In Ayurveda, giloy has a special space. Why? Because it’s one of the few herbs that packs a plethora of health benefits. Known as Amritavalli or Amrita in Sanskrit, it’s one of the three Amrit plants. It has traditionally been used to treat a range of infections, fever, and fever-induced health problems. The chances are you have heard someone recommending drinking giloy juice as a remedy to cope with dengue, chikungunya, and other seasonal illnesses.
The benefits of giloy juice go beyond treating fever and infection. It’s also known for regulating blood sugar.
In this blog, we will discuss the advantages of giloy juice for your overall health. Let’s dive in:
What is Giloy Juice?
Giloy juice, extracted from the stems of the Giloy plant, is a popular remedy in Ayurvedic traditions. It brims with antioxidants, essential vitamins, and minerals, offering a natural boost to the immune system.
Giloy Juice benefits extend beyond immunity. It also helps in digestion, detoxification, and potentially even regulating blood sugar levels. Despite its bitter taste, many people drink it for its remarkable health benefits, making it a staple in their wellness routines.
Nutritional Value of Giloy Juice
Giloy juice is a rich source of nutrients and bioactive compounds that contribute to its various health benefits. While the exact nutritional value can vary based on factors such as the preparation method and concentration, here is an approximate nutritional profile of Giloy juice per 100 ml:
- Calories: 15-20 kcal
- Protein: 0.5-1 g
- Carbohydrates: 3-4 g
- Fat: 0 g
- Fiber: 0.5-1 g
- Vitamin C: 1-2 mg
- Iron: 0.5-1 mg
- Calcium: 20-30 mg
- Phosphorus: 10-20 mg
- Potassium: 50-100 mg
Medicinal properties of Giloy
Giloy, scientifically known as Tinospora cordifolia, boasts an impressive array of medicinal properties. Traditional Ayurvedic medicine have recognized and utilized these properties for centuries.
The stem of Giloy contains rich nutritional content and bioactive compounds. these compounds include alkaloids, glycosides, steroids, and more. However, it's worth noting that both the roots and leaves of the plant hold therapeutic value. These compounds are effective against a range of disorders, from diabetes to neurological issues and fevers.
- Alkaloids contribute to the plant's bitter taste. It has shown potential benefits for blood pressure regulation, pain relief, combating malaria, and addressing intestinal problems.
- Terpenoids, the most abundant group of compounds in Giloy, play a crucial role in determining the plant's colours and flavours. Lab studies have demonstrated their antibacterial, antiviral, and anti-diabetic properties.
- Lignans, commonly found in fibrous plants including Giloy, possesses antimicrobial attributes. It is believed to function as antioxidants, alongside exhibiting anti-inflammatory properties.
- Lastly, steroids found in Giloy may help in skin health, wound healing, and supporting heart health.
Giloy juice benefits are often credited for the herb’s immunomodulatory effects. This means it helps regulate and enhance the immune system's function.
Giloy also exhibits anti-inflammatory properties. These properties may help managing various inflammatory conditions such as arthritis and asthma. Its antioxidant properties fight against free radicals, protecting cells from oxidative damage and contributing to overall health and longevity.
Giloy is also revered for its adaptogenic properties, assisting the body in adapting to stress and promoting resilience. It is also believed to have hepatoprotective effects, supporting liver health and aiding in detoxification.
With such a wide range of medicinal properties, Giloy continues to be a cornerstone of natural healing practices.
Benefits of Giloy Juice
Now that we have covered everything about giloy, let’s talk about how including it in our lifestyle can benefit your health.
Helps fight chronic fever
In Ayurveda, chronic fever arises from two main causes: Ama, which refers to toxic residues in the body due to improper digestion, and foreign particles.
In modern medical science, fever is a sign of an infection caused by a foreign particle, such as a virus, bacteria, and so on.
Giloy juice proves highly effective in managing chronic and recurrent fevers. That is because it exhibits anti-inflammatory and antipyretic properties. This supports the immune system against infections and facilitating early recovery. Giloy's Javarghana (antipyretic) property specifically targets fever reduction.
How to use: To utilise Giloy juice for its benefits in combating chronic fever, mix 2-3 tablespoons of Giloy juice in a glass of water and consume this blend daily in the morning on an empty stomach.
Helps combat dengue
As per global modelled data, an estimated 33 million clinically apparent dengue cases occur in India each year. A high percentage of these cases tend to be fatal, adding to the dengue death toll. However, those fatal cases can be avoided if people are given the right treatment. Alongside modern medicine, people can use giloy juice to speed up recovery.
Giloy, known for its antipyretic properties, helps manage dengue fever. It not only aids in improving platelet count but also reduces the risk of complications associated with the illness. Regular consumption of Giloy juice may improve immunity during dengue and promoting faster recovery.
How to use: For optimal results, consider boiling fresh Giloy juice with a few Tulsi leaves. This potent combination can be consumed daily to increase platelet count effectively.
Supports platelet recovery
Giloy is great for people struggling with low platelets in chikungunya, dengue, and other seasonal flu. That’s because it is beneficial for boosting platelet count. Its properties help stimulate the production of platelets in the body, speeding up recovery. its regular intake may help improve platelet levels and support the body's ability to fight off infections effectively. Ektek’s Platogrow, a platelet-enhancing syrup, contains giloy as one of the main natural ingredients.
How to use: Just take 20 ml of giloy juice with water 20-30 minutes before or after lunch and dinner.
Helps battle against COVID-19
Back in 2020, when COVID was a menace, Giloy juice was the go-to remedy to combat coronavirus infection—thanks to its ability to boost immunity. While there's no evidence to suggest that it can cure COVID-19, it may enhance the body's defence mechanisms against the virus. anecdotoal evidence indicate promising results regarding its efficacy in fighting coronavirus infection.
How to use: If you or someone you know gets infected with COVID-19, consider consuming Giloy kadha or Giloy juice twice daily for 4-6 weeks. Some studies suggest that combining Giloy juice with herbs like Shatavari and Ashwagandha can help with post-COVID complications.
Reduce blood sugar levels
Giloy, known as ‘Madhunashini’ or the 'destroyer of sugar' in Ayurveda, is great for controlling blood sugar levels. It does this by helping your body produce more insulin, which keeps your blood sugar in check. Apart from that, it helps with diabetes-related issues like ulcers and kidney problems.
How to use: Take 20 ml of giloy juice with water 20-30 minutes before or after lunch and dinner. It's an easy way to manage your diabetes and stay healthy.
Supports immunity
Another great benefit of giloy juice is that it boosts immunity. It does so by stimulating white blood cell production and neutralising harmful free radicals with its antioxidants. It detoxifies the body, regulates immune function, and offers protection against infections. Adding it to your routine can strengthen your immune system, helping your body fight off illnesses more effectively.
How to use: Mix 2-3 teaspoons of Giloy ras in a glass of water. Drink it before meals once or twice a day to boost your immunity.
Helps improve digestion and gut Health
Giloy juice helps improve digestive and gut health through its unique properties. Rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, it helps soothe inflammation in the digestive tract, reducing discomfort and promoting overall gut health. It also supports the growth of beneficial gut bacteria. These bacteria are essential for proper digestion and nutrient absorption.
Giloy juice also aids in detoxification, flushing out toxins and promoting a healthy balance of gut flora. Consuming it regularly can help alleviate digestive issues such as diarrhoea, colitis, and hyperacidity. Overall, it can promote digestive wellness.
How to use: To improve gut health and digestion, drink 20-30 ml of natural giloy juice on an empty stomach in the morning and 30 minutes before dinner.
Reduce Stress and Anxiety
In today’s hectic, work-focused life, stress and anxiety have become a common problem. For those struggling with these issues, giloy juice can be a saviour.
Giloy juice helps reduce stress and anxiety by calming the body and mind. It contains compounds that act as natural relaxants, promoting a sense of tranquillity. By reducing stress hormones like cortisol, it helps alleviate anxiety and tension. Additionally, it enhances mood by boosting the production of feel-good neurotransmitters like serotonin.
Regular consumption of Giloy juice can make you feel more relaxed and centred in your daily life.
How to use: Drink 20-30 ml of natural giloy juice on an empty stomach in the morning and 30 minutes before dinner.
Helps Treat Arthritis and Grout
Giloy is beneficial in conditions like arthritis and gout, where inflammation plays a significant role in causing pain and discomfort in the joints. By reducing inflammation, it helps alleviate symptoms such as joint swelling, stiffness, and pain. This makes movement easier and more comfortable.
Giloy's antioxidant properties help neutralise harmful free radicals, which can contribute to joint damage and inflammation. Regular consumption of Giloy, whether in the form of juice, powder, or kadha, can provide long-term relief from arthritis and gout symptoms, promoting better joint health and mobility.
How to use: For relief in arthritis and grout, drink 20-30 ml of natural giloy juice on an empty stomach in the morning and 30 minutes before dinner.
Improve Eye Health
If you have eye problems or poor eye health because of long hours of working on a computer or mobile, you should certainly add giloy juice to your diet.
As per Ayurveda, giloy juice benefits for eye health and vision are remarkable. Its antioxidant properties help protect the eyes from oxidative stress. Oxidative stress can contribute to age-related vision problems like macular degeneration and cataracts. Plus, it contains nutrients like vitamin A, which is essential for maintaining healthy eyesight.
Regular consumption of Giloy juice can help support overall eye health, ensuring clear vision and preventing eye-related issues in the long run.
How to use: Drink 20-30 ml of natural giloy juice on an empty stomach in the morning and 30 minutes before dinner.
Boost Respiratory Health
Giloy is like a superhero for your respiratory system! Its anti-inflammatory powers help soothe inflammation in your lungs and airways, making it easier to breathe, especially for those with asthma or bronchitis. Plus, its antimicrobial abilities can help kick out nasty respiratory infections caused by pesky bacteria and viruses, helping you recover faster. So, sipping on some Giloy juice regularly could be just what your lungs need to stay healthy and happy.
How to use: To reap the giloy juice benefits for lung function, drink 20-30 ml of giloy juice on an empty stomach in the morning and 30 minutes before dinner.
Things to Keep in Mind When Consuming Giloy Juice
If giloy juice benefits impressed you, and you are planning to add it to your diet, know that you are making an excellent decision. But it's important to do it correctly to reap its maximum benefits. Here's how you can consume Giloy juice:
- Fresh Giloy Juice: You can harvest fresh Giloy stems and wash them thoroughly. Cut them into small pieces and grind them to extract the juice. You can use a juicer or blender for this purpose. Strain the juice to remove any solid particles.
- Store-bought Giloy Juice: If you're using store-bought Giloy juice, ensure it is pure and free from additives or preservatives. Ektek’s Giloy Ras is one of the best juices available on the market because of its freshness, quality, and use of naturally sourced giloy. It also includes other potent herbs such as Ashwagandha, Shatavari, and more to enhance its effects. To use it, follow the manufacturer's instructions for consumption.
- Dosage: The recommended dosage of Giloy juice can vary depending on your age, health condition, and the form of Giloy used (fresh juice or extract). Generally, drink giloy juice in the morning 20-30 minutes before breakfast and/or 20-30 minutes before dinner every day. It's advisable to consult a healthcare professional or an Ayurvedic practitioner for the correct dosage for your specific needs.
- Mixing with Water: Dilute the Giloy juice with water before consumption. This helps reduce the intensity of the taste and makes it easier to drink.
- Adding Sweetener: If you find the taste of Giloy juice too bitter, you can add a natural sweetener like honey or jaggery to enhance the flavour.
- Timing: It's best to consume Giloy juice on an empty stomach in the morning for maximum absorption and effectiveness. However, you can also consume it at other times of the day at your convenience. You will receive the benefits of giloy juice regardless of the time you consume.
- Duration: The duration of consuming Giloy juice can vary depending on the purpose. It can be consumed daily as a general health tonic or as directed by a healthcare professional for specific health issues.
- Precautions: While Giloy is generally safe for most people, it's advisable to consult a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, or have any underlying health conditions.
Precautions to Take Before Consuming Giloy Juice
While Giloy juice offers numerous health benefits, it's essential to take certain precautions. Here are some precautions to keep in mind when taking Giloy juice:
- Dosage: Stick to the recommended dosage, as excessive consumption may lead to adverse effects. Consult a healthcare professional or an Ayurvedic practitioner for the correct dosage based on your age, health condition, and the form of Giloy used (fresh juice or extract).
- Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Pregnant and breastfeeding women should consult their healthcare provider before taking Giloy juice. This is because its safety during these periods is not well-established.
- Autoimmune Disorders: Individuals with autoimmune disorders should use Giloy juice with caution. Because it may stimulate the immune system and exacerbate the condition.
- Diabetes: If you have diabetes, monitor your blood sugar levels closely when taking Giloy juice, as it may lower blood sugar levels. Adjustments to your diabetes medication may be necessary.
- Hypertension: Giloy juice may lower blood pressure. So individuals with hypertension should monitor their blood pressure levels when taking it.
- Surgery: If you have a surgery scheduled, stop taking Giloy juice at least two weeks before the scheduled date. As it may interfere with blood sugar control and blood pressure regulation during surgery.
- Allergies: Some individuals may be allergic to Giloy. If you experience any allergic reactions such as itching, rash, or swelling after consuming Giloy juice, discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional.
- Drug Interactions: Giloy juice may interact with certain medications, including blood thinners, diabetes medications, and immunosuppressants. Consult your healthcare provider before taking Giloy juice if you are on any medication.
- Children: Giloy juice is generally considered safe for children, but the dosage should be adjusted based on the child's age and weight. Consult a paediatrician before giving Giloy juice to children.
- Quality: Ensure that you are using high-quality Giloy juice from a reputable brand to ensure purity.
In a nutshell
Giloy juice is a powerhouse of health benefits that can work wonders for your well-being. From boosting immunity and detoxifying the body to reducing stress and fighting illnesses, the advantages of giloy juice are numerous. So, why wait? Reap the benefits of Giloy juice by adding it to your daily regimen.
If you are looking for the best quality Giloy juice to optimise your health, check out Ektek’s Giloy Ras now.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What are the benefits of Giloy juice for immunity?
Giloy juice, when consumed regularly, is believed to boost immunity. It enhances the activity of immune cells, reducing oxidative stress and supporting overall immune function.
2. How does Giloy juice help in detoxification?
Giloy juice has detoxifying properties that help remove toxins from the body, support liver function, and promote overall detoxification.
3. Can Giloy juice help in reducing inflammation?
Yes, Giloy juice has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce inflammation in the body, which is beneficial for overall health and immune function.
4. Is Giloy juice beneficial for skin health?
Yes, some people believe that Giloy juice can improve skin health due to its detoxifying and antioxidant properties. However, more research is needed to confirm these benefits.
5. Can Giloy juice help in managing diabetes?
Giloy juice is sometimes used in Ayurvedic medicine to help manage diabetes, as it may help regulate blood sugar levels. However, more research is needed to establish its effectiveness.
6. Does Giloy juice help in weight loss?
Some people believe that Giloy juice can aid in weight loss, possibly due to its detoxifying properties. However, it should not be seen as a substitute for a healthy diet and exercise.
7. Is Giloy juice safe for children?
Giloy juice is generally considered safe for children when consumed in moderation. However, it's always best to consult with a healthcare professional before giving any supplement to children
8. Can Giloy juice be taken with other medications?
Giloy juice may interact with certain medications. It's important to consult with a healthcare professional before taking it if you are on any medications.