can take it twice a day with water.
Individuals can use Guduchi stem powder along with ginger, which aids in reducing joint pain.
Heating Guduchi powder in water, letting it cool, and then putting it on the eyelids improves vision.
Generally, one can increase the nutritious value of one’s recipes by adding Guduchi's dried and powdered Guduchi leaves to recipes, which can increase their nutritional value.
One can use Guduchi powder with ghee for arthritis.
Individuals having skin diseases, liver disorders, dizziness, gastritis, etc., can use it with a combination of sugar candy.
To relieve gout, one can use giloy with castor oil.
Individuals can keep a pinch of powdered Bengal gram and Guduchi overnight and give it to a patient suffering from vomiting, severe burning sensation, and migraine.

What are the Nutritional Values of Guduchi?

The table below gives the approximate nutritional content of Guduchi (Tinospora cordifolia) based on general information available; it should be noted that the actual figures may vary depending on your source and how you cook it.

Nutrient	Amount per 100 gram
Energy	70 kcal
Carbohydrates	15 g
Protein	2.5 g
Fat	0.5 g
Fibre	2 g
Calcium	90 mg
Iron	3 mg
Magnesium	50 mg
Potassium	500 mg
Vitamin C	30 mg
Beta- Carotene	1500 µg

What Are the Side Effects of Using Guduchi?

Although Guduchi has no significant side effects, if one consumes it in excess, one might experience the following

Cause Constipation

Although giloy is believed to benefit the digestive tract, some people who consume too much of it develop constipation. If one notices any changes in one’s bowel movements after ingesting the herb, one should consult a doctor.

Decrease Blood Glucose Levels

Using giloy, a natural blood sugar-controlling method, can benefit people with diabetes. It effectively lowers a diabetic patient's blood glucose levels. Giloy may significantly reduce an individual’s blood sugar levels if one consumes it along with one’s diabetes medication.

Give Rise to Certain Autoimmune Disorders

Giloy is renowned for its capacity to strengthen the immune system. However, consuming too much of it can overstimulate one’s immune system and cause problems. Therefore, individuals who have been diagnosed with an auto-immune condition like lupus or rheumatoid arthritis should avoid Giloy.

Dangerous for Expectant Mothers

According to experts, giloy should not be used by pregnant or nursing women. The medical impact on this group has not yet been determined. But if one is expecting, it's essential to follow the advice of professionals and avoid guilt.

Cause Headaches

Tinospora cordifolia stem extract may be safe for short-term use when taken orally. However, some people may experience a headache or sinus pain. There isn't enough reliable data to determine the safety of other plant parts or potential adverse effects.

Side Effects on the Skin

There isn't enough trustworthy data to determine the safety of Tinospora cordifolia when used topically. However, it may produce burning, itching, and redness when applied to the skin.

Nausea and Vomiting

Gastrointestinal disturbances, including nausea and vomiting, may occur after consuming large amounts of Guduchi. Start with small doses and gradually increase them until you find the proper dosage.

Hypoglycemia

Though lowering blood sugar levels can help some people, excessive use of Guduchi may cause hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), particularly among those who are already on diabetes medications. People at risk should check their blood glucose regularly.

Allergic Reactions

Some people might manifest allergic reactions to plants, such as rashes, itchiness or swellings, after ingesting Guduchi, especially if they have allergies. One should always look for any signs of response to the medication and consult a doctor if they are observed.

Interference with Medications

Guduchi can have interactions with some drugs; examples include blood thinners and immunosuppressants, hence affecting the drug activity and causing negative results. Sharing all the supplements with your doctor is usually advisable to avoid interactions.

What Are the Precautions of Using Guduchi?

If taken in the recommended dosages. However, general safety precautions must be taken when ingesting it.

Additionally, one must practise caution when administering this herb to elders and youngsters. Here’s a list of some precautions one must take:

Precautions	Descriptions
Consultation with a Healthcare Professional	It is essential to consult a healthcare provider before starting Guduchi, mainly for those with existing medical conditions or those taking other medications to evade any potential interactions or complications.
Start with Small Doses	Taking smaller quantities of Guduchi at first is better for determining individual tolerability and avoiding any side effects. If there are no unwanted effects, increase the dose slowly.
Monitoring Blood Sugar Levels	In diabetes patients, regular monitoring of blood sugar levels should be done while taking Guduchi since it has a risk of lowering glucose levels in the blood. This assists in controlling and modifying the treatment to achieve the desired outcome.
Discontinue Use if Adverse Reactions Occur	If you notice any unusual symptoms, such as allergic reactions, headaches, or stomach discomfort, stop using Guduchi and consult your healthcare provider. Your well-being is important, so listen to your body. Timely medical advice can prevent complications.

Who Should Avoid Using Guduchi?

While Guduchi is known for its many health benefits, it’s essential to recognise that some people may need to be cautious or avoid it entirely. Below are some specific groups that may need to refrain from using Guduchi:

Individuals Undergoing Surgery: Tinospora cordifolia may impact blood sugar levels during surgery. This could make it difficult to control blood sugar levels during and after surgery. Therefore, before any scheduled surgery, stop taking Tinospora Cordifolia at least two weeks in advance.
Individuals with Autoimmune Diseases: Guduchi may make the immune system more active if one has autoimmune diseases, including multiple sclerosis (MS), rheumatoid arthritis (RA), lupus (systemic lupus erythematosus, SLE), or other conditions. This might exacerbate autoimmune disease symptoms. Therefore, one should not use Tinospora cordifolia if one has one of these disorders.

Individuals with Low Blood Sugar

People who are susceptible to hypoglycemia should avoid Guduchi since it can cause a drastic reduction in blood sugar levels, which might result in dangerous decreases in glucose levels. Consulting a doctor before use is advisable.

Pregnant and Breastfeeding Women

It is recommended that pregnant and breastfeeding mothers shy away from using Guduchi because there is no safety data on the drug yet unless otherwise advised by a qualified healthcare professional. Ensuring the safety of mother and child is paramount.

Individuals with Liver Diseases

People who already have liver ailments need to be cautious when using Guduchi as this may affect the function of the liver and interact with drugs that are metabolised by the liver. It is also important to note that potential risks are manageable under regular check-ups.

People on Anticoagulant Therapy

If combined with anticoagulant medicines such as aspirin or warfarin, Guduchi could escalate bleeding risk. Therefore, those people taking these drugs should first talk to their doctors before starting anything new, as this herb interacts with them.

In conclusion, that is all for the health benefits of Guduchi and how one might implement it in one's daily life. However, one must remember that excessive use of Guduchi can be harmful, and before introducing it, one should consult their doctor. Embracing Guduchi as part of your wellness journey can lead to a healthier lifestyle.

FAQs about Health Benefits of Guduchi

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Do fresh and dry Guduchi leaves have the same nutritional value?

According to one study, 100 grams of dried Guduchi leaves contain more energy, fibre, iron, carbs, calcium, protein, and lipids than the same amount of fresh Guduchi leaves. However, compared to the dried leaves, the fresh Guduchi leaves had higher beta-carotene and vitamin C.

Is Guduchi good for preventing hair loss?

There are no studies that indicate Guduchi is effective for preventing hair loss. For additional guidance, you could consult an ayurvedic doctor.

Can I use Guduchi for weight loss?

Yes, weight can be managed by increasing metabolism and improving digestion using Guduchi.

How can Guduchi help my immune system?

Guduchi supports the activity of macrophages in the immune system and increases cytokine production, strengthening the body’s defence against infections.

Does Guduchi have any stress-management benefits?

Yes, Guduchi has adaptogenic traits that may help you deal with stress efficiently. This herb might also be beneficial for calming anxiety and boosting mental resilience.

Will Guduchi help improve skin health?

Yes, its antioxidant properties combat oxidative stress, avoiding skin ageing. Its anti-inflammatory effect can also counteract irritation from eczema and psoriasis.

What are Guduchi's effects on blood pressure?

Guduchi helps regulate blood pressure, improves vascular health, and reduces inflammation. It may enhance circulation, thereby bringing about more constant blood pressure levels.

Is there any relief for joint pain through Guduchi?

Yes, Guduchi has anti-inflammatory effects that can reduce arthritis pain. It eases the inflammation within the joints, which is a significant cause of discomfort.

Can Guduchi help with respiratory conditions?

Yes, Guduchi's healing properties can help with asthma and bronchitis. It relieves the airway and may diminish symptoms related to breathing problems.

Does Guduchi provide any digestive health assistance?

Yes, Guduchi's enzyme activity supports digestion and treats gastrointestinal disorders such as constipation. Its soothing properties can also regulate bowel movements.

Are children safe to consume Guduchi?

While Guduchi is generally considered safe, its use in children should be monitored and discussed with a healthcare provider.

Can Guduchi be used during pregnancy?

No, the safety of Guduchi during pregnancy has not been thoroughly studied, and little research exists on it. Guduchi should not be used without a medical prescription.

How should Guduchi be stored?

Guduchi must remain potent in cold, dry places free from direct sunlight. It must also be stored appropriately to work effectively and last long.

What are the common forms of Guduchi available?

Guduchi is sold in various forms, including powder, capsules and extracts. Individuals can choose the most appropriate form based on their preferences and health conditions.