Giloy
Sanskrit: Guduchi
Tinospora cordifolia
A climbing vine traditionally valued in Ayurveda during seasonal changes and periods of low vitality.
Also known as
Giloy · Guduchi · Amrita · Heart-leaved moonseed
- hindi:
- Giloy
- tamil:
- Seendhil kodi
- telugu:
- Tippa teega
- bengali:
- Gulancha
- marathi:
- Gulvel
Parts used
- Stem
- Stem powder
- Satva (starch extract)
Traditional overview
- Known in Ayurvedic texts as Amrita, and traditionally used as a general seasonal tonic.
- Prepared traditionally as a fresh stem decoction, juice or dried powder.
- Often used in traditional households during weather transitions.
Common traditional forms
- decoction
- fresh juice
- powder
- tablet
Wellness tags
- seasonal wellness
- general vitality
Body focus
- immune system
- liver
Concerns
- seasonal weakness
- low vitality
What to know before use
A concentrated herb, not a food. Traditionally used briefly around seasonal change, in small amounts. Liver injury has been reported with giloy products, particularly with prolonged use, unidentified plant material or existing liver disease — stop immediately and seek care if nausea, dark urine, itching or yellowing appear. Not for pregnancy, breastfeeding, children, autoimmune conditions or alongside immune-suppressing medicines. It is not a treatment for fever or infection.
Important cautions
Widely used traditionally, but concentrated or prolonged use has been linked in reports to liver strain in some people. Keep use short and supervised.
Who should avoid it
- People with liver conditions or a history of liver problems
- People with autoimmune conditions, unless a practitioner advises
- People taking immune-modulating medicines
Medicine interactions
- May interact with medicines that affect the immune system
- Caution with medicines for blood sugar
- Caution alongside medicines processed by the liver
PregnancyNot advised during pregnancy or nursing without practitioner supervision.
ChildrenNot for routine use in children without qualified practitioner guidance.
Quality and buying guidance
Correct identification matters more here than with most herbs: the label must state Tinospora cordifolia, since a look-alike species has been linked to liver toxicity. Buy only licensed, batch-numbered products from a reputable manufacturer, never loose bulk stem of unknown origin. Prefer suppliers publishing identity and heavy-metal testing. Store airtight and dry.
Evidence note
Some early laboratory or small human studies exist, but they are limited and not conclusive. Traditional use remains the main basis for this entry.
Traditional wellness information only — not medical advice. Start small, and check with a qualified practitioner if you are pregnant, nursing, treating a child, or managing a medical condition.