Immunomodulatory Effect of Giloy

(Tinospora cordifolia)

Immunity can be defined as our body’s ability to thwart infections or allergies, or defend itself against potential health concerns. It is evident that our health and wellbeing depend a great deal on our overall immunity. A sound immune health also allows us to recover from a wound or an infection faster and better. A low immunity, on the other hand, delays healing and makes us prone to a host of health conditions.

An Insight on Immunity

Unfortunately, there are various factors that could affect our immunity and make our well being all the more vulnerable. Excessive physical or emotional stress, exposure to harmful environment, a nutrition deficient diet and an unhealthy, sedentary lifestyle – all have a direct impact on our immunity level. Therefore, in order to lead a whole, healthy and a relatively disease-free life, we need to at first focus on boosting our immunity. And including immunity boosting foods such as vitamin C to our diet remains a default option, of course. In this article, we shall read about something that’s making news as the ultimate, all-natural immunity-boosting herb!

About Giloy (Tinospora cordifolia)

Also known as Guduchi or Giloy, Tinospora cordifolia is a medicinal herbaceous vine that belongs to the Menispermaceae family. This succulent, climbing shrub is native to the tropical regions of India. It is one of the most revered herbs in Ayurveda. They call it ‘Amrita’ in Sanskrit, which is perhaps why it is also referred to as ‘the root of immortality’. In fact, it has gained immense popularity in the realm of alternate healthcare owing to its incredible immuno-therapeutic properties. These include anti inflammatory, antioxidant, anti-diabetic, antipyretic, anti-allergic, antihepatotoxic, antibacterial, cardioprotective and hepatoprotective. No wonder why it is also known as a ‘Rasayana‘, or a natural rejuvenator by the traditional Indian system of healthcare and wellbeing – Ayurveda.

Why Use Giloy?

The leaves, root as well as stems of this plant are used by Ayurveda in making various herbal preparations. Giloy, in fact, is one of the most effective herbs to be included in the treatment of diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis and other chronic debilitating ailments. It is also used to boosting digestion and treating the hay fever allergies, stomach issues, jaundice, viral infection, hepatitis, anaemia, urinary diseases, skin issues, etc. It detoxifies and purifies our blood, which makes our skin stay healthy, glow naturally and as well maintain its youthfulness.

Giloy for Immunity

Giloy is a universal herb for addressing the problem of low immunity. Being a potent tonic, its regular consumption is believed to boost our immune system and equip our body to fight various everyday health conditions. Various active components found in this herb are known to stimulate the proliferation of stem cells in our body. Its regular consumption increases the total number of WBCs, as well as the antibody producing cells, which directly affect our immunity level. Tinospora cordifolia is also famous as a natural immuno-stimulant. In fact, it is one of the naturally immuno-modulator herbs. Immunomodulation refers to the treatment of a disease by modulating the immune system. It is carried out by active agents that have the potential to activate, boost and also restore our immune levels. They also hold the capacity to modify our body’s immune response, thus allowing us to fight common as well as some chronic health conditions. These also help us fight a variety of autoimmune diseases, such as cancer, rheumatoid arthritis. Not only this, Giloy also helps remove toxins from our liver and kidneys, thus preventing the onset of chronic liver diseases.

Other Benefits of Giloy

This versatile herb is fondly known as ‘the queen of all herbs’. Also, it contains a host of antioxidant compounds. As the name suggests, these antioxidants primarily work towards reversing the oxidative damage caused by harmful free-radicals in our body. They also keep our cells healthy, thus making us much less prone to a variety of diseases. Giloy, therefore, promotes vitality and allows us to lead a long, healthy life. This herb of longevity also works as an excellent adaptogen and prevents from the ailments of chronic stress and anxiety. Giloy extract is available in various forms, including juice, capsules and powder. Being natural, it is by and large safe for consumption. However, as with any herbal medication, it is recommended that you may consult your physician before including it in your diet.

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